North Bend, Oregon – A driver allegedly tried switching seats with a passenger during a traffic stop, prompting an arrest Friday night.
According to the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened around 9:25 p.m. Friday, March 6, near East Bay Road and Pettit Lane in North Bend.
Deputy Francis reportedly noticed a vehicle driving with expired registration stickers and initiated a traffic stop after turning around and activating emergency lights.
Authorities say the vehicle pulled over a short distance away near a corner. As the deputy approached the car, he reportedly observed something unusual.
According to the sheriff’s office, a female passenger was walking around the front of the vehicle toward the driver’s seat.
Investigators said the movement raised suspicion, and a brief investigation revealed the original driver, identified as Travis McMullen, 38, had allegedly switched seats with the passenger before the deputy reached the vehicle.
Authorities say McMullen had been driving while his driver’s license was suspended at the misdemeanor level.
Deputy Francis arrested McMullen on a charge of Driving While Suspended (DWS) – Misdemeanor. He was transported to the Coos County Jail, according to the sheriff’s office.
Law enforcement officials note that attempting to change positions in a vehicle during a stop does not eliminate responsibility for who was driving.
Traffic stops for registration violations and license suspensions are common enforcement actions across Oregon, particularly in areas with active nighttime patrols.
Such incidents can also affect evening travel along local roads frequently used by workers and students commuting through North Bend.
Police say all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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