UPDATE: A federal judge has just jailed Maurice Herron, 27, after he allegedly hidden a loaded pistol in the back of an Orinda police car, where it went undetected for over a week. This shocking incident marks a significant turn in Herron’s ongoing legal battles as he faces multiple federal gun charges.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Kandis Westmore ordered Herron’s detention, citing serious concerns about public safety and his past behavior. In her ruling issued last week, Westmore noted that she had checked off 12 of the 20 possible reasons to detain someone with a pending federal case, underscoring the gravity of the allegations against him. Previously, Westmore had released Herron, believing he was making an honest effort to reform his life after securing a job, but the latest evidence suggests otherwise.
Court documents reveal a disturbing pattern: Herron is linked to two federal gun cases. One alleges he was arrested with a firearm in January 2025, while the other involves a November 2024 incident in Orinda. During the latter arrest, Herron reportedly removed a gun from his waistband while handcuffed and concealed it on the floor of a police vehicle. It wasn’t until eleven days later that another officer discovered the weapon during a routine check. Surveillance footage captured the moment Herron stashed the gun, raising alarm over police procedures.
In a further twist, federal prosecutors claim that Herron acted as a getaway driver during an armed robbery in downtown Oakland. The robbery turned deadly when the intended victim shot one of the suspects, identified as Roosevelt Jones, 33. Another suspect, Jashawndre Uphsaw, has since been arrested and charged with murder in connection to the incident.
The implications of this case are significant. Herron’s actions not only jeopardized public safety but also raised pressing questions about law enforcement protocols in managing apprehended individuals. The community is left to grapple with the reality of such brazen misconduct occurring within the confines of a police vehicle.
As this case develops, all eyes will be on upcoming court proceedings to determine Herron’s fate. Authorities are expected to provide more details as they investigate the broader implications of Herron’s criminal activities.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent situation as it unfolds.
