SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — Two people are facing multiple charges after Scranton police say a foot pursuit led to the seizure of suspected narcotics, a loaded handgun and drug trafficking evidence.
According to the Scranton Police Department, officers attempted to stop two people for traffic-related violations in downtown Scranton during the early morning hours of June 27. Police said both suspects fled on foot but were taken into custody after separate pursuits.
Investigators said officers recovered approximately 60 grams of suspected marijuana packaged for distribution, 474 suspected alprazolam (Xanax) pills, drug paraphernalia and other evidence consistent with narcotics trafficking from Chase Tapper.
Tapper has been charged with possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver marijuana, possession of a controlled substance, possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, evading arrest or detention on foot, resisting arrest and obstructing the administration of law.
Police said Matthew Fialowski discarded a loaded Taurus G2C 9mm handgun with an extended magazine while fleeing. Investigators said Fialowski, who is prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior convictions, admitted to possessing the weapon.
Fialowski is charged with persons not to possess firearms, carrying a firearm without a license, evading arrest or detention on foot, tampering with evidence, resisting arrest, obstructing the administration of law, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a small amount of marijuana.
The investigation remains ongoing as detectives continue additional investigative steps, including the execution of search warrants.