Stolen Alcohol and Meat Found in Trunk During CHP Traffic Stop

A routine traffic stop turned into a significant discovery for the California Highway Patrol (CHP) late Sunday night in San Luis Obispo County.

Officers arrested a driver after finding over $1,000 worth of stolen alcohol and meat in the vehicle’s trunk.

The Traffic Stop

Around midnight, a CHP unit initiated the stop on a vehicle traveling northbound on Highway 101, just south of Avila Beach Drive.

The vehicle was weaving erratically, prompting suspicion of possible DUI. However, when the officers spoke to the driver and passenger, their conflicting statements raised further concern.

The officers discovered that the driver’s license was suspended, leading them to plan to tow the vehicle. But what they found in the car’s trunk would soon take the case in a new direction.

The Stolen Goods

Upon opening the trunk and backseat, officers uncovered at least 30 bottles of alcohol and several packages of meat—both with security tags still attached. CHP Officer Angela Molinar confirmed that the total value of the stolen items was estimated to be over $1,000.

The items were traced back to local retailers, including a CVS store, where they had been stolen. The driver and passenger were taken into custody, and the stolen goods were returned to the stores.

This arrest highlights the ever-present challenges of retail theft, even in the late hours. Thanks to the vigilance of CHP officers, the stolen items were recovered, and the alleged thieves are facing charges.

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