K-9 Merlin’s final deployment before retirement ended in three narcotics arrests after a traffic stop near Fort Walton Beach on Wednesday. Deputies found suspected cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl and drug paraphernalia, and arrested three Santa Rosa Beach residents.
Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Merlin is heading into retirement, and he finished the job first. His last deployment led to three narcotics arrests.
Deputies stopped a vehicle for multiple traffic infractions Wednesday at Eglin Parkway and Waterway Lane near Fort Walton Beach. Deputy Matt Sumner deployed Merlin during the stop.
According to the sheriff’s office, a probable cause search of the vehicle and its occupants turned up suspected cocaine, methamphetamine and fentanyl, along with numerous items of drug paraphernalia.
Deputies arrested three Santa Rosa Beach residents: Adrienne Harringon, 56; Vincent Campisi, 62; and Jessica Chalfant, 37. The sheriff’s office did not list specific charges.
The sheriff’s office said the stop caps a long list of successful missions for Merlin and his handler, and wished the dog a well-earned retirement.
Written and reported by Emerald Coast Connected.