SIMMESPORT, La. (WNTZ) – A routine traffic stop in Avoyelles Parish led to the arrest of a convicted felon and the seizure of a loaded firearm over the weekend, authorities said.

According to the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office (APSO), a patrol sergeant conducted a traffic stop around 7 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, on a 2012 Nissan Maxima traveling along Louisiana Highway 1 near Simmesport. The driver, identified as Daquan James Johnson, 25, of Marksville, was detained after deputies searched the vehicle and discovered a loaded Taurus “The Judge” firearm in the driver’s side door.

Deputies said the gun was cocked and ready to fire at the time of the stop. Johnson, a convicted felon with an extensive criminal history in Avoyelles Parish, has had multiple parole revocations and this marks his fourth arrest for illegal firearm possession since 2021.

“This is a prime example of excellent, proactive police work by our patrol sergeant,” Sheriff David L. Dauzat said in a statement. “A simple traffic stop for a minor violation resulted in the arrest of a dangerous, repeat offender and the removal of another firearm from our streets. We will continue to be vigilant in our patrols to keep Avoyelles Parish safe from those who show a continued disregard for the law.”

Johnson was booked into the Avoyelles Parish Detention Center #1 on charges of felon in possession of a firearm and traffic violations. His bond was set at $5,000, but Louisiana State Probation and Parole has placed a hold on his release. He remains in custody as of Wednesday.

Authorities reminded the public that all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.