Ross County, OH – March 8, 2025 – A routine traffic stop on U.S. 23 near Trego Creek Road led to the arrest of a convicted felon and the discovery of a defaced firearm and ammunition, according to the Ross County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Trennton Morgan initiated the stop after noticing a white Ford van with a missing tag light. The driver, later identified as Christopher Bryant, admitted he did not have a valid driver’s license, while his passenger, Kelly Browning, also had a suspended license. Due to their inability to drive legally, a tow truck was called to remove the vehicle.
While inspecting the vehicle, Deputy Morgan observed a plastic bag with white pills and small pieces of foil, commonly associated with narcotics. A K9 unit, led by Deputy Colt Mitchell and K9 Diesel, conducted a free air sniff, which resulted in a positive indication for narcotics.
During a subsequent search of the vehicle, deputies discovered multiple types of ammunition and a modified firearm with a scratched-off serial number, a cut-off stock, and a shortened barrel. Further investigation revealed that Bryant had multiple felony convictions, including burglary, drug possession, theft, and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, making it illegal for him to possess a firearm.
Bryant was arrested and charged with:
- Felony 3 – Weapons Under Disability
- Felony 5 – Unlawful Possession of Dangerous Ordnance
- Misdemeanor 1 – Possessing a Defaced Firearm
- Driving Under Suspension (License Forfeiture Violation)
Bryant claimed he had found the firearm while magnet fishing in the Scioto River and had forgotten it was in his vehicle. His passenger, Browning, was given a courtesy ride home by law enforcement.
The Ross County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident, and the seized firearm will undergo further analysis.
