Have You Seen the Sheriff's Bean-Bag Shotgun?

Authorities are seeking the public’s help in locating a bean-bag shotgun that went missing from the trunk of a sheriff’s patrol car over the weekend.

A deputy at the sheriff’s Compton Station had placed the shotgun, which has yellow markings and a black canvas carrying case, into the trunk of the patrol vehicle about 9 p.m. Friday, according to the Sheriff’s Information Bureau.

“The deputy conducted his regular duties within the city,” according to sheriff’s Lt. Chris Perez.

At the end of his shift at 7 a.m. Saturday, the deputy noticed the shotgun was missing, although all other equipment was still in the vehicle’s trunk, Perez said.

Despite a search, the shotgun, which was loaded with four bean bag shells but can also fire ordinary shotgun shells, was not found, according to the lieutenant.

The shotgun has a chrome-colored barrel with a yellow stock and bears a “Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department” stamp.

Anyone with information about the shotgun was urged to call the sheriff’s Compton Station at (310) 605-6500. Anonymous tips can be supplied by calling Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS.

-City News Service; similar gun via LA County Sheriff