June 26, 2024 – Monterey County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on Monday June 24th, 2024, Monterey County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 19-year-old John Aguirre of Watsonville, after he led deputies on a vehicle pursuit. He was found to be in possession of a large quantity of illegal fireworks and marijuana for the purpose of sales and distribution.
At about 9:52 P.M., A deputy was traveling north on Highway 1 in the area of Reservation Road near Marina. He observed a vehicle driving northbound on Highway 1 at an excessive rate of speed. When the deputy attempted to stop the vehicle, it failed to yield, leading the deputy on a vehicle pursuit. For safety reasons, the pursuit was terminated. A short time later, the vehicle was located on Cooper Road and a second attempt to stop the vehicle was made. The vehicle again fled from deputies but stopped a short distance later near Cooper Road and Highway 183.
The driver was identified as 19-year-old John Aguirre of Watsonville. He was found to have a passenger in his vehicle who was later released.
During a search of the vehicle deputies discovered that he was in possession of a large quantity of illegal fireworks. Additionally, he was found to be transporting over two pounds of marijuana along with packaging and distribution material.
John Aguirre was booked into the Monterey County Jail for multiple violations including 2800.2(a) CVC – Felony Vehicle Evading; 12677 HS, Possession of Dangerous Fireworks and 11360(a) HS, Possession of Marijuana for the Purpose of Sales. His bail was set at $30,000.
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone that illegal fireworks are not permitted in any part of the county. Safe and sane fireworks may be used in cities where their sale is permitted. These cities include Salinas, Marina, Seaside, King City, Greenfield, Soledad and Gonzales. Safe and Sane Fireworks are NOT permitted in any other part of Monterey County. Possession or discharge of illegal fireworks may lead to you being cited or arrested.
Source & photos: Monterey County Sheriff’s Office
