ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. – Earl James Okine, a former Florida Gators defensive end and ex-NFL player, was arrested Wednesday in Alachua County following a traffic stop by a K9 deputy.
Okine, 30, faces several charges, including possession of a controlled substance, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and possession of marijuana under 20 grams. According to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, deputies initiated the stop after Okine’s Jeep allegedly failed to stop for a stop sign. During the search of the vehicle, deputies discovered 1.9 grams of crystal methamphetamine, a small amount of marijuana, and a loaded Smith & Wesson handgun with an extended magazine.
Okine, who played for the Florida Gators from 2008 to 2012, went on to play in the NFL and Arena Football League before his arrest. He is currently facing the charges and is being held in custody.
Stay tuned for further updates as this case develops.
