CLEAR CREEK, Colo. (KKTV) – The Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office said they spotted a suspicious vehicle with a fake license plate and covered VIN parked in a dirt lot in Silver Plume on Monday.

After eventually getting the VIN, deputies said they identified the owner of the car, 40-year-old Brian Cope, who had a warrant from Summit County for failure to comply and was reported to have violent tendencies.

Deputies said they then saw him walking down a mountain trail towards them. Cope then reportedly placed an item behind a rock before being spoken to by deputies. Cope was then arrested on the Summit County warrant without further issues.

Deputies then checked behind the rock, finding a handgun. Cope’s vehicle was to be towed due to the fake plates, so deputies said they also did an inventory check of the vehicle.

Inside the car, deputies said they found a loaded, short-barreled rifle without a serial number, six high-capacity magazines, multiple boxes of ammunition, a Kevlar tactical vest with metal plates, a tactical helmet, a police scanner, a federal law enforcement replica badge, burglary tools and drug paraphernalia.

After the search of Cope’s car, deputies said he is also facing charges of possession of a weapon by a previous offender, impersonating a peace officer, two counts of a violation of a protection order, unlawful conduct involving an unserialized firearm, prohibited large capacity magazine, possession of burglary tools and three counts of drug paraphernalia. The 5th Judicial District Attorney’s Office is scheduled to determine the final charges.

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Deion Sanders addressed the media in his first press conference since Early Signing Day and Travis Hunter’s historic Heisman Trophy win, as the Colorado Buffaloes prepare to face BYU in the Dec. 28 Alamo Bowl. Sanders, who has revitalized the Colorado football program in just his second season, highlighted the team’s achievements while emphasizing the importance of staying focused on the upcoming challenge.

The Buffaloes, enjoying one of their best seasons in over two decades, have reached nine wins for only the second time in 22 years. The remarkable turnaround has been spearheaded by Sanders’ leadership and the stellar performances of key players like Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Shedeur has been a revelation this season, leading the nation with a 74.2% completion percentage while throwing for 3,926 yards and 35 touchdowns. His efficiency and poise under pressure have made him one of the most effective quarterbacks in college football. Coach Sanders praised Shedeur for his consistent growth, calling him “a leader on and off the field.”

Hunter’s season took center stage, as Sanders celebrated his standout player’s Heisman Trophy win. He became the first two-way player in decades to claim the prestigious award, delivering dominant performances on both sides of the ball. On offense, Hunter recorded over 1,100 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns, while his defensive presence included five interceptions and numerous key breakups. Sanders expressed immense pride in Hunter’s achievement, noting that it was “bigger than just Colorado—it’s about changing the narrative and inspiring the next generation.”

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As they gear up for their Alamo Bowl showdown against BYU, Sanders acknowledged the Cougars’ talent and resilience, particularly pointing out their opportunistic defense, which leads the nation with 20 interceptions. “BYU is well-coached and hungry. We’re going to need to play our best football,” Sanders remarked. He also emphasized the importance of preparation and focus, encouraging his players to enjoy the moment while staying committed to the task ahead.

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For Sanders and his sons, Shedeur and Shilo, the Alamo Bowl marks both a celebration of the season and a symbolic step toward future goals. The game represents a culmination of hard work, resilience, and a belief in what many doubted. As Colorado fans celebrate their team’s resurgence, the Sanders-led Buffaloes look to finish strong, continuing a story that has captivated college football fans nationwide.