Man Arrested in Mono County for Firearms Possession and Stolen Ammunition
Above: Images from scene of arrest | Courtesy of Bridgeport CHP
Bridgeport, California – In a startling turn of events on the evening of September 20, 2023, an alert motorist reached out to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Bridgeport division, expressing concerns about a potentially impaired driver on US Highway 395. What initially seemed like a routine traffic stop quickly transformed into a significant arrest that uncovered a cache of weapons and stolen ammunition.
Bridgeport, California – In a startling turn of events on the evening of September 20, 2023, an alert motorist reached out to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Bridgeport division, expressing concerns about a potentially impaired driver on US Highway 395. What initially seemed like a routine traffic stop quickly transformed into a significant arrest that uncovered a cache of weapons and stolen ammunition.
CHP Bridgeport officers promptly responded to the tip and initiated an enforcement stop on the suspect’s vehicle. During their initial interaction, officers made a startling discovery—open containers of alcohol and marijuana within the vehicle. While the driver was subjected to a sobriety test, the results indicated that they were not under the influence of any substances.
However, the situation took a more ominous turn as officers conducted a thorough search of the vehicle. Hidden within, they unearthed two loaded 12-gauge shotguns and an abundance of ammunition. These discoveries raised concerns, leading officers to investigate further into the origin of the firearms and ammunition.
Their findings intensified suspicions when it was revealed that the ammunition was believed to be stolen from the state of Oregon. This revelation hinted at a potentially dangerous connection between the suspect and a larger criminal network.
The suspect behind the wheel, whose identity has not been disclosed as the investigation unfolds, proved to have an extensive and violent criminal history. Faced with this troubling background and the undeniable evidence of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, the decision to take the suspect into custody was swift.
Law enforcement officials promptly arrested the suspect, who now faces serious charges, including being a felon in possession of a firearm and a felon in possession of ammunition. In accordance with the law, the individual was transported to the Mono County jail, where they will await further legal proceedings.
This incident serves as a reminder of the invaluable role that vigilant citizens and law enforcement officers play in maintaining public safety.