North Charleston, August 12, 2025
News Summary
A juvenile male was arrested in North Charleston after being stopped by police for driving without functioning headlights. Officers detected a strong smell of marijuana and found the juvenile in possession of a Glock handgun. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about youth and firearm access. In a related case, another juvenile was arrested on similar charges for possessing an AR-style pistol following suspicious behavior. The police department is working to enhance community awareness regarding gun safety and illegal possession.
North Charleston, SC – A juvenile male was arrested late Saturday night for possessing an illegal handgun and drugs during a traffic stop. The arrest unfolded near the intersection of Rivers Avenue and Barnwell Avenue when officers from the North Charleston Police Department (NCPD) stopped a vehicle that was operating without functioning headlights.
Upon initiating the stop, an officer detected the distinct smell of marijuana emanating from the vehicle. A subsequent search revealed that the juvenile was carrying a Glock handgun, which is prohibited for him to possess given his age. Consequently, law enforcement took the juvenile into custody for his unlawful possession of a firearm.
This incident raises concerns about minors acquiring firearms and engaging in illegal behavior. A similar case on July 30 involved another juvenile who was apprehended for the unlawful possession of an AR-style pistol. In that earlier instance, the juvenile had been observed behaving suspiciously outside a store, slowly walking while gripping his waistband. After purchasing a drink, he became uncooperative when officers attempted to detain him, making a move toward his waistband as if to draw a weapon.
During a brief struggle, officers managed to subdue the juvenile and noticed the outline of a pistol within his waistband. After securing the juvenile, two officers restrained him, handcuffing him following the encounter. A loaded AR-style pistol was recovered from him, leading to his arrest on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm. He was later released into the custody of a guardian.
The safety of the community remains a priority as law enforcement continues to address incidents involving youth and firearms. These occurrences underline the broader issue of firearms accessibility for minors and the implications of illegal possession.
In light of these serious events, the North Charleston Police Department is emphasizing the importance of vigilance among community members and reiterating their commitment to reducing gun violence in the area. The department encourages citizens to report suspicious activity that may pose a risk to public safety, particularly involving firearms and minors.
Authorities are actively working on programs aimed at educating families, schools, and the community about the dangers associated with illegal firearm possession and drug use among the youth. With recent arrest incidents, the police department is urged to bolster its outreach efforts to foster a safer environment for everyone.
FAQ
What happened during the traffic stop in North Charleston?
A juvenile was arrested for possessing an illegal Glock handgun and drugs after officers stopped a vehicle driving without headlights and detected the smell of marijuana.
What are the legal implications for the juvenile?
Being a juvenile, he is not legally allowed to possess a firearm, leading to his arrest for unlawful possession.
What actions did law enforcement take during the second incident involving another juvenile?
Officers observed him acting suspiciously and attempted to detain him. After a struggle, they recovered a loaded AR-style pistol from his waistband, resulting in his arrest.
How is the North Charleston Police Department addressing these incidents?
The department is focusing on community awareness and education about the dangers of illegal firearm possession and is encouraging citizens to report any suspicious activities.
Key Features of Recent Incidents
| Feature | Incident #1 | Incident #2 |
|---|---|---|
| Date | Late Saturday Night | July 30 |
| Location | Rivers Avenue and Barnwell Avenue | Outside a Store |
| Type of Weapon | Glock Handgun | AR-style Pistol |
| Outcome | Juvenile Arrested | Juvenile Arrested |
| Charges | Unlawful Possession of a Firearm | Unlawful Possession of a Firearm |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Juvenile Arrested for Carrying Loaded AR-Style Pistol in South Carolina
Six Charged in Shooting Death of Woman in Lancaster County
Multiple Arrests in Charleston Raise Public Safety Concerns
Teen Arrested in Connection with Charleston Shootings
Authorities Arrest 80 Individuals in Summerville Raid
Teen Charged with Murder After Fast Food Shooting
Six Charged in Fatal Shooting of Lancaster County Woman
Major Law Enforcement Operation Targets Drug Activity in South Carolina
Mass Arrests in South Carolina Target Illegal Residency and Gangs
Undocumented Immigrants Charged in Murder Case
Additional Resources
- Count on 2 News
- ABC News 4
- WYFF 4 News
- Count on 2 News
- Live 5 News
- Wikipedia: Illegal possession of firearms
- Google Search: firearm safety education
- Google Scholar: juvenile firearm possession
- Encyclopedia Britannica: gun violence
- Google News: North Charleston traffic stop
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
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