Newburyport, MA – Police in Newburyport arrested two men early Sunday morning on drug trafficking and firearms charges, after discovering large quantities of narcotics and weapons during a vehicle search at a local gas station. Officials identified the suspects as Samuel Lash, 39, of Friendship, Maine, and William A. King Jr., 45, of Brockton, Massachusetts.
The Incident: Vehicle Stop Leads to Major Drug Bust
According to City Marshal Matthew Simons, the arrests followed an investigation initiated by Officer Schyler Reilly at a gas station on Storey Avenue. The officer reportedly observed suspicious behavior that led to a motor vehicle stop. Upon approaching the vehicle, police spotted drugs and paraphernalia in plain view, prompting a full search.
The search uncovered a large cache of illegal narcotics and weapons, including 931.5 grams of cocaine, 13.5 grams of crack cocaine, 7.1 grams of marijuana, and 4 units of Ecstasy. Officers also recovered digital scales, cutting utensils, and packaging materials, indicating intent to distribute.
Investigation and Evidence: Firearms and Drugs Seized
In addition to the narcotics, police discovered a .357-caliber revolver, ammunition, and metallic knuckles inside the vehicle. Authorities said one of the suspects, Lash, did not have a valid firearm license.
City Marshal Simons confirmed that the discovery represents one of the largest single cocaine seizures in the area this year.
“The professionalism and quick action by our officers prevented a significant quantity of drugs and weapons from reaching the streets,” Simons said in a statement.
Two female passengers who were also inside the vehicle requested medical attention and were transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation. Their identities have not been released.
Charges Filed Against Both Suspects
Following the search, both Lash and King were taken into custody and charged with multiple drug and weapons offenses.
Samuel Lash, 39, of Friendship, ME, faces the following charges:
- Trafficking in Cocaine (More Than 200 Grams)
- Possession of a Class B Drug (Two Counts)
- Possession of a Class D Drug With Intent to Distribute
- Carrying a Firearm Without a License
- Possessing Ammunition Without a License
- Carrying a Dangerous Weapon
- Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle
William A. King Jr., 45, of Brockton, MA, faces similar charges, including:
- Trafficking in Cocaine (More Than 200 Grams)
- Possession of a Class B Drug (Two Counts, Subsequent Offense)
- Possession of a Class D Drug With Intent to Distribute
Police confirmed that both suspects were transported to the Newburyport Police Department for booking and processing.
Court Proceedings and Bail Status
King is currently being held without bail, while Lash’s bail has been set at $50,000, according to officials. Both men are scheduled to be arraigned on Monday in Newburyport District Court.
Investigators have turned over the case to the Essex County District Attorney’s Office, which will handle prosecution. Authorities are also investigating whether the suspects are connected to a larger regional drug distribution network operating between Maine and Massachusetts.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
The arrests highlight Newburyport’s ongoing commitment to tackling drug trafficking and illegal firearms activity in the region. Law enforcement officials praised the coordinated response that led to the safe apprehension of the suspects.
Residents have expressed concern about the rise in drug-related incidents along major routes, particularly near gas stations and rest stops frequently used by traffickers.
“We want residents to know that our officers remain vigilant and proactive,” Marshal Simons said. “We will continue working closely with regional partners to stop the flow of dangerous drugs and illegal weapons into our community.”
Conclusion
Both men remain in custody pending court appearances, as investigators continue to examine where the seized drugs originated and whether additional arrests may follow. Authorities say the quick response by officers likely prevented hundreds of grams of cocaine and other narcotics from reaching local communities.
What are your thoughts on this case and the rise of drug trafficking in local towns? Share your opinions in the comments below.
