Stolen Gun Found During Traffic Stop

 

SAN ANGELO, TX  Oct. 17 (SAPD release) — Juan Manuel Mata, Jr., 35, of San Angelo was arrested for an outstanding warrant during a traffic stop early this morning and additionally charged with Theft of Firearm after police recovered a stolen gun from his vehicle. 

The stop occurred at 3:15 a.m. near E. 7th and Akin Streets.  During the traffic stop, Mata told the officer he did not have a driver’s license with him.  Mata exited and locked the vehicle, which the officer perceived as deliberate. 

During a computerized records check through San Angelo Dispatch, the officer confirmed Mata’s driver’s license was expired and that he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest.  Mata was arrested for his warrant and transported to the Tom Green County Jail without incident.  Mata also received a citation for Driving While License Invalid and a written warning for his initial traffic violation.  

During a search of Mata’s vehicle incident to his arrest, police discovered a pistol, which was confirmed to be reported stolen on October 16, 2017, from the Southeast Mini Storage facility, 4469 S. Chadbourne St., along with three other firearms, ammunition, and a two-toned blue 2005 Yamaha R6 motorcycle.    

Additional charges may be forthcoming pending the outcome of this ongoing investigation.  If you have information about the whereabouts of the other stolen firearms or stolen motorcycle, call Detective James Hernandez at (325) 659-8015. 

To remain anonymous, tip online at http://bit.ly/SAPDTips247, via text: textTIP SAPD to 888777 and follow the prompts, or by phone at 1-855-TIPS-247. 

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