Police: Norwich man tries to swallow evidence in drug arrest

Norwich – Police say a city man tried to swallow crack cocaine Tuesday as detectives were arresting him on Prospect Street.

Police recovered the drugs and charged Jamelle C. Peterkin, 21, of 48 Otis St. with possession of crack cocaine, possession of crack cocaine with intent to sell within 1,500 feet of a school and interfering with an officer.

Police say Peterkin was within 1,500 feet of the Norwich Adult Education building when he was apprehended attempting to swallow the drugs. Police said they recovered the crack cocaine - packaged for street level sales - and more than $200.

Peterkin is held on $100,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in Norwich Superior Court on Wednesday.

Police encourage anyone with information regarding any criminal activity in Norwich to call the police department at (860) 886-5561, the anonymous tip line at (860) 886-5561, ext. 500, or e-mail crimetips@cityofnorwich.org.