On July 15, an officer with the Hood River Police Department (HRPD) stopped a motorcycle after observing it blatantly run a stop sign and operate without registration plates.
After the motorcycle stopped, the driver, who was wearing identifying gear associated with a 1% motorcycle club, and the passenger immediately began discreetly (or so they thought) passing items back and forth.
The officer observed their actions, remained calm, and waited for backup to arrive before continuing the investigation. During the search, officers located a pair of brass knuckles, two loaded magazines concealed in specially made pockets, a plastic bundle containing a small amount of a white powdery substance, and two unidentified pills on the driver. Exactly where the primary officer had advised responding units to look, a loaded firearm was located on the passenger.
The driver is a convicted felon, and the passenger did not possess a concealed handgun license.
This encounter could have taken a very dangerous turn. Thanks to the officer’s professionalism, sound judgment, and reliance on his training, the situation ended safely. Both suspects were arrested and lodged at NORCOR on a variety of charges, including Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Felon in Possession of Ammunition, Felon in Possession of a Restricted Weapon, Unlawful Possession of a Concealed Firearm, and Tampering with Physical Evidence.
Every traffic stop carries unknown risks. We’re grateful for the professionalism of our officers and their commitment to protecting our community every day. Their vigilance and training help keep Hood River a safe place to live, work, and visit.
