A 16-year-old Morgan Hill boy was arrested last week after he dropped a stolen handgun during a foot pursuit with officers, Morgan Hill police reported today.
Police say two officers made a routine traffic stop at about 4 p.m. Friday. After allegedly providing the officers with false information, two passengers jumped out of the car and fled with the officers in pursuit.
One of the teens was quickly apprehended and cited for providing false information and resisting arrest. He was booked on the charges and released to his legal guardian.
Police claim the second teen continued to run, dropping a knife and a handgun on the grounds of a nearby private school. Though he evaded capture at the time, he was identified and arrested two days later, authorities say. He was booked into Santa Clara County Juvenile Hall on charges of probation violation, possession of a stolen firearm, possession of a dagger, and resisting arrest. The gun, police say, had been reported stolen following a burglary in Gilroy.
According to authorities, the two teens are known to be affiliated with the Norteno street gang and police are seeking to add gang enhancements to the second suspect’s charges.
Morgan Hill Police Chief David Swing praised his department and the arresting officers.
“This is a perfect example of the proactive nature of our department,” Swing said. “This case began with a street level contact then grew into a significant response once the suspect pitched the gun. Our staff continued to work diligently to find where he was hiding and bring him safely into custody, ensuring everyone’s safety – ours, his, and the community’s. We are committed to doing everything we can to eradicate all incidents of gang crime in Morgan Hill.”
Comments