Norwood Traffic Stop Leads To Cocaine, Oxycodone Distribution Charges

NORWOOD, MA — A Brockton man is facing drug distribution charges after a traffic stop over an expired inspection sticker in Norwood, according to police.

Daniel Fernandes-Canuto, 25, was charged after Norwood police stopped his vehicle for an expired inspection sticker and allegedly found suspected cocaine, oxycodone and other items associated with drug distribution during a search, according to police. The traffic stop was conducted by Officer Sean Kelly, with Officer Jared Meegan assisting.

Police said Kelly initially stopped the vehicle after noticing its expired inspection sticker. During the stop, Meegan observed items in the back seat that were consistent with narcotics distribution, including a digital scale, plastic bags and a rolled-up bill, according to police.

Based on the officers' observations, training and experience, police searched the vehicle and seized about 14.3 grams of suspected cocaine, seven suspected oxycodone pills, a digital scale, packaging materials, a ledger believed to document narcotics transactions, multiple cellphones and $655 in cash, police said.

Fernandes-Canuto was charged with possession with intent to distribute a Class B substance (cocaine), possession with intent to distribute a Class B substance (oxycodone) and operating a motor vehicle with no valid inspection sticker, according to police.

"This case is another reminder that proactive traffic enforcement helps keep our community safe. What began as a motor vehicle stop for a traffic violation led to the removal of suspected illegal narcotics and evidence of alleged drug distribution from our streets," the Norwood Police Department wrote in an announcement. "Excellent work by Patrolman Sean Kelly and Patrolman Jared Meegan for being proactive."

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