The alleged criminals were in possession of drugs and several weapons, including an “operable machine gun.”
On Monday, deputies in Plant City arrested three gang members found with drugs and several firearms in their possession, said Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office news release.
Area deputies came in contact with 18-year-old Jameel Callins at the 813 Chinese Food restaurant located at 2204 James L. Redman Pkwy. Callins was wanted by the Tampa Police Department (TPD) with a warrant for Absconder: Minor in Possession of a Firearm.
During the process of the arrest, the white BMW he had been riding in took off at a high rate of speed and crashed into several parked cars.
According to police, deputies were able to apprehend the vehicle’s driver, 24-year-old Rodriontae Burley, and a 17-year-old passenger. Searching the car led to the discovery of 2.6 pounds of marijuana and four firearms, one of which had a machine gun conversion device, rendering the firearm fully automatic. None of the firearms were reported stolen.
Police say all three men are facing several felony charges.
“These gang members who think they can make their money dealing drugs and terrorizing our communities will soon find out that crime doesn’t pay,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “I commend the work of our deputies who were able to identify a wanted man and take him and his dangerous accomplices off our streets.”
Investigators say the case is ongoing.
