MERIDEN — Three men were arrested Aug. 6 following a drug investigation at Meriden Green, police said Tuesday.
Members of the Crime Suppression Unit observed Larry Jenkins of Middletown seated in a lawn chair at the green engaging in numerous hand-to-hand transactions with several people, according to police.
The transactions were consistent with narcotics dealing, police said.
After Jenkins appeared to have sold his supply, Jayden Vargas of New Haven entered the green and appeared to resupply Jenkins, police said.
The two men then separated, with Jenkins walking to Benjamin Street where he entered a vehicle operated by Christopher Carangelo of Meriden, according to police.
When officers approached the vehicle believing another drug transaction was occurring, Carangelo reversed and struck an unmarked police vehicle, police said.
Jenkins and Carangelo were apprehended at the scene while Vargas was located at the green and taken into custody.
Police found 1.97 grams of crack cocaine on Jenkins, who also had an active arrest warrant for violation of probation.
Jenkins was held on $100,000 bond.
Officers found 0.3 grams of crack cocaine on Carangelo, who was released on a written promise to appear.
Police found 4.90 grams of separately packaged crack cocaine on Vargas, who was held on $75,000 bond.
Jenkins was charged with possession of narcotics and possession of narcotics with intent to sell.
Vargas faces the same charges.
Carangelo was charged with possession of narcotics, misuse of registration plate, failure to maintain insurance and unsafe backing.
