What started as a traffic stop for a minor infraction ended with the driver being arrested on very serious charges. 

On Saturday, April 26th, at around 7:15 pm, a PCSO deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2017 Nissan Altima with illegally tinted windows on US 17 at Vigiron Road in Fort Meade.

The driver was identified as 42-year old Heather Darlene Rimes of Avon Park.

When the deputy asked her for her driver's license Rimes stated that she has not had one in years. Her license was revoked on September 23, 2014.

The deputy noticed that Ms. Rimes had slurred speech, watery eyes, and body tremors.

In her vehicle were four small baggies under the driver's seat. The baggies contained substances that tested positive for methamphetamine and fentanyl.

Ms. Rimes also had a small child in the back seat.

Ms. Rimes was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and she was taken to the Polk County Jail.

A breath alcohol test showed no sign of alcohol impairment, so a urine sample was collected for later testing.

According to the suspect, she consumed methamphetamine earlier in the day.

Heather Rimes was charged with: DUI, DUI with Passenger Under 18 years, Negligent Child Abuse, Possession of Fentanyl, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Methamphetamine, and Driving While License Suspended/Revoked.