Hyundai Cell Observation

On May 18, 2018 at approximately 0349 hours, I observed a white Hyundai Sonata bearing Florida tag IVJZ05 exiting the Walmart parking lot located at 8701 US HWY 19 Port Richey, FL. I conducted an NCIC / FCIC check of the attached tag which revealed it to be assigned to a trailer. The Hyundai turned west onto Richey DR and I maneuvered my unmarked patrol vehicle (116) behind it. I initiated my emergency equipment and conducted a lawful traffic stop on the vehicle.

I made contact with the driver, who was identified by his Florida Driver’s license as Robert Roy Smith. At first Robert advised he had just purchased the vehicle and stated he did not know why the attached tag was assigned to a trailer. I advised him he was lying and he stated

He agreed to speak with me and apologized for lying about the tag. He claimed he did not know his license was suspended and denied getting notified. He advised if he knew his license was suspended he would not have been driving. He then stated he was going to contest the previous ticket in court and did not think his driver’s license was going to be suspended until his court hearing.

Robert was placed under arrest for DWLSR and a tow truck was requested off of rotation. Pasco Towing responded to the scene. An inventory was conducted of the vehicle, which revealed the notice of suspension in Robert’s vehicle. Robert was shown the notice and admitted he had received it. Robert was provided with a notice of impound and released on scene with criminal UTC A9JSNZE reference DWLSR with knowledge. He promised to appear in court and left the area without incident. The Hyundai was transported to PRPD by Pasco Towing and