Cumberland, MD, January 6, 2026
A routine traffic stop in Cumberland, Maryland, led to the arrest of three individuals after a police K9 detected narcotics in their vehicle. The search revealed controlled substances and drug paraphernalia. The suspects face multiple charges, including drug possession. This operation highlights the ongoing efforts to combat drug activity in the region using police K9 units.
Cumberland, MD – Three Arrested in Drug Bust Following K9 Alert During Traffic Stop
On Sunday, January 4, 2026, a routine traffic stop on Greene Street in Cumberland, Maryland, led to the arrest of three individuals after a police K9 detected narcotics in their vehicle. The subsequent search uncovered controlled substances and drug paraphernalia, resulting in multiple charges against the suspects.
Details of the Arrests
During the traffic stop, a K9 unit was deployed for an open-air scan around the vehicle, which resulted in a positive alert for drugs. Officers searched the vehicle and found a quantity of controlled dangerous substances and drug paraphernalia. Three individuals were taken into custody:
- Arlie Gene Lease Jr., 55, of Cumberland: Arrested and released on criminal and traffic citations.
- Amber Elizabeth Carrington, 30, of Lavale: Arrested and released on a criminal citation.
- Michael Jentry Lee, 33, of Rockville: Arrested and transported to the Allegany County Detention Center. Charged with drug possession, possession of paraphernalia, providing false identity to avoid prosecution, and obstructing and hindering. Lee is being held pending his appearance before a District Court Commissioner.
All three face charges of CDS Possession not Marijuana, as police continue their efforts to curb drug activity in the region.
Background on K9 Operations in Cumberland
The Cumberland Police Department utilizes K9 units as a valuable supplement to police manpower, leveraging their superior sense of smell and hearing to detect narcotics during traffic stops and other law enforcement activities. The department’s General Order 41.1.4 outlines guidelines for the management and use of police canines in field operations, emphasizing their role in crime prevention and control activities.
Efforts to Combat Drug Activity in Cumberland
In May 2019, Maryland State Police, along with multiple allied agencies, arrested nearly two dozen people as part of a collaborative effort to suppress illegal drug and gang activity in Cumberland. The initiative included serving multiple search warrants, conducting traffic stops, and seizing various controlled substances, firearms, and cash.
These ongoing enforcement efforts aim to address and reduce drug-related issues within the community, with K9 units playing a crucial role in detecting and apprehending individuals involved in illegal activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What led to the arrests in Cumberland, MD?
A routine traffic stop on Greene Street resulted in a police K9 detecting narcotics in the vehicle, leading to the discovery of controlled substances and drug paraphernalia, and the arrest of three individuals.
What charges were the individuals facing?
The individuals faced charges of CDS Possession not Marijuana, with one suspect also charged with providing false identity to avoid prosecution and obstructing and hindering.
What is the role of K9 units in Cumberland’s law enforcement?
K9 units are utilized to detect narcotics during traffic stops and other law enforcement activities, serving as a valuable supplement to police manpower in crime prevention and control.
Have there been previous efforts to combat drug activity in Cumberland?
Yes, in May 2019, Maryland State Police and allied agencies arrested nearly two dozen people as part of a collaborative effort to suppress illegal drug and gang activity in Cumberland, including serving multiple search warrants and seizing various controlled substances and firearms.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Greene Street, Cumberland, MD |
| Date | January 4, 2026 |
| Number of Arrests | Three |
| Charges | CDS Possession not Marijuana; additional charges for one suspect |
| Involvement of K9 Unit | Yes, K9 unit detected narcotics during traffic stop |
| Previous Enforcement Efforts | May 2019 initiative by Maryland State Police and allied agencies |
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