Press Release: Convicted Felon on Probation Arrested with Over 240 Grams of Methamphetamine/Loaded & Concealed Firearm
DATE/TIME: 08/25/25 at 3:25 PM
TYPE OF INCIDENT: Deputy Arrests Convicted Felon for Possession of over 240 grams of Methamphetamine and Loaded and Concealed Firearm During Traffic Stop
LOCATION: Penzance Street @ San Juan Grade Road, Salinas, California
MEDIA CONTACT: Andres Rosas, Commander; Phone: 831-261-5492; Email: rosasae@countyofmonterey.gov
A Monterey County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop which led to the arrest of the driver for being a convicted felon in possession of over 240 grams of methamphetamine along with other controlled substances and a loaded and concealed firearm.
On the morning of August 23rd, 2025, just before 4:00 AM, a Monterey County Sheriff’s deputy conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for a vehicle code violation while it was traveling on Penzance Road near San Juan Grade Road in the unincorporated area of Monterey County.
The driver of the vehicle was identified as Samuel David Salgado, age 40 of Salinas. Salgado was confirmed to be a convicted felon who is on active probation. During a search of his vehicle, he was found to be in possession of over 240 grams of methamphetamine, suspected psilocybin mushrooms, and marijuana along with indicia that shows he was likely in possession for sales and distribution. Salgado was also found to be carrying a loaded and concealed firearm on his person. He was arrested without incident.
Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto stated,
“Convicted felons behind the wheel with drugs and loaded firearms is not just illegal—it’s a recipe for tragedy. One wrong move, and lives could be lost in an instant. Our deputies continue to put themselves on the line every day to shield Monterey County from this kind of danger, working tirelessly to keep deadly weapons and dangerous narcotics out of the wrong hands. Thanks to their vigilance during this traffic stop, lives were very likely saved.”
Samuel David Salgado was booked into the Monterey County Jail for being a convicted felon in possession of a loaded and concealed firearm; Possession of Controlled Substances for Sales While Armed and Violation of Probation as well as other charges. Bail was set at $65,000.