Utica Police: Teen Arrested After Fleeing Traffic Stop, weapon Found Under Seat

Utica, NY – A traffic stop in Utica’s designated GIVE Hot Spot area led to the arrest of a Westmoreland teen and the recovery of a loaded handgun, according to the Utica Police Department.

On September 21, 2025, around 9:40 p.m., officers with the Crime Prevention Unit observed a vehicle with multiple New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law violations on the 1400 block of Whitesboro Street. Police say the vehicle initially fled through several intersections, disregarding traffic signals, before eventually stopping near Dent Street and Whitesboro Street.

When officers approached the car, the driver was asked to step out. At that point, officers noticed the grip of a handgun protruding from beneath the driver’s seat. Both occupants were detained, and the weapon was confirmed to be a loaded .22 caliber handgun.

The driver, identified as Logan Miers, 18, of Westmoreland, was taken into custody and charged with:

• Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree

• Criminal Possession of a Firearm

• Seven NYSV&TL violations

Police say proactive enforcement efforts will continue in GIVE Hot Spot areas as part of their strategy to reduce crime and enhance community safety.