Norwich — Police arrested a local man early Tuesday morning after he allegedly stole his girlfriend’s purse, briefly dragged her with his car while she attempted to stop him and then used his girlfriend’s money to purchase crack cocaine.

James Aspinwall, 39, of 627 N. Main St. was charged with third-degree robbery, third-degree larceny, third-degree assault, second-degree reckless endangerment, possession of narcotics and disorderly conduct.

Police said the incident was reported at 2:30 a.m. Aspinwall's girlfriend attempted to stop him from stealing her purse, which had $3,000 in it. They continued to fight as he entered a car and fled the area.

Police said the girlfriend was briefly dragged by the car when she attempted to stop him from driving off. She sustained minor injuries.

Police said Aspinwall used the money to buy $300 worth of crack cocaine. Police subsequently arrested him.

Aspinwall was arraigned Tuesday in Norwich Superior Court, and is being held on a $25,000 bond, pending his next court date on July 22.