Using his phone while driving cost a Surrey man dearly, as police who stopped him allegedly found crack cocaine, heroin and a backpack of money.
RCMP pulled the man over Sunday afternoon during a routine distracted driver stop in the 10800-block of 160 Street after the man was seen using his phone while driving.
The driver was unable to produce ID and was told to leave the vehicle and the Mountie saw what he suspected was a baggie of drugs on the floor of the car.
The driver was arrested, and two passengers were removed from the car, which was searched.
The driver was immediately arrested and the two passengers were removed from the vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed a backpack in the back seat full of individually wrapped bags of what is believed to be crack cocaine (10 grams) and heroin (1.5 grams) along with tens of thousands of dollars.
The 22 year old male driver from Surrey, who is known to police, was released on a promise to appear in court on May 13 on charges of possession for the purpose of trafficking.
The driver was also ticketed for use electronic device and drive contrary to restrictions. Surrey RCMP Traffic Services is investigating and will be recommending a number of criminal charges.
“February is Distracted Driving month for police and officers have made it a priority to target those drivers observed using handheld devices while driving,” said Surrey RCMP Cpl. Bert Paquet.
“This is a classic example of some of the added benefits that come from having such increased enforcement on our roadways.”