NASCAR founder's grandson arrested in Daytona

France faces drug charges following arrest in Daytona

By The Associated Press
October 9, 2009
10:06 AM EDT

MIAMI -- A grandson of NASCAR founder Bill France was arrested
early Thursday on drug charges in Daytona Beach, according to a police
report. J.C. France faces charges of possession of narcotics and
driving under the influence. France posted $4,500 bond and was released
from Volusia County jail Thursday afternoon. France, 43, was
driving a 2007 green Lamborghini when he was stopped shortly after
midnight Thursday. Authorities believe he was racing his half-brother,
40-year-old Russell Van Richmond. France failed to stop at a traffic
light and swerved on the roadway before coming to a stop in a parking
lot. Richmond, who was driving a 2003 Porsche when he was stopped, reportedly threatened the officer during the arrest. "No, this is a mistake for you," he told the officer, according to the report. "I'm a France, we own this city." Authorities continued with the investigation, and Richmond called for their commanding officers."You're done," he reportedly told an officer. "Your job is over. This
is the biggest mistake ever and your [sic] so done in Daytona."While conducting a search during the traffic stop, authorities found
containers with a "white cakelike substance." The substances gave a
presumptive positive reactions for cocaine when they were tested.Richmond faces two counts of unlawful possession of a controlled
substance, driving under the influence and two counts of threatening a
police officer. He posted $10,500 bond and was released from custody
Thursday. France is the son of NASCAR board member Jim France
and a driver in the Grand-Am Series. Richmond is the son of Jim
France's ex-wife. The two share a home in Daytona Beach, according to
the police report. A telephone number listed for Richmond rang
unanswered Thursday evening. A man who answered the phone at a number
listed for France said he was not available. NASCAR spokesman Ramsey Poston released a statement saying France has been suspended from all competition."Grand-Am has issued a penalty notice and suspended J.C. indefinitely
from all competition for actions detrimental to racing," Poston said.
"The penalty is not appealable. J.C. is being treated like any other
competitor. His suspension is immediate and indefinite."

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