Laurel, DE - On December 9, 2023 at approximately 12:14 am, multiple Laurel Police patrol cars were stopped on the shoulder of Northbound Sussex Highway in the area of County Seat Highway. The patrol cars had their emergency lights activated as officers worked to investigate an unrelated complaint. While on the side of the road, officers observed a vehicle passing the location in the right lane while maintaining highway-speeds and not moving over as required by Delaware law.

An officer was able to leave the original scene, and conducted a traffic stop on the second vehicle. The officer made contact with the operator, and discovered that he had an active warrant for a domestic violence incident days prior. 

Additionally, the officer's investigation determined the driver was under the influence of alcohol with a blood-alcohol concentration in excess of the legal limit to drive a motor vehicle.

The vehicle was impounded, and during a subsequent search, officers discovered a firearm concealed next to the center console. The firearm was later found to be reported stolen by the Ocean City Police Department in Maryland.

The driver was identified as Joshua Serviss (37) of Laurel, DE. He was transported to the Laurel Police station and charged with the following crimes:

Serviss was allegedly under the influence of alcohol, and therefore unable to be arraigned at the time of his arrest. He was committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on an intoxication hold, and released the next day after posting a secured bond.