NEWARK, Del. — Delaware State Police have arrested 43-year-old Donelle Harris of Wilmington on charges of driving under the influence and felony drug offenses following a traffic stop early Sunday morning in Newark.
The incident occurred on August 18, 2024, at approximately 1:14 a.m., when a state trooper patrolling the area of I-95 and Christiana Road noticed a dark grey Ford Edge traveling at a high speed on I-95 southbound. The vehicle was clocked at over 85 mph in a zone with a posted speed limit of 65 mph. The trooper also observed the Ford failing to maintain its lane, following other vehicles too closely, and committing several other traffic violations.
Upon stopping the vehicle, the trooper identified the driver as Donelle Harris, the sole occupant of the car. During the interaction, the trooper detected signs of impairment, including the smell of alcohol on Harris’ breath. After administering Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, which Harris failed, the trooper arrested him without incident.
A subsequent search of Harris revealed:
- Approximately 5.24 grams of crack cocaine in a clear plastic bag
- 34 oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen pills
- Various drug paraphernalia, including a digital scale and multiple cell phones
Harris now faces charges including driving under the influence, possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was taken into custody and is being held pending arraignment.
The Delaware State Police are continuing to investigate the incident.