Dover– The Delaware State Police have arrested 41-year-old Paul L. Ridenour of Harrington, DE, on weapons charges after a traffic stop led to the discovery of a firearm.

The incident occurred on May 6, 2020 at approximately 12:58 a.m., when a Trooper observed a white Ford van traveling on N. Dupont Highway, Dover, above the posted speed limit.  A traffic stop was initiated and contact was made with the male driver and front seat passenger, later identified as Paul L. Ridenour.  Ridenour initially provided the Trooper with a false identification.  After being detained, Troopers discovered a sock on the front passenger’s seat containing (19) 9mm bullets.  Also discovered on the rear floor board of the vehicle was a 9mm Smith & Wesson handgun loaded with one round in the chamber and five additional rounds in the magazine.

A computer inquiry revealed that Ridenour was a person prohibited and had an active capias.  He was transported back to Troop 9 where he was charged with the following:

• Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony
• Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition by a Person Prohibited (2 counts)
• Carrying a Concealed Deadly Weapon A Firearm
• Criminal Impersonation

Ridenour was arraigned before the Justice of the Peace Court and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institution on $28500.00 secured bond.

The 49-year-old male driver was issued a traffic citation for speeding (misdemeanor) and released.

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Presented by Public Information Officer, Master Corporal Melissa Jaffe

Released: 050620 1101

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