SARASOTA, FL — A Sarasota man is facing multiple felony charges after officers found drugs in the passenger seat of a car during a routine traffic stop. The arrest occurred on August 20, 2025, following a failed stop at a traffic sign.
Sarasota Traffic Stop Leads to Major Drug Bust
On August 20, Sarasota Police stopped a vehicle for failing to stop at a stop sign near Adams Lane and East Avenue. As part of the stop, a Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office deputy and K9 Gunnar responded to assist.
Both the driver and passenger were instructed to exit the vehicle while K9 Gunnar conducted an open-air sniff of the car.
K9 Alert Triggers Search, Discovery of Fentanyl and Other Drugs
K9 Gunnar alerted officers to the vehicle, giving them probable cause to search. Inside the car, officers discovered a black safe on the passenger side. The safe contained:
- Six bags of suspected cocaine
- One bag of suspected Xanax
- A pill bottle with Xanax and oxycodone
- A metal spoon with drug residue
- A plastic bag with small individual baggies
- A pen containing a suspected THC capsule
- Half of a suspected oxycodone pill
- An uncapped syringe under the passenger seat
- A backpack containing suspected marijuana and a pipe
Arrest and Confession: Passenger Identifies Fentanyl
The front seat passenger, Josh Davis, 35, was arrested and transported to Sarasota Police headquarters. During an interview, Davis admitted ownership of the safe and the contents inside. Initially, the white powder was believed to be cocaine, but Davis revealed it was actually fentanyl.
Fentanyl Testing Confirms Substance and Trafficking Charges
On September 18, a controlled substance analysis confirmed the suspected cocaine tested positive for fentanyl, with a total weight of 89.57 grams. Based on the findings, Davis now faces charges of:
- Two counts of possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver
- One count of trafficking fentanyl over 28 grams
Davis remains in custody at Sarasota County Jail.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
The discovery of fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid, is a serious concern for the local community. Sarasota police officials are urging residents to remain vigilant, especially in light of the rising fentanyl crisis nationwide.
For safety information and drug prevention resources, visit the Sarasota Police Department’s website.
