KINGMAN – What began as a routine traffic stop led to drug and weapon-related charges against a prohibited possessor. Deputy Kingman police chief Joel Freed said a speed-related traffic stop was conducted on March 5.
Freed said MAGNET task force K-9 Maverick alerted on scene and that a search of the sport-utility vehicle produced seizure of 25 grams of Fentanyl powder and drug paraphernalia. Ryan Bittner, 40, Kingman, was taken into custody and booked into the Adult Detention Facility for transportation of narcotic drugs.
Subsequent investigation revealed that the convicted felon illegally possessed numerous firearms and was suspected of manufacturing components. “These parts allow semi-automatic handguns and be converted into fully automatic weapons,” Freed said.
Freed said the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team assisted in execution of a search warrant at Bittner’s home in the 1200 block of Fort Beale Drive on March 13. “The search revealed evidence of Bittner manufacturing `/ 3D’ printing firearm components as well as numerous handguns, rifles and additional prohibited weapons,” said Freed.
Misconduct involving weapons counts were added to the drug charges. Freed said case investigation continues.
Dave Hawkins
