On September 29, 2026, at approximately 9 PM, Patrol deputies traveling in the Cimarron Hills area of unincorporated El Paso County located a vehicle stopped in the roadway of U.S. State Highway 24.
The driver, later identified as 23-year-old Jose Tello, appeared to be unconscious but was breathing. Deputies also observed an open alcohol container in plain view. The vehicle had front-end damage, and the driver’s side tire was flat.
Deputies requested medical personnel from the Cimarron Hills Fire Department.
Tello began to regain consciousness and reached for a firearm concealed in his pocket. Deputies ordered Tello out of the vehicle at gunpoint and detained him.
Deputies learned Tello was a previously convicted felon and was prohibited by law from possessing a firearm.
Tello was booked into the El Paso County Jail on the following charges:
-Possession of a Weapon by a Previous Offender
-Driving Under the Influence
-Prohibited Use of a Firearm
He is currently being held on a $2,000.00 bond, the amount set by state statute.
“This incident is a reminder of the dangers our deputies encounter during what may initially appear to be a routine traffic-related call,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “Our deputies recognized the warning signs, responded quickly when the suspect reached for a firearm, and safely took control of the situation without anyone being injured. Driving under the influence is dangerous on its own, but combining impaired driving with illegal possession of a firearm creates an even greater threat to our community. I commend our deputies for their professionalism, awareness, and commitment to keeping the public safe.”