Helena man arrested after pursuit yields 140 grams meth

A traffic stop on Parker Road at Woodsprings Road resulted in the arrest of a Helena man and the seizure of more than 140 grams of suspected methamphetamine, law enforcement records show. The stop, at about 8:46 p.m. on Jan. 13, led to a vehicle pursuit, a foot chase and a use-of-force intervention before officers recovered the suspected narcotics.

The probable-cause affidavit filed by the Second Judicial District Drug Task Force identified the driver as 29-year-old Drekerious Jamarielle Warren of Helena. Investigators allege Warren sped away from the stop and then fled on foot, discarding a baggie during the chase. Officers say Warren failed to comply with commands and a Taser was used to gain control before he was taken into custody.

Investigators allege the discarded bag contained a large quantity of suspected methamphetamine; authorities report the amount recovered exceeded 140 grams. The affidavit also states Warren had existing felony warrants at the time of the stop. A series of felony charges are expected related to the narcotics seizure and the alleged efforts to evade law enforcement.

For Phillips County residents, the seizure represents both an immediate law-enforcement action and a moment to consider broader public-safety implications. More than 140 grams is a quantity consistent with distribution-level seizures in small river towns such as Helena, and it can stretch local investigative and prosecutorial resources. The presence of outstanding felony warrants also highlights ongoing enforcement activity beyond this single incident.

The arrest will move into the county court system in the coming days, as prosecutors review the affidavit and determine formal filings. Court schedules will dictate arraignment and pretrial proceedings, and the Second Judicial District Drug Task Force and local officers may continue related inquiries as evidence is processed.

Community response and trust in local policing will shape how the aftermath unfolds. Neighbors concerned about drug activity or safety can report suspicious behavior to local law enforcement so investigators can follow up. For those following the case, watch for updates from the county court on charges and hearing dates.

This incident is a reminder that drug enforcement remains a local issue with direct effects on public safety, law enforcement workload and community well-being. Expect further developments as the prosecutor’s office evaluates charges and the court calendar begins to move the case through the system.