Gang member arrested on multiple charges in Watsonville

A felon and known gang member is behind bars on multiple charges, police said.

Officers said they were conducting a traffic stop on Rodriguez Street and Second Street, just after 8:00 p.m. Saturday when the drive, identified as Robert Meza, 26, got out of the car and began walking away.

Meza began physically resisting and spat at police, officers said.

After a brief physical encounter, Meza was arrested.

An officer suffered minor injuries during the struggle, police said.

While searching Meza’s car, officers said they found a loaded gun under the driver’s seat.

During the investigation officers also found that Meza was driving under the influence of alcohol.

Police said Meza is a known gang member.

Meza was arrested and booked into the Santa Cruz County jail for being a felon in possession of a gun and ammunition, resisting arrest, battery on a police officer, DUI, and gang enhancements.