A Waterbury man with a felony record was arrested Monday night in Southington on multiple weapons charges and a counterfeit vehicle registration. Police say they also confiscated a large-capacity magazine and an unlicensed pistol, leading to a wide range of charges.
Southington police arrest felon on numerous weapons charges and counterfeit registration
Key Takeaways:
- A Waterbury resident with a felony record was arrested in Southington.
- Police discovered multiple illegal weapons during a Monday night patrol.
- The suspect allegedly carried a counterfeit vehicle registration.
- Additional charges included operating an unregistered vehicle and driving with an expired license.
- Local authorities continue to focus on preventing illegal weapon possession.
Setting the Scene
Southington Police arrested a Waterbury felon on Monday night, pulling him over near 1104 Queen Street following concerns about the vehicle he was driving. Officers discovered evidence of a counterfeit registration during the stop.
Suspect Background
The suspect, identified by authorities as Waterbury resident Keenan Isaiah Dukes, is already a convicted felon. According to the police, this prior record factored into the severity of the charges now pending against him.
Police Actions and Findings
Upon stopping the suspect, the Southington Police Department and its K9 units conducted a search of the vehicle. During this process, authorities allege they found multiple weapons, including a handgun. One of the seized items was a large-capacity magazine. Police have stated that Dukes lacked the proper documentation required to carry a pistol legally.
Charges and Violations
Below is a brief overview of the charges as mentioned in official reports:
| Charge | Details |
|---|---|
| Criminal Possession of a Pistol/Revolver | Unlawful for a convicted felon to possess a firearm |
| Carrying a Pistol Without a Permit | No permit at the time of the arrest |
| Illegal Possession of a Large-Capacity Magazine | Prohibited under state law |
| Operating an Unregistered Motor Vehicle | Alleged registration irregularities |
| Counterfeit Vehicle Registration | Falsified documentation discovered by police |
| Operating a Motor Vehicle With an Expired License | Driver’s license had reportedly lapsed |
| Operating Without Required Insurance | Lack of valid insurance coverage according to authorities |
| Theft/Illegal Possession of Number Plate | Allegedly using a plate that was not assigned to the vehicle |
Local Impact and Ongoing Efforts
The incident highlights heightened concerns over illegal firearms and improper vehicle documentation. By bringing these issues to light, the Southington Police Department continues to underscore its commitment to public safety and vigilance. Police stress that stepped-up enforcement aims to reduce the circulation of illegal weapons and maintain safer streets for their community.