Anthony M. Puglisi attempted to beat drug possession charges by flushing the drugs down a convenience store toilet. However a watchful Butler Twp. police officer witnessed the event.

BUTLER TWP — A homeless man managed to dodge a drug possession charge when he flushed several bags of suspected heroin down a toilet at a convenience store, authorities said.

But Anthony M. Puglisi's attempt Friday to beat the rap entirely also went down the drain.

Butler Township police say an officer caught a glimpse of the swirling contraband before it disappeared.

Puglisi, 26, was arrested and arraigned on charges of tampering with physical evidence, possession of drug paraphernalia and public drunkenness. He remains free on $2,500 bail.

Police found the defendant about 3:25 p.m. when they got to the Sheetz store on Route 8 after being called for an intoxicated man.

Officers immediately recognized Puglisi who they know to be a drug user, according to court documents. He was in his car but quickly walked into the store when he saw police.