NOPD Seventh District officers arrested Robert Bates (DOB: 2-25-1997) today for felon in possession of firearms and narcotics. 

At approximately 1:40 p.m., Detectives Warter and Sartain conducted a traffic stop after observing a driver disregard a stop sign near the intersection of Lamb Road and Wales Street. The driver, later determined to be Robert Bates, eventually stopped his vehicle in the driveway of his residence in the 7300 block of New Castle Drive.

During the traffic stop,  Bates was found to be in possession of marijuana and handgun with an extended magazine inserted.  After Bates was arrested, officers then checked his name through the mobile data terminal and learned that he was presently on probation for illegal use of a dangerous weapon and possession of stolen things out of Jefferson Parish.

Officers then suspected that there were additional narcotics in Bates residence and ultimately executed a search warrant of his home. The search warrant resulted in the officers locating and confiscating numerous .45 caliber magazines, an AR 15 assault rifle with pistol stock, a 60 capacity .223 caliber drum magazine and approximately $22,000 in currency.

Bates was booked into Central Lockup.

If you have any additional information on Robert Bates, please contact any Seventh District officer at 504-658-6070. Citizens with information that can help solve a crime are asked to call Crimestoppers at  504-822-1111 or toll-free 1-877-903-STOP.