What started as a simple traffic stop early Monday morning became a major arrest for deputies of the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office.
On October 13, shortly after 1:30 a.m., deputies pulled up a car near West 4th St. and Stoker Ave. in Reno after observing that it was driving without a headlight and no license plates.
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Inside, deputies discovered far more than a minor equipment infraction. The search discovered controlled narcotics, drug paraphernalia, a firearm with the serial number removed, eight cans of ammo, many deadly weapons, and burglary tools.
Both passengers in the automobile, 55-year-old Michael Smedema and 42-year-old Heather Hinchberger, were apprehended without incident.
Smedema faces several counts, including possession of a narcotic substance, burglary tools, and a dangerous weapon. Hinchberger, a convicted criminal, was arrested on accusations of possession of a firearm by an ex-felon, having a firearm with an obliterated serial number, and failing to register as an ex-felon.
The investigation is underway. Anyone with information is asked to call the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office at (775) 785-WCSO (9276) or contact Secret Witness anonymously at (775) 322-4900 or secretwitness.com.
