Two women with extensive criminal histories have been arrested following a multi-week investigation that culminated in the seizure of over 2.7 pounds of methamphetamine and multiple firearms from a motorhome in Crystal River. The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Special Investigations Unit (SIU) executed a search warrant over the weekend at 130 S. Suncoast Blvd, leading to the arrests of Valerie Nipper Daniels, 61, and Traci Dawn Daniels, 59.
The SIU had been investigating suspected methamphetamine trafficking from the motorhome for several weeks. On June 13, a traffic stop related to a violation led to the discovery of approximately 116.2 grams (about a quarter of a pound) of methamphetamine after a CCSO K9 alerted to the presence of narcotics. Investigators determined the narcotics originated from the motorhome.
Armed with this new information, SIU detectives obtained a search warrant for the motorhome, which they executed in the early morning hours of June 14. Despite detectives announcing themselves and the warrant, the occupants initially refused to comply. Detectives eventually forced entry, prompting the women to comply and be removed from the motorhome without further incident.
During the search, detectives located approximately 1,234.7 grams (over 2.7 pounds) of methamphetamine, primarily found in a bedroom closet. This brings the total amount of meth seized during the investigation to 1,350.9 grams (2.98 pounds), with an estimated street value of $17,000.
Additionally, deputies discovered several firearms, including a Taurus 9mm handgun, a Smith & Wesson .38 special, a Ruger .22 revolver, and a Hi-Point 9mm handgun. One of the firearms was confirmed to be stolen out of Marion County, and this aspect of the investigation is ongoing. Both Valerie and Traci Daniels are prohibited from owning firearms due to prior felony convictions; Valerie has 21 felony and 11 misdemeanor convictions, while Traci has 11 felony and 20 misdemeanor convictions.
“This operation shows how committed we are at CCSO to getting drugs off our streets and keeping our community safe. Each team member is dedicated to this mission because we know that drug-related crime impacts not just those involved, but also their families and neighborhoods,” said Sheriff David Vincent. “Everyone in our community deserves to feel secure, and that’s why we’re focused on making real changes. By working together across different units, we really live by the idea of ‘One Community, One Goal.’ This teamwork boosts our efforts and helps us stay united in tackling drug trafficking. By pooling our resources and expertise, we can address this issue head-on and create a safer environment for all.”
Both women have been charged with:
- One count of Trafficking in Methamphetamine
- One count of Leasing/Renting/Own a Place for the Purpose of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance
- Four counts of Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Valerie and Traci Daniels were transported to the Citrus County Detention Facility, where they are being held without bond.
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