TAMPA, Fla. — Florida cornerback Dijon Johnson has been charged with multiple offenses, including two felonies related to a traffic stop that led to his arrest over the weekend. The incident unfolded late Friday when police stopped Johnson’s vehicle for allegedly running a stop signal, prompting a deeper investigation.
During the stop, officers reported noticing a strong smell of burned marijuana emanating from the car. According to the police report, Johnson became confrontational, refusing to exit the gray Dodge Challenger. As a result, officers removed him from the vehicle and subsequently took him into custody.
A subsequent search of the car revealed not only marijuana but also eight grams of synthetic marijuana hidden in a backpack. Officers also discovered a loaded Glock 19, which contained 17 rounds in its magazine. The possession of the firearm constitutes a second-degree felony, while possession of the synthetic marijuana is classified as a third-degree felony. The charges for marijuana possession and resisting arrest without violence are categorized as misdemeanors.
Johnson, 21, has submitted not guilty pleas for all charges through his attorney, Tim Taylor. Taylor indicated that a public statement would follow later regarding the case.
Florida’s head coach, Billy Napier, acknowledged the situation in a statement, noting that the program is actively gathering information and cooperating with legal and administrative proceedings.
Johnson, a junior standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 196 pounds, was a notable presence on the field last season, achieving 27 tackles and two pass breakups as a key player for the team. Following his arrest, he was booked early Saturday and later released after posting an $8,500 surety bond.
As developments continue to unfold, the impact of these charges on Johnson’s athletic career and the football program remains a topic of significant interest.