Traffic Stop leads to Drugs found in Vehicle

Suspect also led Deputies in a Foot Chase

MARINA—Authorities with the Monterey County Sheriff’s Department arrested 32-year-old Marina resident Robert James Ashurst for carrying a loaded gun while on probation and in possession of drugs.

Shortly before 2 am, a Monterey County Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to stop a black 2001 Infinity Sedan on Imjin Parkway for having heavily tinted windows.  The driver did stop initially but then sped off after initial contact with the deputy.

After a four-mile pursuit the deputy attempt to end the pursuit by initiating “a Police Intervention Technique” or P.I.T maneuver.  The driver stopped the vehicle and led deputies on a foot pursuit.  A perimeter was set up in the area as Ashurst managed to evade authorities.

As Ashurst ran away from authorities he dropped a loaded .380 Kurz brand ATM semi automatic handgun.  An investigation of the vehicle that he was driving revealed that he left his driver license and credit card behind.

Authorities also found inside the vehicle cocaine, marijuana and an open container.  The vehicle was towed as evidence.

Ashurst has been arrested numerous times for robbery, burglary and possession of a firearm.   With this incident Ashurst is now in violation of his probation.  Armed with Ashurst’s California Identification Card, authorities learned that he had ended the vehicle pursuit outside his own house.

Aushurst girlfriend, 21-year-old Rosie Travis from Marina, came out of the house and was interfering with deputies during the foot pursuit.  She also lied about her name to police. Warrants were issued for both Ashurst and Travis.

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Department is still investigating this incident and is asking anyone with information to call The Sheriff’s Department at 831-755-3700.

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