Lawrence Man Arrested for Threatening Man with Gun Behind Police Station

LAWRENCE – Today Thursday, August 2nd at approximately 12 PM, Lawrence Police Officers Carlos De Los Santos and Jose Gonzalez of Patrol Division responded to Wendy’s 55 Hampshire St, which is located directly behind the police station, for a report that a male had just brandished a firearm. Upon arrival, the Officers were met by a male who was a landscaping contractor working on the Wendy’s property.

The male stated that while he using a leaf blower some grass clippings blew into the air onto a black Acura sedan. The operator of the vehicle became angry when he noticed the grass was on his car.  

A verbal confrontation took place during which the operator of the motor vehicle lifted up his shirt and brandished a firearm which was tucked into his waistband.  A description of the suspect, his vehicle, as well as the license plate of the vehicle was broadcast to the responding units.

Within three to five minutes of the broadcast, Detective Harold Rogers located the vehicle on Union Street in the area of Summer Street.  A motor vehicle stop was conducted by Detective Rogers and Officer Abel Cano.

The operator of the motor vehicle, Franklin Mauel Laras age 21 of Lawrence, was taken into custody without incident by Detective Rogers and Officer Abel Cano. 

Detective Rogers located a firearm tucked into the waistband of Laras. 

A field show up was conducted during which Laras, who is not licensed to carry a firearm was positively identified as the individual who brandished the firearm.  

Laras will be arraigned tomorrow in Lawrence District Court charged with assault with a dangerous weapon, and other firearm related charges. 

There is no further information at this time.