By Brian C. Rittmeyer

Published: Wednesday, January 16, 2013, 1:31 a.m.
Updated: Tuesday, February 19, 2013

An Arnold man was baby-sitting his 2-year-old daughter on Tuesday afternoon when state police say they found him in possession of about two pounds of marijuana and a stolen handgun.

State police Trooper Jeff Brautigam said Mauricus R. Avent, 28, was arrested after he fled a traffic stop on foot in front of 1425 Third Ave., Arnold, about 3:30 p.m.

Avent was watching the child in a duplex at that address that is rented by the child's mother, who was at work. Avent claimed to be homeless, Brautigam said.

Brautigam said police saw drug activity at 1425 Third Ave. They saw Avent leave, followed him and initiated a traffic stop for illegally tinted windows and confronted him when he returned to that address.

Avent ran, and threw bags of marijuana on the ground, according to Brautigam. The short chase ended when police Tasered the suspect.

The child's mother gave police permission to search the home. More marijuana allegedly was found inside, along with a 9 mm handgun.

The girl was not hurt and was left in the custody of her mother.

State police were still formulating charges against Avent and investigating his background.

Brautigam said state police were charging Avent with drug possession, possession with intent to deliver, corruption of minors and endangering the welfare of a child.

He was being detained by New Kensington police on Tuesday evening pending arraignment.

Brian C. Rittmeyer is a staff writer for Trib Total Media. He can be reached at 724-226-4701 or brittmeyer@tribweb.com.

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