DOVER, Del. — A surveillance operation at a Dover gas station led to the arrest of three people after Delaware State Police investigators said they watched a hand-to-hand drug transaction unfold in the parking lot. The investigation later expanded to a Dover residence, where detectives recovered suspected heroin, crack cocaine and drug paraphernalia.
The arrests stem from a May 26 operation conducted by members of the Delaware State Police Special Investigations Unit at a gas station in the 2600 block of State Street.
Detectives Witness Alleged Drug Transaction
According to Delaware State Police, detectives were conducting surveillance at approximately 10 p.m. when they observed a blue pickup truck parked in the lot.
The truck was occupied by the driver, later identified as Stanley Baynard, 32, of Greenwood.
A short time later, a red sedan arrived and parked nearby. Investigators said they watched Louis Tolson, 60, of Magnolia, exit the sedan and approach Baynard’s truck, where an alleged hand-to-hand drug transaction took place.
Police said the sedan’s passenger, Keara Harrington, 36, of Dover, then briefly approached Baynard before all three individuals left the area.
Traffic Stops Lead to Arrests
Following the observed transaction, detectives conducted separate traffic stops on both vehicles.
Baynard was taken into custody without incident. A search allegedly uncovered approximately 1.44 grams of cocaine.
Investigators also stopped the red sedan and detained Tolson and Harrington without incident.
During a search of the vehicle, detectives recovered a digital scale, according to police.
Search of Dover Home Uncovers More Drugs
The investigation expanded after detectives learned Tolson was on probation and lived with Harrington at a residence in the 4000 block of Rhode Island Drive in Dover.
Members of Delaware Probation and Parole responded to the home and reportedly located suspected narcotics in Tolson’s room.
Based on that discovery, investigators obtained a search warrant for the residence.
During the search, detectives recovered:
- Approximately 2.14 grams of suspected crack cocaine
- Approximately 103 bags of suspected heroin
- Additional drug paraphernalia
Police said the evidence led to additional criminal charges.
Key Points
• Delaware State Police said detectives witnessed a drug deal at a Dover gas station.
• Investigators seized suspected cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin and drug paraphernalia.
• Police recovered approximately 103 bags of suspected heroin during a home search.
• Three people were arrested or charged as a result of the investigation.
One Suspect Released, Another Held on Cash Bond
Baynard was issued a criminal summons for possession of a controlled substance and released from the scene.
Tolson was transported to Delaware State Police Troop 3, where he was formally charged with multiple drug-related offenses.
Authorities said he was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11 and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on a $44,200 cash bond.
The Delaware State Police release did not include Harrington’s full list of charges in the information provided.
Investigation Continues
The case highlights ongoing narcotics enforcement efforts in Kent County, where investigators frequently use surveillance operations to identify and disrupt suspected drug trafficking activity.
As of Friday, Tolson remained incarcerated pending further court proceedings. Delaware State Police have not announced whether additional arrests or charges are expected as the investigation moves forward.