Merced parolee accused of possessing loaded firearm

A 20-year-old parolee was arrested by Merced police Saturday on suspicion of possessing a loaded gun.

Members of the department’s Gang Violence Suppression Unit were patrolling the 2000 block of Willowbrook Drive just before 8:30 p.m.

Officers Ramon Ruiz and Brian Bowen noticed a suspicious vehicle, according to a department news release. As the officers pulled behind the parked vehicle, they saw Michael Valdepena leaving the vehicle. The officers contacted Valdepena and learned he is currently on parole.

Upon conducting a search of Valdepena, officers found a handgun with a loaded high-capacity magazine. Valdepena had several gang-related tattoos and had recently been released from prison, according to the release.

Valdepena was taken into custody for possession of the firearm and gang enhancements. He is being held at the Merced County jail without bail.

This story was originally published January 31, 2015 at 11:44 PM with the headline "Merced parolee accused of possessing loaded firearm."