An alleged shoplifting incident at a Bristol Walmart has led to a pair of drug arrests, along with multiple charges against a man who arrived to pick them up and reportedly resisted police.
Sullivan County Sheriff's Office vice detectives responded to the Walmart on the Volunteer Parkway Tuesday afternoon, following the arrest of two individuals by Bristol police. The SCSO reports the suspects, Heather Callahan, 28, of 553 Bristol Caverns Highway, and Travis Fulton, 36, of 1344 Massengill Road, lot 1, are part of an ongoing methamphetamine investigation in the county.
Police say they have evidence that Fulton has purchased excessive amounts of pseudoephedrine, prompting a charge of promotion of methamphetamine. He is also accused of stealing items used to produce meth during the Tuesday incident at Walmart, including a siphon pump and tubing.
Callahan — who was released last week from the Blountville jail after posting bond on meth related charges — allegedly consented to a search of her purse. Police say they located a syringe, needle and other items prompting a charge of possession drug paraphernalia.
While police were on scene a vehicle arrived at Walmart to pickup Callahan and Fulton. Detectives explained to the occupants what was going on, with a man inside the vehicle appearing "very nervous." While conducting a pat down of the man, George Finocchiaro, 48, of 176 Marlene Drive, Bristol, Tenn., he reportedly began resisting officers and had to be physically restrained.
During the altercation a plastic baggie containing meth, two spoons and other drug paraphernalia reportedly fell from Finocchiaro's pocket. He was arrested and charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of schedule II drugs and resisting arrest. He was also served with active warrant for violation of probation.
A woman inside the vehicle Finocchiaro had arrived in allegedly consented to a search, with police locating additional drug paraphernalia. A 3-year-old child was also inside the vehicle, according to a press release, and was released to her parents. The Department of Children's Services were notified of the incident.
An investigation of the case by the Sullivan County Sheriff's Office is ongoing with additional charges expected to be placed.