(Michigan City, IN) - A handheld weapon made to fire like a machine gun has been taken off the streets in Michigan City. And now, Jovon Curry, 30, of Chicago, is facing charges.

According to police, Curry was stopped a few weeks ago for running stop signs in the area of Main and Elm streets and committing other traffic violations.

Police say Curry would not allow officers to search the vehicle, but eventually, the vehicle was searched by law enforcement. A handgun, originally made as a semi-automatic, was allegedly located underneath a seat.

Police said the gun was altered with a switch and other non-original parts to fire like a machine gun by holding the trigger. The firearm also had a fully loaded extended magazine.

If convicted, Curry would face up to six years in prison on the level 5 felony gun violation charge. He’s being held in the La Porte County Jail on a $15,000 bond.