GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A routine traffic stop on I-75 turned into a significant drug and firearms bust on November 21, involving two individuals from Florida. Brianna Monique Ward, 22, of Ocala, and Travarious Deshaun Wilson, 28, of Bronson, now face serious charges following their arrest for drug dealing. Wilson also faces an additional charge for firearm possession, a severe allegation given his status as a convicted felon.
The incident unfolded at approximately 10:08 a.m., when a Florida Highway Patrol Trooper pulled over a Volkswagen Jetta for speeding at 101 mph. The stop was conducted on SW Archer Road, and upon approaching the vehicle, the trooper detected the distinct odor of marijuana, prompting further investigation.
Wilson, who was behind the wheel, stepped out of the car at the trooper’s request, while Ward, the passenger, claimed she had a medical marijuana card, though she failed to provide it. Notably, Wilson denied any use of marijuana and claimed not to possess a medical card, yet the trooper noted his apparent nervousness. Ward admitted to having marijuana in her bag, albeit without proper labeling.
A search of the vehicle followed, justified by probable cause. It revealed a loaded Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol in the glove compartment, along with rolling papers. In Wilson’s possession, authorities found approximately 21 grams of marijuana. Further inspection of a bag located behind the driver’s seat uncovered 80 grams of marijuana, baggies, a scale, and a loaded Glock 26.
In the Jetta’s trunk, officers discovered a bag containing a Glock 19, another scale, a tray, and several controlled substances: 9.5 grams of mushrooms, 302 grams of THC gummies in commercial packaging, 3.5 grams of THC wax, numerous baggies, and eight tablets that tested positive for MDMA.
After being read their rights, Ward reportedly confessed that the firearms and marijuana belonged to her, complicating the legal landscape for both individuals as they face the consequences of their alleged actions.
Post Miranda, Wilson reportedly said the guns and marijuana were not his.
However, the trooper reported that the in-car video in the patrol vehicle recorded Ward asking Wilson what was in the car; Wilson reportedly said, “Weed and gun” and then said there were two guns.
Ward has been charged with two counts of possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana, possession of marijuana with intent to sell, maintaining a vehicle for the purpose of selling drugs, and possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to sell. Her full criminal history is unavailable, but she has convictions for possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana and possession of drug equipment out of Marion County. Judge Robert Groeb set bail at $110,000.
Wilson has been charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, two counts of possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana, possession of marijuana with intent to sell, maintaining a vehicle for the purpose of selling drugs, and possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to sell. His full criminal history is unavailable, but he has three felony convictions and three misdemeanor convictions out of Levy County, including discharging a weapon in public. Judge Groeb set his bail at $170,000.
Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
