Hillsborough County, FL – A probation check in the Tampa Bay area developed into a major drug investigation Friday, leaving a 63-year-old man facing multiple armed trafficking and drug charges, authorities said.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, deputies worked alongside probation officers Friday, Aug. 7, while conducting the probation check. The sheriff’s office said the investigation ultimately resulted in multiple trafficking charges against Robert Adkins, 63.
Authorities charged Adkins with armed trafficking in illegal drugs involving an alleged amount between 28 grams and 30 kilograms. He also faces an armed trafficking in cocaine charge involving an alleged amount between 28 and 200 grams.
Additional charges include keeping a public nuisance structure for drug activity, possession of drug paraphernalia, three counts of armed possession of a Schedule I controlled substance with intent to sell or deliver and armed possession of a controlled substance.
Adkins also faces charges of unlawful use of a two-way communications device and delivery of cocaine. The sheriff’s office additionally listed an Interstate Compact Agreement among the charges or holds associated with the arrest.
A photograph released by the sheriff’s office shows what authorities presented as evidence from the investigation, including multiple firearms, bags containing suspected substances, cash and other items spread across a table.
The sheriff’s office described the case as a major drug investigation that began with a probation check. Additional details about the quantities allegedly seized or the location of the investigation were not included in the information provided.
The charges are allegations. Adkins is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
