Speeding driver throws loaded pistol out window during traffic stop in downtown Plymouth

Thursday, August 21, 2025 at 1:00 AM

By Kathy Bottorff

A speeding driver who threw a loaded pistol out the window in downtown Plymouth was arrested on August 19^th.

At approximately 11:05 pm Tuesday, Officer Lovely with the Plymouth Police Department attempted a traffic stop on a red SUV traveling east on LaPorte Street from Michigan Street. The vehicle was observed speeding and driving through two stop signs without coming to a complete stop.

Once the vehicle was stopped, the driver, identified as 25-year-old Joseph Parciak, of Poplar Drive in Rochester, threw a loaded pistol out the window of the vehicle.

During the investigation, Parciak was found to be under the influence of alcohol, and he failed field sobriety testing. Parciak was taken into custody and transported to the Marshall County Jail where was lodged for operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangerment as a class A misdemeanor, operating a vehicle while intoxicated as a class C misdemeanor, obstruction of justice as a level 6 felony, criminal recklessness with a firearm as a level 6 felony, possession of marijuana as a class B misdemeanor, and operating a vehicle without ever obtaining a license as a class C misdemeanor. Joseph Parciak is being held on a $1,500 cash bond.

Readers are reminded that charging information supported by an affidavit of probable cause is a mere allegation that a crime has been committed and that there is only probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. They are presumed innocent throughout the proceedings and are entitled to be represented by counsel and entitled to a trial by jury at which the State is obligated to provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt before a judgment of guilt may be made