Newark Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose announced the arrest of an armed Pennsylvania homicide suspect by Newark Police Officers on Friday, October 7, 2016.
Shortly before 6pm on Friday, officers from the 1st Precinct were dispatched to the 200 block of South 11th Street to investigate a citizen complaint of an individual selling drugs from the front porch of a house.
Police said the caller provided a detailed description of the suspect’s clothing.
Officers stopped to speak to a suspect who matched the suspect’s description and arrested, **23-year-old Pennsylvania resident, Melvin Morris** for possession of a loaded 38 caliber handgun and possession of heroin and cocaine author its said.
Additional officers assisted with Morris’ arrest because he refused to cooperate and fought with the arresting officers.
Authorities said Morris possessed 24 glassine envelopes of suspected heroin, 25 bottles of suspected cocaine and more than $500 in cash which was confiscated as proceeds of the narcotics sales.
Police charged Morris with unlawful possession of heroin and cocaine, possession of both drugs with the intent to distribute, possession of both drugs with 1000 feet of a school, possession of both drugs with the intent to distribute within 1000 feet of a school, resisting arrest, possession of prohibited ammunition (hollow points) and obstruction of the administration of justice.
During Morris’ processing, it was determined that Morris was wanted by the Wyomissing Police Department, Pennsylvania, for an outstanding no bail homicide warrant issued on June 16, 2016 authorities said.
Director Ambrose commended the officers who arrested Morris, a dangerous homicide suspect who fought to escape, while armed with a gun.
**“Morris definitely posed a threat to our residents. The quick and dedicated efforts of these officers and community awareness from residents removed Morris and the gun from our streets."**
These charges are mere allegations and all suspects remain innocent unless convicted in a court of law.
Ambrose is urging people to continue providing tips by utilizing the Department's 24-hour Crime Stoppers’ tip line at 877 NWK-TIPS (877 695-8477) or NWK-GUNS (877 695-4867).
All anonymous Crime Stopper tips are kept confidential and could result in a reward.