Salinas residents address recent police gun thefts at council meeting

Residents in Salinas are upset and want answers after three officers had their guns stolen in less than six weeks.

On Tuesday, they addressed city leaders at the council meeting during public comment.

One man said he’s disappointed and concerned these guns are in the wrong hands, “We’ve lost 50 people since last year in terms of shootings. What happens when those guns are used in a shooting?”

Another Salinas resident wanted to know if the cops are being punished, “We’re beginning to build a solid pipeline of guns from the cops to the streets.”

The most recent theft occurred last Thursday and police said the officer thought the car was locked. But this is the third similar theft since March when the chief’s gun was taken from his unmarked car.

Many residents said they want the officers to be disciplined and there should be a policy in place. The city announced there will be an outside investigation.

“We constantly review our policies this will an opportunity for us to review these policies to determine whether or not any changes need to be made to prevent this sort of thing from happening in the future,” said Chris Callihan, city attorney.

Chief Kelly McMillin wasn’t at the council meeting. Councilman Jose Castaneda asked the mayor to put the issue on the next council agenda.