On Friday evening July 23, a Mesquite police officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for multiple violations. While speaking with the driver and front passenger, the officer observed indications of possible further criminal activity.
The driver gave consent to a search of his vehicle and officers located a stolen loaded 9mm handgun concealed under the driver’s seat. Officers also located a digital scale and approximately 10 grams of methamphetamine packaged in multiple small plastic bags.
Diego Cardiel-Villalobos, 36, of Mesquite, was arrested and charged with felony possession of stolen firearm and felony possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell.
Due to the felony charges, Cardiel-Villalobos was transported and booked into the Clark County Detention Center in Las Vegas.
“This incident showcases the dangers these well-trained officers come across while working to keep Mesquite safe” stated Chief MaQuade Chesley. He continued “the officer quickly recognized this was much more than a normal traffic stop, recovered a stolen gun, and safely got a potentially dangerous suspect off the streets.”