A routine traffic stop in the South Loop turned into a gun arrest on Sunday when Cook County Sheriff’s Police say they pulled over a Mercury Mariner at Roosevelt Road and State Street around 5:12 p.m. Deputies reported finding a loaded handgun that had been reported stolen during a search before the SUV was towed. The driver, identified as 30-year-old Jose Rodriguez, was taken into custody, while a 27-year-old woman and a toddler were passengers in the vehicle.
According to the Cook County Sheriff's Office, investigators identified the firearm as belonging to Rodriguez and determined that he did not have a Firearm Owner’s Identification card or a concealed-carry license. Authorities charged Rodriguez with felony aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon, misdemeanor possession of ammunition without a valid FOID card, and misdemeanor child endangerment. The sheriff’s office also said the Cook County State’s Attorney approved the felony gun charge and that Rodriguez was ordered released after an initial appearance at the George N. Leighton Criminal Courthouse.
What the charges mean
Under Illinois law, anyone who wants to acquire or possess firearms or ammunition must have a valid FOID card, as required by the Firearm Owner’s Identification Card Act. Aggravated unlawful use or possession of a weapon is treated as a felony under state law and can bring significant prison time depending on the circumstances and the specific statute involved. Penalties vary based on factors such as whether the weapon is stolen or whether a minor was present, and actual outcomes often hinge on prosecutorial decisions and any plea negotiations.
Court appearance and next steps
Officials say Rodriguez was ordered released following his initial hearing at the George N. Leighton Criminal Courthouse, part of the Cook County criminal court complex at 2650 S. California Ave., where weapons felonies are commonly handled. Sheriff’s investigators said the stop began after deputies discovered the car had suspended registration, and the handgun was found during a pre-tow inspection.
