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Dispatch Non-Emergency 325.657.4315

Firearm Stolen in Building Burglary Recovered in Early Morning Traffic Stop

October 17, 2017 — 25-year-old Juan Manuel Mata, Jr. of San Angelo was arrested for an outstanding warrant during a traffic stop this morning and additionally charged with Theft of Firearm after Police recovered a stolen gun from his vehicle. 

The stop occurred around 3:15 a.m. near E. 7th and Akin Streets.  During the traffic detention, Mata told the Officer he did not have a driver’s license with him.  Mata exited and locked the vehicle, which the Officer perceived as deliberate. 

During a computerized records check through Dispatch, the Officer confirmed Mata’s driver’s license was expired and that he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest.  Mata was arrested for his warrant and transported to the Tom Green County Jail without incident.  Mata also received a citation for Driving While License Invalid and a written warning for his initial traffic violation.  

During a search of Mata’s vehicle incident to his arrest, Officers located a pistol, which was confirmed to be reported stolen on October 16, 2017, from the Southeast Mini Storage facility, 4469 S. Chadbourne, along with three other firearms, ammunition, and a two-toned blue 2005 Yamaha R6 motorcycle.    

Additional charges may be forthcoming pending the outcome of this ongoing investigation.  If you have information about the whereabouts of the other stolen firearms or stolen motorcycle, call Detective James Hernandez at (325)659-8015.  To remain anonymous, tip online at http://bit.ly/SAPDTips247, via text: text TIP SAPD to 888777 and follow the prompts, or by phone at 1-855-TIPS-247. 

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