Seat Belt Violation Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Arrest

June 17, 2019

A traffic stop for a seat belt violation ended with a Cantonment man behind bars on drug charges.

Benjamin Wayne Ritz, 24, was charged with possession of a crack cocaine, possession of a synthetic cannabinoid (spice), possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while license revoked.

A deputy observed Ritz driving without wearing his seat belt on Virecent Road near Cottage Hill Road, and he conducted a traffic stop.

The deputy discovered Ritz’s drivers license was revoked in 2014. During a search of the vehicle, deputies discovered crack cocaine in small container in the vehicle’s center console, spice, a homemade smoking glass pipe and a Smith & Wesson .38 special revolver, according to an arrest report. A computer check showed the  firearm was not stolen.

Ritz was released from the Escambia County Jail on a $6,000 bond. He  also received a citation for not wearing a seat belt.

Comments

8 Responses to “Seat Belt Violation Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Arrest”

  1. anne 1of2 on June 17th, 2019 1:47 pm

    Did this guy have a check list of what to do wrong?

  2. Sunny on June 17th, 2019 11:53 am

    I had a friend recently get a traffic citation for not using her blinker when changing lanes. WOW. An ESC CO Deputy was the car she was getting in front of.

    This is the Florida Law on Signaling:

    Drivers should always use directional signals to indicate their intention to turn, change lanes or pass a vehicle. Not only is it the law in Florida, proper use of turn signals is an important way to prevent road accidents.

  3. nod on June 17th, 2019 10:48 am

    Ha ha,obey thee law when you are breakig the law

  4. barbara on June 17th, 2019 10:28 am

    WOW, is every one “riding Dirty”what is up with that?????? Makes you almost afraid to get behind the wheel……..what is comin at you????

  5. tg on June 17th, 2019 9:48 am

    Remember to always fasten your seatbelt and make sure tag lite is working.

  6. TUMom on June 17th, 2019 9:30 am

    If I had drugs in my vehicle, I would at least be following the law and wearing a seatbelt. It is like he was saying, “Hey, look at me. I have drugs in my car and I’m not wearing a seatbelt. Try to stop me”. This guy needs to be on the show, America’s Dumbest Criminals!!!

  7. Wise Years on June 17th, 2019 8:58 am

    GOOD!

  8. Williwonka on June 17th, 2019 5:51 am

    Great traffic stop. Keep up the good work ECSD.