A traffic stop by Westover Police Friday morning resulted in the arrest of a man with an outstanding warrant through the Morgantown Police Department and the recovery of several types of drugs.
At approximately 1:27 a.m. Friday, Officer Rutledge with WPD saw a vehicle turn onto Holland Avenue from Tower Lane with a headlight malfunction, according to an arrest brief from police officials.
The driver of the vehicle told Rutledge they did not have a valid driver’s license, so the officer gave them the option of calling for a licensed driver to get the vehicle or calling a tow truck. The driver opted for a licensed driver, but it would take some time for them to arrive.
Rutledge noted the rear passenger of the vehicle appeared nervous and under the influence of narcotics due to “restlessness, pinpoint pupils, and excessive sweating.”
Because of the passenger’s anxious behavior and the fact the officer would be waiting there with them for an extended period of time, all of the passengers were identified by name and date of birth for safety.
The rear passenger, who appeared nervous, was identified as Anthony Lawrence, 25. According to the brief, the officer soon discovered an outstanding capias warrant for Lawrence through the Morgantown Police Department.
A capias warrant — also known as a bench warrant — is an arrest order issued by a magistrate or judge typically when someone fails to appear in court, pay fines or follow court orders.
Lawrence was arrested and transferred to the Morgantown Police Department.
Upon searching a bag Lawrence had, Rutledge found approximately 15 grams of methamphetamine and a small amount of marijuana and fentanyl, including an electronic scale and other drug paraphernalia.
Lawrence is charged with possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and is currently being held at North Central Regional Jail.
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