A Washington Parish juvenile was arrested Monday on multiple drug-related charges, according to information from the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office.

WPSO officials said that on Monday, Oct. 31, a deputy observed a red Chevrolet driving erratically on Louisiana Highway 10, east of Louisiana Highway 439. The vehicle was stopped, and as the deputy approached the back of the vehicle he detected a strong odor consistent with the smell of marijuana.

The deputy instructed the driver of the vehicle to exit and performed a pat frisk for officer safety. The deputy then approached the passenger side of the vehicle and again he detected a strong odor consistent with the smell of marijuana.

The passenger was instructed to exit the vehicle and a pat frisk was conducted, which revealed a small clear plastic bag containing a green leafy substance suspected to be marijuana. At that time, the three other occupants were removed from the vehicle and a pat frisk was conducted for officer safety, officials said.

The driver gave permission to search the vehicle. During the search, a large plastic bag was confiscated, which contained approximately 24 individual wrapped bags, each containing a green leafy substance believed to be marijuana. Deputies also confiscated a grinder, which they believe was used to grind up the suspected marijuana.

The passenger of the vehicle confessed to owning the marijuana and associated paraphernalia. The juvenile suspect was arrested for one count of possession with intent to distribute Schedule I drugs, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. An order of detention was obtained from a 22nd Judicial District Court Judge, and the juvenile was placed in the custody of the Florida Parishes Juvenile Detention Center.

Due to the juvenile suspect’s age, the suspect is not being publicly identified.

“I want to commend Criminal Patrol Deputy Stephen K. Glenn for being alert and apprehending this young dealer,” Washington Parish Randy Seal said. “His efforts removed a significant amount of drugs off the street. I am hopeful that this young person will face the consequences of his decision and turn away from a life of crime. This young person has time to make amends and live life within the law.”