Investigations recover alleged machine gun, stolen handgun and AR-style firearm as detectives continue violence reduction efforts.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Tallahassee Police Department arrested four people and recovered five firearms during two targeted enforcement operations in a West Tallahassee neighborhood that has experienced recent shootings and ongoing concerns about violent crime.

The arrests occurred in the 1500 block of West Tharpe Street, where members of the department’s Violent Crime Response Team have increased enforcement efforts in response to recent gun violence.

In the first investigation, detectives observed four people acting suspiciously as they entered a vehicle carrying backpacks. After witnessing a traffic violation, officers conducted a traffic stop that led to the discovery of multiple firearms, according to TPD.

Investigators said one passenger was carrying an AR-style pistol. A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered additional weapons, including a short-barreled rifle and several handguns.

Police said one of the handguns had been fitted with a conversion device, commonly known as a “switch,” which can convert a semiautomatic handgun into a fully automatic firearm. Another handgun had been reported stolen.

The investigation resulted in two arrests and multiple firearm-related charges.

In a separate enforcement operation in the same area, detectives arrested two additional suspects on drug-related charges and recovered another firearm.

Combined, the two investigations resulted in the seizure of five firearms and the arrest of four individuals.

Chief highlights proactive enforcement

Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell said the arrests demonstrate the department’s continued focus on reducing gun violence in neighborhoods experiencing repeated criminal activity.

“This case is a clear example of the focused, proactive work our officers and detectives are doing to reduce gun violence in Tallahassee,” Revell said. “Every illegal firearm we remove from the streets represents a potential act of violence prevented and a step toward making our neighborhoods safer. We will continue to focus our efforts in areas impacted by violence and hold accountable those who unlawfully possess firearms.”

Those arrested

According to Tallahassee police, those arrested include:

Jabbarious Dudley, 18, charged with possession of a short-barreled rifle.

Destin Parks, 17, charged with possession of a machine gun, possession of a firearm by a minor and grand theft of a firearm.

Zion Williams, 19, charged with possession of marijuana with intent to sell.

Travon Curry, 17, charged with sale of marijuana and possession of a concealed firearm.

The Tallahassee Police Department is asking anyone with information about illegal firearms or violent crime to contact the department at 850-891-4200 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Solvers at 850-574-TIPS.