Police seized numerous bags of cocaine, fentanyl and crack during a routine traffic stop in East Haven on Monday that led to the arrest of a teenager.
An officer on patrol reportedly spotted a black Acura traveling quickly going south on Laurel Street near View Terrace before the driver failed to stop at the intersection of Laurel Street and Bradley Street, according to Capt. Joseph M. Murgo of the East Haven Police Department. The traffic violation was also seen by a second officer conducting motor vehicle enforcement.
Murgo said the driver then turned onto Eldred Drive, a cul-de-sac, where officers initiated a traffic stop. While speaking to the driver, who was identified as 18-year-old Lebron Jimmy Stevenson of Hamden, police spotted “in plain view” clear baggies that contained crack cocaine and fentanyl, Murgo said. The baggies were packaged for resale.
Police had Stevenson get out of the vehicle before they detained him and searched the car, according to Murgo.
A search of the vehicle reportedly turned up a total of 72 bags containing 34 grams of crack cocaine, 11 bags containing 18 grams of cocaine and 180 bags containing 61 grams of fentanyl, Murgo said. Officers also found $661.
Stevenson was taken into custody and arrested on three counts each of possession of a controlled substance and possession of narcotics with intent to sell. He was also charged with failure to obey a stop sign, operating with a suspended license and improper use of a marker plate.
Stevenson posted a $10,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in New Haven Superior Court on Oct. 2.
“The East Haven Police Department remains committed to keeping our community safe from the dangers of illegal narcotics,” Murgo said in a statement. “We urge residents to report any suspicious activity and remind everyone to stay vigilant. If you see something, say something. Together, we can help prevent drug-related crimes and keep our neighborhoods safe.”
Originally Published:
