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A Century, Fla. man was arrested Feb. 26 on possession and tampering with evidence charges, according to the Atmore Police Department.

Public Information Officer Sgt. Darrell McMann said in a release that Fred Ward, 57, was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance and tampering with physical evidence.

McMann said at approximately 7:55 p.m. on Wednesday, an APD officer conducted a traffic stop on Highway 21 in reference to a vehicle displaying an expired license plate.

McMann said the officer made contact with Ward.

“During the officer’s interaction with Ward, the officer noted suspicious behavior and asked for Ward’s consent to search the vehicle,” McMann said. “During the search of the vehicle, the officer discovered multiple kratom pills. As the officer attempted to take Ward into custody, he (Ward) picked up a pill that fell on the ground and swallowed it after being ordered not to.”

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