Mom Arrested for Drugs,

Published on April 10, 2026

A Yavapai County Sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 40 that resulted in the arrest of a 32-year-old female driver from Las Vegas, for aggravated DUI and child abuse.

It began on the morning of Friday, April 3rd, after a deputy with the YCSO Special Crimes Unit (SCU), observed a vehicle with traffic violations, including swerving. Upon stopping the vehicle, the deputy identified three children inside, ages 4, 11, and 12. It was also learned that the driver was wanted on a nationwide extradition warrant out of Florida.

During the investigation, she was swerving because she was allegedly attempting to hide an open beer can under a child's seat. A K9 unit alerted to the vehicle, leading to the discovery of a usable quantity of meth wrapped in a dollar bill inside a cigarette pack. A drug evaluation was completed, and the driver subsequently tested positive for methamphetamine.

In addition to a valid nationwide extradition warrant, the woman was booked on the following charges:

Driving with a Suspended License; Possession of Narcotic Drugs; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Open Container; DUI (Drugs); Aggravated DUI; Three counts of Endangerment; Three counts of Child Abuse.

The Arizona Department of Child Safety responded and assisted with the children. Arrangements have been made for the children’s grandmother to take custody.

I-40 serves as a vital artery for the movement of goods, tourism, and, unfortunately, dangerous and illicit contraband. For the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, Interstate 40 is a focal point for criminal interdiction. This case highlights the rigorous standards and effective protocols of the YCSO Special Crimes Unit. What began as a routine traffic stop turned into a more serious situation; however, through the coordinated efforts of the deputies, the scene was defused, and three children were safely removed from harm’s way.

*The identity of the driver is being withheld to protect the privacy of the children.