A 33-year-old man from Newark, identified as Lamonte Butler, is facing multiple charges related to weapons and drug possession following a traffic stop in Wilmington on August 3, 2023. The incident unfolded just after midnight when a police officer observed Butler’s vehicle run a stop sign on North Church Street.
During the subsequent stop, police reportedly discovered a loaded 9mm handgun equipped with a drum-style magazine capable of holding 51 rounds. In addition to the firearm, officers also found approximately 31 grams of marijuana and an undisclosed quantity of narcotic pills in Butler’s possession.
Following the discovery, Butler was taken into custody without incident. He has been formally charged with several felony offenses, including possession of a large-capacity magazine during the commission of a felony, two counts of possession of a firearm or ammunition by a person prohibited, and carrying a concealed deadly weapon. He also faces charges related to drug possession and traffic violations.
Legal Proceedings and Bail Conditions
After his arraignment at Justice of the Peace Court 11, Butler was committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution with a cash-only bail set at $30,100. All charges against him remain allegations at this stage, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Wilmington Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, aiming to ensure community safety and address the issues of illegal firearms and drug possession.
For updates on this story and other news in the Chester County area, residents can follow local news outlets for the latest developments.
