NORWICH – On Wednesday the City of Norwich Police were involved in a high speed chase through downtown Norwich that eventually led to gun and drug charges being filed against the driver.

According to Norwich Police Chief Rodney Marsh, at approximately 11:40 p.m. on Wednesday, October 27 the City of Norwich Police Department observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed in downtown Norwich, and when patrol attempted to stop the vehicle, a brief pursuit began.

“The pursuit ended on Tiffany Road at the Town of Norwich/North Norwich line. The officers were able to take the driver into custody without incident. Upon further investigation, officers recovered a loaded 9mm handgun from the vehicle as well as a substantial amount of Methamphetamine,” reported Marsh.

Police arrested the alleged driver, Ronald K. Alexander Jr., age 46, of Pharr, Texas and charged him with multiple crimes including: third degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a Class ‘B’ Felony; second degree criminal use of a firearm, a Class ‘B’ Felony; second degree criminal possession of a weapon, a Class ‘B’ Felony; Unlawful Fleeing Police, a misdemeanor; second degree reckless endangerment, a misdemeanor ; and DWAI, a misdemeanor.

“The officers did an excellent job last night,” said Chief Marsh. “The officers recovered and removed a loaded weapon and drugs from our streets and did so without anyone being injured.”

NPD officers were assisted at the scene by Chenango County Sheriff’s Office deputies.

“This incident is still currently under investigation, and it has been turned over to the detectives of the Norwich Police Department,” said Marsh.

The detectives said they are now working closely with the Chenango County District Attorney’s Office.

– By Sun Managing Editor Tyler Murphy