Authorities arrested a La Marque man Monday after discovering stolen vehicles and a firearm on his property during a search last week.

According to Galveston County Press Release, Eric Gomez, 36, was taken into custody following an investigation that began Thursday when Galveston County deputies responded to a report of a stolen vehicle at a Highway 6 address. Investigators say the vehicle was located on site, prompting the Auto Crimes Task Force to obtain a search warrant.

The search turned up two stolen vehicles and a prohibited firearm, according to the sheriff’s office. Gomez now faces multiple charges, including two counts of theft and one count of illegal firearm possession. His total bond was set at $52,500.

Gomez disputes the allegations. He claims one of the vehicles belonged to an employee and had been towed and recovered legally, while the other—a moped—was purchased at a sheriff’s auction. He also asserts that the firearm may have been left in one of the many auctioned vehicles he has acquired over time.

The arrest wasn’t without controversy. Gomez alleges deputies left him inside a sweltering patrol car for about 20 minutes during the search, causing him to pass out from the heat. He was later hospitalized for what he describes as heat stroke and dehydration. Sheriff Jimmy Fullen said he had not been made aware of the claim but indicated the matter would be reviewed.

Gomez has since been released on bond.