Plymouth Police arrest 18-year-old in stolen handgun investigation

An 18-year-old Plymouth man is in custody after an investigation into a juvenile found in possession of a handgun led police to a stolen firearm with a filed-off serial number.

The investigation began Friday, at 7 p.m., when Plymouth Police officers were notified of a suspected juvenile in possession of a handgun. The investigation revealed that the serial number had been filed off the weapon, and with further assistance, authorities identified the gun as stolen out of St. Joseph County.

Plymouth Police secured a search warrant for a residence on Hillcrest Avenue, which was executed with the assistance of K9 Kyzer. A second search warrant was served at a home in the 17000 block of 12th Road in Plymouth, again with K9 Kyzer's assistance.

A probable cause affidavit was submitted to Marshall Superior Court 1 for review. Judge Tami Napier signed and issued an order for the arrest of Nickolas Christ, 18, of the 17000 block of 12th Road in Plymouth.

On Sunday, August 23, Christ was taken into custody and lodged at the Marshall County Jail on a $5,000 cash bond. He faces preliminary charges of felony criminal transfer of a firearm, possession of stolen property, altered gun identification, and misdemeanor dealing in marijuana.

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.