**** RCMP Media Release
RCMP seize loaded firearm during traffic stop
RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment has charged two people for firearms offences stemming from an investigation into suspicious activities.
On August 22 at approximately 2:00 a.m., while on routine patrols, police observed two vehicles in the parking lot of a school on Auburn Dr. Officers initiated a traffic stop, during which they observed open alcohol in the vehicles.
Officers arrested the two occupants of one of the vehicles, who were the driver and passenger, and searched the vehicle under the Nova Scotia Liquor Control Act.
During the search, officers located and seized a loaded firearm from inside the vehicle.
Markel Downey, 28, of Halifax, is charged with nine offences, including Unauthorized Possession of Firearm, Possession of Firearm Knowing Its Possession is Unauthorized, Possession of Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose, and Possession of Firearm in Motor Vehicle.
Jessica Jennings, 25, of Halifax, is charged with seven offences, including Possession of Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose and Possession of Firearm in Motor Vehicle.
Both Downey and Jennings had first court appearances on August 22, and were released by the courts on conditions. Downey is scheduled to appear at Halifax Provincial Court on February 24, 2025. Jennings is scheduled to appear at Dartmouth Provincial Court on September 25, 2024.
The driver of the second vehicle did not pass a roadside breath test, used to measure blood alcohol concentration. Their licence was suspended for seven days under the Nova Scotia Motor Vehicle Act.
The investigation is ongoing.
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West Hants RCMP investigating reports of laser aimed at aircrafts
West Hants RCMP is investigating multiple incidents of a green laser aimed at aircraft flying over West Hants.
Between August 16 and 23, West Hants RCMP Detachment received four separate reports of a green laser pointed towards aircraft in the early morning hours. The laser is believed to have been coming from the Three Mile Plains and Windsor areas.
The RCMP is reminding the public that aiming a laser at an aircraft is a criminal offence. Under the Aeronautics Act, any person convicted of intentionally interfering with an aircraft, by using a laser, could face a fine up to $100,000 in fines and/or up to five years in prison.
Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact West Hants RCMP Detachment at 902-798-2207. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips App.
