Staff report

JONESVILLE, Fla. – Caden Freeney, 18, was arrested last night after authorities reportedly discovered a firearm and marijuana in his backpack during a traffic stop.

At approximately 10:07 p.m. on August 22, an Alachua County Sheriff’s Deputy initiated a traffic stop near the intersection of NW 136th Boulevard and NW 132nd Circle after witnessing a sedan speeding without rear lights.

The deputy claimed to detect the odor of marijuana when approaching the vehicle, and Freeney, a passenger, allegedly admitted to smoking “weed” earlier in the evening, despite the occupants lacking medical marijuana cards.

A car search reportedly revealed a backpack on the back seat floor, containing a loaded Glock 21 and about 12.4 grams of marijuana; small remnants of marijuana were also discovered on the seat where Freeney was seated. Another individual in the vehicle reportedly confirmed that Freeney had the backpack with him upon entering the car.

Post Miranda, Freeney reportedly said his money was in the backpack.

Freeney faces charges for unlawfully carrying a concealed firearm and possessing less than 20 grams of marijuana. He is currently on juvenile probation for grand theft of a motor vehicle and resisting an officer without violence. Judge Gloria Walker has set bail at $20,000.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed derive from the arrest report and/or court records and are merely accusations. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.