MARIANNA, Fla. (WDNews) — The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) responded to a report of suspected squatters on private property Thursday, Dec. 5, around 2 p.m. A concerned citizen reported seeing lights in the woods and smelling burning overnight, eventually discovering individuals camping on the property.
Upon arrival, deputies located a woman in the woods who initially identified herself as Amber Marie Ross. However, after running the provided information, deputies determined the name was false. A search of the suspect’s backpack revealed two baggies containing methamphetamine and two hypodermic needles.
The suspect later admitted her true identity as Stephanie Michelle Ross, which was confirmed by authorities. Ross was arrested and charged with providing false information to law enforcement, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.