Coventry Police: Stolen Assault Weapon Found During Car Stop

COVENTRY, RI — After Coventry police received a report Wednesday night about an erratic driver around Main Street, they stopped a suspect, William Joseph Stuart, 22, of Providence. During the car stop, they discovered Stuart did not have a driver's license, and his vehicle was not registered. They also found a pistol and an AK-47 rifle inside the car. Officers seized the weapons and arrested Stuart.

Police now believe the weapons were stolen from a home in Scituate. This morning, the Scituate Police Department received a report about a burglary. The resident said firearms were missing. Police allege they are the same weapons found in Stuart's possession.

Stuart was arraigned at Kent County Court house this morning by Coventry Police and charged with Carrying a Rifle (AK-47) without a License (11-47-8), Carrying a Pistol without a Permit (11-47-8), and Driving on a Suspended License (31-11-18).

Scituate Police are still investigating the theft of the firearms, and they advised that they will press the following charges: Breaking and Entering (Dwelling House); Entering a Dwelling with Felonious Intent; Vandalism (malicious injury to Property); and Larceny of a Firearm (two counts).

Courtesy Photo: Firearms Seized During Main Street Car Stop