Melvin Johnson : “Two Arrested on Felony Charges: Central Texas Traffic Stop”

FAYETTE, Texas — In the early hours of Tuesday morning, two individuals were apprehended on felony charges as a result of a traffic stop conducted by Sgt. Ryan Meagher in Bastrop County.

At around 12:49 a.m. on June 11, 2024, Sgt. Meagher pulled over a 2004 Ford F-150 in the Kirtley area for a traffic violation. During the stop, a pipe commonly used for smoking methamphetamine was spotted in plain sight. Upon requesting the passenger to exit the vehicle, they initially declined, prompting Sgt. Meagher to assist them out.

Upon searching the vehicle, Sgt. Meagher discovered a loaded AR-15 style rifle. Both the driver and passenger, who had previous felony convictions, were found to be in possession of a firearm, which is prohibited by law. Additionally, methamphetamine was found on the passenger’s person.

The driver, identified as 61-year-old Randolph Simon from Smithville, Texas, was taken into custody and charged with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon.

The passenger, identified as 56-year-old Melvin Johnson also from Smithville, Texas, faced a series of charges including Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, Possession of a Controlled Substance (Penalty Group 1, between >=4g and <400g), Tampering/Fabricating Physical Evidence with Intent to Impair, Interference with Public Duties, and Possession of a Controlled Substance (Penalty Group 1 - Bastrop County Warrant).

This incident highlights the vigilance of law enforcement in Bastrop County in enforcing firearm possession laws and combating drug-related activities.

Originally reported on mytexasdaily.com, part of the BLOX Digital Content Exchange.