Known gang member arrested after gun, drugs found in vehicle in Merced, police say
A traffic stop led to the arrest of a 37-year old gang member after a stolen firearm and narcotics were found in his vehicle on Tuesday morning in Merced, according to police.
An officer pulled over Micchael Bell, 37, of Merced, in the 2000 block of East Childs Avenue at 8:39 a.m. Bell was an unlicensed driver.
Bell admitted there was a handgun in the vehicle. Bell is a convicted felon and validated gang member. The officer located the gun, which was reported stolen, and 1.1 ounces of methamphetamine.
Bell was arrested for suspicion of a stolen firearm, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession of narcotics for sales and gang enhancements.
Bell was booked into the Merced County Jail. His bail was set at $275,000, according to jail records.
Merced police are asking anyone with any information regarding this crime to contact officer Crain at 209-388-7754 or by email at crainl@cityofmerced.org.
