Police say K9 alerted to Kia before search uncovered drugs in quantities indicating distribution
CUMBERLAND, MD – A Kia that allegedly committed multiple traffic violations and nearly caused a collision led Cumberland Police to a larger drug case Thursday when a K9 alerted to the vehicle and officers say they uncovered suspected crack cocaine, fentanyl and Suboxone.
The driver, identified by police as Melvin Gray Tyson Sr., 53, of Cumberland, was arrested following the traffic stop.
An officer first noticed the Kia in the area of West Industrial Boulevard, according to the Cumberland Police Department.
Police said the vehicle committed multiple traffic infractions and nearly caused a crash.
The officer initiated a traffic stop and contacted the driver.
During the stop, a police K9 conducted a free-air sniff around the exterior of the vehicle and alerted to the suspected presence of controlled dangerous substances, police said.
Officers subsequently searched the vehicle and Tyson.
According to police, the search uncovered suspected crack cocaine, fentanyl and Suboxone.
Authorities said the substances were found in quantities they allege indicated distribution.
Police did not disclose the weight of the suspected drugs or provide additional information about how they were packaged.
Tyson was arrested and charged with two counts of possession of CDS with intent to distribute and three counts of possession of CDS other than cannabis.
After appearing before a District Court Commissioner, Tyson was remanded to the Allegany County Detention Center.
He was being held without bond, according to police.
The charges are accusations, and Tyson is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Key Points
- Cumberland Police say a Kia committed multiple traffic violations and nearly caused a collision on West Industrial Boulevard.
- A K9 alerted during the stop, and police allege a subsequent search uncovered suspected crack cocaine, fentanyl and Suboxone.
- Melvin Gray Tyson Sr., 53, faces drug possession and distribution charges and was ordered held without bond.
