New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
“On Monday May 15th, 2023, at approximately 4:05pm, Sergeant Jason Denham and Officer James Hightower were dispatched to the area of 4 Bernard’s Way for a report of a suspicious motor vehicle.
Initial reports had indicated that the vehicle was parked directly in the middle of the roadway and the male operator was “passed out” behind the wheel. Sergeant Richard Heslin and Officer Manny Matias also responded.
Upon arrival, Officers located the vehicle with the male operator inside. After speaking with the male, Officers were able to detect signs of impairment. He was removed from the vehicle for further investigation. After their investigation, the operator, Gary CHAMBERLAIN 09/12/1984, was placed under arrest for Operating Under the Influence of Drugs.
During the inventory, Sergeant Heslin and Officer Hightower located numerous items related to drug use. The vehicle was secured at that time and was towed back to the station pending the application of a search warrant. All relevant items were seized and logged into evidence per department policy. Upon transporting CHAMBERLAIN back to the station, Officer Matias started to experience signs and symptoms of a drug exposure. The Rochester Fire Department was called to evaluate Officer Matias.
Moments later, Officer Hightower began to experience very similar signs and symptoms. Both Officers were subsequently transported to local hospitals for evaluation. Both Officers were discharged from the hospital later in the evening. Sergeant Heslin completed the booking process without any further issue. Cash Bail was set at $100.
Gary CHAMBERLAIN 09/12/1984 has been charged with the following:
• Ch. 90-24: Operating Under the Influence of Drugs
• Ch. 90-24: Operating to Endanger/Negligent Operation
• Ch. 94C-34: Possession of Class A Substance, Ketamine
• Ch. 94C-34: Possession of Class B Substance, Cocaine
CHAMBERLAIN was arraigned at Wareham District Court yesterday morning. More charges may follow pending the outcome of the search warrant on the motor vehicle.”-Rochester Police Department.
