By Monique Roth
L’Observateur

LAPLACE — A local man is facing a meth distribution charge following a traffic stop and unsuccessful escape attempt, authorities said.

St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling on Hester Drive in LaPlace at 9:30 p.m. Friday. Authorities said the vehicle was stopped for not using a turn signal when required.

“When the vehicle stopped, the passenger exited the vehicle and fled on foot,” a Sheriff’s Office release said.

“A deputy pursued and apprehended the passenger, who was identified as Warren Millet Jr., 41, of Longwood Court in LaPlace.”

Authorities said no one was injured during the pursuit.

Millet discarded an object as he fled, authorities said, and when deputies recovered the discarded object they saw it contained a bag of methamphetamine.

“Deputies recovered two additional bags of methamphetamine from Millet,” the release said. “In total, deputies recovered 3.2 grams of methamphetamine — $250 worth.”

Millet was arrested on two felony charges, including aggravated flight from an officer and distribution/manufacture or possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

He remains in custody in lieu of a $9,000 bond.

Authorities said the driver of the vehicle was cited for several traffic violations but was not arrested.