LAUREL — Arthur Darden, 27, of Dover, was arrested on weapon and drug offenses following a traffic stop Monday, authorities said.
According to Delaware State Police spokesman Senior Cpl. Leonard DeMalto, at approximately 12:41 p.m., a trooper on patrol observed a black Kia Sportage speeding and changing lanes without signaling on Sussex Highway, south of Gordy Road.
A traffic stop was initiated at Sussex Highway and Dorothy Road, and contact was made with Darden, the driver. Troopers observed signs of impairment and open alcohol containers inside the vehicle, Cpl. DeMalto said. A DUI investigation ensued, and the suspect was taken into custody without incident.
A search of the Sportage yielded approximately 13.79 grams of marijuana, a pair of brass knuckles and a 9 mm handgun, police said. A computer inquiry revealed that Darden is a convicted felon prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Darden was charged with possession of a firearm by a person prohibited, possession of a firearm while possessing a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, carrying a concealed dangerous instrument, possession of a firearm while under the influence, driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol and drugs, speeding and improper lane change.
Following arraignment in Justice of the Peace Court 2, Darden was committed to Sussex Correctional Institution, Georgetown, on an $11,300 cash bond.
