On April 27, patrol deputies with the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office responded to the 1400 block of Anderson Avenue, McKinleyville, to conduct a parole search at a residence believed to be occupied by Nathan Ruptak, 43, of McKinleyville.  

This search stemmed from an investigation of a vehicle burglary that occurred sometime during the night of April 26, or early April 27, where two firearms were stolen— one rifle and one loaded handgun. The victim’s wallet and other miscellaneous personal property were also taken.

Over the course of the investigation, security footage of the suspect using the victim's bank card was located and Ruptak was positively identified as the subject using the card at multiple locations.

Upon arrival at the residence, Ruptak was in a detached garage on the property. Ruptak was detained and a search pursuant to his parole terms was conducted. Deputies located the stolen rifle in a vehicle that was parked near the residence. Due to the extensive search area, K9 Hank, who is trained in detecting firearms, was utilized to assist in the search. With K9 Hank's assistance, the loaded handgun was located stowed under the driver's side seat, concealed in a leather binder. 

Ruptak was subsequently arrested and transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked for the following charges:

• Felon in possession of a firearm—PC 29800(a)(1)
• Prohibited person in possession of ammunition—PC 30305(a)(1)
• Possession of stolen property—PC 496(a)
• Theft by use of card—PC 484G
• Parole violation—PC 3000.08(c)
• Probation violation—PC 1203.2(a)(1)

This case will be forwarded to the Humboldt District Attorney's Office for prosecution.

Anyone with information about this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.

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Evidence seized | Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office

K9 Hank | Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office