August 21, 2019

USA: During A Suspicion Of DUI Traffic Stop, Police Arrested Driver And While Conducting A Search Of The Vehicle Found Two Rifles, Including An AR-15 Type Assault And Body Armor With Rifle Plates.


San Benito Live
written by Staff
Tuesday August 20, 2019

Courtesy of the Hollister Police Department:

On August 17, 2019 the Hollister Police Department stopped a man for suspected drunk driving. Two rifles, including an AR-15 type assault and body armor with rifle plates.

At about 2:13 am Sergeant James Weathers stopped a vehicle and detained the driver for suspected driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver and only occupant of the vehicle was identified as Hollister resident Michael Mendoza, 31.

Officer Nick Rudolfs arrived and conducted a DUI investigation on Mendoza. He was found to be driving under the influence of alcohol and arrested.

As Officer Rudolfs continued his investigation several rifles were found, including several parts for AR-15 type assault rifles. Body armor with metal plates and a rifle scope was also found. The metal plates are used to stop rifle rounds.

Mendoza is a gang member and convicted felon.

Mendoza was charged with felon in possession of a firearm, possession of an assault weapon, violent felon in possession of body armor, possession of a firearm with prior violent offenses, and driving under the influence of alcohol.
I'm sharing this information with you so that you know what the consequences are if you choose to do the same as this guy. (emphasis mine)
Anyone with information regarding these investigations is requested to contact the Hollister Police Department at 831-636-4330. Persons wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.

I had no idea where San Benito County was in California. I've traveled up an down the coast too my whole life. This county is tucked right in between the 101 freeway and the 5 freeway. (emphasis mine)
Benito Link, San Benito County's Online News
written by Staff
Tuesday August 20, 2019

Suspect is a gang member and convicted felon, according to press release.

A Hollister resident was arrested following a traffic stop on Aug. 17 and faces five charges, according to a police press release.

The charges range from possession of firearms, body armor and driving under the influence.

Michael Mendoza, 31, was stopped about 2:13 a.m. by Sergeant James Weathers on suspicion of drunk driving. After being called to the scene, Officer Nick Rudolfs conducted a DUI investigation and found Mendoza to be driving under the influence of alcohol.

Rudolfs also found several rifles including parts for AR-15 type assault rifles, Body armor with metal plates and a rifle scope.

Mendoza is a gang member and convicted felon, according to the press release.

Anyone with information regarding the investigation is requested to contact the Hollister Police Department at 831-636-4330. Persons wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at (800) 78- CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.

UPDATE 8/24/19 at 7:08pm: Added tweets below.

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