MECHANICSVILLE, Md. — A Mechanicsville man was arrested after a disturbance call led Maryland State Police to investigate him for impaired driving and allegedly find drug paraphernalia containing suspected crack cocaine residue inside his vehicle.
Eric Tyler Ward, 37, of Mechanicsville, was charged July 13, 2026, with possession of a controlled dangerous substance other than cannabis and two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia. He also faces several traffic charges, including driving while impaired by a controlled dangerous substance, reckless driving and negligent driving.
According to charging documents, a Maryland State Police trooper responded at approximately 4 a.m. to the 28300 block of Lockes Hill Road in Mechanicsville for a reported loud disturbance.
The trooper reported seeing a gray Hyundai Santa Fe running in the driveway with Ward in the driver’s seat.
Ward allegedly identified himself and stated he had driven to the location to pick up his girlfriend and was waiting for her.
The trooper reported that Ward’s eyes appeared glassy and bloodshot, his pupils were unusually large and his speech was thick and slurred. Ward was also allegedly unsteady after stepping out of the vehicle and had to reach out to steady himself.
During standardized field sobriety testing, Ward allegedly showed multiple signs of impairment.
Charging documents state Ward was placed under arrest for driving under the influence. When asked whether there was anything inside the vehicle officers should know about, Ward allegedly stated there was a “stem” in the vehicle used for smoking crack cocaine.
A search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered:
- A glass smoking device inside the driver’s door
- Two metal scrapers used to clean the device
- Suspected crack cocaine residue on the items
Ward was advised of his rights and allegedly admitted to smoking crack cocaine before driving, charging documents state.
He was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention Center.
Ward was initially ordered held without bond July 13. Following a bail review hearing before Judge James Tanavage on July 14, he was released on his own recognizance.
A trial is scheduled for Aug. 27, 2026, in St. Mary’s County District Court.
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!
