HEIGHTS – An Inkster man was taken into custody following a July 12 traffic stop that started as a routine event near Michigan Avenue and Beech Daly Road, but resulted in numerous drug and weapons-related charges.
Shortly after 11:30 a.m. on July 12, Officer Anthony Barbour observed a car near the intersection of Michigan and Beech Daly whose occupants were not wearing seat belts.
After pulling the car over and questioning with the driver, 26-year-old Derun Edward Wright of Inkster, it was discovered he was driving on an expired license, as well as having several warrants from neighboring jurisdictions. The investigation also revealed that his passenger, a 25-year-old Melvindale woman, also had a suspended license, along with warrants from nearby jurisdictions.
Further investigation revealed the driver was in possession of a bag of a rock-like substance in his pocket which later tested positive as cocaine. A search of the car revealed more suspected drugs — both in rock and pill form — and a scale, as well as a stolen, loaded .45-caliber handgun stuffed under the driver’s seat.
The Wayne County Prosecutors Office issued a multiple count felony warrant charging Wright with numerous narcotics and weapons offenses. He was arraigned in front of 20th District Court Magistrate Lawrence Elassal who set bond at $15,000, 10 percent cash surety.
Although Wright has been arrested and charged, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Wright’s passenger was advised of the warrants against her, and ordered to leave the scene. The car and its contents were confiscated and are being held by police. Throughout the duration of the event, the arresting officer was assisted by additional units from both the Dearborn Heights and Inkster police departments.
“Thankfully, by our officers exercising caution, the traffic stop and arrest did not result in any unexpected incidents or injuries,” Dearborn Heights Police Chief Jerrod Hart said. “Sadly though, scenarios like this – seemingly routine traffic stops can – and sometimes do – take a sudden, unexpected and tragic turn. This is just one example of how dangerous the law enforcement profession remains for officers not just here, but nationwide.
“I am immensely proud of Officer Barbour for his keen observation and judgement which resulted in the recovery of a stolen weapon from an individual forbidden from possessing it.”