Handgun Seized During Drunk Driving Arrest In Stafford: Police

STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — A Woodbridge man was arrested after a traffic stop in Stafford on Saturday, police said. Deputies said the man was driving under the influence, had a gun in his waistband, and resisted arrest.

The man, 41-year-old Robert Williams, is charged with DUI, obstruction of justice, eluding, refusal, carrying a concealed weapon and a traffic lane violation. He was held without bond at the Rappahannock Regional Jail.

Around 7 p.m. on Saturday, a Stafford County deputy said they saw a Lincoln truck swerving out of the roadway and onto the shoulder on southbound U.S. 1 near Merryview Drive. The deputy turned on his emergency lights, and the driver of the truck briefly stopped before continuing to drive.

"The suspect proceeded to make a slow turn into the development, and waved his arm out of the window," the Stafford County Sheriff's Office said. "Instead of stopping, the suspect drove past the senior living center, two apartment complex parking lots and numerous open parking spaces."

The driver eventually stopped at a parking spot in the 900 block of Wind Ridge Drive.

Police claimed that the driver, who they identified as Williams, failed to follow commands and reached into the center console. A pair of deputies tried to take Williams into custody, but he resisted, according to the police report.

"The suspect reached toward his midsection and Sgt. Haney observed the grip of a handgun tucked in the suspect’s waistband," the sheriff's office reported. "Deputy Griffith was able to remove the suspect’s handgun as the struggle continued."

Williams was eventually handcuffed and taken into custody. Authorities said he had glassy, bloodshot eyes and smelled of alcohol.

Resources are available for people who are struggling with addiction. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration operates a 24/7 hotline that can help people find resources and get the help they need.