Sonoma County woman accused of domestic abuse, possession of stolen car
Photo credit: Petaluma PD
Originally published 4-7-22 via Nixle
by the Petaluma Police Department:
“On 04/07/2022 at approximately 10:50 AM, Petaluma Police Department Officer Bautista was on patrol when he located a stolen vehicle in a hotel parking lot. He discovered that the vehicle was occupied by two persons. Due to the vehicle being reported as stolen, causing an elevated safety risk, a high-risk traffic stop was initiated. Both of the subjects were detained without incident.
During the investigation, it was discovered that that [39-year-old Veronica] Mares was restrained from the other subject located in the vehicle pursuant to a restraining order. The other subject also disclosed a domestic violence which had occurred just prior to the officers detaining them. Wounds were located on the male that were consistent with an assault. Through the investigation, it was determined that Mares had stolen the vehicle recently.
During a search of the vehicle, various amounts of controlled substances and drug paraphernalia were located, along with a stun gun. Mares is prohibited from possessing any form of stun gun and admitted to being the owner of the illegal items. She was subsequently arrested for various charges. During the pre-booking process, Mares ran from the officers, but she was subsequently detained a short distance away after a short foot pursuit.
Mares was ultimately arrested and later booked at the Sonoma County Jail for Vehicle Theft, Felon in Possession of a Stun Gun, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Obstructing a Peace Officer, Escaping Custody, Domestic Violence and Violation of a Criminal Protective Order.
The victim obtained minor injuries during the assault and declined any medical assistance. He was ultimately released without any charges at the conclusion of the investigation. The vehicle was later towed for safekeeping after the owner could not be reached.”
