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An Atmore man was arrested Dec. 23 on possession and public intoxication charges, according to officials.

Atmore Police Department Public Information Officer Sgt. Darrell McMann said in a release that Justin Lawson, 36, was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance and public intoxication.

McMann said on the day of the arrest at approximately 2:05 p.m., APD officers responded to the 200 block of Wilson Avenue in reference to a burglary in progress.

“When officers arrived on the scene, they contacted the resident who provided a description of the suspect and told the officers the suspect was extremely intoxicated,” McMann said. “The officers were able to contact the suspect a short distance away who was later identified as Justin Lawson, age 36, of Atmore.”
McMann said Lawson was stumbling next to the roadway when the officers saw him, and when the officers began speaking with him he was slurring and incoherent. The victim was able to positively identify Lawson, he added.

McMann said while searching Lawson after placing him under arrest, the officers discovered a crystal-like substance that field tested positive for methamphetamine.

McMann said a burglary charge may be sought at a later date.

Lawson was then transported to the Escambia County Detention Center in Brewton.