Turnpike Traffic Stop Yields Almost $15 Million In Cocaine

In mid-October 2025, a semi-truck was stopped by law enforcement on Florida’s Turnpike. During the stop, police found a trap door in the trailer which contained “multiple duffel bags filled with cocaine.” The drugs, weighed at 173 kilograms and valued at roughly $14.7 million, were confiscated and three suspects were arrested, now facing federal charges. While the average person may transport far, far less than 173 kilograms, it shows that drug trafficking in Florida is taken extremely seriously.

Trafficking Is Prosecuted Aggressively

Florida lawmakers see drug trafficking as a crime against society, and prosecute it aggressively. Unlike many other states, a charge of drug trafficking does not require intent to distribute controlled substances in Florida. All one must do is possess enough of a substance that one knows to be illegal to possess, and if this can be proven, they may be charged with drug trafficking.

This approach is intended to deter large-scale operations like those of drug cartels, but too often, it can catch individuals with no intent to commit a drug offense. The three suspects arrested on the Turnpike clearly had the intent to commit this type of crime; a person who has, say, accidentally taken their partner’s bottle of Xanax with them does not.

Know Your Rights At A Traffic Stop

Because of how seriously drug trafficking is taken under Florida law, it is important to be aware that law enforcement have reasonably broad leeway in terms of stopping and searching individuals and vehicles. As per usual, law enforcement must have probable cause to search your vehicle, though they do not need it to search you if you are being arrested.

You can state that you do not consent to a search of your vehicle, but if law enforcement does have probable cause, that lack of consent may be bypassed. Regardless, it is crucial to remain calm, but speak up if you believe that no probable cause exists or that your rights are being violated.

Contact A West Palm Beach Drug Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with drug trafficking after a search of your vehicle, it is important to enlist the right help to fight the charges. A West Palm Beach drug defense attorney at Perlet & Shiner, P.A. will be able to protect your rights and ensure you get your day in court. Contact our office today to speak to an attorney.

Source:

nbcmiami.com/news/local/officers-intercept-millions-cocaine-floridas-turnpike-officials-hidden-truck/3707352/