A pursuing officer was exposed to the drug but was decontaminated on site and medically cleared.
(photos courtesy Hagerstown Police Department)
HAGERSTOWN, MD (JK) – On February 4, 2025, the Washington County Narcotics Task Force conducted surveillance that led to the arrest of two men for suspected fentanyl distribution. The operation, which involved multiple law enforcement agencies, resulted in the seizure of a significant amount of the deadly drug.
Authorities observed suspicious activity indicative of Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) distribution, prompting the request for uniformed officers to assist in the investigation. Hagerstown Police Department officers arrived in the area and conducted a traffic stop after witnessing a violation.
The vehicle’s occupants were identified as Wesley Antonio Fulgham, 35, of Baltimore, MD, and Levar Atturra Octavion Cooper, 30, of Hanover, MD. During the stop, a Maryland State Police (MSP) trooper deployed a K-9 unit to scan the vehicle, which resulted in a positive alert for narcotics. As officers attempted further investigation, Cooper refused orders to remove his hands from his pockets and fled on foot.
While fleeing, Cooper allegedly attempted to dispose of gel capsules by throwing them onto the ground, into the air, and at passing vehicles. A pursuing officer was exposed to a large amount of airborne powder from the discarded capsules, which struck him in the face and chest. The officer was promptly decontaminated by Community Rescue Services and did not require hospitalization.
After a brief chase, officers successfully apprehended Cooper. A search of the vehicle uncovered additional fentanyl, digital scales, packaging materials, and U.S. currency, all believed to be associated with drug distribution. In total, approximately 84 gel capsules containing suspected fentanyl were recovered.
Both suspects were taken into custody and charged with multiple offenses, including:
- Possession of a Large Amount of Fentanyl
- Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
- Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
- Possession of Controlled Dangerous Substance Paraphernalia
Additionally, Cooper faces a charge of reckless endangerment for allegedly exposing the officer to fentanyl during his escape attempt.
The Washington County Narcotics Task Force expressed gratitude to the MSP for their assistance and to Community Rescue Services for their decontamination efforts. Authorities emphasized their commitment to combating the distribution of fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid responsible for numerous overdose deaths nationwide.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials encourage community members to report any suspicious drug activity to local law enforcement.