Felon in Possession of Handgun Arrested at Northwest Border

December 10, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers Monday took into custody Michael Pinkney, 28, of Ridgecrest, California for allegedly being a convicted felon in possession of a handgun when he attempted to enter the United States at the Peace Arch border crossing.

Pinkney was characterized as incoherent and rambling, resulting in a heightened level of suspicion that caused officers to isolate him from the rest of the traveling public. During a search of the vehicle officers discovered a loaded pistol magazine in the center console and a pistol in Pinkney’s duffel bag. Also discovered was a hockey mask and dark cap.

“All of Washington state is acutely aware of the serious threat unrepentant criminals can present to our society and the law enforcement community,” said Area Port Director Greg Alvarez. “We are thankful that our officers have been able to perform this arrest safely and without harm to themselves or innocent members of the traveling public.”

Pinkney was turned over to the Blaine Police Department where further investigation revealed that the vehicle Pinkney was driving, although not yet listed as stolen, was taken without the owner’s consent.