Traffic Stop for Turn Signal Violation Leads to Stolen Vehicle Recovery and Felony Arrest 🚔⚖️

A routine traffic stop for a minor lane violation in Bedford resulted in felony auto theft allegations Saturday afternoon after a driver was reportedly discovered operating a vehicle reported stolen through the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office.

At approximately 3:15 p.m. on May 2, 2026, a Bedford Police officer patrolling the area of 17th and D Streets observed a black Chevrolet Trail Blazer. According to the probable cause affidavit, the officer initiated a stop near 16th Street and Hawthorne Drive after the driver reportedly failed to utilize a turn signal and a plate check revealed the license plate was expired and registered to a different vehicle.