Traffic stop results in arrest of two teens suspected of gang ties, gun possession

Salinas police said a 17-year-old boy was arrested early this afternoon after a handgun fell from his clothing as he was being tased by an officer on the 2200 block of North Main Street.

At 12:30 p.m., police said, the teenager was a passenger in a white Kia Optima.

The driver, 18-year-old Delfina Valverde, had been pulled over for failing to stop at a stop sign.

Police said when Valverde pulled over the teen jumped out and fled.

After refusing to obey orders to halt, police said, the officer deployed a Taser stun gun.

As the teen tumbled to the ground, a semi-automatic handgun fell out of his clothing, police said.

Police said he was booked in Monterey County Juvenile Hall on suspicion of being a minor in possession of a firearm, a probation violation, resisting arrest, and criminal street gang activity.

Valverde was booked into county jail on suspicion of violating probation, allowing a firearm in her vehicle and criminal street gang activity.