On January 27, 2024, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office made a significant arrest after a routine traffic stop in Westminster, Carroll County, Maryland. A blue Ford Mustang caught the attention of a deputy on patrol in the area of the 1200 block of Baltimore Blvd due to its high rate of speed and dangerous overtaking maneuvers using the right turn lane. The deputy promptly initiated a traffic stop and quickly discovered that the driver’s license was suspended. However, what initially seemed like a routine traffic violation soon took a serious turn.

During the traffic stop, the deputy noticed several indicators of drug use. Suspecting the presence of controlled dangerous substances (CDS), the deputy requested a K9 scan of the vehicle. When the driver and passenger stepped out of the car for the scan, the deputy noticed CDS paraphernalia in plain sight. This discovery led to the immediate detainment of both individuals.

As a result of the search, law enforcement officers recovered approximately 17 grams of suspected cocaine, a loaded 9mm handgun, CDS paraphernalia (specifically, glass pipes commonly used for smoking CDS), a digital scale, and over $500 in U.S. currency. The driver, identified as 28-year-old Eric Lorenzo Purvey from Hanover, Pennsylvania, and the passenger, identified as 55-year-old William Joseph Iser from Westminster, were subsequently taken into custody.

Purvey and Iser now face several charges, including possession with intent to distribute narcotics, numerous charges related to illegal possession of a firearm, possession of CDS paraphernalia, and possession of CDS (excluding cannabis). Additionally, Purvey faces traffic offenses related to the initial stop.

It is essential to note that all individuals involved are presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, as of the time of this article, both Purvey and Iser remain in custody at the Carroll County Detention Center.

The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community by actively combating drug offenses and illegal firearm possession. This arrest is a testament to their ongoing efforts to uphold the law and maintain public order.

For more information, please contact:
Office of the State’s Attorney for Carroll County
Phone: 410-386-2671
Fax: 410-876-9286
Email: ccstatesattorney@carrollcountymd.gov