Sheriff Deputies Locate
Unregistered loaded semi-automatic Pistol
Shortly
after 7:00 A.M. Wednesday, January 16, 2019__
Big
Bear Sheriff Deputies conducted a traffic stop for a moving violation in Big
Bear Lake, on a vehicle near the intersection of Big Bear Boulevard and Summit Boulevard.
The Deputies observed the passenger in the vehicle, later identified as Freddie
Chavez, reach down toward the floorboards as the vehicle was being pulled over.
Chavez
is on active parole with search terms and conditions in effect. The Sheriff Deputies
conducted a search of the vehicle and located a loaded semi-automatic pistol
under the seat where Chavez was sitting. A records search established that the
firearm is unregistered. Forensic testing will be conducted on the gun to
determine if it may be stolen or may have been used in the commission of a
previous crime.
Chavez
was booked into the Big Bear Jail on criminal charges of being a felon in
possession of a firearm and violation of parole terms, with the addition of a
gang enhancement. Chavez was transported to West Valley Detention Center and
currently remains in custody without the possibility of bail.
An
arraignment hearing is scheduled for January 18th, in San Bernardino
County Superior Court. Felon Freddie Chavez potentially faces a third strike as
a result of this arrest pending filing of a criminal complaint and prosecution
by the District Attorney’s Office.