The following is a press released issued by the Willits Police Department. The information has not been proven in a court of law and any individuals described should be presumed innocent until proven guilty:
On Thursday evening, May 6, 2021 at approximately 8:35 PM, Officer Avalos of the Willits Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 1500 block of S. Main Street. During the traffic stop, officers located a loaded firearm within the vehicle. Joseph Hipes was identified as the driver of the vehicle. Officers determined that Joseph Hipes is a convicted felon on Post Release Community Supervision, who is prohibited from owning or possessing any firearms.
Joseph Hipes was transported to the Mendocino County Jail and he was booked on the following charges of; Penal Code 29800(a)(1) felon in possession of a firearm, Penal Code 25850(c)(6) possession of a loaded firearm and not being the registered owner, Penal Code 120221 out on bail and committing an additional felony, Penal Code 25400(a)(1) carrying a loaded firearm in a vehicle and Penal Code 3455 violating the terms and and conditions of PRCS. Joseph Hipes is a (44) year old male and a City of Willits resident. An additional bail enhancement of $75,000 dollars was secured.
