HOLLISTER, CALIFORNIA – February 13th, 2019 – The Hollister Police Department has arrested three subjects in two separate incidents in the last two days. In both instances, the subjects were found to possess concealed handguns in public.
The first incident occurred on February 8th at about 10:16 pm. Officer Umstead conducted a traffic stop in the area of Third St. and San Benito St. in Hollister. During the stop, Daniel Perez III (21 years, of Hollister) admitted to having drug paraphernalia. A subsequent search of Perez and the passenger, Emily Vaca (38 years, of Gilroy) revealed that Vaca was carrying a handgun concealed on her person. Vaca and Perez were both arrested and booked at the San Benito County Jail on related weapons and drug charges.
The second incident occurred on February 9th at about 8:57 pm. Detectives Guevara and Leland were out working a proactive enforcement detail when they attempted to stop a vehicle in the 600 block of Central Ave. for a traffic violation. The vehicle fled at a high rate of speed, running stop signs, exceeding the speed limit, and driving recklessly. The officers pursued the vehicle to the 200 block of San Lorenzo Dr., where the driver and passengers gave up and were detained without incident.
A loaded handgun was found in the driver’s door pocket of the vehicle. The driver, Fernando Chavez (18 years, of Hollister), was arrested and booked at the San Benito County Jail for felony flight from officers in a vehicle, and possession of a concealed handgun.
Anyone with information regarding these investigations are 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.
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Prepared by: Detective B. Leland
Approved by: Captain Carlos Reynoso
Case #19-0292 and 19-0300
