Traffic enforcement is just one of the many duties LCSO patrol deputies perform to ensure public safety. On March 25th, 2026 Deputy Patrick Lockett was conducting traffic enforcement in the Fanning Annex. Deputy Lockett observed a vehicle fail to stop at a stop sign.
Deputy Lockett conducted a traffic stop and both the driver and passenger could be seen moving erratically within the vehicle prior to it coming to a stop. Deputy Lockett identified this body language is commonly associated with individuals attempting to conceal items. Deputy Kaleigh Richetti arrived on scene and assisted Deputy Locket in detaining the driver and passenger.
K9 Deputy Rich Peters and K9 Bohden arrived on scene and performed a free air sniff on the outside of the vehicle. K9 Bohden alerted to the presence of narcotics inside the car. A search of the vehicle discovered 84.1 grams of methamphetamine hidden in the glove compartment. The passenger, identified as Richard Sanders (4/20/89) of Bronson was searched and $970 in cash, .2 grams of THC concentrate along with small plastic baggies associated with drug distribution were located on his person.
Sanders was on felony probation for possession of a controlled substance at the time of this stop. Deputy Lockett placed Sanders under arrest for a probation violation, trafficking methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia to transport drugs, and possession of drug equipment. Sanders is currently being held in the Levy County Jail on a $545,000 bond. The driver was interviewed, given a warning and released at the scene.