By Shavonne Potts
spotts@salisburypost.com
SALISBURY — A man who was in court today for cocaine possession was sent to jail after he failed a drug test and was held in contempt.
Bruce Wayne Arquette, 30, came into a district courtroom making a ruckus. When his disturbance continued, District Court Judge Charlie Brown ordered him to sit on a bench normally reserved for inmates.
Arquette was held in contempt for the disturbance. Brown asked the man if he was impaired. He denied being intoxicated or under the influence of a substance.
Arquette was immediately ordered to take a drug test, which he failed. He tested positive for opiates and THC, the main ingredient found in marijuana.
Arquette explained he is prescribed Lorcet and Percocet by a doctor to relieve pain. He said when he was 15 he was hit by a car and about two years ago that pain has hindered his ability to walk.
He told the judge he self-prescribes the marijuana.
“I know it’s illegal,” he said.
He apologized for the disturbance, but was sentenced to five days in jail.
See Thursday’s Post for more details.
Contact reporter Shavonne Potts at 704-797-4253.