Charlton traffic stop leads to multiple firearms and drug charges

CHARLTON — A high-risk traffic stop on Smith Road resulted in the arrest of three individuals on firearms and drug charges on July 2 at approximately 8:44 p.m., according to the Charlton Police Department.

The incident began when the Shrewsbury Police Department alerted Charlton authorities that a man had brandished a firearm at a gas station.

The suspect’s vehicle was later spotted by Sgt.

Cardrant on Stafford Street, leading to the intervention by officers Hanks, Trethaway, and Reddick.

The driver, John Gilchrist, of 99 Smith Road, was immediately frisked upon exiting the vehicle, during which Officer Reddick discovered a firearm in his waistband.

The two other occupants, Julyette Alba of Worcester and Kenneth Mardirosian of Dudley, were also removed from the car and searched.

Shrewsbury Police identified Mardirosian as the individual who had displayed the weapon in their jurisdiction.

He was arrested for firearms offenses related to that incident.

Upon closer examination, it was found that the Smith & Wesson .38 special revolver in his possession had defaced serial numbers.

Gilchrist faced multiple charges including illegal carrying of a firearm, possession of a firearm with defaced serial numbers during a felony, and possession of ammunition without an FID card.

He was arraigned the following day at Dudley District Court.

Further investigation led to the issuance of a search warrant for Gilchrist’s vehicle, where officers uncovered paraphernalia consistent with narcotics distribution, a large quantity of drugs, and significant cash, totaling $25,181.

The narcotics seized included cocaine, oxycodone, heroin, and various prescription pills.

Gilchrist, Alba, and Mardirosian were all charged with multiple drug trafficking and possession offenses.

The collaborative efforts of Charlton and Shrewsbury officers were commended for their role in addressing public safety concerns.

Despite the charges, all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.