November 13, 2018

Two Fairfax deputies on bicycle patrol at the Courthouse Complex observed a vehicle parked illegally in an employee lot adjacent to the Historic Courthouse. The driver was smoking what appeared to be a cigar. Based on previous incidents in the parking lot, the deputies suspected possible drug use. When they approached the driver, the deputies smelled a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. The driver denied that he had any drugs.

Due to the odor, the deputies asked the driver to exit the vehicle and advised him of their probable cause for a vehicle search. The search revealed three large bags of marijuana weighing more than 1.5 lbs., a paste substance consistent with a THC product, and a digital scale. The driver then claimed the drugs belonged to his girlfriend who was in the main Courthouse on a different matter. The deputies continued their investigation, including an interview with the girlfriend, and concluded that the drugs belonged to the driver.

They arrested the driver on a charge of possession with intent to distribute. He was booked into the Adult Detention Center and later released on a bond.