PEORIA, Ill. – Peoria Police say seven people were arrested during the latest special law enforcement detail that’s a part of Chief Eric Echevarria’s Anti-Violence Initiative.
The detail was Wednesday, according to the chief’s office. 41 vehicles were stopped and three weapons were seized along with illegal drugs.
Among the arrests, was that of Evan Common, 25 — wanted on a warrant from another area, but who allegedly led police on a foot chase and tossed a loaded handgun. Common now faces a host of weapons and traffic charges, along with Aggravated Fleeing, Speeding, and other charges, and was taken to jail where he remains.
During the detail, a vehicle with an expired registration allegedly led to Peoria Police discovering drugs and a loaded handgun. Police say it happened during a traffic stop on West Broadway.
The passenger, Martez Anderson, 31, was taken to jail on charges of Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Having No FOID Card, and Possession of Cannabis. Anderson has since been given a notice to appear in court and was released from jail.
John Allen, 38, allegedly tried to flee from police with a loaded handgun while investigating a ShotSpotter Alert on East Nebraska. Allen faces charges of Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon, No FOID Card, and Resisting an Officer.
Allen remains in the Peoria County Jail.
“Yesterday’s Directed Patrol resulted in the seizure of 3 handguns. That’s three less guns on our streets. Our officers will continue to conduct these frequent patrols in order to place those possessing illegal guns and committing crimes under arrest. This is what commitment is all about, and our officers are 100% committed to making a positive difference in this community.” — Chief Eric Echevarria, Peoria Police statement
