Cop's weapons stolen from car

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Austin police are looking for a woman accused of breaking into a police car and stealing an assault rifle, a Taser and more. Police are looking for Michelle Lozano, 19, in connection with the case. Some of the stolen items are still missing.

Sandoval's take home vehicle was broken into while parked in his driveway. Everything from an AR-15 assault rifle, ammunition, bullet-resistant vest, a Taser and Powerpoint projector were stolen.

"From Officer Sandoval’s testimony and the officer who investigated the case, entry was made through the driver's door handle," said Lt. Silas Griggs with the Austin Independent School District Police Department. "The driver's door handle was damaged, we verified that through the service manager."

Within a couple weeks, APD was able to develop informants and track down most of the items taken. Fingerprints linked Michelle Lozano and a juvenile who is currently in custody for other thefts. However, the Tasar, ammunition, and suspect Lozano are still missing.

Sandoval was not disciplined for the vehicle break in, but since the June incident, AISD PD changed some rules.

"We've since issued a directive requiring our officers bring firearms over night,” said Griggs.

APD believes Lozano wanted to sell the stolen police gear. Lozano's mother declined to talk on camera but said her daughter was staying with a friend.

In an unrelated matter, Sandoval - whose vehicle was broken into - recently resigned after being arrested by TABC agents.

"Officer Jose Sandoval was employed off-duty by a local bar as a DJ," said said Griggs. "He is alleged to have been found intoxicated on the premises while under employment of the bar."

The arrest took place in just tw months later at ATX Club on East Sixth Street. Sandoval had his weapon with him and resigned from AISD PD almost immediately after his arrest.