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Crystal City Today
By the People, for the People
Convicted Felon Arrested in Crystal City for Firearm and Drug Possession
Reckless driving call leads to felony charges for Samuel Scott Longoria
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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A routine traffic stop in Crystal City, Texas led to the arrest of a convicted felon, Samuel Scott Longoria, who was found in possession of a firearm and prescription drugs. Longoria was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon and possession of dangerous drugs.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing gun violence and drug-related crimes, especially involving repeat offenders. It also raises concerns about public safety on Texas roads and the need for stricter enforcement and penalties for those caught driving recklessly and illegally possessing firearms and controlled substances.
The details
According to the Zavala County Sheriff's Office, Deputy J. Bonilla responded to a call about a dark-colored Ford Mustang driving recklessly from Dimmit County toward Crystal City. The vehicle was located and stopped near CJ's Tire Shop. During the traffic stop, deputies observed an open alcoholic beverage in the center console and a search of the vehicle revealed a .22 caliber revolver on the driver's side floorboard, along with a quantity of Alprazolam and Hydrocodone pills. The driver, Samuel Scott Longoria, admitted to deputies that he is a convicted felon. A Texas Department of Public Safety trooper conducted a field sobriety test and determined Longoria was not intoxicated. Longoria was arrested and charged with unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon and possession of dangerous drugs.
- The incident occurred on February 20, 2026 around 6:45 a.m.
The players
Samuel Scott Longoria
The driver of the vehicle, a convicted felon who was arrested and charged with unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon and possession of dangerous drugs.
Ricardo Fernando Rios
The passenger in the vehicle, who was cited for an open container violation and released at the scene.
Deputy J. Bonilla
The Zavala County Sheriff's Office deputy who responded to the reckless driving call and conducted the traffic stop.
Texas Department of Public Safety
The state law enforcement agency that conducted a field sobriety test on Longoria and determined he was not intoxicated.
What’s next
Longoria will face a judge to determine if he will be allowed out on bail pending his trial for the felony firearm and drug charges.
The takeaway
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing gun violence and drug-related crimes, especially when dealing with repeat offenders. It highlights the need for stricter enforcement and penalties to improve public safety on Texas roads and in local communities.
