Hernando County Arrest Follows Drugs Discarded During Traffic Stop

Detectives from the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office Vice and Narcotics Unit arrested 32 year old Kenneth Harbaugh after a traffic stop on December 9 that began at a 7 Eleven on Cortez Boulevard. Deputies said Harbaugh initially slowed the red SUV but failed to stop immediately and briefly left the roadway. During that approach investigators observed two small clear plastic baggies thrown from the vehicle and recovered them from the grass.

A subsequent search of the SUV produced a zipper pouch concealing a rolled fictitious twenty dollar bill with a small bag of white powder, used syringes, Suboxone strips, and a clear baggie of green leafy material. Laboratory testing later identified the narcotics seized as approximately 22.9 grams of methamphetamine, 0.6 grams of cocaine, and 7.1 grams of marijuana.

Investigators determined Harbaugh was on felony probation in Hernando County for a prior fleeing and eluding case. He was arrested and transported to the Hernando County Detention Center held on no bond pending a first appearance. Charges filed include trafficking in methamphetamine, possession of cocaine, possession of Suboxone, tampering with physical evidence, fleeing or attempting to elude an officer, possession of marijuana less than 20 grams, and driving while license suspended or revoked.

For local residents the case highlights multiple public safety concerns. Trafficking level quantities of methamphetamine were taken off neighborhood streets, but the incident also illustrates risks posed by drivers who evade law enforcement and by people on probation who reoffend. The presence of used syringes raises hazards for first responders and community members who may encounter discarded drug paraphernalia.

The sheriff’s office noted Crime Stoppers contact information is available for anyone with additional tips. Residents concerned about community safety or seeking information about narcotics prevention and disposal are encouraged to contact the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office directly. The arrest is part of ongoing local efforts to disrupt drug distribution and to address the public health and safety consequences of substance misuse in Hernando County.