AUBURN, MA — A Worcester man was arrested March 8, 2026, after a traffic stop on Southbridge Street led to the discovery of crack cocaine and drug distribution materials.
Auburn Police Officer Andrew Markvenas initiated a traffic stop after observing a silver Chrysler 300 operating without a valid inspection sticker.
The driver continued for approximately a quarter mile before stopping near Bertera Nissan.
When Officer Markvenas approached the vehicle, the driver provided a false name to police.
The driver was later identified as Alexander Quinonez, 43, of Worcester.
Quinonez was operating the vehicle with a suspended license, according to police.
During the investigation, officers located suspected crack cocaine, packaging materials, and scales.
Police seized approximately 33.9 grams of suspected crack cocaine and $1,895 in cash.
Quinonez was arrested and charged with trafficking cocaine (18-36 grams) and operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license, subsequent offense.
