Man Runs When Cops Find Ruger Under Driver's Seat: Prosecutor

EVERGREEN PARK, IL -- A Chicago man stopped for a traffic violation in Evergreen Park was arrested when ecstasy and loaded gun were found in his car, prosecutors said. Stephen Sewell, 31, appeared before Cook County Judge Peter Felice on felony charges of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon and possession of a controlled substance. Sewell was also charged with misdemeanor resisting arrest and traffic violations.

According to the charges, Sewell was stopped on Feb. 13 by police for speeding and improper lane usage near 87th Street and California Avenue in Evergreen Park. Officers noted an odor of cannabis as they approached Sewell’s car, the prosecutor said. Sewell allegedly told police that his cousin had smoked weed in the car earlier in the day. The prosecutor said Sewell gave officers permission to search his car.

Officers said they found an uncased, 9mm Ruger under the driver’s seat with one round in the chamber. Sewell allegedly took off running where police caught him moments later. In addition to the gun, officers also found three hits of ecstasy in in Sewell’s jacket on the back seat, the prosecutor said.

Sewell has a FOID card but not a conceal-carry permit, the prosecutor said. The assistant public defender told the judge that Sewell works three jobs. Sewell scored low on a pre-trial, community risk assessment.

Bail was set at $30,000. Sewell was also ordered to turn in any other firearms he owns to police. Sewell’s next court date is March 8 in Bridgeview.

“I feel anything with a gun should be flagged for violence, especially in this city,” Felice said.