Pair arrested after stolen gun found during early morning traffic stop

BERLIN, Md. – Two men are behind bars after an early morning traffic stop led to the recovery of a stolen firearm in Berlin.

At around 3 a.m., a trooper stopped a 2020 Toyota Camry on westbound Route 50, west of the Berlin Barrack, for speeding. On contact with the driver, identified as 31-year-old Javon Brittingham, signs of possible impairment were observed. Further investigation led troopers to find a stolen firearm and suspected cocaine.

Brittingham and his passenger, 29-year-old Rodney Smith Jr., were both taken into custody at the scene.

Brittingham was charged with possession of a stolen firearm, reported stolen from Georgia, driving under the influence, possession of a controlled dangerous substance, and other gun and traffic-related charges. He is currently being held on a $5,000 bond.

Smith was charged with possession of a stolen firearm and other gun-related charges and is being held without bond.