On Thursday, June 23, police reportedly conducted a traffic stop on a 2015 Black Toyota Corolla at 10:45 p.m., travelling at a high rate of speed on King Street, Christiansted. According to a police statement, while at a stop, Officers smelled a strong odor of what appeared to be marijuana emanating from inside of the vehicle.
One handgun was reportedly discovered inside of the glove compartment and the second handgun was discovered inside of a black backpack on the rear passenger seat along with a wallet baring Ventura passport card and other identifications.
According to police, when asked about a license to possess either of the firearms, Ventura stated “No.”
The 27-year-old John Carlos Ventura was immediately placed under arrest and charged for Carrying of an unlicensed Firearm Openly or Concealed and Carrying of an unlicensed Firearm Openly or Concealed. The bail was set at $50,000. Ventura was remanded to John A. Bell Correctional Facility pending his advice of rights hearing.
