SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Police Department’s Metro Unit arrested three men and confiscated illegal firearms, a shotgun, drugs, and cash during a traffic stop on Marble Street, Monday at 8:50 p.m.
Under the direction of Sergeant Elizer Vasquez, the C3 Mason Square Unit and Squad C Officers were patrolling the area in response to recent gun violence and drug activity.
At around 8:40 p.m., officers attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Luis Martinez, who initially refused to pull over.
Assisted by other officers, Martinez was eventually forced to stop.
Martinez, along with passengers Anthony Roman and Lucas Ventura-Santana, was removed from the car after Martinez was observed reaching behind the driver’s seat and into the back seat.
An unloaded shotgun was found on the floor, and further search revealed a loaded illegal firearm, oxycodone pills and over $600.
Luis Martinez, 28, faces multiple charges including carrying a loaded firearm without a license, possession with the intent to distribute a Class B drug, and operation of a motor vehicle with a suspended license.
Anthony Roman, 43, was charged with similar firearms offenses, including a second offense for carrying a loaded firearm without a license, and drug distribution.
Lucas Ventura-Santana, 21, was also charged with firearms and drug offenses.
All three Springfield residents were placed under arrest following the seizure.
