A motor vehicle stop this morning ended with far more serious charges.
At 9:40 today, an officer conducting traffic enforcement on the Sherwood Island Connector pulled over a car with 4 occupants, for a violation.
As the driver retrieved paperwork from the glove compartment, the officer spotted a plastic bag with red capsules — the type often used to package crack cocaine.
The officer called for backup units. Seconds later, the passenger in the front seat fled into the woods next to the commuter parking lot.
The officer gave chase, and saw him throwing items as he ran. The passenger was taken into custody after a brief struggle with officers. The other 3 occupants did not attempt to flee.
The evidence that the passenger discarded was retrieved. The suspected narcotics were tested, and found to be cocaine and crack. Both were mixed with fentanyl. The crack cocaine weighed 12 grams; the cocaine weighed 60 grams.
Evidence seized in today’s arrests. (Photo courtesy of Westport Police Department)
The passenger who ran was charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, illegal operation of a drug factory, possession of drug paraphernalia, tampering with evidence, assault on a public safety officer, and interfering with an officer. He is being held on a $75,000 bond.
The driver was charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, possession of drug paraphernalia, interfering with an officer, criminal impersonation, misuse of a license plate, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, operating a motor vehicle without insurance, illegal tinting, and operating without a license. He is being held on a $51,000 bond.
The rear passengers were not charged. However, one was taken into custody, with outstanding warrants in other jurisdictions.
Investigators are still working to determine the identities of the 2 people arrested.
Police vehicles converged on the Sherwood Island Connector this morning. (Photo/Matt Murray)