Traffic Stop Leads to Teen’s Arrest for Suspected Narcotics Sales

On Monday, September 15, 2025, at 11:58 pm, Turlock Police Officer Khounlivong made a traffic stop at A St and S Broadway.

Officer Khounlivong made contact with and identified the vehicle’s driver as James Mendoza, 19, of Turlock. When Officer Khounlivong had his dispatcher run Mendoza, he discovered he was unlicensed.

During the contact, Officer Khounlivong noticed marijuana in plain view. Being that Mendoza is under the age of 21, it’s unlawful for him to possess any marijuana. Mendoza was removed from his vehicle, and a probable cause search of it was conducted, leading to the discovery of numerous baggies containing suspected cocaine, a scale, and other drug sales paraphernalia.

Mendoza was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center for possession of a controlled substance for sale, transporting a controlled substance, possession of more than eight grams of concentrated cannabis, possession of a controlled substance, and driving without a valid license.

Additionally, Mendoza’s vehicle was towed.