Traffic checkpoint results in drug arrest

A Collinsville man was arrested here in connection with alleged drug trafficking after he was found to be in possession of a syringe full of methamphetamine during a traffic checkpoint on Friday, the authorities said.

The man, Ronnie Pearson, 29, 10539 Collinsville Martin Road, Collinsville, was arrested for aggravated trafficking of a controlled substance and possession of paraphernalia. 

Philadelphia Police Chief Eric Lyons said officers encountered Pearson during a traffic checkpoint on Beacon Street near Poplar Avenue on Friday, May 5, at about 2 a.m.

Officers were approached by a vehicle and while speaking with the driver, observed the passenger of the vehicle attempting to hide something, according to Lyons. Reportedly, an officer then observed a syringe on the passenger side of the vehicle at which time the passenger was asked to exit the vehicle. 

The officer recovered the item that was later tested and confirmed to be filled with methamphetamine, Lyons said.