The Arizona Department of Public Safety reported that a routine traffic stop resulted in the arrest of a wanted violent offender.
Gilberto Mendez III, who had multiple current parole warrants, including one for second-degree murder, was found on March 5.
Mendez, who was also wanted by the Bullhead City Police Department in connection with many shootings, was in the front passenger seat when a trooper pulled over a pickup for speeding, according to DPS.
Mendez apparently gave the trooper a false identity during the stop, then got “evasive” and refused to reveal his real name following further interrogation.
The soldier eventually ordered Mendez to go, but he violently resisted, according to DPS. The trooper used a Taser to subdue and detain the suspect.
Mendez was booked into the Mohave County Jail on his warrants after being identified by a fingerprint scan. However, he currently faces more charges, including:
- Resisting arrest
- Aggravated assault on a first responder
- Identity theft
Bullhead City Police Cpl. Walter Morales complimented the trooper for his diligence in assisting to put Mendez behind prison.
“We thank the Arizona Department of Public Safety for their assistance in apprehending this violent suspect, who is believed to be connected to multiple shootings in Bullhead City over the past several months,” Morales said in a press release. “This arrest is an important step in holding those responsible accountable and keeping our community safe.”
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