PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – What began as a routine traffic stop for a broken headlight in Calvert County turned into a felony drug arrest after deputies say a Bowie man’s suspicious behavior led to the discovery of narcotics, cash, and drug paraphernalia.
Routine Stop Turns Suspicious
The incident occurred on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at about 9:58 p.m., when a Calvert County sheriff’s deputy observed a Volkswagen traveling with an inoperable headlight and tag light.
According to charging documents, as the car passed the deputy’s cruiser, the driver — later identified as 30-year-old David James Cabrera of Bowie — allegedly jerked his head toward the deputy, his eyes “wide open.” That reaction, combined with the equipment violations, prompted the deputy to initiate a traffic stop.
Erratic Behavior Raises Alarms
While pulling his car over, Cabrera reportedly made aggressive movements toward the floorboard and center console, swerving so sharply that he nearly struck a guardrail. Deputies said that once stopped, Cabrera appeared visibly nervous — talking rapidly, breathing heavily, and sweating profusely.
Those movements led deputies to suspect Cabrera was attempting to conceal contraband inside the vehicle.
Search Reveals Drugs, Scale, and Cash
Based on the circumstances, deputies searched the immediate area around Cabrera’s seat. The search allegedly uncovered:
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44 grams of a white powdery substance located on the floorboard
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A smoking pipe in the center console
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A digital scale with suspected crack cocaine residue inside a bookbag in the back seat
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$3,300 in cash found on Cabrera’s person
Authorities believe the evidence indicates possession with intent to distribute rather than simple personal use.
Arrest and Charges
Cabrera was taken into custody and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. He was charged with:
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Felony possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance
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Possession of drug paraphernalia
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Possessing contraband in a place of confinement
Under Maryland law, the felony distribution charge alone carries a maximum penalty of up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Court Proceedings
Cabrera initially remained in custody following his arrest. However, on August 14, 2025, Judge Patrick R. Duley ordered him released on his own recognizance pending further proceedings.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 12, 2025, where prosecutors will present evidence to determine whether the case proceeds to trial.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
Local law enforcement officials noted that the case illustrates how routine traffic stops can quickly escalate when drugs or other illegal activity are involved. What started with minor equipment violations — a broken headlight and tag light — ultimately revealed what deputies allege was a significant quantity of narcotics intended for distribution.
Residents in Prince Frederick say the incident is another reminder of the risks drugs pose to communities across Southern Maryland. Law enforcement agencies in Calvert and neighboring counties have been stepping up patrols and enforcement operations as part of ongoing efforts to curb the spread of illegal narcotics.
What Comes Next
As Cabrera awaits his next court date, prosecutors will continue to review evidence gathered during the stop. If the charges are upheld, the case could result in a lengthy prison sentence.
For now, the incident stands as an example of how erratic behavior during a traffic stop can lead to far more serious consequences — and how quickly a “bumpy stop” can spiral into a felony arrest.
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