Gainesville Police Arrested Two After Traffic Stop
Authorities apprehended two men and recovered stolen firearms during a late-night traffic stop in Gainesville.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Crime — General
The Gainesville Police Department arrested Torey Jeremiah Cobb and Joshua Williams Singleton on October 10 following a traffic stop for non-working tag lights. Officers recovered two firearms, including one reported stolen in April 2025, along with marijuana.
Why it matters
The investigation highlights ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to address firearm theft and public safety concerns through routine traffic enforcement. The discovery of a stolen weapon in this case underscores the link between traffic violations and broader criminal activity.
Joshua Williams Singleton faces charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and grand theft of a firearm, with bail set at $76,000. Torey Jeremiah Cobb is charged with grand theft of a firearm and driving with a suspended license, with bail set at $2,000.
The players
Gainesville Police Department
This is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for patrolling the city of Gainesville and conducting criminal investigations.
Torey Jeremiah Cobb
He is a resident arrested during the traffic stop who faces charges related to vehicle operation and firearm possession.
Joshua Williams Singleton
He is an individual with prior juvenile convictions who now faces felony charges related to firearm possession and theft.
The details
Police initiated the stop at 9:55 p.m. and discovered an American Tactical pistol on the floorboard and a CZ Scorpion pistol hidden under a tarp. Subsequent checks revealed the CZ Scorpion was stolen in April 2025, while 8.4 grams of marijuana were also recovered during the search.
Timeline
Singleton received juvenile convictions between 2017 and 2018.
The CZ Scorpion pistol was reported stolen in April 2025.
Police conducted the traffic stop and made arrests at 9:55 p.m. on October 10, 2026.
Legal Context
The charges filed against the suspects follow the established protocols set forth in Florida Statute 790.23 regarding felon in possession of a firearm. These procedures remain consistent with local efforts to prosecute firearm theft and recidivism in Gainesville.
Residents should remain aware that local traffic stops serve as a critical mechanism for the recovery of stolen property and illegal weapons. The significant bail set for the suspects reflects the seriousness of the charges regarding firearm possession within the community.
The takeaway
Authorities emphasize the importance of maintaining up-to-date vehicle documentation to avoid unnecessary police contact. Drivers are reminded that even minor equipment failures, such as tag lights, can lead to comprehensive vehicle investigations.
Further reading
For more information on public safety, visit Crime — General.
