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VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) - A 16-year-old with a stolen firearm was taken into custody in Valdosta following a traffic stop on Saturday, Aug. 2.

The Valdosta Police Department (VPD) said the traffic stop was conducted at around 11:40 p.m. after a vehicle was seen running a red light.

The car, containing a 17-year-old driver and a 16-year-old passenger, pulled over in the 2900 block of North Oak Street. When officers tried to speak with them and check their information, police say the 16-year-old tried to run from the vehicle.

One of the officers was able to grab the teen, causing them to fall on the ground, leading to a physical struggle. During the struggle, the teen stood up and tried to run away again, according to VPD.

While officers were trying to take him into custody, the teen continued trying to pull away while reaching for his waistband. Police say officers told him several times to stop reaching in his waistband and comply with their requests. The teen did not cooperate.

According to VPD, an officer used a taser on the teen, causing him to fall on the ground. He then began to comply. Officers were able to find a firearm, which had been reported stolen, concealed in his pants.

The 16-year-old was arrested and charged with the following:

• Theft by receiving stolen property (firearm) - felony
• Possession of a firearm under 18 years of age - misdemeanor
• Obstruction of an officer-misdemeanor

The teen is being held at a Regional Youth Detention Center.

Anyone with further information on this case or any other cases, please get in touch with the Valdosta Police Department Bureau of Investigative Services at (229) 293-3145, the crime tip line at (229) 293-3091, or online at www.valdostacity.com/police-department.

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