Traffic Stop in Chico Leads to Firearm & Drug Arrest
CHICO, CA — “On February 8, 2026, at approximately 8:26 p.m., a Butte County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) deputy conducted a traffic enforcement stop near the intersection of Warner Street and West Sacramento Avenue in Chico, for vehicle code violations. The driver was identified as Nathaniel Baker, age 23, of Chico.
During the traffic stop, deputies discovered a firearm in Baker’s waistband. Additionally, a search revealed cocaine on Baker’s person, as well as more cocaine inside the vehicle. Further investigation determined that Baker was prohibited from possessing firearms.
Baker was placed under arrest on multiple charges, including:
• Being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm
• Possession of a controlled substance while armed with a loaded firearm
• Carrying a loaded firearm on his person
• Possession of a controlled substance
Baker was subsequently booked into the Butte County Jail.”
