An instance of reckless driving in Memphis resulted in more than a traffic violation when police discovered a stolen handgun during the arrest, FOX13 Memphis reports. The incident unfolded when officers noticed a red Dodge Charger running a red light at the intersection of South Perkins Road and American Way shortly before 8 p.m. on Friday, only to later locate the vehicle outside a house on Alcove Lane in Cordova.
The car, caught speeding off eastbound on I-240, was not pursued by police but was subsequently found on Alcove Lane, where 21-year-old Daylen Harris along with 22-year-old Cordarius Hampton exited the vehicle. Found outside a house on Alcove Lane in Cordova, the vehicle was left alone by officers who discovered had it again after initially spotting the infraction.
Upon investigating further, officers arrested both Harris and Hampton. As reported by WREG, Harris is facing multiple charges which include disregarding a traffic signal, evading arrest, reckless driving, violation of vehicle registration, and financial responsibility.
Hampton, found in the company of a stolen handgun, is dealing with theft of property charges in the ballpark of $1,000-$2,000. In addition to this recent charge, police records indicate Hampton has a previous arrest for two counts of aggravated assault. After setting a bond amounting to $2,500 for each of the men, they were released, adding gravity to the existing conversation about the efficiency of our current bond system.
This event raises questions about the broader issues of gun theft and the consequences of criminal recidivism within the Memphis community, echoing concerns about public safety and the legal system's approach to related offenses.
