Police pursuit leads to the arrest of 2 men on drug charges

Norwich — A police pursuit through several towns early this morning led to the arrest of two men on numerous drug charges.

Norwich police said at 1 a.m. they saw a vehicle driving south on West Thames Street, which looked like a car wanted in connection with an armed robbery that occurred an hour earlier in Ledyard.

Ledyard police said later that it does not appear at this time that the suspects arrested in the pursuit are connected to the robbery.

Norwich police attempted to stop the car but it took off into Montville. The chase ended on Shewville Road in Ledyard. Police said evidence was discarded from the vehicle during the chase.

Montville, Ledyard, Mashantucket and state police also assisted.

Igor Pontes, 28, of 197 Laurel Hill, Apt. 2, Norwich, and Charles Oliver, 30, of 40 Willetts Ave., New London, were each charged with possession of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to sell, possession of marijuana, possession of marijuana with intent to sell, interfering with police and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Pontes was also charged with engaging police in pursuit, reckless driving and driving under suspension.

Both men are being held on bonds, pending their arraignment today in Norwich Superior Court.