License plate reader leads to arrest and recovery of loaded weapon near South Shore Shopping Center
Alameda Police officers responded to a license plate reader notification on Tuesday, July 4, which led to the apprehension of a suspect and the recovery of a loaded firearm near South Shore Shopping Center. The incident also resulted in the location of a vehicle that was wanted in connection with a felony investigation by an outside agency.
[1]Within minutes of receiving the alert, officers were able to locate the driver who was attempting to park in the shopping center. Immediately, a traffic stop was initiated, and the investigation began.
During the investigation, officers made a startling discovery. Hidden within the vehicle was a loaded firearm, posing a significant threat to public safety. In addition to the weapon, officers also found additional rounds of ammunition, further highlighting the potential danger that lurked within this incident. Ghost guns, like this one, are weapons that can be 3D-printed from instructions or assembled from parts purchased on the internet and have no identifying serial numbers.
The speed and efficiency with which law enforcement responded to the license plate reader notification played a pivotal role in removing a ghost gun from circulation. Ghost guns, unregistered and untraceable firearms, have become a growing concern in recent years due to their accessibility and potential misuse by criminals. Furthermore, the officers’ actions resulted in the location of a vehicle that had been sought by an outside agency in connection with a felony investigation.
As investigations continue, the apprehended suspect will face charges related to the possession of the loaded firearm and any other relevant offenses. The recovered vehicle will be transferred to the outside agency for further examination and their ongoing investigation.
The police department urges anyone with information related to this incident or any other criminal activity to come forward and contact APD [2] to assist in maintaining a safe community for all residents.