Deputy Checking on Driver at Destin Gas Station Leads to Major Fentanyl Trafficking Arrest

Destin, FL (BuzzReport)—A routine welfare check at a Destin gas station Friday quickly escalated into a serious drug trafficking arrest after deputies discovered suspected fentanyl, a concealed weapon, and a driver with an extensive criminal history.

According to authorities, deputies responded to the Shell gas station located on Harbor Boulevard after noticing a man slumped over inside a running vehicle parked in a handicap space without a permit.

Investigators identified the driver as 32-year-old Parker Lee Stewart. During the encounter, deputies learned Stewart had previously been designated as a Habitual Traffic Offender, making it illegal for him to operate a motor vehicle.

After Stewart was taken into custody, deputies reportedly discovered brass knuckles concealed in his pocket along with suspected fentanyl. A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered additional suspected fentanyl and drug paraphernalia.

Authorities said the substances field-tested positive for fentanyl and weighed a combined total of approximately five grams — an amount large enough to trigger a trafficking charge under Florida law.

Law enforcement officials also revealed Stewart has eight prior felony convictions, adding to the seriousness of the arrest and raising further concerns about repeat offenders and the growing fentanyl crisis impacting communities across Florida and the nation.

Stewart now faces multiple felony charges, including:

• Trafficking in Fentanyl Over Four Grams
• Possession of a Concealed Weapon by a Convicted Felon
• Driving While Habitual Traffic Offender

Following the arrest, Stewart was transported to the Okaloosa County Jail where he remains in custody.

Officials have not yet released additional information regarding whether more charges could follow as the investigation continues.