An Amarillo man was taken into custody this week following a multi-day police investigation that involved repeated attempts to evade officers, the execution of a SWAT operation, and the seizure of firearms and illegal drugs, according to information released by the Amarillo Police Department.
Juan Soto, a 23-year-old male born September 3, 2001, was arrested on Wednesday, December 17, after officers located him at an apartment complex in the 5800 block of Southwest 58th Avenue. The arrest followed several incidents earlier in the week in which Soto allegedly fled from police during attempted traffic stops conducted during the midnight patrol shift. Authorities said those encounters prompted an ongoing investigation and elevated safety concerns due to Soto’s repeated efforts to avoid law enforcement.
On the evening of December 17, members of the Amarillo Police Department SWAT team observed a vehicle believed to be associated with Soto’s family arrive at the apartment complex. Officers watched as Soto parked the vehicle and entered one of the apartments. Based on prior intelligence, police believed another family member also resided at the location and was expected to arrive later. In response, an arrest team was assembled and a perimeter was established around the apartment to prevent further flight.
When the additional family member arrived, officers made contact at the front of the apartment. During that interaction, police observed Soto attempting to flee from the rear of the residence. Officers moved quickly and took him into custody without incident. No injuries were reported during the arrest.
A search conducted in connection with the arrest led to the seizure of multiple items, including an AR-15 style rifle, a 9mm handgun, ammunition, and approximately one-half pound of cocaine. The quantity of narcotics recovered placed the drug charge in a higher penalty category under Texas law.
In addition to the on-view offenses connected to the arrest, investigators determined Soto was in the United States illegally. Authorities also confirmed he had an active Randall County warrant for bond surrender related to a prior driving while intoxicated charge. Due to his immigration status, Homeland Security officials were notified following his arrest.
Soto was booked into the Randall County Detention Center on the outstanding bond surrender warrant and on a charge of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Penalty Group 1, in an amount over 200 grams. Officials indicated that federal firearms and drug charges are pending review, and a federal detainer related to his immigration status has been placed.
The Amarillo Police Department emphasized that the coordinated effort between patrol officers, investigators, and the SWAT team was necessary due to the repeated evasions and the potential risk to public safety. The investigation remains ongoing as state and federal authorities determine additional charges and next steps in the case.
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