(Port Charlotte) The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a Chevy Suburban occupied by two subjects. The traffic stop was initiated due to the driver not wearing a seatbelt, which resulted in the arrest of the passenger, Eli Mariner, 37, 22154 Belinda Ave, Port Charlotte on three drug charges.
While deputies were on scene they noticed the driver, Dana P Rodgers, 27, and Mariner appeared nervous. Rodgers and Mariner were asked if they had any drugs, weapons or contraband; in which they replied no and consented to a search. Officers found 7 grams of Crack Cocaine, 2.5 grams of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia on Mariner. The crack cocaine has a street value of over $600.00.
Rodgers was issued a warning for the seatbelt violation and released on scene. Mariner was taken to the Charlotte Jail; he was booked and given no bond due to prior Felony Convictions. Anyone with knowledge of illegal drug activity is asked to please call the CCSO Narcotics Unit at 941-575-2157, or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).