Ex-MLB Star Len Dykstra and Driver Face Legal Troubles Over Alleged Drug Possession
In a twist of events on New Year’s Eve, former baseball outfielder Len Dykstra found himself embroiled in legal issues when drugs were allegedly found in his possession. According to a criminal affidavit, Dykstra has claimed that the substances were placed in his wallet by Kevin Zelna, the driver of the vehicle he was in.
The incident unfolded when police discovered a plastic container with suspected methamphetamine and a glass smoking device during a traffic stop. Dykstra alleges these items were planted by Zelna, his driver, whose actions have now led to a series of charges.
Kevin Zelna, 37, from Scranton, is facing charges that include driving under the influence, drug possession, and resisting arrest. Police reports state that Zelna behaved like a “sovereign citizen,” a term describing individuals who reject governmental authority.
As explained by the University of North Carolina School of Government, sovereign citizens view American government institutions as illegitimate and believe they are exempt from their authority.
On New Year’s Day, Zelna was charged with an array of offenses such as driving under the influence, possession of a controlled substance, and other vehicular violations. His vehicle bore a fraudulent license plate, and he failed to provide necessary documentation when requested by law enforcement.
Len Dykstra, residing in Scranton, faces charges related to the possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. The charges were filed after police stopped the vehicle on Route 507 due to a “dead” license plate, and Dykstra was found carrying items in a pouch that included his identification and a glass smoking device.
When asked for documentation, Zelna reportedly refused, citing that he was “traveling” and that all vehicle information was in a “trust,” a common rhetoric among those claiming sovereign citizenship.
The police affidavit notes that Zelna appeared to be under the influence, with glassy, bloodshot eyes and an odor of alcohol, although Dykstra did not exhibit signs of alcohol consumption.
During the arrest, Zelna resisted, requiring officers to remove him forcefully from the vehicle. Dykstra maintained that Zelna had placed items in his wallet, consenting to a police search which revealed the suspected drugs.
Dykstra’s Defense
Attorney Matthew Blit, representing Dykstra, is optimistic about his client’s exoneration. “We firmly assert that the alleged narcotics did not belong to Lenny, who is currently recovering from a serious stroke,” Blit stated in a statement published by TMZ Sports. “Lenny was not knowingly in possession of or under the influence of any narcotics on his person and was not taken into custody at the scene.”
Dykstra is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on February 3, while Zelna’s hearing is set for January 13. Dykstra remains free without bail, whereas Zelna is free on a $10,000 bail.
