Three teens allegedly resisted arrest during an incident with Methuen Police this week that resulted in the seizure of an unlicensed firearm. (Courtesy photograph)
A Methuen 16-year-old is one of three juveniles facing charges after Methuen Police say the trio was found in possession of an unlicensed handgun. They were also said to be in possession of credit cards allegedly stolen from a Haverhill resident’s vehicle.
Following a call from a concerned neighbor, police headed to Monterey Drive in Methuen at 10:20 a.m. Tuesday to find three males in a car with New Hampshire plates parked outside a residence while the homeowner was not home. The males were “asleep or unconscious,” according to the officer, and once he was roused, the driver—a 16-year-old from Methuen—refused to identify himself.
Two passengers, including the driver, attempted to flee from police. All suspects were eventually located and placed under arrest.
During the ordeal, a firearm was discovered in the passenger seat-back pocket, and a 9mm bullet found in the driver’s possession. Since no one boy claimed ownership of the weapon, all three were charged.
“This is a perfect example of ‘See something, say something,’” Chief Joseph E. Solomon said. “In this instance, three suspects were arrested, an illegal gun was seized, and stolen property was recovered because a resident called the police.”
The Methuen 16-year-old is charged with several offenses, including unlicensed driving, unlicensed possession of a firearm and ammunition and resisting arrest. He also had an outstanding warrant from another jurisdiction, Methuen Police said. The passengers, a 16- and 17-year-old from Lawrence, were both charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.
Additional charges relating to the alleged stolen property out of Haverhill may be forthcoming.
All three teens involved were ordered held in custody for at least 90 days during arraignment at Lawrence Juvenile Court.