Miramar Beach, FL - A Florida Uber driver has been arrested for attempting to sell drugs to undercover narcotics investigators attending a conference in Florida.
The incident occurred in August during the Florida Narcotics Officers' Association Annual Conference held in Miramar Beach.
According to the Walton County Sheriff's Office, the driver, identified as 52-year-old John Alcott, exhibited a strong odor of marijuana when detectives from the Citrus County Sheriff's Office entered his vehicle.
Authorities say that during their conversation with Alcott, he offered to sell Psilocybin mushrooms to the detectives, showing them a large bag in his glove compartment.
The officers declined the offer but contacted the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, who were also present at the conference.
The following day, a plan was formulated for an undercover purchase.
During the transaction, Alcott sold the detectives 134 grams of mushrooms, 10 mushroom capsules, and 12 LSD doses for $1,000.
Over the next few months, detectives maintained contact with Alcott, learning his Uber services covered the Destin to Panama City Beach area.
Detectives informed Alcott of a planned vacation in Miramar Beach and expressed interest in purchasing more drugs.
On February 21st, an undercover detective contacted Alcott and arranged to purchase over a quarter pound of mushrooms and 200 LSD doses for $5,000 near Miramar Beach.
Deputies apprehended Alcott near the designated location, arresting him on warrants related to the initial undercover purchase.
A search of his vehicle revealed the drugs intended for the sale.
Alcott was arrested on charges of selling hallucinogens, LSD trafficking, possession with intent to distribute, drug paraphernalia possession, and using communication devices for felonies.
He received a $15,000 bond and was released the following day.