On June 10, 2019 an IMPD Northwest Officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop near the intersection of 27th St and Riverside Dr. The driver of vehicle did not immedaletly stop and continued driving until he finally stopped at 30th St and Riverside.
As he made contact with the driver, the observant officer immediately detected the odor of marijuana from the inside of the vehicle. When the Officer directed the driver to turn off his vehicle, the driver put the car in drive and accelerated rapidly leading Officers on a brief vehicle pursuit.
The vehicle being pursued struck a wooden fence. The driver then threw out a handgun and a plastic tupperware container over the fence and into a nearby backyard at 2672 Burton Ave.. Thomas Mcelwain who was later identified as the fleeing driver then led officers on a foot pursuit and was shortly apprehended after a successful K9 track.
When Officers returned to 2672 Burton Ave to secure the handgun, they observed the items thrown by Mcelwain had been carried inside the residence by Tyjuan Martin and T’Anthony Martin, who lived at the above-mentioned residence.
IMPD District Detectives arrived on scene and spoke with the homeowner of the residence who gave Detectives a signed consent to search the residence, 2672 Burton Ave.
During a search of the residence, Officers located approximately 11.75 lbs of raw marijuana in several different sized bags, a scale and clear plastic baggies which were associated with packaging and distribution of narcotics, and 2 handguns – one was stolen out of Marion County on May 5, 2019.
IMPD Northwest District Narcotics Detectives we called to the scene to assist.
Thomas Mcelwain was placed under arrest for twp counts of resisting law enforcement , possession of a handgun by a serious violent felon, possession and dealing of marijuana, reckless driving and criminal recklessness.
Tyjuan Martin and T’Anthony Martin were both placed under arrest for possession and dealing of marijuana, maintaining a common nuisance, obstruction of justice, and assisting a criminal.
In addition, Danisha Noble, who was at the residence during the incident was placed under arrest for two outstanding warrants.
A charge of a crime is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Please find attached photos:
Photo #1. Thomas Mcelwain
Photo #2. Danisha Noble
Photo #3. Seized guns and narcotics
