Glovebox Gun Find: Virginia Man Faces Firearm Charges In Charles County

WALDORF, Md. — A 24-year-old Virginia man is being held without bond after a traffic stop in Charles County led to the discovery of a loaded handgun and ammunition, according to court records.

Maryland State Police said the stop occurred around 10:30 p.m. on Jan. 18, 2026, along Crain Highway near Jefferson Farm Place after a trooper observed a vehicle speeding and operating with only one functioning headlight. The vehicle was registered in Virginia.

Police identified the driver as Joshua Anthony Villaronga, of Manassas, Virginia. Charging documents state that a handgun was observed inside the glove compartment during the stop. The firearm was loaded with a magazine containing seven rounds, with one round chambered.

Investigators reported the handgun did not have a serial number and that Villaronga did not possess a Maryland concealed carry permit. Police further determined Villaronga was prohibited from possessing a regulated firearm due to a prior qualifying conviction. Additional ammunition was also recovered.

Authorities said the trooper detected the odor of alcohol and conducted standardized field sobriety tests, which Villaronga allegedly failed. He was taken into custody at the scene.

Villaronga faces eight charges, including illegal possession of a regulated firearm, possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, possession of a firearm after a violent crime or felony conviction — a felony offense — and several counts related to carrying a loaded handgun in a vehicle and on his person. The remaining charges are misdemeanors.

Court records show Villaronga was ordered held without bond following his arrest, a decision upheld during a bail review hearing held Jan. 20 in Charles County District Court. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Feb. 17.

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