Manatee County deputies have put out the call for help finding Amado Sanchez, saying he violated the terms of his pre-trial release and is now wanted on a slate of weapons and drug charges. According to investigators, Sanchez is accused of possessing ammunition as a convicted felon, possessing a firearm during the commission of a felony, obstruction without violence and possession of cocaine.
In a Facebook post on March 25, 2026, the sheriff's office said it is actively looking for Sanchez and urged anyone with information to contact law enforcement, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. The post directs the public to call the department's non-emergency line at (941) 747-3011 and to submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers of Manatee County at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477).
Charges named by deputies
In the Facebook notice, deputies highlight possession of ammunition by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony as the most serious allegations against Sanchez. The post also lists obstruction without violence and possession of cocaine. It does not include a booking photo, a detailed timeline of the alleged violations or additional court records. No further court or jail details were released in the announcement.
What the law says
Possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony and possession of firearms or ammunition by someone previously convicted of a felony fall under Florida's weapons statutes, which can bring stiff penalties, including enhanced sentences for certain offenses. Those provisions are laid out in Florida Statutes, chapter 790. Penalties tied to cocaine possession are set in Florida Statutes §893.13.
How to report tips
The sheriff's office is asking anyone who recognizes Sanchez or has information about where he might be to call the non-emergency line at (941) 747-3011. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Manatee County at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477). Crime Stoppers notes that tips leading to an arrest may qualify for a reward.
For now, the Facebook post remains the main public notice from investigators about the case. The sheriff's office says any additional information will come through official channels if Sanchez is found or if further action is taken in court.
