Traffic stop leads to fully automatic illegal weapon charge

TRAFFIC STOP LEADS TO FULLY AUTOMATIC ILLEGAL WEAPON CHARGE

Bells, TN – Law enforcement officers were on routine patrol the night of January 25, 2025, when they observed a vehicle driving at a high rate of speed (81 mph in a 55 mph zone) on Highway 412. Officers made the stop and the suspect, 20 year old Titus Johnson, was in possession of a fully automatic Glock handgun (designated as a machine gun by the ATF). There was also a juvenile in the vehicle as well.

Both suspects were taken into custody without incident. Johnson was charged with possession of a prohibited weapon, possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony, and possession of schedule VI with intent.

Judge Conley issued a $7,500.00 and the suspect bonded out of jail. We expect the US Attorney’s Office to pick this case up for prosecution and maximum sentencing under the law.

This arrest – which may very well have prevented the loss of life in a neighboring community – was the result of a collaborative effort between the CCSD, BPD, and Crockett County CID. All of our law enforcement officers are hard at work and we appreciate their vigilance which led to an effective arrest with no injury to our officers.

The charges and allegations referenced in this release are merely accusations of criminal conduct and not evidence. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law. The United States Attorney will be prosecuting this case where facts and evidence against the defendant will be presented in the court of law.

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