WPSO: Stolen Firearm Recovered Traffic Stop

Today (June 14, 2018), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Patrol Deputy Tyler Lindsey stopped a car
being driven by a man not wearing a seat-belt. Deputy Lindsey then learned that the driver had a weapon in the vehicle. Sgt. David Cupp responded to the scene to assist and a fully loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol was recovered that was concealed between the driver’s seat and the center console. The pistol had been reported stolen out of St. Tammany Parish.
The driver, Duane Eric Cotton (35) of Bogalusa also had outstanding warrants for driving while intoxicated, speeding and failure to comply with conditions of probation. Cotton was arrested on the charges of illegal possession of a stolen firearm, three counts of failure to appear in court and not wearing a seat belt.
“Our officers are non-stop when it comes to enforcing the law,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Our patrol officers, our detectives and our jail staff are vigilant and professional in all they do. All of the citizens of Washington Parish are fortunate to have them protecting us and I am blessed to have them working for me.”