October 4, 2025 – Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office officials report that on October 1, 2025, at approx. 2:40 p.m., a Tuolumne Narcotics Team (TNT) Detective patrolling the area of Serrano Rd., conducted a traffic stop on a pickup truck for multiple vehicle code violations. The detective spoke to the driver, 50-year-old Frank Weiler, and passengers, including 42-year-old Nicholas Pina. A records check revealed Weiler was on parole and had a parole warrant. Pina was found to have four local misdemeanor warrants for his arrest.
A records check of the truck revealed its registration had expired in 2002. Additionally, the license plate and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) did not match. Detectives attempted to contact the registered owner but were unsuccessful in doing so. The pickup was later towed, and the investigation into its registration and ownership remains ongoing. During a search of the vehicle, detectives located a vial of testosterone, drug use paraphernalia, and other evidence indicative of drug use and sales, prompting further investigation.
Detectives, with assistance from patrol deputies, conducted a parole search at Weiler's residence in the area of Oman Drive in Soulsbyville. Upon arrival, deputies detained 43-year-old Michelle O'Connor.
During the search, detectives located a loaded, unserialized short-barrel AR-15-style rifle—commonly referred to as a "ghost gun"—and approximately 7g of methamphetamine packaged in multiple bags, drug packaging materials, and other items consistent with drug sales in a bedroom shared by Weiler and O'Connor. Detectives determined the drugs and firearm were unsecured and accessible to a child living in the home.
A further records check confirmed that Weiler and O'Connor are prohibited from possessing firearms.
Weiler and O'Connor were arrested and booked into the DDC on multiple charges related to drug sales, possession of an unserialized firearm by prohibited persons, and child endangerment. Pina was also arrested and booked into the DDC on his outstanding warrants.
We remain committed to protecting our community by targeting drug-related crime. Tips related to drug sales in Tuolumne County can be reported to the TNT Tip Line at (209) 533-5884.
Attached body cam footage shows clips from the investigation.
View video here.
Source: Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office
