Police arrest man following motor vehicle theft near downtown Pueblo

PUEBLO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Pueblo Police Department arrested a man following a motor vehicle theft near downtown Pueblo.

Friday, police made contact with 32-year-old Bryan Martinez following a motor vehicle theft in the 300 block of W. 8th St., just after 5 a.m.

Police say they found a 9mm handgun in Martinez's waistband along with possible methamphetamine and many blue "M30" Oxycontin pills.

Martinez was taken into custody and booked into the Pueblo County Judicial building.

According to police, Martinez was arrested for Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance and labeled a "Special Offender."

Under Colorado law, a "Special Offender" faces a harsher sentencing when he or she commits a drug felony of any level under certain aggravating circumstances.

Based on legislation, Martinez didn't meet the qualifications to be charged with Possession of a Weapon Previous Offender.

Police say Martinez's criminal history involves burglaries, dangerous drugs, and Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute.