Newport Police News Releases

NPD MEDIA RELEASE 1/20/2007 @ 6:30 PM

Case: 07N-00101

Incident: Unlawful Use Weapon / Recklessly Endangering / Disorderly Conduct

Location: 811 S.E. 5th St. Apt. #1B, Newport, Oregon

Date/Time: 01-19-07 / 11:23 p.m.

Suspect: Brannin James Benson, 22 years old, Newport Resident

Details: Newport Officers Kraig Mitchell and T.J. Eriksen responded to 811 S.E. 5th St. Apt. #1B to investigate a noise complaint of possible gunshots fired. Officer Mitchell and Officer Eriksen approached the 2nd story apartment on foot when they heard a gunshot come from the upper apartment's deck. Officer's on scene safely evacuated a family living in the apartment below where the shots were coming from. Repeated attempts to call into the residence were not answered. After a period of no actively and no indication of further violence, officers attempted to make contact with the occupant in the apartment. Officers knocked on the apartment door, but got no answer. Entry into the apartment was made via a key; Officers found Brannin Benson asleep and alone in the apartment. A loaded 9mm pistol was seized. Investigation revealed that Benson had been on the deck of his apartment and discharged three rounds into the air. Brannin Benson was taken into custody for Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Recklessly Endangering, and Disorderly Conduct. He was transported to the Lincoln County Jail. Bail was set at $37,500.00.

Newport Police officers were assisted by deputies from the Lincoln County Sheriffs Office.

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Information Released By: Sgt. Todd R. Sarazin - 541-574-3348