Reporting Deputy: Sergeant Mariano Matos III
File # Y222630030
Details:
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Francisco Romero
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On September 20, 2022, at 1:30 P.M., members of the Coachella Community Action Team (CCAT) attempted to stop a grey sedan in the area of Avenue 54 and Cesar Chavez Street in Coachella, due to erratic driving. Based on the suspect’s driving actions, CCAT members believed the driver was operating a motor vehicle while impaired. The vehicle failed to stop for deputies and a vehicle pursuit was initiated. The pursuit lasted less than one minute and ended when the suspect vehicle stopped in a dirt lot at Shady Lane and Avenida Del Prado. The driver, Francisco Romero, a 44-year-old resident of Coachella, was detained without incident. Romero was found to have an active felony warrant for narcotic sales and appeared to be under the influence of narcotics. The investigation revealed Romero discarded a loaded handgun and two extended magazines during the pursuit. The items were located and seized. Romero was booked at the John Benoit Detention Center for driving under the influence, evading arrest, felon in possession of a loaded firearm, felon in possession of ammunition, and a felony warrant.
Anyone with any information regarding this incident is urged to contact Deputy Piscatella or Deputy Perez of the Thermal Station at 760–863–8990 or Crime Stoppers at 760–341-STOP (7867).
For media inquiries regarding this incident please contact the Media Information Bureau.
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