Brewer Police Arrested a Man With Illegal Drugs Near a Playground

Brewer Police have arrested a man near the city's new playground that was carrying a significant amount of fentanyl and cocaine.

The Man Was Arrested After a Witness Report to Police That He Was Acting Erratically

Shawn Larts, 56, with no known address was arrested in Brewer on Friday, July 5th.

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This arrest is an example of the benefits of speaking up if you see something suspicious. Brewer Police received a report of a man acting erratically in the Twin City Plaza parking lot on State Street from a witness who said the man appeared to be under the influence of drugs. Police Officers responded and spoke with the man who identified himself as Shawn Larts.

Officials Seized Fentanyl, Cocaine, and a Significant Amount of Cash

Officer Chubbuck learned that Larts was on probation and had an active arrest warrant for aggravated trafficking in scheduled drugs. A search of his person turned up more than $4,000 in cash, 62 gross grams of fentanyl, 120 gross grams of cocaine, and 15 gross grams of crack.

Larts had previous felony drug convictions and was across the road from the children's park at the Ferris Community Center, which is a designated Safe Zone by City of Brewer Ordinances. He was booked on the active warrant and charged with two counts of aggravated trafficking in fentanyl and cocaine and taken to the Penobscot County Jail.

Where Can I Report Suspected Illegal Drug Activity?

If you suffer with substance use disorder, you're encouraged to call 211 or text your zip code to 898-211 for a list of resources available in your area.

Anyone with information about this investigation or the illegal sale of drugs in their community is urged to contact the Maine Drug Enforcement office closest to them. Information can also be reported by texting MDEA to TIP411 (847411) or by calling the MDEA tip-line at 1-800-452-6457.