On September 8, 2023, Tampa Police apprehended Jaquan Shuriah, a 17-year-old, on multiple serious charges. Officers pulled him over when they noticed him driving a maroon Kia Optima without a valid license.
Shuriah attempted to evade the officers by exiting his vehicle and walking away, but they apprehended him.
During the arrest, police discovered 14.8g of marijuana in Shuriah’s pocket. Detecting the scent of marijuana in his car, they conducted a search, uncovering a stolen Daniels Defense AR15 style rifle, more marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and a substantial quantity of Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine pills.
The rifle had been previously reported as stolen from an HCSO agency vehicle.
These findings resulted in numerous felony charges against Shuriah, including possession of a firearm by a felon, minor in possession of a firearm, possession of a short-barreled rifle, possession of drugs without a prescription, and possession of cannabis with intent to sell, manufacture, or distribute.
Tampa Police Department Chief Lee Bercaw commended the officers for their actions, emphasizing the risks associated with teenagers possessing firearms and drugs.
He reiterated the department’s commitment to safeguarding the community and preventing firearms from falling into the wrong hands.
Following his arrest, Shuriah was taken to the Juvenile Assessment Center, underscoring the seriousness of the charges he faces and the potential consequences.
This case also underscores the ongoing battle against drug and firearm-related crimes in Tampa and other areas.
