TAMPA, Fla. — Hillsborough County deputies apprehended repeat offender Christopher Newman, 44, after a brief but dramatic pursuit on Sunday that ended with the seizure of stolen firearms.
Deputies had been tipped off that Newman, recently released from state prison just five months ago, was attempting to sell firearms illegally. Surveillance at his East Sligh Avenue residence showed Newman leaving with a large bag and riding away on an e-bike.
When deputies attempted a traffic stop, Newman fled, weaving through traffic and trying to discard the bag he carried. Despite his efforts, deputies quickly caught up and arrested him. The discarded bag contained a stolen Marlin 3030 Lever Action Rifle, a Winchester 16 Gauge Short Barrel Shotgun, and ammunition.
Newman’s criminal record includes 12 prior felony convictions ranging from burglary and theft to firearms and narcotics offenses. He has also been charged previously for fleeing law enforcement and battery by strangulation.
Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister stated, “This dangerous repeat offender had absolutely no business being in possession of firearms and ammunition. Thanks to the swift actions of our deputies, a convicted felon was stopped before potentially committing another violent crime.”
Newman now faces several new charges, including felony fleeing to elude, felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a short-barreled rifle. The investigation is ongoing.
