Odessa Police Arrest Known Auto Burglar, Recover Two Stolen Guns

Odessa Police officers arrested 20-year-old Rocky Junior Gonzales early Thursday morning after finding him walking through the 1700 block of E. 53rd Street dressed in dark clothing and carrying two stolen handguns.

Officers on patrol made contact with Gonzales, who was wearing a mask, gloves, and a beanie. Gonzales — a known auto burglar and gun thief — was found to be in possession of marijuana and two firearms that did not belong to him.

Later that day, investigators determined that one of the guns had been stolen during an auto burglary in the 1100 block of Douglas Drive. Security footage from the neighborhood showed Gonzales entering the victim’s truck, stealing the gun, and checking other vehicles for unlocked doors.

Gonzales was taken into custody and charged with Possession of Marijuana (Class B Misdemeanor) and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon (Third Degree Felony). Additional warrants will be issued for Burglary of a Vehicle (Class A Misdemeanor) and Theft of a Firearm (State Jail Felony).

The Odessa Police Department reminded residents to lock their vehicles and avoid leaving firearms inside unattended. “There are several guys like Gonzales out there looking to take advantage of your good nature,” the department said.