DeFuniak Springs, Fla. (WDNews) — A routine traffic stop early Thursday led to a high-speed pursuit and the arrest of two individuals after deputies recovered methamphetamine, fentanyl and a firearm from a vehicle, according to reports.
The Walton County Sheriff’s Office said a deputy attempted to stop a black Volkswagen sedan around 5 a.m. on U.S. Highway 90 near Cottonwood Boulevard due to a faulty taillight. The driver, identified as 35-year-old Fabian Joseph Rutherford, reportedly accelerated and reached speeds of up to 90 miles per hour before losing control and spinning into the roadway.
Deputies used a controlled maneuver to stop the vehicle from continuing, authorities said.
Rutherford then exited through the driver’s side window and attempted to run but surrendered after seeing deputies closing in. A syringe was reportedly found in his pocket.
The passenger, 19-year-old Jada Jay Urich, also attempted to flee but was quickly taken into custody. Deputies reported she also had a needle in her possession.
A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of approximately 116.2 grams of methamphetamine, 3.9 grams of fentanyl, prescription narcotics, drug paraphernalia and a loaded handgun. Investigators also found packaging materials and a magnetic container with narcotics residue.
Authorities said additional methamphetamine was found concealed on Urich while she was being booked into the Walton County Jail.
Rutherford, who has a prior criminal history across multiple counties in the Florida Panhandle, faces multiple charges including trafficking in methamphetamine, fleeing and eluding, reckless driving, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and other related offenses.
Urich is charged with trafficking in methamphetamine, possession of fentanyl, smuggling contraband into a detention facility and other related charges.
Both remain in custody at the Walton County Jail awaiting their first court appearance.
