Early morning traffic patrol by the Massachusetts State Police led to the arrest of two men on cocaine trafficking charges on June 19, 2024, after a routine vehicle stop on Interstate 91 revealed a host of violations. According to a report by the Massachusetts State Police, Trooper Scott Boutell from the SP-Shelburne Falls Barracks flagged a Chevy Tahoe for its revoked registration and expired inspection sticker which resulted in a traffic stop that prompted a consequent investigation and the arrests.
Trooper Boutell's inspection of the vehicle took a turn when he noted an open knife and drug paraphernalia in the SUV, prompting him to call for backup. Upon the arrival of Trooper Kyle Powers, both officers conducted searches of the vehicle's occupants. One individual was found in possession of 25 grams of crack cocaine. The officers also discovered other drug-related items, including crack pipes and a digital scale, within the Tahoe, after thoroughly searching through the clutter of personal belongings and detritus that indicated frequent use by individuals closely acquainted with narcotics.
The driver, identified as Richard Lovering of Lebanon, N.H., was found to have a suspended license, along with two active warrants for his arrest. The passenger, Justin Morrill of Burlington, Vt., became subject to arrest after his possession of crack cocaine came to light. Both men now face serious charges, including trafficking and possession of cocaine. Lovering also faces additional charges for motor vehicle offenses, as stated in the official police account.
Following the arrests, the suspects were taken to the SP-Shelburne Barracks for booking procedures while one of the other passengers received a court summons for drug possession before being released, Lovering and Morrill were later arraigned in Greenfield District Court with multiple charges stacked against them where the gravity of the law came to bear witness to the deeds that unfolded under the glassy stare of the early morning sun.
