Washington, D.C., September 11, 2025
News Summary
A Howard University student was arrested for fleeing a traffic stop and found with cocaine. The incident occurred in northwest D.C. and raises safety concerns among students and families. Multiple students were present in the vehicle at the time. The university is addressing the situation and the potential impact on campus safety amidst increased law enforcement presence.
Washington, D.C. – Howard University Student Arrested for Fleeing Traffic Stop and Drug Possession
A Howard University student was arrested early Saturday morning after fleeing a traffic stop and being found in possession of drugs. The incident took place around 1:30 a.m. near the 900 block of W Street in northwest Washington.
The student, identified as 21-year-old Walter-Thomas Amondji from Upper Marlboro, Maryland, faces charges of fleeing from a law enforcement officer in a motor vehicle and possession of a controlled substance, specifically cocaine. Law enforcement officials reported that a search of Amondji’s wallet revealed 0.28 grams of a white powdery substance, which later tested positive for the presence of cocaine base.
The Metropolitan Police Department confirmed that multiple Howard students were present in the vehicle at the time of the traffic stop. The arrest raises concerns regarding safety among the university’s community, particularly as the heightened federal law enforcement presence in Washington, D.C., has caused anxiety among students and their families.
The Office of Student Affairs at Howard University has commenced efforts to contact those involved in the incident and has reached out to Amondji’s family regarding the situation. The university has released a statement expressing its concern for the safety of its students amid ongoing apprehensions about security on and off campus.
Implications of Drug-Related Incidents on Campus Safety
This incident has sparked a conversation within the Howard University community about safety measures on campus. With multiple federal law enforcement agencies visible around Washington, D.C., students are particularly vigilant, and incidents such as this one can heighten existing concerns about their well-being. Howard University officials are committed to addressing these concerns and ensuring that students feel secure in their environment.
Context on Campus Safety Trends
In recent years, colleges and universities across the United States have grappled with issues concerning drug use and campus safety. Many institutions have implemented educational programs and safety protocols aimed at reducing incidents of drug possession and promoting a safer learning environment. In light of this latest incident, Howard University is likely to evaluate its current safety measures and communication strategies to better support its students.
Conclusion
As authorities continue to investigate the events surrounding Amondji’s arrest, the Howard University community remains on high alert. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activities, contributing to a safer campus environment.
FAQ
What were the charges against Walter-Thomas Amondji?
Walter-Thomas Amondji was charged with fleeing from a law enforcement officer in a motor vehicle and possession of a controlled substance believed to be cocaine.
What substance was found during the arrest?
A search of Amondji’s wallet revealed 0.28 grams of a white powdery substance that tested positive for cocaine base.
How many students were in the vehicle during the incident?
Multiple Howard University students were present in the vehicle when the law enforcement stop occurred.
What measures is Howard University taking in response to the incident?
The Office of Student Affairs at Howard University is working to contact those involved in the incident and has reached out to Amondji’s family.
How has this incident impacted community safety concerns?
This incident has raised concerns within the Howard University community about safety on and off campus, especially amid heightened law enforcement presence in Washington, D.C.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location of Incident | 900 block of W Street, Northwest Washington, D.C. |
| Time of Arrest | 1:30 a.m., Saturday |
| Individual Arrested | Walter-Thomas Amondji, 21 years old |
| Charges Filed | Fleeing from an officer, possession of cocaine |
| Amount of Substance | 0.28 grams of cocaine base |
| University Response | Contacting involved parties and family |
| Community Impact | Raised safety concerns among students |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 DC: Howard University Student Arrested
- WJLA: Howard University Student Arrested
- The Hilltop: Howard Student Charged with Misdemeanor
- NBC News: Salisbury University Students Charged
- Wikipedia: Drug Possession Law
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.
