ALFRED — Maine State Police say they they expect additional arrests in connection with a incident Saturday that resulted in one man being charged with trafficking cocaine.

Michael Mendoza, 33, of Lyman was taken into custody by troopers on Saturday when they caught up with him after he ran away during a traffic stop.

Mendoza, driving a Nissan truck, was pulled over by Trooper Adam Schmidt. During the roadside investigation, indicators of illegal drug activity were present and Trooper John Darcy was called in to assist and a search of the truck was initiated.

“During the search Mendoza took off running,” State Police said in a statement. “Troopers gave chase and he was quickly tackled by Trooper Schmidt.”

Police said they found a bag of cocaine, numerous plastic baggies used to package narcotics and a scale. As well, Mendoza was carrying $1,283 in cash, seized by police as suspected drug proceeds. As well, police said Mendoza also found to be in possession of a Maine EBT card that did not belong to him.

Mendoza was taken to the hospital for evaluation of unspecified injuries and later was remamnded to the York County Jail. 

He was charged with unlawful trafficking in cocaine, a Class B felony. Police said he is expected to face further charges, including misuse of a public benefits instrument, a Class D misdemeanor,  and refusing to submit to arrest, a Class E misdemeanor.

On Monday, a judge reduced Mendoza’s bail from $10,000 to $3,500 and a contract with Maine Pre-Trial Services. He is scheduled to appear at York County Superior Court in Alfred on Dec. 14.

Police said additional arrests in connection with the source of the drugs are anticipated in the near future.


Comments are not available on this story.

filed under: