GREENFIELD — A King City man was arrested early Sunday on suspicion of driving under the influence of a controlled substance and related firearms and drug offenses, according to the Greenfield Police Department.
At about 2:45 a.m. on Feb. 22, officers conducted a vehicle check near Apple Avenue and Pepper Drive in Greenfield. Police said they observed open alcohol containers inside the vehicle and contacted the driver, identified as Bryan Fabian Gomez, 33, of King City, who was in control of the vehicle.
During the contact, officers noted signs of impairment. A field sobriety evaluation was conducted by an officer trained as a Drug Recognition Expert, and Gomez was arrested on suspicion of being under the influence of a controlled substance, police said.
Under California law, a person does not need to be actively driving to be arrested on suspicion of DUI. A driver who has possession and control of a vehicle while impaired, even if the vehicle is parked, can be arrested.
During a search of the vehicle, officers located a loaded 9mm Glock 19 handgun, more than 17.5 grams of cocaine, cash, packaging materials and other items consistent with drug sales, according to police. Authorities said the firearm was registered to Gomez; however, it is illegal to possess a firearm while impaired or while in possession of controlled substances.
Gomez was transported and booked into the Monterey County Jail on suspicion of being under the influence of a controlled substance, along with related firearms and drug offenses.
“Greenfield Police Department remains committed to keeping our roads and neighborhoods safe,” the department said in a statement. “If you suspect an impaired driver or see suspicious activity, please dial 911.”
