Whitby Man Charged After Police Seize Firearm During Traffic Stop
According to Durham Regional Police, a 41-year-old Whitby man faces several firearm-related charges after officers conducted a traffic stop on July 27 in the area of Dunlop Street East and Green Street.
Police stated that the stop occurred at approximately 8:10 p.m. on Sunday, July 27, when officers from Central West Division were on proactive patrol. During the stop, officers reported detecting a strong odour of cannabis from the vehicle and subsequently searched it. Police said they located a firearm and two loaded magazines during the search.
Police identified the suspect as Eric Richards, age 41, of Whitby. Officers arrested Richards without incident. He was held for a bail hearing, according to police.
The charges listed by police include Obstruct License Plate, Drive Vehicle with Cannabis Readily Available, Carry Concealed Weapon, Possess Firearm Contrary to License, and Contravene Section 117(H) of the Firearms Act Regulation.
Durham Regional Police stated that these allegations have not been proven in court.