On September 4, 2022, at 11:49 p.m., officers initiated a traffic stop in the area of Crain Highway and Mitchell Road after observing the driver of a passenger car speeding.
During the stop, officers learned the driver was in illegal possession of a firearm.
The gun, which was loaded, was recovered. In addition, two bags of suspected cocaine and a bag of marijuana were recovered.
Joe Darren Rodriguez, 36, of Waldorf, was arrested and charged with illegal transportation of a firearm, carrying a loaded firearm, possession of narcotics. He was also issued a traffic citation.
Less than 24 hours later, a district court commissioner released Rodriguez from the Charles County Detention Center on a $3,000 unsecured bond.
Officer Kerlin is investigating.
