The Reading Police Department is releasing details regarding a large-scale drug seizure that occurred on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
According to the department, at approximately 7:30 p.m., officers assigned to the Patrol Division were on patrol in the area of Cotton Street and South 15th Street when they observed a vehicle with an expired registration. Officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, at which time the vehicle failed to stop and fled, resulting in a pursuit.
The vehicle ultimately came to a stop at a dead end, and the driver was taken into custody. During the course of the subsequent investigation, officers located approximately 10 pounds of methamphetamine inside the vehicle, with an estimated street value of $227,000.
Officials say this arrest has effectively stopped a massive flow of poison from entering the community and demonstrates the awareness and dedication of Reading Police officers working every day to combat drugs coming into the City.
“Residents should know that these efforts are ongoing and focused on keeping neighborhoods safe. The suspect, Joe Richard Jenkins, a 54-year-old male, was charged with possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and related offenses” the department said in a press release.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Reading Police Department at 610-655-6116 or Crime Alert Berks at 877-373-9913.
As in every criminal case, the fact that an arrest has been made or a criminal complaint has been filed is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
