A Sonoma County Sheriff’s Deputy arrested a suspect after a foot pursuit and struggle over a handgun. The incident began Thursday, August 31, 2017 shortly before 2:00 AM when a deputy with the Sonoma Police Department made a traffic stop on a white Acura for speeding. The vehicle pulled over in the parking lot of the Staples store located in the 900 block of W. Napa Street, Sonoma.
As the deputy was talking with the occupants at the driver side window he smelled a strong odor of marijuana and the driver, 18-year-old David Rubio of Napa appeared to be under the influence of marijuana. The deputy determined that Rubio was driving while unlicensed and was on probation so he had him exit the car.
As Rubio exited the car, he picked up a handgun that he had been sitting on and fled from the deputy. The deputy drew his handgun and gave chase. The deputy was able to catch up to Rubio and tackle him while Rubio was still holding onto his handgun. The deputy was able to pull the handgun out of Rubio's left hand and threw it to the side while a continuous struggle ensued.
Rubio attempted to roll over and continued to fight with the deputy. The deputy was able to use an approved technique called a carotid restraint which rendered Rubio temporarily unconscious. While unconscious, the deputy was able to get him into handcuffs.
During a search, the deputy found that Rubio had numerous prescription pills on him without a prescription. He also had .38 caliber ammunition on him and in his car. The handgun retrieved from Rubio was a Colt .38 revolver loaded with 6 rounds.
This is a very disturbing incident for any deputy and underscores the potential for danger in the profession of law enforcement. We are very thankful that neither the deputy nor the 18-year-old suspect was seriously injured in this incident.
Rubio was arrested for exhibiting a firearm in presence of a peace officer, convicted felon in possession of a firearm, commission of a felony using a firearm, possession of a controlled substance while armed, carry a concealed weapon in a vehicle, battery on a peace officer, resisting arrest, possession and transportation of narcotics for sale, driving under the influence of drugs and violation of probation. He was booked into the Sonoma County Jail and is being held on $150,000 bail.
Prepared By: Sgt. Spencer Crum
CR 17-0001223
Media Inquiries: 707-565-3941
