02.02.2024

KPD Officers on A-Squad responded to a vehicle collision at Dr MLK JR Blvd & Beasley Street. Officer made contact with Bryan Burwell (27 of Ayden NC). Burwell, the driver of one of the vehicles, showed signs of impairment and evidence at the scene suggested it was drug related. Officers contacted Sgt. Weathers, a Drug Recognition Expert from Pine Knoll Shores Police Department and requested assistance. After further testing, it was determined Burwell was impaired from a narcotic. Burwell was arrested and placed in the LC Jail under a secured bond for Driving While Impaired.

A drug recognition expert (DRE) is a police officer trained to recognize impairment in drivers under the influence of drugs other than, or in addition to, alcohol. In addition to officers, who are certified as DREs, the DEC Program educates prosecutors and toxicologists on the DRE process and the drug categories.