On Sunday, Sulphur Springs Police Officers responded to reports of a collision involving multiple vehicles in the 1200 block of Main Street.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers encountered Desiree Lewis, 49, who was identified as the driver responsible for the accident. Lewis was found outside her vehicle, engaging in conversation with the owners of the other vehicles involved.
While the owners stated they did not directly witness Lewis colliding with their cars, they did observe her exiting the vehicle responsible for the collision.
Officers initiated a conversation with Lewis, during which she claimed the vehicles already bore existing damages. However, when asked if the vehicle responsible for the damages belonged to her, Lewis admitted ownership and explained she was en route to a convenience store.
Upon displaying signs of nervousness, officers requested permission to search Lewis's vehicle, which she declined. Subsequently, a K-9 unit was summoned to assist.
As the K-9 unit was en route, Lewis became agitated and began shouting, leading officers to secure her in double-locked handcuffs for her safety and detain her.
Upon arrival, Officer Williams, the K-9 handler, briefed by on-scene officers, directed the K-9 to conduct an air sniff around Lewis's vehicle. The K-9 indicated a positive alert for potential contraband, leading to a thorough search based on probable cause.
During the search, officers discovered a firearm in a backpack on the passenger side of the vehicle. A background check revealed Lewis had a prior felony conviction.
Lewis was read her Miranda Rights, confirmed her understanding of those rights, and expressed her desire to speak with officers. While acknowledging ownership of all items in the vehicle, she disclaimed knowledge of the firearm.
Consequently, Desiree Lewis of Dallas was arrested and booked into the Hopkins County Detention Center on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident.
