Norwich — Police on Thursday used a Taser on a man wanted on armed robbery charges in New London who had briefly escaped custody and jumped into the Yantic River after his arrest.

Norwich police said they arrested and handcuffed 18-year-old Javaughn Williams, who was wanted on a felony arrest warrant on charges of first-degree robbery in New London. Williams, of 49 Boulder Drive, New London, was found to be in possession of marijuana at the time of his arrest, police said.

After he was taken to Norwich police headquarters, police said Williams physically resisted and briefly escaped custody by running from the building and into the Yantic River, at the head of the Thames River.

Police said Williams was retrieved from the waist-deep water and continued to resist arrest when an officer used a Taser to subdue him. It is unclear if he was handcuffed at the time.

Williams was charged with escape from custody, interfering with an officer and possession of marijuana. He was released into the custody of New London police, where he remained held in lieu of a $250,000 bail.

New London police say Williams is wanted in the May 26 robbery at the Honey Plus convenience store at 393 Colman St. Employees at the store said two men entered the store and demanded money. One of the men displayed a handgun.

Based on information developed at the scene, New London Deputy Police Chief Peter Reichard said officers were able to identify Williams as one of the suspects.

New London police charged Williams with first-degree robbery, carrying a dangerous weapon and sixth-degree larceny. He is expected to appear Friday in New London Superior Court.

g.smith@theday.com

Twitter: @SmittyDay