Samantha Adams, 39, is facing an attempted murder charge in Florida after investigators alleged she drugged a 69-year-old man she met through a dating app. The man became unconscious and was later diagnosed with benzodiazepine poisoning, acute kidney injury, dehydration and metabolic encephalopathy. Authorities say the incident followed a dispute involving a vehicle and an alleged demand for $1,000. Adams was arrested on Aug. 27 and remained in custody without bond as of Sept. 2, according to jail records.
| 1) | Alleged relationship and dispute over a vehicle |
| 2) | Man becomes ill after drinking at his home |
| 3) | Medical findings and earlier warning signs |
| 4) | Arrest and charges filed by investigators |
| 5) | Authorities continue investigating possible evidence |
Alleged relationship and dispute over a vehicle
Samantha Adams and the victim met online and had been in a relationship for about two to three months, according to investigators and court records. Authorities said the relationship involved paid sex. Adams allegedly used the name “Nala” when she met the man, who is 69 and lives in the area investigated by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
On Aug. 17, the pair argued about a vehicle the man had purchased for Adams. Court records say he told her he wanted the vehicle returned because he could no longer afford it. Adams allegedly suggested that they discuss the matter at his home, where the later events occurred.
Man becomes ill after drinking at his home
At the home, Adams allegedly gave the man a shot glass containing what appeared to be whiskey. Investigators say the drink contained a benzodiazepine. After he consumed it, the two engaged in physical affection, according to court documents.
When the man attempted to touch Adams sexually, she allegedly demanded $1,000. Records say he told her he did not have the money, after which she dressed and left. Soon afterward, he was asked to collect his granddaughter from a Wawa near a movie theater. While driving there, he began to feel ill and later could remember only being pulled from the driver’s seat and moved to the back seat.
Medical findings and earlier warning signs
The man’s granddaughter drove him home and called 911 after he remained unconscious. At a hospital, he was given Narcan because medical personnel initially suspected an opioid overdose. Testing later indicated benzodiazepine poisoning, metabolic encephalopathy, dehydration and acute kidney injury.
Investigators reported that the man’s regular medications did not include benzodiazepines. He also told them he rarely drank and had not experienced comparable drowsiness or disorientation after alcohol use. He said a similar episode occurred earlier in August, when he fell asleep behind the wheel after leaving Adams’ home and accidentally reversed his truck into a law enforcement vehicle.
“She tried to kill him. She tried to overdose him. She tried to extort him,” Sheriff Grady Judd said in a social media video.
Arrest and charges filed by investigators
Adams was arrested outside a Dick’s Sporting Goods store in Polk County on Aug. 27, 10 days after the alleged poisoning. She faces attempted murder, resisting an officer without violence, offering prostitution, tampering with physical evidence and five drug-related charges.
During a search of her vehicle, authorities reported finding 19 hydrocodone/acetaminophen pills, two and a half oxycodone hydrochloride pills, nine Zoloft pills, part of an Adderall pill and part of a Xanax pill. Jail records indicated she remained held without bond as of Sept. 2. An attorney for Adams did not respond to a request for comment.
Authorities continue investigating possible evidence
Investigators are examining Adams’ alleged conduct and whether additional evidence or potential victims may be connected to the case. Court records also refer to an earlier Lake County investigation involving a woman known as “Nala” who allegedly approached an elderly man to obtain goods and money.
Sheriff Grady Judd said the investigation remains active. The allegations have not been resolved in court, and Adams is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants that can cause sedation, confusion, impaired coordination, slowed breathing, coma and death in cases of overdose.
| Number | Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | A 69-year-old man was allegedly given a benzodiazepine during a meeting at his home. |
| 2 | Medical testing found poisoning and several serious health complications. |
| 3 | Adams was arrested on Aug. 27 and faces multiple criminal charges. |
| 4 | Authorities reported finding several prescription medications in her vehicle. |
Summary
The case centers on allegations that Samantha Adams drugged an older man during a dispute involving a vehicle and then demanded money. The man’s granddaughter obtained emergency help, and hospital testing identified benzodiazepine poisoning and other serious conditions. Adams remains accused, not convicted, while investigators continue reviewing the circumstances and any possible related evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Samantha Adams accused of doing?
She is accused of giving a 69-year-old man a benzodiazepine, attempting to murder him and demanding $1,000. She also faces several additional charges.
When was Adams arrested?
Authorities arrested Adams on Aug. 27 outside a Dick’s Sporting Goods store in Polk County, 10 days after the alleged poisoning.
What medical conditions were reported?
Hospital testing indicated benzodiazepine poisoning, metabolic encephalopathy, dehydration and acute kidney injury. He was initially treated with Narcan for a suspected opioid overdose.
Has the case been decided in court?
No. Adams remained in custody without bond as of Sept. 2, and the allegations had not been resolved. She is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
