A man was arrested late last month on multiple felony charges after he ditched a loaded gun and ran from Capitola Police.
The incident began when Capitola Police conducted a traffic stop for vehicle code violations near the Capitola Mall. As the stop began, a passenger who is a known gang member fled on foot and threw a firearm into nearby bushes, authorities said.
The suspect was apprehended after a foot pursuit of approximately 500 feet where he physically resisted before being arrested.
With the aid of Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s K9 officer Hazel, police found a pistol loaded with an extended magazine and a filed off serial number in nearby bushes.
The suspect, an 18 year old male, was arrested and booked into Santa Cruz County Jail on multiple felony and misdemeanor charges. Police did not name the man.
“In a further effort to increase public safety, the arresting officer requested a bail increase due to the seriousness of this case, which was granted, CPD stated in a social media post.
