The Perilous Discovery on a Lancaster Night: An Erratic Driver, An Illegal Arsenal

It was late, approaching midnight on a Monday, and the ordinary hum of Lancaster was likely settling into its usual rhythm. But then, near the intersection of Avenue J and 20th Street West, something — or someone — broke that quiet monotony. An erratic driver, you see, swerving a bit, maybe even ignoring a red light; enough to catch a deputy’s attention.

The stop itself, for many, might just be another traffic infraction. However, this wasn't just any stop. When deputies approached the vehicle, they encountered Kevin Harris, and it quickly became apparent that this wasn't going to be a simple warning or ticket. Harris, it turns out, was driving with a suspended license. And that, in truth, was just the beginning.

A quick check, as these things go, revealed more. Harris, honestly, was a man with a past that lingered; multiple outstanding warrants, yes, but also, significantly, he was on probation for a previous gun-related charge. That detail, that little piece of information, well, it changes the entire dynamic of a traffic stop, doesn't it?

And then, the true shocker. During a search, deputies found it: a loaded AK-47 assault rifle. Not just any rifle, mind you, but one outfitted with a high-capacity magazine, tucked away in the vehicle. But wait, there’s more – because these situations rarely stay simple, do they? Alongside the illegal firearm, a stash of armor-piercing ammunition was also uncovered. Imagine that, an AK-47 and rounds designed to penetrate serious protection, all from an erratic driver on a seemingly ordinary Monday night.

Harris was, as you might expect, promptly taken into custody. The charges stacked up, heavy and serious: possession of an assault weapon, being a felon in possession of a firearm, carrying armor-piercing ammunition, plus the driving with a suspended license and those lingering warrants. For once, the law moved swiftly. It’s a sobering thought, isn't it, what could have been? What if that driver hadn’t swerved? What if that red light had been obeyed?

This incident, though localized to one Lancaster street, really serves as a stark, undeniable reminder of the relentless work law enforcement does. They're out there, day in and day out, facing unpredictable situations, often putting themselves in harm's way to remove dangerous weapons and individuals from our streets. And for that, for those moments when routine turns into a crucial interception, we really ought to be grateful.