Traffic Stop At The I-95 Toll Plaza Yields Two Drug Runners

Location: I-95 southbound at the Maryland line toll plaza, Newark, Delaware, New Castle County

Date of Occurrence: Monday, September 7th, 2009 at approximately 1:00 a.m.

Suspect(s):
Krystal Spencer, 23, of Richmond, Virginia
Monte D. Ruffin, 24, of Richmond, Virginia

Resume: On Monday, September 7th at approximately 1:00 a.m., a Troop 6 patrol officer was conducting routine traffic enforcement at the I-95 toll plaza.

The officer observed a 2001 Chevrolet Impala approaching the southbound toll plaza at a speed greater than the posted limit. A traffic stop ensued and the driver was identified as Krystal Spencer. Her passenger was identified as Monte D. Ruffin. Upon speaking with the subjects, they both gave conflicting statements which heightened the officer’s suspicions. Also, Ruffin provided the officer with a false name and Spencer went along with his story.

The Trooper then requested the assistance of a drug certified K-9. A New Castle County Police K9 handler, and his partner, responded to the scene and the dog alerted on the suspect vehicle. A subsequent search of the Impala yielded over 60 grams of crack cocaine, over 2 grams of marijuana and over $2,600.00 in cash.

Both subjects were charged with Trafficking Cocaine (felony), Maintaining a Vehicle for Keeping a Controlled Substance (felony), Possession with the Intent to Deliver Narcotics (felony), Conspiracy 2nd (felony) and Possession of Marijuana (misdemeanor). Spencer was charged additionally with Hindering Prosecution (misdemeanor), Unsafe Speed (traffic violation) and No Insurance (traffic violation). Ruffin picked up an additional charge for Criminal Impersonation (misdemeanor).

Krystal Spencer was committed to the Baylor Woman’s Correctional Institute in lieu of a $29,000.00 secured bond. Monte D. Ruffin was committed to the Howard Young Correctional Institute in lieu of a $26,000.00 secured bond.