Jessamine County, Ky. – Nearly five months after a simple clerical mistake led to her arrest during a traffic stop, local pharmacist Dr. Shelby Dela Cruz is still battling to clear her record. On Tuesday she appeared before Jessamine District Court, only to have the hearing postponed.

Background of the error

According to LEX News Investigates, a one‑digit error in Dr. Dela Cruz’s Social Security number on a Grayson County police citation mistakenly linked her to charges that belong to another driver, Stephen Ludwig. The erroneous citation listed operating on a suspended license and failure to surrender a revoked license as violations.

During a later traffic stop, a Jessamine County deputy ran Dr. Dela Cruz’s information through a police database. The system, reflecting the faulty citation, flagged her pharmacy license as suspended, prompting the arrest.

Legal strategy and next steps

Dr. Dela Cruz told reporters she has now hired her third attorney since the incident. “We have spoken and he told me that he wants to take this to trial,” she said, adding she is unsure what form a trial would take.

Jessamine County Attorney Anna Roberts Smith reviewed the citation containing the error and indicated off‑camera that Dela Cruz’s counsel could file a motion to dismiss the two misdemeanors. However, Dr. Dela Cruz believes the prosecutor should dismiss the charges without a formal request, stating, “If you have proof, I feel like they should have been dropped.” She also declined to stipulate to probable cause, fearing it could jeopardize a potential civil lawsuit for damages arising from the arrest.

Professional impact

The case has already taken a toll on Dr. Dela Cruz’s professional standing. She reported that her out‑of‑state pharmacy licenses remain in limbo while the charges linger, affecting her ability to practice beyond Kentucky.

Upcoming court date

Dr. Dela Cruz is scheduled to return to court on December 8. She hopes the new attorney’s approach will lead to a dismissal of the erroneous charges and restore her reputation.

Community response

Local residents and colleagues have expressed sympathy for Dr. Dela Cruz, noting the seriousness of a mistake that could have ruined a respected pharmacist’s career. While the case remains pending, many hope the court will recognize the clerical nature of the error and act swiftly.

Original reporting: LEX18 Lexington (local) — read the source article.