LEWISTON, ID — A Washington man is facing multiple felony charges after an early-morning traffic stop in Nez Perce County led to the discovery of a loaded firearm, suspected methamphetamine, and a pickup truck later reported stolen, according to court documents.
An affidavit of probable cause states Andrew O. Lafollette, 32, was stopped at approximately 3:08 a.m. on January 18 along U.S. Highway 95 near milepost 300 after allegedly failing to dim high-beam headlights and auxiliary lighting.
Court records state the pickup crossed into another lane and over the fog line before stopping. During the stop, a trooper reportedly observed an open can of beer inside the vehicle. Lafollette allegedly denied drinking alcohol and told officers he did not have a valid driver’s license.
According to the affidavit, the pickup rolled forward while stopped, prompting officers to order Lafollette out of the vehicle. During a safety check, officers allegedly observed a knife sheath and an empty pistol holster, and Lafollette reportedly told them a 9mm handgun was inside the pickup.
Court documents state a pit bull was inside the vehicle and was removed for officer safety. The affidavit indicates the dog belonged to the truck’s registered owner and was later returned.
A search of the pickup allegedly revealed a loaded 9mm handgun under the driver’s seat, with one round chambered. Officers also located license plates inside the vehicle matching the truck’s identification number, while a different plate displayed on the rear was registered to another vehicle, according to court records.
Investigators later learned the pickup had been reported stolen, and the registered owner told police Lafollette did not have permission to use it.
Court records state a criminal history check showed Lafollette allegedly has prior felony convictions in Washington that prohibit firearm possession. He was taken into custody.
While being booked into the Nez Perce County Jail, Lafollette allegedly admitted to having a baggie containing a white substance. The substance tested positive for methamphetamine and weighed approximately 0.9 grams including packaging, according to court documents. Officers also reportedly found more than $4,100 in cash on him.
Lafollette is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, grand theft by receiving or possessing stolen property, receiving or transferring a stolen vehicle, and possession of methamphetamine.
