State v. Laron C. Benjamin

The State appeals an order granting Laron Cartrell Benjamin’s motion to suppress evidence seized after Benjamin was removed from his vehicle during a valid traffic stop. The trial court granted Benjamin’s motion after determining that the officer’s decision to order Benjamin to exit his vehicle was not based on a valid safety concern. We reverse.

While on routine patrol, two Orlando Police Department officers observed Benjamin driving a vehicle with illegally tinted windows. Benjamin entered a shopping plaza and parked in front of a restaurant. The officers parked their patrol car behind…