Derry West, a 61-year-old ex-con from Port St. Lucie, Florida, was arrested after he inadvertently hit a police officer in the face with a crack pipe during a traffic stop. This incident occurred when West attempted to dispose of the pipe out of his vehicle’s window.
Quick Facts
- Failed Evidence Disposal: West threw a crack pipe out of his car window, striking a police officer in the face during a traffic stop.
- Charges and Bond: West was charged with attempted tampering with evidence and possession of drug paraphernalia, and released on a $2500 bond.
- Criminal History: West has a history of convictions including armed robbery, burglary, and introducing contraband into a correctional facility.
The incident occurred when West was pulled over for failing to have lights illuminating his license plate. Unaware of an officer approaching from the passenger side, West threw the crack pipe, which then hit the officer. The officer observed the object to be a small glass tube, identifying it as a crack pipe.
West claimed the pipe was left in the truck by a friend. He was arrested and later released on bond. He faces felony and misdemeanor charges and has pleaded not guilty. West is confined to his home with a GPS monitor, except for legal and medical appointments.
This case underscores the serious consequences of attempting to tamper with evidence and the additional legal troubles that can arise from such actions.
| For Further Reading | The concept of Attempted Tampering with Evidence is central to this case. Tampering with evidence involves altering, destroying, or concealing a physical item to impair its integrity or availability in a legal proceeding. Attempted tampering indicates an effort to do so, which is also a criminal offense. For more information, visit Tampering with Evidence on Wikipedia. |
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Q&A
What led to West’s arrest?
West was arrested after he accidentally hit a police officer with a crack pipe he was trying to dispose of during a traffic stop.
What are the charges against West?
He faces charges of attempted tampering with evidence, a felony, and possession of drug paraphernalia, a misdemeanor.
How does West’s criminal history affect his current situation?
West’s extensive criminal history, including prior convictions for serious offenses, likely influences the severity of the charges and the conditions of his release.
Citation
Original article: Ex-Con Proves That Crack Is Whack | The Smoking Gun
