Deputy arrested for concealing a handmade weapon had previously been separated from the sheriff’s office; Sources

SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) -- The recent arrest of a Monterey County deputy has shed new light on that deputy's past.

Multiple sources tell KION that Gaspar Estevez no longer worked for the sheriff's office sometime after 22-year-old Luis Armando Sarabia escaped from one of the yards.

According to Openpayrolls.com, Estevez had an employment status of "Separation Pending-Positive" in 2022.

Deputy arrested for concealing a handmade weapon provided to him by a Monterey County Jail inmate, sheriff's office says

SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) -- The Monterey County Sheriff's Office said one of their deputies is arrested for concealing a sharp-edged handmade weapon investigators say was provided to the deputy by an inmate at the jail.

The sheriff's office identified the deputy as Gaspar Estevez. Estevez was booked into the San Benito County Jail on multiple felonies related to the case.

Investigators said they received a tip about Estevez concealing the sharp-edged weapon, also known as a "shank" and that it was provided by an incarcerated person.

The sheriff's office said detectives were able to recover the weapon during the investigation.

"Unfortunately, we sometimes have to police our own," said Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto. "This action of one individual is not a reflection of the values of the hard-working and dedicated men and women who have committed their lives to public safety."

The sheriff's office said Deputy Estevez was "relieved of his duties" and placed on administrative leave while the investigation continues.