On April 23, 2024, at approximately 10:17 pm, a member of the Chipley Police Department observed a concerning incident involving a vehicle and a skateboarder on 7th Street. The officer initiated a traffic stop, which led to a sequence of events culminating in the arrests of Phillip Cody Reyes and John Calvin Dewey Self.
During the initial encounter, Reyes, who was skateboarding and holding onto the passenger side of the vehicle, released his hold upon the officer’s signal. Subsequently, the officer identified Reyes and initiated contact with the driver, later identified as John Calvin Dewey Self. It was determined that Self did not possess a valid driver’s license.
Upon further inquiry, Reyes was found to be in possession of a firearm, leading to his arrest. Reyes attempted to evade custody by fleeing the scene on foot. However, after a brief pursuit, law enforcement officers were able to apprehend Reyes without further incident.
The firearm in Reyes’ possession was identified as a Taurus G3C 9MM, loaded with full metal jacket ammunition. Although the firearm had not been reported stolen, Reyes, a convicted Florida felon, was in violation of Florida statutes regarding possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (790.23.1a) and resisting arrest without violence (843.02).
Furthermore, during a subsequent search of the vehicle driven by Self, law enforcement officers discovered methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and related items in Self’s possession which led to Self being charged with the following offenses:
– 322.34.10b1 – Knowingly Driving with a Suspended License
– 893.147.1 – Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
– 893.13.6a – Possession of a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine)
Reyes and Self are both currently in custody, facing charges related to the aforementioned violations.
The Chipley Police Department reiterates its steadfast commitment to maintaining public safety and enforcing laws designed to safeguard our community.
