SAN MARCOS — Deputies recovered a loaded ghost gun, narcotics and marijuana products during a traffic stop Wednesday evening in San Marcos, authorities said.
The stop occurred just before 5 p.m. on Dec. 11 on North Las Posas Road near West Borden Road. Inside the vehicle, deputies found two adult males, identified as Christian Verduzco, 19, and Jonathan Ramirez, 20, along with two juvenile females.
Deputies observed the teens in possession of marijuana products, and Verduzco, the driver, admitted there was a firearm in the back seat near the juveniles, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.
A search of the vehicle uncovered a loaded, privately manufactured firearm, commonly referred to as a ghost gun, classified as an illegal short-barreled rifle. Ghost guns lack serial numbers, making them difficult to trace and hindering law enforcement investigations.
Deputies also found cocaine, U.S. currency, and hundreds of marijuana vape products in the vehicle. Verduzco was arrested on charges including weapons violations, narcotics violations, and child endangerment and was booked into the Vista Detention Facility.
Ramirez was cited and released for misdemeanor possession of marijuana for sale.
The two juveniles were released to their parents.
The San Marcos Sheriff’s Station encourages residents to report suspicious activity by calling the Sheriff’s Office at (858) 868-3200.
