Georgia Bulldogs safety faces drug and speeding charges following police stop
Ja'Marley Riddle arrested on Interstate 95 with controlled substances; UGA gathering information amid ongoing investigation.
Georgia Bulldogs safety Ja'Marley Riddle has been arrested on two felony charges relating to controlled substances and one misdemeanor speeding charge. The arrest occurred on 8 May following a traffic stop on Interstate 95, according to a police report obtained by WGIG 98.7 FM. The University of Georgia has confirmed it is aware of the charges and is currently gathering additional information regarding the matter.
The incident began when an undercover detective observed a red Dodge Durango weaving in and out of traffic on Interstate 95. The police report states that Riddle was travelling at a high rate of speed, with the detective’s patrol car reaching approximately 95 miles per hour while pursuing the vehicle, yet the Durango continued to gain distance.
Upon stopping the vehicle, officers reported that Riddle appeared "extremely nervous" and was "shaking" during the interaction. After Riddle provided his license and registration, the officer noted the odour of marijuana emanating from inside the car. The report indicates that Riddle denied having marijuana in the vehicle but consented to a search.
During the search, an officer retrieved a large heat-sealed bag from a backpack in the back seat. The bag contained multicoloured packaging with a leafy substance identified as marijuana, as well as vapes containing THC. The felony charges specifically relate to the purchase, possession, manufacture, distribution, or sale of marijuana, and the sale of a schedule I or II controlled substance.
A University of Georgia spokesman stated, "We are aware of the charges and are actively gathering additional information." The spokesman added that due to the ongoing nature of the legal matter, the university would not provide further comment at this time.
Riddle, 19, transferred to Georgia after playing his first two seasons at East Carolina University. During his tenure with the East Pirates, he recorded 133 tackles, 10 passes defensed, and six interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown. The legal proceedings are ongoing, and no further details regarding potential disciplinary action have been released.
