Cops Seize Illegal Drugs, Gun During Bridgeport Traffic Stop; 3 Arrested: Police

BRIDGEPORT, CT — A routine traffic stop last week in Bridgeport led to the arrests of three men on drug charges, one of whom was also charged with illegal firearm possession, according to Bridgeport police.

On Friday, Bridgeport Police officers were on patrol when they observed a silver Chevrolet Malibu parked in front of a fire hydrant near the intersection of Washington Avenue and Center Street, authorities said. Officers approached the vehicle to address the parking violation and determined that its registration was suspended due to a lapse in insurance coverage.

The driver, identified by police as Christopher Cintron, was unable to produce valid registration or proof of insurance.
During the stop, an assisting officer reported seeing the rear passenger, identified as Torrance McClain, adjusting his waistband and observed what appeared to be an "L"-shaped object in that area, police said. Officers asked McClain and other occupants to exit the vehicle. As McClain stepped out, he again appeared to adjust his waistline and briefly sat back down, prompting concerns that he was attempting to conceal or access a weapon.

Police conducted a pat-down and located a firearm on McClain. Authorities said McClain does not hold a valid pistol permit in the state and was taken into custody at the scene.

While preparing the vehicle for towing, officers conducted an inventory search and reported finding the following:

• Approximately 38.5 grams of a substance that tested positive for cocaine
• 624 grams of marijuana
• A digital scale,
• Packaging materials
• A cell phone
• $1,908 in cash

Cintron, 31, was charged with:

• Operating unregistered motor vehicle
• Possession of narcotics with intent to sell
• Operation of a drug factory
• Illegal operation of motor vehicle with insufficient insurance
• Improper parking-hydrant

McClain, 25, was charged with:

• Illegal sale/purchase of large capacity magazine
• Carrying pistol without a permit
• Operation of a drug factory
• Possession of narcotics with intent to sell

Also in the vehicle at the time was Jaqwan Brooks, 30, who was charged with:

• Possession of narcotics with intent to sell
• Operation of a drug factory

The three are being held on bond, and are scheduled to appear in Bridgeport Superior Court at a later date.