On Monday, Sept. 8, at approximately 10 a.m., the Wiscasset Police Department received a report regarding a driver operating a vehicle while using illegal narcotics, traveling southbound on Gardiner Road. Chief Larry Hesseltine located the vehicle on Main Street, heading northbound towards Edgecomb. The vehicle was observed operating erratically, consistent with the initial report. Chief Hesseltine initiated a traffic stop on Route One in Edgecomb and was joined shortly after by Officer Jonathan Barnes.

The operator was identified as Joshua A. Watters, 45, of Augusta, and the passenger as George C. Bronn, 46, of Whitefield. Both individuals are on bail conditions that allow them to be searched for illegal drugs and weapons. Watters and Bronn were detained while a vehicle search was conducted. During the search, suspected narcotics and other drug-related items were found. During the search, Chief Hesseltine’s uniform was contaminated with an unknown white powdery substance, now believed to be fentanyl.

Mr. Bronn physically resisted arrest, resulting in an injury that required medical attention. CLC Ambulance was called and arrived to treat Mr. Bronn. While assisting EMS, Chief Hesseltine received a minor laceration on his forearm from the guardrail and moments later reported feeling light-headed. The paramedic on scene assessed Chief Hesseltine while Officer Barnes bandaged his injury. Chief Hesseltine subsequently became unresponsive, and Narcan was administered by Officer Barnes. Chief Hesseltine regained consciousness after receiving the Narcan and was transported to Miles Hospital for further observation. He was released later in the day.

I commend Officer Barnes for drawing on his experience and training to act decisively and without hesitation.

Joshua A. Watters has been charged with: Unlawful Possession of a Scheduled Drug, Violation of Conditions of Release, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

George C. Bronn has been charged with: Unlawful Possession of a Scheduled Drug, Violation of Conditions of Release, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Refusing to Submit to Arrest.