(Editor’s Note: The following information was supplied to the Patriot via media release by the BPD).

On March 9 at approximately 12:16 a.m., a Becker Police Officer conducted a traffic stop at Hwy. 10/137th Ave for an equipment violation. During the investigation, the driver of the vehicle was found to have a suspended driver’s license and a warrant for his arrest from Hennepin County. 

While speaking with the driver, the man was also found to be under the influence of an unknown substance. In addition, a handgun was observed in plain view near the driver. A further check on the driver indicated that he was prohibited from possessing a firearm. 

During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered 4.5 grams of methamphetamines and numerous items of drug paraphernalia. Officers also found 40.1 grams of marijuana in the vehicle. 

The driver, Darren Allen Ward, 33 of Forest Lake, was arrested following the investigation of the stop on the charges listed above. He was transported to the Sherburne County Jail pending the charges.