On October 13, 2025, at approximately 1:30 a.m., Washoe County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a traffic stop in the area of West 4th St. & Stoker Ave., Reno resulting in the arrest of two individuals, 55-year-old Michael Smedema and 42-year-old Heather Hinchberger.
Deputies initiated the stop after observing a vehicle traveling with a headlight out and no license plates. During the investigation, deputies discovered controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, a firearm with an obliterated serial number, eight ammunition cans filled with rounds, multiple dangerous weapons, and burglary tools inside the vehicle.
A records check revealed that Hinchberger is an felon which prohibits her from possessing any firearms or dangerous weapons.
Both suspects were taken into custody without incident.
Michael Smedema was booked into the Washoe County Detention Facility with the following charges:
- NRS 453.336: Possession of a Controlled Substance
- NRS 453.566: Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- NRS 205.080: Possession of Burglary Tools
- NRS 202.350: Possession of a Dangerous Weapon
Heather Hinchberger was booked into the Washoe County Detention Facility with the following charges:
- NRS 202.360: Possession of a Firearm by an Ex-Felon
- NRS 202.277: Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number
- NRS 179C.220: Ex-Felon Failure to Register
- NRS 453.336: Possession of a Controlled Substance
- NRS 453.566: Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
This remains an ongoing investigation. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Non-Emergency Dispatch at (775)785-WCSO (9276) or remain anonymous by contacting Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900 / www.secretwitness.com, reference case # WC25- 5154.
