Crime & Safety
Assault Rifle Lost After Deputy Drives Off with it on Top of Car
The deputy drove on streets in Aliso Viejo and Laguna Hills before realizing the gun was missing.
Orange County Sheriff’s Department officials are searching for an AR-15 assault rifle that was lost last night by a deputy who placed the weapon on the trunk of his patrol car, then drove away before putting it back inside the vehicle.
The deputy realized the rifle was missing about 3:15 a.m., according to Orange County sheriff’s Lt. Jeff Hallock. He placed it on the trunk of his patrol car as he was preparing for work about 7 p.m. Tuesday, got distracted, and then drove off, Hallock said.
Deputies have been scouring the streets he traveled in Aliso Viejo and Laguna Hills, but have been unable to find the gun, Hallock said. Reserve deputies and bloodhounds have joined the search, he said.
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Anyone with information was asked to call the sheriff’s department at (714) 647-7000. Anonymous tips are welcome through the Orange County Crime Stoppers organization at (855) TIP-OCCS.
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Find out what's happening in Aliso Viejowith free, real-time updates from Patch.
City News Service; Photo: Wikimedia Commons
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