Palatka, FL – A traffic stop outside James A. Long Elementary School in Palatka on Wednesday morning led to the arrest of a convicted felon after deputies discovered a firearm and drugs, according to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies say they attempted to stop a vehicle with an expired tag after it entered the school’s drop-off circle. The driver, identified as Rodney Francis, 41, of Palatka, allegedly pulled into a parking spot on school property and tried to walk away with another man. Both were detained after deputies noticed their suspicious behavior.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, K9 Mags and handler Deputy Yeomans were called to the scene. The K9 alerted deputies to possible gunpowder, leading to a vehicle search. Inside, deputies reportedly found a firearm with live rounds, about 14.5 grams of pills testing positive for MDMA, handwritten notes referencing money owed, and two fireworks.
Francis was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, trafficking MDMA, possession of a vehicle known for trafficking, and possession of a firearm on school property. Deputies also said his vehicle’s registration had expired in 2024 and that he was driving with a suspended license.
Francis was booked into the Putnam County Jail on $55,000 bond. The passenger was not charged.
Sheriff H.D. “Gator” DeLoach credited K9 Mags’ alert for helping remove a suspected drug dealer from the community, noting the school was not placed on lockdown during the incident.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more local updates and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
