Alas

During a vehicle stop Thursday night, a Marshalltown Police Department officer arrested two teenagers for a stolen firearm and drugs.

Raul Elias Alas, 18, of Tama is charged with fourth-degree theft in connection with the firearm reported stolen in February 2023. Fourth-degree theft is considered a serious misdemeanor and carries a maximum sentence of $2,560 in fines and one year in jail.

A 17-year-old male was also arrested for possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of a dangerous weapon and interference with official acts.

The vehicle was pulled over on Lincoln Street near North Center Street for a traffic violation. During the traffic stop, the officer identified the juvenile as being connected to a previous investigation. During the vehicle search, the officer found the drug paraphernalia and two handguns.

The investigation is ongoing. At this time, it is not believed the arrests are connected to the Tuesday Marshalltown shooting.

The criminal charges are accusations and both teenagers are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.