VIRGINIA — A routine traffic stop in Culpeper last week led to a wide-ranging investigation involving drugs, stolen property, and multiple outstanding warrants, according to the Culpeper Police Department.
Around 12:44 a.m. on October 1, an officer pulled over a vehicle near Brady Road and Route 29. Inside the vehicle were the driver, identified as 47-year-old Timothy Bradford of Manassas, and a passenger.
Officers also discovered two women — identified as 28-year-old Alyssa Brizuela and 27-year-old Elizabeth Duke — hiding under a tarp in the bed of the truck. Alongside them, police said they found suspected illegal narcotics and stolen property.
Investigators said Bradford initially gave officers a false name. After confirming his real identity, they learned he had several outstanding warrants for felony shoplifting, probation violations, and failure to appear in multiple Virginia jurisdictions.
A search of the truck uncovered a small drone, narcotics, and materials consistent with drug distribution. Police believe the drone may have been used to deliver drugs.
Earlier that night, officers had responded to a shoplifting report involving two women matching Brizuela and Duke’s descriptions. Stolen merchandise and personal items were later found behind Dominion Square Shopping Center.
Bradford was charged with felony possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, multiple drug possession offenses, identity theft, and driving under the influence of drugs. He is being held at the Culpeper County Jail without bond.
Brizuela and Duke were arrested for public intoxication and detained until sober. Police said all three are suspected of being part of a multi-jurisdictional larceny ring, and additional charges are expected.
“This investigation is a prime example of what’s possible when an officer combines experience, intuition, and the ability to look beyond the immediate traffic stop,” said Chief Chris Settle. “This one traffic stop led to the recovery of thousands of dollars in property, interrupted a drone-delivery drug distribution system, and the apprehension of criminals.”
Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact Culpeper Police at 540-829-5500 or email tips@culpeperva.gov. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Culpeper Crime Solvers at 540-727-0300 or at culpeperpd.gov.
