Tween Driving without a License Busted for Trafficking Methamphetamine near Utah Border

A 13 year old tween driving without a license was taken into custody after being pulled over on I-70 near the Utah border along  for trafficking methamphetamine.

Traffic infractions

The 13 year old who was a few years shy of driving age was pulled over on I-70 east of the Utah border, near Fruita, Colorado. A County officer observed the tween failing to drive in a designated lane and pulled over the vehicle. When the officer approached the car and realized the young age of the driver, he asked the tween and the two adult passengers for permission to search the car.

Consent to a search?

The teen may have left with only traffic infractions for no license and not staying in a lane but for reasons unknown, the driver and his passengers gave the officer consent to search the vehicle. The officer located 23 packages of methamphetamine weighing in at 25 pounds total. The 13 year old unnamed minor along with 22 year old German Michel-Arreola and Irene Michel-Arreola were arrested for manufacturing and possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.

Trafficking through Utah

Details haven’t been released regarding whether the trio was driving into Colorado or attempting to leave the state when they were apprehended. The tween and both adults were all residents of Los Angeles and had either made their way through multiple states including Utah before being stopped by Colorado police or were on their way home. Either way, all three face the possibility of federal drug trafficking charges.

Know your rights and pick good friends

The Colorado officer could have found probably cause to search the vehicle, however it wasn’t needed as the three individuals from California gave him an open invitation to conduct a search. Drivers are encouraged to learn and exercise their right to politely refuse police searches if possible, or obtain a reputable attorney following any seizure of illegal contraband. Teens are warned to choose their friends carefully and steer clear of dangerous situations that could bring criminal charges.