Traffic Stop Leads to Drug and Firearm Arrest in Rockland

December 3, 2025 — by Scanner Alerts Media

ROCKLAND, Maine — A late-night traffic stop conducted during proactive patrols near several nuisance properties led to the arrest of a South Thomaston man on drug and firearm charges, according to the Rockland Police Department.

At approximately 10:45 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2, officers stopped a vehicle for moving violations while conducting directed enforcement in areas of concern within the city. The driver was identified as Timothy Chickering, 24, of South Thomaston, and officers determined his driver’s license was suspended.

During the roadside investigation, officers observed Chickering attempting to conceal drug paraphernalia. A further search found that Chickering was carrying a concealed pistol on his person, and drugs were located inside the vehicle. Chickering was taken into custody without further incident.

Police said Chickering was charged with Possession of Scheduled Drugs, Illegal Possession of a Firearm (possession by a user of controlled substances), and related motor vehicle violations stemming from the initial stop and the discovery of the suspended license.

Rockland Police noted that the arrest occurred as part of ongoing, multifaceted efforts to address drug activity and quality-of-life complaints in specific neighborhoods. The department regularly receives tips from residents about properties suspected of involvement in drug trafficking or related issues and has used a combination of proactive patrols, targeted investigations, and search warrants over the past year to address those concerns.

In addition to enforcement actions, Rockland Police reported continued coordination with Rockland Code Enforcement, landlords and property owners to mitigate nuisance properties. The department also partners with recovery community organizations to connect individuals seeking help with available treatment resources.

Authorities emphasized that these combined strategies—community reporting, directed patrols, investigative follow-up, and service referrals—remain central to improving neighborhood safety and addressing substance use within the city. No additional details were released.

Credit: Rockland Police Department