Frederica fugitive facing drug, weapon charges

HARRINGTON - Colton Pennell, 24, of Frederica, was arrested for drug and weapon charges following a fugitive investigation that began Tuesday night, authorities said.

According to Delaware State Police spokesman Senior Cpl. Leonard DeMalto, Mr. Pennell was wanted on an active capias when taken into custody without incident while sitting in a vehicle in the Quality Inn parking lot. He was located at approximately 11 p.m., police said.

A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of approximately 6.34 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 6.36 grams of marijuana, a Ruger handgun and drug paraphernalia, police said. Furthermore, a computer inquiry revealed that the handgun was reported as stolen by the Pittsfield Police Department in Massachusetts earlier this month.

Mr. Pennell was charged with possession counts including with intent to deliver a controlled substance, firearm during the commission of a felony, firearm while possessing a controlled substance, controlled substance in a Tier 1 quantity, drug paraphernalia and marijuana. He was also charged with carrying a concealed deadly weapon and receiving a stolen firearm.

Mr. Pennell was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 7 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on $29,150 cash bond.