Laurel, DE - On March 15, 2024 at approximately 9:24 pm, a Laurel Police Department officer initiated a traffic stop on Wilson Street after observing a traffic violation. 

The vehicle was owned by Johsua Allen, who also had an active warrant for a Failure to Appear charge from Justice of the Peace Court 4.

As the officer approached the car, a distinctive odor of marijuana and visible smoke were detected from inside. Allen, however, chose to disregard the officer's signals and fled the scene, leading to a brief chase that ended at Hollybrook Apartments.

Allen's uncooperativeness didn't stop there. Upon exiting his vehicle, he resisted arrest, resulting in a brief physical altercation. Thankfully, no injuries were reported in the incident.

Subsequent investigations indicated signs of marijuana impairment, leading to a DUI investigation. It was determined that Allen was significantly impaired, rendering him incapable of operating a vehicle safely.

The night ended with Allen being taken into custody and being transported to the Laurel Police Station. He is facing an array of charges, including Felony Disregarding a Police Signal, Resisting Arrest, Driving Under the Influence of Drugs, Driving while Suspended/Revoked, and multiple additional traffic violations. 

Due to his suspected impairment, Allen was not arraigned as per Delaware Law. Instead, he was released to a sober parent on an $8.00 unsecured bail set by Justice of the Peace Court 7. A court appearance has been scheduled within 24 hours with the outstanding warrant pending further discussion by the court.

The local Laurel community is reminded that the issuance of a warrant is based on probable cause and once arrested; the subject is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.