WINTON – With assistance from the Hertford County Sheriff’s Office and personnel from Hertford County EMS, an alleged drug dealer is now behind bars.

Winton Police Chief David Griffith reported that Wayne Dwight Simmons attempted to flee apprehension on Thursday afternoon following a traffic stop on US 158 near the Hertford County EMS office.

Simmons, 37 of 104 Brantley Road, Ahoskie, was operating a 1994 Honda on US 158 at which time Chief Griffith, on routine patrol, noticed the vehicle weaving in its lane of travel as well as crossing the center line.

Upon executing a traffic stop on the vehicle for suspicion of DWI by the driver, Griffith inquired of Simmons if he had consumed any alcohol or had taken any drugs that would impair his driving.

Griffith said Simmons answered no to both questions at which time the Winton Police Chief asked and was given permission to search the vehicle.

“It was at that point where Mr. Simmons reached back into the vehicle and grabbed something in his hand,” Griffith said. “When I asked what was in his closed fist, Mr. Simmons took off running.”

Now in pursuit and yelling for help, several employees of Hertford County EMS came to the police chief’s aid. In the meantime, a Hertford County Sheriff’s deputy also arrived at the scene.

During the short foot chase, Griffith noticed Simmons throwing several bags on the ground. After placing Simmons under arrest, Griffith said he retraced the route of the foot chase and discovered six bags of power cocaine.

Simmons was charged with possession with intent to manufacture, sell and deliver cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and resist, delay and obstruct.

Simmons was placed in the Hertford County Jail under a $26,000 secured bond. He made his initial court appearance yesterday (Friday) where his probable cause hearing was scheduled for Oct. 27.

“I wasn’t alone in trying to chase this guy down,” Griffith said. “I started hollering for help and the next thing I know here comes several of the EMS employees running to help me. I thank them for their assistance and thank the Hertford County Sheriff’s Office. When it comes to trying to reduce the amount of drugs here in our county, we’re all in this thing together.”