Weapons and Drug Arrest

On June 11, 2017, around 12:13 A.M., Sonora Police Officers were dispatched to Walmart (1101 Sanguinetti Road) for a report of two intoxicated males causing a disturbance and attempting to steal merchandise. Officers arrived on scene and located one of the male subjects in the parking lot. An officer contacted the male subject, identified as Paul Ryan Bristow, 33 years old of Eureka. During a search of his person, the officer located a small amount of methamphetamine and merchandise later determined to be stolen from Walmart. Officers also entered Walmart and located the other subject, who was identified as Manuel Wesley Taylor, 30 years old of Sonora. During a search of Taylor officers located stolen merchandise belonging to Walmart as well as a fixed bladed knife, which was concealed in Taylor’s waistband. After conducting an investigation, officers determined that Taylor had furnished Bristow with the methamphetamine.

Taylor and Bristow were transported to the Tuolumne County Jail and charged with theft. In addition, Taylor was booked for possession of a concealed dirk or dagger and furnishing a controlled substance, both felony crimes. Taylor remains in custody on $15,000 bail.