Jan 17, 2021

Sheriff finds loaded gun, drugs during Kan. traffic stop

Posted Jan 17, 2021 2:00 AM
Ratzloff -photo Shawnee Co.
Ratzloff -photo Shawnee Co.

SHAWNEE COUNTY – Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple charges following a traffic stop in northeast Kansas.

Just before 5p.m. January 14, a sheriff's deputy observed the driver of a red Chevy truck commit a traffic violation near NW Lyman Road and NW Eugene Street in Shawnee County, according to deputy Abigail Christian.

The truck then fled at a high rate of speed south on Eugene Street. The deputy was able to catch up to the truck and observed it pull into a driveway of a residence in the 600 block of NW Shorey Place.

The deputy observed suspicious movements by both the driver and a passenger. The driver later identified as James A. Beatty, 31, of Topeka, quickly exited the vehicle despite commands from the deputy to stay in the truck. The deputy then instructed Beatty to get on the ground and he initially failed to comply.

Beatty photo Shawnee Co.
Beatty photo Shawnee Co.

After several commands Beatty went to the ground and was restrained. The deputy was able to secure the scene until other officers arrived.

Deputies found narcotics and drug paraphernalia on Beatty and a loaded gun in the vehicle near the driver’s seat.

The passenger, Lloyd A. Ratzloff, 48, of Topeka, was taken into custody and found to be in possession of illegal narcotics and drug paraphernalia, according to Christian.

Beatty and Ratzloff were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include an Aggravated Weapons Violation by a Felon Criminal Use of a Weapon, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Obstruction of the Legal Process and Other traffic and registration violations