Saleem Johnson, a 27-year-old resident of Philadelphia’s 2400 block of South Fifth Street, faces a barrage of charges, including aggravated assault and drug-related offenses, after crashing into two police vehicles while attempting to evade arrest for alleged methamphetamine and cocaine distribution.
Undercover officers conducted five drug transactions with Johnson between August and September. He used the term “ball game” to refer to 3.5 grams of methamphetamine, signaling his intent to expand his customer base.
On September 22, an undercover officer arranged another methamphetamine purchase in Folcroft. As Johnson arrived in a black Hyundai Elantra, police moved in to apprehend him. However, he responded aggressively, colliding with a Folcroft Police vehicle before reversing into another police car with activated lights.
Despite his attempts to flee, Officer Thomas Kesser blocked Johnson’s escape by positioning his own vehicle strategically. During the arrest, police discovered 4 ounces of methamphetamine, a loaded Glock handgun, a “drum” magazine with extra rounds, and drug paraphernalia.
In total, investigators seized 11 ounces of methamphetamine and 4 grams of cocaine during their inquiry. Johnson, previously convicted of aggravated assault in Darby in 2016, now faces further legal complications.
Remanded to the county jail on a $500,000 cash bail, Johnson is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on October 4 before Magisterial District Judge Walter A. Strohl. No defense attorney has been listed in court documents.