Novato traffic stop leads to teen drug dealer arrest

Novato traffic stop leads to teen drug dealer arrest

In two separate incidents late on Sunday night, Novato police officers arrested men on charges of possession of marijuana for sales. Both arrests were detailed in press releases issued by the Novato Police Department.

In the first of the evening’s arrests, at 10:00 p.m., NPD Officer Cantley pulled over a 1999 Nissan driving away from the Hamilton Skate Park at 1200 Hamilton Parkway in Novato. According to NPD Lieutenant John McCarthy, the car had two mechanical violations: an absent license plate light and tinted windows.

At the wheel of the car, which had a marijuana odor emanating from inside, was 19-year-old San Rafael resident Gerardo Cervantes Magana. Magana was on probation in Marin County, likely for a drug-related charge. “Typically what happens,” McCarthy explained,“someone is arrested for a drug or alcohol charge and gives up that fourth amendment right [to avoid search and seizure] for the duration of the probation.”

Officer Cantley searched the car and discovered marijuana, concentrated cannabis, a scale, and additional evidence that suggested Magana’s intention to sell the marijuana. He was booked at Marin County Jail on charges of possession of marijuana for sales and probation violation. The three other occupants of the vehicle were not arrested.

Scott Hupp was bike riding along Redwood Bl. when he was apprehended.

Scott Hupp was bike riding along Redwood Bl. when he was apprehended.

At 11:30 p.m. the same evening, NPD Sergeant Jenner stopped 51-year-old Novato resident Scott Hupp on his bicycle at 7316 Redwood Boulevard. Hupp was also on probation and was found to have a methamphetamine pipe, marijuana, marijuana seeds, a scale, and marijuana packaging materials in his backpack. Hupp was booked at Marin County Jail on possession of marijuana for sales, possession of narcotic paraphernalia, and probation violation.

Novato traffic stop leads to teen drug dealer arrest was last modified: February 21st, 2014 by admin
Categories: Marin

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Caitlin Duke

Caitlin Duke is a freelance journalist in the San Francisco Bay Area. She writes for CrimeVoice and other news publications. She may be reached at cduke@unitedreporting.com.