A routine traffic stop in Vallejo on May 9 quickly turned serious after officers say they uncovered a loaded, stolen handgun and suspected narcotics inside a gray Kia. According to Vallejo police, the car was pulled over at the intersection of Griffin Drive and Sage Street for failing to stop at a posted stop sign. A probation search of the vehicle followed, and the passenger ended up booked into Solano County Jail on multiple firearm- and narcotics-related charges, while the driver was released with a warning.
How Officers Say They Found The Gun
In a Facebook post, the Vallejo Police Department said officers located the loaded firearm tucked behind a loose side panel near the center console during the probation search. According to the department, the gun had been reported stolen out of Red Bluff and was loaded with a high-capacity magazine and one round in the chamber.
Police say a records check showed the passenger was not legally old enough to possess a firearm. Officers also reported finding oxycodone pills concealed inside a marijuana dispensary bag that was in the passenger's possession.
Street-Level Gun Enforcement In Vallejo
Vallejo police say traffic and probation stops like this one have repeatedly turned up illegal weapons and drugs this year, as officers lean on targeted enforcement to disrupt street-level gun activity.
What Charges The Passenger Could Face
Because the passenger was reportedly too young to legally possess a firearm and the weapon was found concealed and loaded inside the vehicle, prosecutors could pursue charges under California law for carrying a concealed firearm or possession by a person prohibited from owning a firearm. The statutory language for those offenses is available on the state legislature's site for Penal Code §25400 and Penal Code §29800. Penalties vary depending on the circumstances and any prior convictions and can include jail or prison time and fines.
