Weekend Traffic Stop in Rockford Leads to Firearm, Drug Charges

Rockford police officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop early on Saturday morning (3/15) but the incident quickly escalated.

Routine Traffic Stop Turns Into a Major Arrest

According to an RPD press release, officers pulled over a vehicle with multiple occupants around 12:30 am Saturday near Auburn and Kilburn.

During the stop, one of the individuals resisted arrest and fought with the officers, according to the report. That individual was later notified as 28-year-old Martavian Cross-Poe of Rockford, who was taken into custody despite the scuffle.

Guns and Drugs Found During Search

Rockford Police recovered a loaded handgun and suspected cocaine during the confrontation.

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Following an investigation, the Winnebago County State's Attorney's Office approved several charges against Cross-Poe, including:

Possession of a Firearm by Repeat Felony Offender
Armed Violence
Possession of a Controlled Substance
Possession with Intent to Deliver
Unlawful Use of a Weapon by a Felon
Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon
Resisting Arrest

What Happens Next

Cross-Poe is currently lodged in the Winnebago County Jail, according to the press release from Rockford PD.

All charges against Cross-Poe are considered accusations, and he's presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If you have any information regarding this incident, contact RPD at 815-966-2900.

You can give an anonymous message by calling Rockford Area Crime Stoppers at 815-963-7867.

This story is continuing to develop and will be updated as more information becomes available.

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