SALEM - A routine traffic stop led police to arresting a Massachusetts man who allegedly fled the state because he is a material witness in an upcoming murder trial.

Sean Fenton, 27, of Lawrence, Mass. was taken into custody by Salem Police on Thursday and charged with being a fugitive from justice and driving after suspension. Police say Fenton was driving without a license, but a records check showed he had outstanding arrest warrants out of Lawrence and Lynn, Mass.

Police pulled over Fenton's car at 11:30 a.m. Thursday along South Policy Street for a traffic violation. Fenton allegedly told police he did not have a driver's license. The outstanding warrants were for numerous motor vehicle violations out of two district courts, police said.

Salem Police officers were also told that Fenton is a material witness in an upcoming murder trial in Massachusetts.

Police say Fenton was believed to have fled the area to avoid testifying.

He was taken into custody without incident. Fenton was arraigned in 10th Circuit Court for arraignment and released to the custody of Massachusetts State Police.



jkimble@newstote.com