BLACKSTONE — Chief Gregory Gilmore reports that the Blackstone Police Department arrested two Rhode Island men on drug and firearm charges following a traffic stop last week.
IBRAHIM SYLLA, AGE 23, OF WOONSOCKET, RI was arrested and charged with:
- Possession of a Class B Substance (Cocaine)
- Possession of a Firearm without a License
- Unregistered Motor Vehicle
- Equipment Violation
BILLY INTHAPHONE, AGE 30, OF WOONSOCKET, RI was arrested and charged with:
- Possession of a Class B Substance (Cocaine)
On Friday, Jan. 26, at approximately 10:40 p.m., a Blackstone Police sergeant conducted a motor vehicle stop of an unregistered vehicle that was emitting an abnormally loud exhaust noise. It was determined that the driver, identified as SYLLA, and the passenger, identified as INTHAPHONE, both had active arrest warrants.
Both men were placed under arrest without incident. Prior to towing the vehicle from the scene, officers conducted a search of the vehicle and discovered multiple small bags of white powder that tested positive for cocaine. A .22-caliber Beretta semi-automatic pistol was also located under the driver’s seat. SYLLA does not have a license to carry a firearm.
SYLLA and INTHAPHONE were transported to the Blackstone Police Station for booking.
“This is a great case that highlights the many things Blackstone Police officers encounter on any given day,” said Chief Gilmore. “What started as a routine motor vehicle stop developed into multiple arrests, the seizure of narcotics, and most notably a dangerous firearm taken out of our community. Our officers never know what may happen during these routine stops, and their vigilance is commended.”
Both suspects are expected to be arraigned today in Uxbridge District Court.
These are allegations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty.
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