Hit-And-Run Crash Driver Found With Drugs, Arrested In Westport: PD

WESTPORT, CT — A 49-year-old Bridgeport man was arrested over the weekend in connection with a hit-and-run crash in Westport, after which, police found "suspected ecstasy" in the suspect's possession, according to authorities.

Johnnie Newkirk was apprehended a short time after the 7 p.m. crash on Sunday, and was charged with the following:

• Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol
• Evading responsibility
• Following too close
• Illegal possession of controlled substance

"The investigation revealed that the operator of the vehicle, Johnnie Newkirk, was allegedly traveling westbound on Greens Farms Road when he collided with the rear end of a vehicle stopped in traffic at Compo Road South," wrote Westport Police Lt. Eric Woods in a statement. "Mr. Newkirk allegedly fled the scene and was later stopped on Compo Road South. Mr. Newkirk appeared to be under the influence of alcohol, was unable to complete Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, and was arrested."

No injuries were reported in the crash, and after Newkirk was taken Westport Police Headquarters, he was found to be in possession of suspected ecstasy, Woods added.

Newkirk was released after posting a $500 bond, and is scheduled to appear in Stamford Superior Court on July 15.