Hamilton police arrest two people after seizing loaded firearms and drugs at vacant property

Hamilton police have arrested two people after seizing loaded firearms and illegal drugs from a vacant property.

Police say they were called to a vacant home in Hamilton on April 27 after the homeowner reported seeing strangers in the backyard.

Officers arrived at the scene around 2:25 p.m. and were met by a group of people who told police that they were allowed inside the empty home.

However, the homeowner confirmed no one had permission to be there.

As officials searched the area, several more people fled from the basement. Two individuals remained inside, where officers found a loaded 9mm handgun in plain view on a table.

Both people were arrested and discovered to be in possession of half an ounce of methamphetamine.

While continuing the search of the home, officers discovered a sawed-off shotgun that was hidden under a sweater.

Police have arrested and charged Steven Pacheco, 39, and Olivia Lauren Putignano, 32, both of Hamilton.

The pair face a total of nine charges related to drugs and weapons possession.

Pacheo is known to police and was wanted in connection to multiple violent offences, including three counts of assault with a weapon.

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