Firearm in Possession of a Felon Discovered During Marijuana Arrest by Santa Monica Police Department

Santa Monica Police arrested two suspects on Thursday, April 8th, near 7 pm for possession of marijuana for sale. One of the suspects was found to have a 9mm handgun with a high-capacity 9 mm magazine loaded with 16 rounds. This suspect had a prior conviction for 1st degree manslaughter and was additionally charged for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

SMPD officers first observed an apparent hand-to-hand purchase of marijuana near Ocean Avenue and Colorado Boulevard. During a traffic stop related to this narcotics violation, the officers discovered in the rear of the vehicle 2 pounds of marijuana, an unregistered firearm, and a loaded magazine.

Although the possession and smoking of marijuana is now legal in California, it is illegal to sell marijuana without a license. It is also illegal to possess more than 1 ounce of the drug )or have more than 6 plants growing in your home). Selling marijuana without a license can result in a jail sentence of up to 6 months and a fine of up to $500. You may not smoke, eat, or use marijuana in any way in a public place.

The two suspects arrested last Thursday are:

Ramirez-Sanchez, Randy Francis, a 32-year-old Black male from New York was charged with 29800(A)(1)PC – _Convicted felon in possession of a firearm; 32310(A)PC – _Possessing a high capacity magazine; 11360(A) H&S – _Selling/transporting marijuana; 11359 H&S- Possession of marijuana for sale; and 12500(A)VC – _Driving without a license.

Pujols, Steven, a 36-year-old Hispanic male from New York was charged with 11360(A) H&S – _Selling/transporting marijuana and 11359 H&S- Possession of marijuana for sale.