Officers with the SPD’s K-9 Unit conducted a suspicious vehicle stop on Dec. 16 at around 9pm in the 600 block of Argyle St. During the stop, officers observe five individuals sitting in a white SUV parked in the front yard of 614 Argyle St. Upon closer inspection, officers spotted three firearms and marijuana in plain view inside the vehicle.

The occupants were detained, and the SPD’s VCAT was contacted for further investigation. After arriving on the scene, VCAT conducted interviews, collected evidence, and secured a search warrant for the residence at 614 Argyle St. During the search, an additional firearm was discovered inside the home.

A total of six suspects were taken into custody and charged with multiple offenses: 

Kenyetta Griffins (DOB: 2/13/79)

• Possession of a Firearm by a Felon

Ryan Merritt (DOB: 9/02/04)

• Illegal Carrying of a Weapon with CDS
• Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute

Gabriel Richardson (DOB: 10/12/05)

• Illegal Carrying of a Weapon with CDS
• Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute

Dmariae Edwards (DOB: 8/28/98)

• Illegal Carrying of a Weapon with CDS
• Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute

Jobe Smith (DOB: 8/13/05)

• Illegal Carrying of a Weapon with CDS
• Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute

Jaylyn Johnson (DOB: 1/23/06)

• Illegal Carrying of a Weapon with CDS
• Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute

Seized evidence included: 

• Two .40 caliber semi-automatic pistols 
• Two 9mm semi-automatic pistols (one confirmed stolen)
• 30 grams of marijuana
• Narcotics-related paraphernalia 

The suspects were transported to the SPD Jail for booking, and all evidence was secured in the SPD Property Room. 

“This is proactive police work at its finest,” said Chief Wayne Smith. “By addressing these situations head-on, we are not only removing illegal firearms from our streets but also holding offenders accountable, many of whom are already convicted felons. The dedication and teamwork displayed by our officers exemplify the SPD’s commitment to keeping our community safe.”