Local Drug Investigation Nets Arrests

On May 6, as a result of an ongoing drug investigation, members of the Gloucester Police Department arrested Tobias Ward, 34, of Dorchester, and Latrell Ayers, 28, of Gloucester. Both men were charged which possession of class B substance (“crack” cocaine) with intent to distribute. , along with other non drug charges. While conducting surveillance at Grant Circle, police observed Ward and Ayers in the area of Friendly’s Plaza. When Ward observed Police, he began driving erratically, driving up and over sidewalks and scraping against telephone poles, in an attempt to evade. A GPD cruiser was able to safely stop the vehicle a short distance later. A subsequent search ensued, and narcotics were found in the vehicle. Ayers was quickly detained after he exited the vehicle . He was charged with the above drug offenses and resisting arrest, operating to endanger, unlicensed operation, child endangerment and leaving the scene of an accident causing property damage. At the time of the stop, Ward’s vehicle was occupied by the vehicles owner, Charlene Whitt, of Dorchester and her 4 year old daughter. A record check of Ward revealed that he was unlicensed and was wanted by the states of Louisiana and Texas on outstanding arrest warrants. He is currently being held pending extradition proceedings. Gloucester Police was assisted in this investigation and arrest by the Massachusetts State Police and the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms). 
Leonard Campanello
Chief of Police