Stolen San Angelo Police Firearm Linked to Border Smuggling Investigation

On April 23, 2024, Department of Homeland Security agents apprehended a male suspect at the U.S.-Mexico border attempting to cross with firearms. During the investigation, authorities discovered that one of the firearms had allegedly been purchased at a gun show in Midland, Texas. There is currently no evidence linking the smuggling attempt to cartel activity.

Further investigation traced the firearm back to the San Angelo Police Department (SAPD), prompting federal agents to notify the department’s previous administration. On May 29, 2024, an internal investigation was launched alongside the ongoing criminal probe. It was determined that the firearm had previously been in SAPD’s possession.

Upon taking office, Chief Travis Griffith was briefed on the case. Retired Chief Frank Carter had already requested the Texas Rangers’ assistance regarding a firearm theft, a decision Chief Griffith supported. The Texas Rangers led the criminal investigation, which is now under review by the Texas Attorney General’s Office.

The investigation focused on SAPD’s Training Division, revealing that four firearms had been surrendered by Walmart for destruction. In 2021, a San Angelo police officer collected the firearms, transferring them to the Training Division for training purposes. By late 2022, however, Lt. Brian Robinson (Ret.) had allegedly given away the firearms, violating department policy.

Investigators found that former SAPD officer Joshua Loudermilk stole three of the four firearms in late 2022, later selling two of them at a local gun show—one of which was purchased by the border smuggling suspect in Midland. Additionally, Training Officer Charles Flores was found to have removed and repaired one of the firearms before knowingly providing it to Loudermilk for personal use. Two firearms remain missing and are listed as stolen.

SAPD’s internal investigation concluded that officers violated department policies. Lt. Brian Robinson retired shortly after questioning by the Texas Rangers. Joshua Loudermilk has been indefinitely suspended and is appealing the decision, while Officer Charles Flores received a 90-day unpaid suspension and waived his right to appeal.

SAPD clarified that administrative policy violations do not imply guilt in the ongoing criminal case. Any potential criminal charges will be determined by the Texas Rangers and the Texas Attorney General’s Office. The department reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, stating that any employee found to have engaged in criminal activity or policy violations will be held responsible.