17-Year-Old Arrested On Gun, Drug Charges In Tampa

TAMPA, FL — A 17-year-old boy is facing a number of charges after Tampa police said they found drugs and an AR-15-style rifle in his car.

On Friday afternoon, Tampa police spotted the teen driving a Kia Optima in the 8400 block of North Mulberry Street. Knowing the teen doesn't have a valid driver's license, Tampa police conducted a traffic stop, according to Tampa police.

Police said the teen pulled over and then began walking away, ignoring the officer's commands to stop. He was taken into custody, where a search revealed 14.8 grams of marijuana in his pocket.

Based on the odor of marijuana coming from the car, officers conducted a search and discovered a Daniels Defense AR-15-style rifle, 357.1 grams of marijuana, plastic baggies, a digital scale and 58 dextroamphetamine pills in an orange plastic bottle.

Police said the gun has been reported stolen during the burglary of a Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office agency vehicle.

"This arrest is the result of outstanding police work done by those committed to keeping our community safe," said Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw. "It should also serve as a clear reminder of the consequences that teens will face when they are in possession of guns and drugs. We will continue to do everything in our ongoing efforts to keep guns out of the hands of those who should not have them."

The teen was charged with felon in possession of a firearm (juvenile conviction), minor in possession of a firearm, possession of a short-barreled rifle, possession of drug without a prescription, possession of cannabis with intent to sell, manufacture or deliver drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting an officer without violence and no valid driver's license. He was taken to the Hillsborough County Juvenile Assessment Center.