Sex Offender Faces Felony Charges for Driving Without ID

A registered sex offender was apprehended this month after leaving his residence without carrying essential identification. The incident took place on August 16, involving 28-year-old Ryan A. McElroy, who had a history of offenses dating back five years when he was convicted in Idaho for enticing a minor online.

McElroy is currently on probation, which mandates he possess identification at all times. Authorities reported that he violated this condition while driving near Mesquite Avenue and Querio Drive. Police stopped him around 1:55 p.m. after discovering that his license plate was suspended, a common issue typically related to auto insurance lapses.

During the stop, McElroy claimed ignorance regarding the suspension of his license plate and stated that he had not received any prior notifications. The officers confiscated the plate and examined an insurance policy he produced, which indicated that his coverage was still active, though it may have been affected by a missed payment.

Initially, police intended to let McElroy drive home after advising him against operating the vehicle until resolving the suspension. However, upon learning of his status as a sex offender, officers took him into custody for breaching his probation terms.

He was subsequently transported to the Lake Havasu City Police Department, facing felony charges for non-compliance with his probation. As of Monday, McElroy remained in custody at the Mohave County Jail, with a bond set at $10,000.