SPOKANE, WA. – A 20-year-old man was arrested Tuesday evening after Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputies recovered a stolen SUV and discovered a loaded revolver with an altered serial number inside the vehicle.

The investigation began around 7:40 p.m. on May 20, when deputies received an Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) alert for a stolen 2007 gold GMC Envoy near W. Cascade Way and N. Division Street. Deputies located the vehicle as it turned from a parking lot onto N. Country Homes Boulevard and continued north on Whitehouse Street.

A high-risk traffic stop was conducted on N. Normandie Lane, south of W. Holland Avenue. The driver, identified as Devin A. Eiffert, 20, and an adult female passenger complied with commands and were safely detained.

Deputies confirmed the vehicle identification number matched a stolen vehicle report filed with the Stevens County Sheriff’s Office. Both Eiffert and the passenger were advised of their rights and agreed to answer questions. Investigators noted that their statements conflicted and neither appeared surprised to learn the vehicle was stolen.

Following the interview, deputies developed probable cause to arrest Eiffert for possession of a stolen motor vehicle. A check also revealed he had an active misdemeanor warrant for third-degree theft.

During a search of the vehicle, deputies located a loaded revolver in the center console. Upon inspection, they observed tool marks where someone appeared to have attempted to conceal or alter the serial number. Eiffert reportedly told deputies he found the firearm in an alley several months earlier.

As Eiffert is not legally permitted to possess a handgun due to his age, he was additionally charged with illegally carrying/possessing a firearm and possessing a firearm with an altered serial number.

Eiffert was booked into the Spokane County Jail. The female passenger was not arrested and was released at the scene.