Friday, June 11, 2021

DRUG TRAFFICKING ARREST MADE

 




Florida Statute Section 893.135 (1f)(1) defines the criminal offense of Trafficking in Amphetamine (which includes Methamphetamine) as the possession, sale, manufacture, purchase, or delivery of more than 14 grams of amphetamines.  “Trafficking” any illegal substance in Florida is a more serious offense.  It subjects an offender to “mandatory minimum” prison terms and fines. 

On June 10, 2021 shortly after noon, LCSO Lieutenant Mike Narayan conducted a traffic stop on a white colored Lincoln passenger car.  The vehicle was being driven on NE 139th Avenue by Tye Hamilton Pierce (8-6-89.)  Pierce was the only occupant in the vehicle. 

Sgt. Kevin Kinik and his K-9 partner “Zombie” responded to the location.  Zombie gave a positive alert for the presence of illegal narcotics in the vehicle.  During a search of the vehicle, LCSO deputies located and seized 35 grams of a crystalline substance that tested positive for amphetamine.   They also seized a loaded revolver from the vehicle. 

Pierce was arrested for Trafficking in Amphetamine and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.  He was transported to the Levy County Detention Center and his bond was set at $100,000.00 per charge on June 11, 2021.  According to Florida Statute Section 893.135(1f)1(b), offenders in possession of more than 28 grams of amphetamine “shall be sentenced to a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 7 years, and the defendant shall be ordered to pay a fine of $100,000.”

The Pierce name might be familiar to Levy County citizens.  Tye Pierce’s father, George Pierce, was the victim of homicide in Levy County in December of 2012.  That case remains unsolved as of this date. 

Any citizens who may have information regarding illegal drug activity or this cold case homicide are asked to contact LCSO at 352-486-5111 or 911.  Reports can also be made anonymously through CrimeStoppers at 1-877-349-8477.