An alert Branford Police Officer seized more than nine ounces of marijuana, over $4,000 in cash, drug packaging paraphernalia and other assorted narcotics while investigating a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of North Main Street and East Main Street just before 7 p.m. tonight.

Joshua Swimmer, 22, of 385 Boston Post Road Madison was arrested and taken into custody by Officer Joseph Peterson when Peterson noticed that Swimmer was acting nervous and suspiciously while he was investigating a two car accident involving Swimmer crashing into another car from the rear at the intersection. The passengers of the vehicle Swimmer struck were treated and released at the scene.

“I noticed that his pupils were pin-point, and he appeared unusually nervous while I was interviewing him about the crash” said Officer Peterson, “I became suspicious and as I asked him if I could look in his car, I noticed a plastic bag of marijuana on the floor protruding from under the seat.”

Lieutenant Dave Galdenzi, who is the evening shift commander, praised the officer. “Officer Peterson has a unique ability to recognize body language and characteristics of those he is interviewing who are intentionally trying to mislead or act deceitfully towards the police.”

Swimmer was charged with Possession of Marijuana; Sale or Possession with Intent to Sell within 1500 feet of School; Possession of Narcotics; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Operating a Motor Vehicle while Under Suspension; Following to Close and Operating without Insurance. He is currently being held on a $25,000 bond.