Lonoke police uncover possible stolen firearms

LONOKE, AR – A traffic stop lead police to uncover what are believed to be stolen firearms, according to a release.

Around 12:10 pm on January 24, Lonoke County Sheriff Jim Roberson reportedly attempted to stop a car on Clayhill Road due to a traffic violation. The vehicle pulled into a business parking lot located on Clayhill Road. During the traffic stop, Sheriff Roberson saw a man who had an outstanding arrest warrant.

Police say that the man with the warrant fled the area on foot to an wooded area. Deputies responded to assist with the arrest. The suspect, later identified as 36-year-old James Burke of Cabot, was arrested at the scene along with 39-year-old Steven Weatherly of Lonoke for an outstanding warrant. Further investigation led police to uncover one handgun, two rifles, and one shotgun which are suspected of being stolen. The handgun’s serial number had been removed.

Burke was arrested for the offense of; Possession of a defaced firearm, Possession of a firearm by certain persons, and Fleeing. Weatherly was arrested for the offense, Possession of a controlled substance and an outstanding warrant.