Suspect Attempts To Swallow Two Bags Of Narcotics During Struggle With Police

Sullivan Police on Wednesday arrested a St. Clair man at Flying J after he resisted and attempted to swallow two bags of what was suspected to be methamphetamine.

Mark Cokley, 54, has been charged with third-degree assault. 

Cokley was stopped due to his vehicle matching the description of one previously reported in a harassment incident.

The vehicle was parked at a fuel pump when officers approached and made contact with Cokley.

Cokley exited the vehicle and a struggle ensued. He allegedly resisted officers' attempts to handcuff him and attempted to destroy evidence by placing two bags of narcotics in his mouth.

Officers were then able to secure his hands with handcuffs and remove two bags of suspected methamphetamine from his mouth. 

Cokley was taken to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan where he was examined and then transferred to the Sullivan Police Department.

Both officers were examined at the same hospital for injuries they sustained during the struggle. Both officers were treated and released.

Additional charges are pending.