EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Two men were arrested after deputies spotted them near a business during non-operational hours in El Paso County, and they allegedly ran from authorities.
On Sunday, at about 5:50 a.m., an El Paso County Sheriff’s Office deputy conducting area patrol saw two people carrying multiple bags, duffel bags and backpacks near a business located at the 12100 block of Socorro that was not open, according to the sheriff’s office.
When the individuals noticed the deputy, they fled on foot in an attempt to avoid apprehension, according to the sheriff’s office.
Deputies detained one suspect, while the second continued to run, officials said.
A short time later, an assisting deputy found the second suspect and took him into custody following a brief foot pursuit.
During the investigation, deputies recovered about 2.12 grams of methamphetamine and a loaded shotgun from a bag carried by one of the suspects.
The first suspect was identified as 26-year-old Jimmy Rodriguez.
RECOMMENDED: Man wanted out of Austin turns himself in to Horizon City after disturbance
The second suspect was identified as 23-year-old Merlin Richards.
Bodycam video of the arrest of two men following a foot pursuit. Credit: EPCSO
Rodriguez was charged with evading arrest or detention, possession of a controlled substance penalty group 1/1-B greater than 1 gram but less than 4 grams, and resisting arrest, search, or transportation.
He was also arrested on outstanding warrants for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and assault causing bodily injury.
Two arrested after foot chase
Rodriguez was booked into the Downtown Detention Facility with bonds totaling $20,000.
No bond was issued on the aggravated assault with a deadly weapon warrant.
Richards was arrested on an outstanding warrant for criminal mischief greater than $750 but less than $2,500 and was booked into the Downtown Detention Facility on a $3,000 bond.
Sign up to receive the top interesting stories from in and around our community once daily in your inbox.