Overnight, in the early morning hours of February 7, 2020, Corporal J. L. Lester watched a vehicle driving in the Malden area. The vehicle stopped in a lane of traffic, then coasted backwards before stopping again. He initiated a traffic stop to investigate. The vehicle then pulled off the road, but struck a ditch.
The driver, Mark Artez Johnson, Jr. (29 years old of Charleston, WV), exhibited signs of intoxication and was asked to perform field sobriety tests. After failing the tests he was placed into handcuffs while begging not to be arrested because he was on federal probation. As Cpl. Lester opened his cruiser door Mr. Johnson attempted to flee on foot. He was stopped by another Deputy who’d just arrived on scene to assist.
Mr. Johnson was then placed in the cruiser. He attempted to kick out windows, and was removed from the cruiser. He spit on, threatened, and cursed officers during his arrest. He later refused to provide samples of his breath during the booking procedure for his DUI charge.
During an inventory of Mr. Johnson’s vehicle, prior to its being towed, a loaded, .45 caliber pistol was located in the glove box. Mr. Johnson is a three-time convicted felon, including two malicious assault/wounding convictions, all of which prohibit him from possessing firearms.
Mr. Johnson was charged with being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm, fleeing on foot, and driving under the influence. He was taken to South Central Regional Jail to await arraignment. As is always the case in criminal matters, the charges against Mr. Johnson are merely accusations. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.