The deputy, noticing suspicious behavior, searched the car and found a loaded 9 mm Star brand handgun under the driver's seat.
The deputy charged 39-year-old Leonel Avalos with three felony violations, which included carrying a loaded firearm and possession of drugs with a loaded gun. The deputy found methamphetamine and a smoking device in the vehicle.
The suspect, Avalos, was parked near the intersection sitting in his vehicle at about 9:30 p.m.
While the deputy spoke with Avalos, the suspect asked for a ride to town. The deputy searched the suspect's vehicle and located the handgun. The pistol had a live round and was cocked and ready to fire. The firearm's serial number had been removed,
The deputy took Avalos into custody, but he was released per the $0 bail schedule. Leonel was issued a citation for three felony violations.
