Phoenix Traffic Stop Leads to Felony Arrest, Weapon Seizure

Phoenix, Oregon- A Phoenix area man was arrested late Wednesday after a traffic stop led to the discovery of prohibited weapons and signs of drug use, according to the Phoenix Police Department.

The incident occurred at approximately 10:53 p.m. on May 21, when an officer working grant-funded traffic enforcement observed a vehicle near Highway 99 and South Stage Road. The officer recognized the vehicle from prior contacts and was aware it did not have valid insurance.

As the officer attempted to initiate a stop, the vehicle began driving erratically through the back roads of Phoenix before coming to a halt near the intersection of Coleman Creek Road and Houston Road.

The driver, known to the officer from multiple prior encounters and identified as a Phoenix area resident, was found to have a criminally suspended driver’s license. He was taken into custody without incident.

During the investigation, officers located a BB gun that closely resembled a firearm, a knife the driver is prohibited from possessing due to his felony status, and indicators consistent with recent drug use.

The driver was booked into the Jackson County Jail on charges of Driving While Suspended (Misdemeanor) and Felon in Possession of a Restricted Weapon. He was also cited for careless driving, operating without insurance, and failure to install an ignition interlock device as required. The vehicle was impounded.