The NC State Highway Patrol is attempting to identify the owner of two handguns found in a vehicle during a traffic stop in Johnston County.
A member of the Patrol’s Criminal Interdiction Unit stopped a vehicle on Interstate 40 on December 19, 2019 for a traffic violation. During the course of the traffic stop, the trooper was suspicious the driver was involved in criminal activity. The Trooper had probable cause to search the car and during the search two handguns were located in the trunk of the car. The driver disavowed both weapons. A check on the serial numbers was conducted but the guns had not been reported stolen to any law enforcement agency.
Troopers seized a black Smith and Wesson .380 caliber handgun and a black Smith and Wesson .357 Magnum revolver. By North Carolina State Highway Patrol Policy, when a trooper retrieves found property, the Patrol must hold the unclaimed firearms for at least 30 days. The firearms may be sold or disposed or otherwise disposed of unless claimed within 30 days.
If anyone has any information on the weapons, including the owner of the firearms, contact Sgt. Kenneth Ellerbe with the NCSHP Criminal Interdiction Unit at 919-894-1582.
