Warwick man charged with OUI, possession of narcotics and firearm

NORTH STONINGTON, Conn. (WLNE) — The Connecticut State Police said it arrested a Rhode Island man after he was allegedly found intoxicated behind the wheel with an illegal possession of narcotics and a firearm.

34-year-old Joshua West, of Warwick R.I., is charged with operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol, illegal possession of a weapon in a motor vehicle, interfering with an officer, illegal carrying of a firearm while under the influence, possession of a controlled substance, breach of peace in the 2nd degree, and carrying a pistol without a permit.

On Dec. 28, around 2:17 p.m., officers went to the area of Exit 92 on Interstate 95 south for a report of a disabled motor vehicle with the driver potentially “slumped” over the wheel.

At the scene, police said the driver was originally unresponsive, but soon discovered he was allegedly intoxicated.

Police said West was allegedly in possession of fentanyl and a loaded .40 caliber handgun, which he did not have a permit to carry.

West was taken to the hospital for a medical evaluation, where he failed to submit the Standardized Field Sobriety tests, according to police.

During his stay, police said West allegedly attempted to punch a staff member, but was restrained.

The defendant held on a $50,000 bond and was transported to Corrigan Correctional Facility.