MIDDLETOWN, DE — Delaware State Police arrested a 41-year-old Townsend woman on Saturday morning after a welfare check led to the discovery of drugs, suspected drug proceeds, and an unrestrained child in her vehicle.
The incident occurred on March 1, 2025, at approximately 7:30 a.m., when troopers responded to a call from a concerned citizen at the Wawa located on Dupont Parkway. The caller reported that a woman appeared to be under the influence while driving a Dodge Charger with a child in the back seat.
Upon their arrival, troopers located the vehicle and approached the driver, identified as Jessica Smith. Smith attempted to back out of her parking spot but was stopped by law enforcement. Officers noted a strong odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle and observed signs of impairment.
During their investigation, police conducted a search of the vehicle, where they recovered approximately 20.28 grams of marijuana, 5.97 grams of crack cocaine, 8.29 grams of powder cocaine, 14 MDMA pills, 6 Oxycodone pills, and assorted drug-related paraphernalia. Additionally, troopers seized $710 in suspected drug proceeds.
Smith was taken into custody without incident, and the unrestrained child, who was confirmed to be a relative, was safely released to another family member. Following standard field sobriety testing, further signs of impairment were documented, and a legal blood draw was conducted to confirm suspected DUI.
Smith was transported to Troop 9 and charged with multiple offenses, including two felony counts of possession with intent to deliver controlled substances, endangering the welfare of a child, and driving under the influence of drugs. She was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 11 and released after posting a $9,000 secured bond.
Officials remind the public that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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