An arrest for a lesser charge can sometimes prompt a search that could turn up drugs or paraphernalia, leading to more severe penalties. This appears to be what happened in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, when authorities arrested a man allegedly blocking the bike lane and part of the roadway on Ocean Boulevard with a rented golf cart containing himself and three passengers.
Golf carts are street legal in South Carolina on roads with a speed limit of 35 miles per hour or less, and only during daylight hours. However, these conditions apply only to licensed drivers over the age of 16. Unlicensed drivers, and those under age 16, cannot operate a golf cart on the street under any circumstances.
Neither the time of day that the arrest took place nor the speed limit on Ocean Boulevard is readily known, but according to the report, a law enforcement officer initially asked the driver of the golf cart to pull into a nearby parking lot, informing him that it was illegal for him to block traffic with his vehicle. Upon returning to the scene five to 10 minutes later, the officer conducted a traffic stop upon allegedly finding the golf cart still blocking the bike lane.
An arrest for blocking traffic took place when the officer reportedly discovered that the driver did not have a valid license due to suspension. The arrest prompted a search that yielded a clear baggy containing 3.4 grams of multicolored pills. Testing of the contents revealed positive results for fentanyl. Additionally, authorities allegedly found a vape pen that later tested positive for THC in the pocket of the driver’s pants.
In addition to the charge of obstruction of vehicle traffic, the driver of the golf cart also faces a charge of simple possession of marijuana. Reports indicate that authorities also sought a warrant for possession of schedule II controlled substance, but the status of that request is unknown. It may be wise for those facing drug charges as the result of a traffic stop to contact an attorney.
