Man Arrested for Illegal Firearm Possession

St. Thomas Resident Caught With Loaded Gun

A local man with a history of arrests has been taken into custody once again, this time for illegal firearm possession and ammunition charges.

According to authorities, Ruben George was arrested early last Thursday morning after police noticed him fleeing from a patrol unit on Strand Street. Officers searched the R2R Lounge, where they found George exhibiting a strong odor of alcohol. He claimed he was waiting for his mechanic to return his Jeep Liberty, which had been in repair since June 5.

The Discovery

During a search of the rental car, police discovered a black Springfield S&W .380 Shield firearm with a loaded magazine between the driver’s seat and center console. George admitted he did not have a firearm license and claimed the gun belonged to his cousin.

Charges and Bail

George was subsequently arrested and charged with illegal firearm possession and ammunition charges. Magistrate Paula Norkaitis set bail at $25,000, requiring George to post 10 percent of that amount to secure his release before trial. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 21.

Not a First Offense

This is not George’s first run-in with the law. He has been arrested at least six times since 2009, excluding the current charges.