Ruskin, FL – A 64-year-old man is facing serious drug charges after a traffic stop in Ruskin led to the discovery of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a large amount of cash, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
The arrest took place near 5th Avenue Southeast and 2nd Street Southeast, where deputies pulled over Joseph Perrone, who was unable to provide a driver’s license or vehicle registration. When asked to step out of the vehicle, the deputy reportedly saw pills on the floorboard, triggering a search of the car.
Inside, investigators say they recovered:
A plastic tub containing 15.9 grams of methamphetamine
$12,043 in cash
Multiple glass pipes and syringes containing illegal substances
As a result, Perrone was arrested and charged with:
Trafficking in Amphetamine (14 to 28 grams)
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
He was transported to the Hillsborough County Jail. Authorities believe the cash and drugs indicate active involvement in drug sales or distribution.