A Columbus man was arrested early Tuesday, Feb. 17, following an investigation that led to the discovery of a firearm and suspected cocaine inside a vehicle at a local fuel travel plaza.
Officers of the Bellefontaine Police Department report that at approximately 1:50 a.m., an officer on routine patrol observed a Chevrolet Silverado parked at Love’s Travel Stop with expired registration. The driver was later identified as Alberto Enriquez, 20, of Columbus, who was taken into custody following the investigation.
The vehicle was initially unoccupied, but officers observed an open container of Modelo beer inside the center console. Shortly thereafter, a man and woman exited the business and identified the truck as theirs.
Officers noted a language barrier and used a cellphone translation application to communicate. Enriquez stated the vehicle was experiencing battery-related mechanical issues and advised he did not have identification.
During the interaction, officers observed signs of alcohol consumption, including bloodshot, glossy eyes and the odor of an alcoholic beverage. Enriquez told officers he had consumed one beer earlier. A second open container of beer was later located inside the vehicle.
When asked if there were any weapons present, Enriquez stated there was a firearm inside the truck. Officers detained him and located a Smith & Wesson 9mm handgun positioned between the driver’s seat and center console. The firearm was loaded with a round in the chamber and additional ammunition in the magazine.
After an initial serial number check, officers later determined the firearm was not stolen.
During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered suspected cocaine concealed inside a folded dollar bill and a plastic baggie. Field testing later indicated the substances tested positive for cocaine. Additional suspected narcotics were later located during a more thorough search of the vehicle after it was impounded.
The female passenger, identified as Enriquez’s girlfriend, told officers he had picked her up near Chicago and that she was unaware of any narcotics inside the vehicle. She was detained briefly but was later released at the scene.
Enriquez was transported to the Logan County Jail, where he was lodged on felony charges of improper handling of a firearm in a motor vehicle and possession of drugs.
Police noted that Enriquez is not 21 years of age and is not legally eligible to carry a concealed firearm.
The Chevrolet Silverado was towed to Shafer’s Towing for further investigation.
Additional items seized included suspected narcotics, the firearm and ammunition, open containers of alcohol, and identification documents found inside the vehicle.
Suspected narcotics will be submitted to the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation for further testing.
