Naples New Year’s Day Traffic Stop Yields Major Drug Seizure, Multiple Arrests

Naples Traffic Stop on New Year’s Day Leads to Major Drug and Gun Seizure

A routine Naples traffic stop on New Year’s Day escalated early Friday morning when police uncovered a sizeable stash of illegal drugs and a concealed firearm during a vehicle search, authorities say. The incident resulted in multiple felony charges for the two occupants and highlights law enforcement’s continued focus on narcotics enforcement in Collier County.

Shortly after 1 a.m. on January 1, Naples Police officers pulled over a vehicle that failed to stop at a flashing red signal near the intersection of Third Street South and Broad Avenue South. Initial observations — including the smell of marijuana and suspicious behavior by the front-seat passenger — gave officers probable cause to expand the investigation.

During the subsequent search, officers located a variety of controlled substances, including significant quantities of prescription-level drugs and hard narcotics. Law enforcement officials reported the seizure of nearly 130 grams each of oxycodone and amphetamine, more than 20 grams of fentanyl, marijuana in multiple forms, and a small amount of cocaine.

In addition to the drugs, officers found drug-distribution paraphernalia — such as digital scales and packaging materials — and a loaded Smith & Wesson .40-caliber handgun with an altered serial number, concealed within the vehicle.

Charges and Suspects

Two out-of-county residents were taken into custody in connection with the stop:

• Rina M. Larson, 30, of Tampa, was arrested on multiple felony charges including trafficking and possession of controlled substances, possession of paraphernalia, and firearm violations.

• Joshua C. Cunningham, 33, of Lakeland, was cited for possession of drug paraphernalia and cited on traffic violations related to failing to stop for the signal and possessing an open alcoholic beverage container in the vehicle.

Law enforcement has not released details on bail or court dates at this time. The case remains under investigation as efforts continue to determine the full extent of charges and any potential wider distribution network connected to the seizure.

Why This Matters Locally

Traffic stops that transition into major drug seizures are a reminder of the ongoing narcotics challenges faced by communities throughout Southwest Florida. Fentanyl — one of the drugs seized in this case — is particularly dangerous even in tiny doses, with federal health officials noting potent batches can be lethal at just a few milligrams.

For Naples residents and visitors, incidents like this underscore the intersection between routine public safety enforcement and broader efforts to reduce the flow of illegal substances within the county. Collier County law enforcement agencies continue to collaborate with regional partners in narcotics interdiction and community safety initiatives year-round.