Sunland Park City Rep arrested Monday for marijuana possession

It was an unusual interruption in Monday’s Sunland Park city council meeting.

“The sheriff did come in and ask to speak to Councilor(Sergio) Carrillo and that moment he walked up and it happened in less than thirty seconds,” said Javier Perea, mayor of Sunland Park.

Perea told ABC-7 he was at a loss for words when Dona Ana sheriffs deputies arrested Carillo.

“I was shocked about this happening during executive session,” said Perea.

Kelly Jameson, spokeswoman for the Dona Ana Sherrif’s Office told ABC-7 the arrest came after a routine traffic stop off of McNutt Road on Sunday.

“One of the occupants of the vehicle was identified as Sergio Carrillo,” said Jameson.

Officials say after the stop deputies felt there was something suspicious going on in the car. When they asked if they could search the car Carrillo refused.

“We obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and discovered an ounce of marijuana and some paraphernalia,” said Jameson.

ABC-7 learned Carrillo also worked as a substitute teacher for the Gadsden Independent School District.

District officials say Carillo was placed on administrative leave after the arrest.

ABC-7 asked the Mayor of Sunland if the charges would violate any terms of Carrillo’s elected position.

“as of right now it doesn’t affect the position of city councilor. The only reason a councilor would be removed for office would be charged of a felony-convicted of a felony,” said Perea.

Carrillo posted a $1,500 bond after he was booked into the Dona Ana County Jail.