Car Nap Lands Man In Santa Cruz Co. Jail

SANTA CRUZ, CA — Police arrested a man on suspicion of drug offenses after he was found sleeping in his vehicle Thursday afternoon in Santa Cruz. Around 1 p.m., concerned citizens reported two people who appeared to be passed out in a silver BMW parked in the 100 block of Blaine Street.

Officers arrived and contacted the two people who were slumped over inside the vehicle. After knocking on the windows, officers were able to wake up the occupants. According to police, drug paraphernalia was in the vehicle's center console. Officers searched the vehicle and found heroin, methamphetamine and cash.

Officers also found a BB handgun and a metal tool, known as a "slim jim" and used to unlock car doors, in the back of the vehicle. Officers arrested 37-year-old Paul Otey of Santa Cruz on suspicion of drug sales and possessing heroin, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, police said.

Anyone with information about criminal activity is encouraged to contact Santa Cruz police at (831) 420-5820 or the Anonymous Tip Line at (831) 420-5995.

By Bay City News

Photos courtesy Santa Cruz Police Department