Full Notification

Proactive Policing Results in Arrest for Possession of a Firearm
 
SMPD Officer made a traffic stop, arrested driver for a felony warrant and possession of a firearm.
 
San Mateo, CA – On October 14, 2023, at 6:06 p.m., a San Mateo Police Department officer stopped a car for a traffic violation.  The driver, Sitiveni Taufoou, had a felony warrant for his arrest and was in possession of an unregistered firearm.  Taufoou was arrested and booked into San Mateo County Jail.     
 
An officer saw a black Chevrolet driving northbound on Norfolk Street near the intersection of Shoreview Avenue.  The car was stopped for a traffic violation and the driver of the car, Sitiveni Taufoou, had a felony warrant for his arrest for reckless driving.  Taufoou told officers there was a firearm inside of the car.  Additional officers arrived to assist and located a 38-caliber pistol inside of the car. 
 
Taufoou, who is a convicted felon, is not allowed to possess or own a firearm.  During the investigation, officers learned the firearm belonged to Taufoou.  He was arrested for multiple firearm related charges and the felony warrant.  Taufoou was booked into San Mateo County Jail.    
 
If you are allowed to possess firearms, there are many regulations that need be followed when transporting firearms.  Firearms must be unloaded and in a locked container.  For more information visit https://oag.ca.gov/firearms/travel.
 
ARRESTED
Sitiveni Taufoou, 35-year-old East Palo Alto resident.
CHARGES:
25400(c)(4) PC- Carrying concealed weapon by a prohibited person.  29800(a)(1) PC- Felon in possession of a firearm.  25850(c)(4) Carrying loaded firearm by a prohibited person.