Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On March 15, 2011, at about 10:22 p.m., Sheriff’s deputies stopped a vehicle for equipment violations. The driver was identified as James Alvarez 24, and his passenger was identified as David Gomez 21. During the traffic stop, deputies smelled a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle.

Alvarez and Gomez were removed from the vehicle for further investigation and a pat-down was conducted of their persons. During the pat-down search, deputies found two loaded handguns concealed in Gomez’ waistband.

Gomez and Alvarez are documented gang members from Fillmore. Gomez and Alvarez were both arrested for possession of a loaded handgun and active participation in a criminal street gang. They were both transported and booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility.