Sheriff’s Office busts suspect for possession of illegal weapons and impersonating a police officer

ATASCADERO — On April 14, the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office made a significant bust that resulted in the arrest of a convicted felon on multiple charges, including possession of illegal firearms and impersonating a police officer.

During a routine traffic stop at the intersection of El Camino Real and Montecito Avenue, deputies identified the driver of the vehicle as 37-year-old Andre Brown. Upon further investigation, they discovered an active arrest warrant for impersonating a police officer and a semi-automatic handgun in Brown’s waistband.

The handgun did not have a serial number, classifying it as a “ghost gun,” and deputies also found additional firearm magazines in the vehicle. Brown’s status as a convicted felon prohibited him from owning or possessing firearms and ammunition, leading to his immediate arrest and detention at County Jail.

As the investigation continued, detectives uncovered information indicating that Brown had more weapons in his possession. A search warrant was issued, and on April 25, detectives from the Sheriff’s Special Operations Unit served the warrant at Brown’s residence in the 9300 block of Rivera Lane in Atascadero.

During the search, detectives found additional weapons, leading to further charges against Brown. He now faces four counts of a felon in possession of a firearm, two counts of possession of a short-barreled rifle or shotgun, and possession of a silencer.

The Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with information regarding this case to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.