Three arrested in Santa Cruz by county gang task force

Santa Cruz County gang task force investigators said three people were arrested during a traffic stop at Fredrick Street and Soquel Avenue in Santa Cruz Friday night.

The driver, Elmer Leiva, 23, was arrested and accused of giving officers a false date of birth and concealing a suspended driver’s license.

Officers said they also arrested Ishmael Rivera, 35, and Jose Avelar, 24, for possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle.

After a records check, officers said the handgun was reported stolen in Salinas. They said a loaded revolver was also found in the back of the Nissan SUV.

Gang task force officers said they are investigating any potential gang affiliation .