Hit and run driver located and arrested

Local St. Augustine reporters at Historic City News have learned that Saturday afternoon, Police Officers Frank Shipp and William Protami responded to the scene of a hit-and-run accident on Hope Street.

Police were able to identify and locate the operator of the fleeing vehicle, 22 year-old Joseph Lawrence Anania who resides at 301 Dusty Rd in Saint Augustine.

When police spoke to Anania, they say he appeared to be under the influence of drugs.

Officers asked Anania if he had consumed alcohol or drugs recently and they say that he admitted to smoking marijuana. Reportedly, Anania told the officers he had some in his truck.

Police say Anania gave Officer Protami permission to search the truck and told him the location of the marijuana.

Protami found 114 grams of marijuana, a scale, and a box of small plastic bags concealed in a computer bag which was seen on the passenger’s front seat.

Protami confiscated the bag and placed Anania under arrest for possession of drug equipment and possession of marijuana with the intent to sell.

Community Affairs Officer Barbara Stevens of the St. Augustine Police Department reports that Anania was released after posting $1,000 bond.