Cops: Pair With Drugs, Gun Arrested in Baldwin

Two people were arrested in Baldwin Tuesday after cops allegedly found illegal drugs and a loaded handgun in their vehicle.

Around 12:40 a.m., police said that Bureau of Special Operations Officers saw Justin R. Coleman, 24, of Freeport, and Jennifer G. Chavez, 27, of Uniondale, standing next to a 1996 Nissan that was parked illegally in front of the Dunkin Donuts at 1680 Grand Avenue.

Upon investigation, the officers observed an opened pocketbook that police said contained marijuana and an opened black knapsack that allegedly held a loaded silver handgun. Both were in plain view on the back seat.

Police said that further search of the bag revealed that the handgun was defaced. Four 9mm rounds and a plastic bag containing crystal methamphetamines were recovered.

Coleman and Chavez were placed into custody without incident. A search of Coleman allegedly yielded a magazine that contained two 9mm rounds. No injuries were reported.

Coleman is charged with three counts of criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a controlled substance. Chavez is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. Both will be arraigned on Tuesday at First District Court in Hempstead.