Category Archives: Crime

Man arrested after lighting fire in front of officer Saturday night

On Saturday, March 18th, 2023, at 10:35 pm, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of S Broadway and A St, Turlock, observed a man using a lighter to light some trash in the gutter of the roadway on fire, so he got out with him.

The officer identified the man as Sammie Lawrence, 51, of Sacramento, and then used a water bottle to extinguish the fire.

When the officer asked Lawrence why he had lit the fire, he stated that he wanted to end human trafficking.

Lawrence was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of unlawfully causing a fire.

Known parolee arrested in stolen vehicle Saturday night

On Saturday, March 18th, 2023, at 8:45 pm, the Turlock Police Department and Stanislaus State Police Department were dispatched to a reported dangerous driver at QuikStop, 1260 Geer Rd, Turlock, who had been running around the parking lot yelling at people and then nearly crashed while moving his vehicle from a gas pump to a parking space.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with a man who they immediately recognized as Spencer Silva, 28, of Turlock, who we’ve already written about getting arrested twice in the same area so far this month.

Silva was obviously under the influence of narcotics, so he was arrested.

When officers had their dispatcher run the silver 2006 Chrysler Town and Country that Silva had reportedly been driving, they discovered that it had recently been reported stolen.

Officers called Silva’s parole agent and informed him of what had occurred. The agent found that there was probable cause a violation of parole had occurred, so he authorized that Silva be placed on a hold while awaiting a parole revocation hearing.

Silva was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of buying or receiving a stolen vehicle and violation of parole.

Man arrested on parole violation and warrant after alleged robbery call Saturday evening

On Saturday, March 18th, 2023, at 6:17 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported robbery that had just occurred at Donnelley Park, 600 Pedras Rd, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with the suspect across the street. He identified himself as Adrian Lopez, 30, of Los Angeles.

When officers had their dispatcher run Lopez, they discovered that he was on parole for contempt of court and had a $2,000 misdemeanor bench warrant out of Modesto for trespassing.

During the course of the investigation, officers determined that no robbery had actually occurred, however, a violation of parole had.

Lopez was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of violation of parole, as well as his warrant.

Man arrested on three warrants during suspicious vehicle contact Friday night

On Friday, March 17th, 2023, at 11:48 pm, a Turlock Police officer near Mountain Mike’s Pizza, 2410 Geer Rd, Turlock, noticed and got out with an occupied suspicious vehicle in the parking lot.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s two occupants, including Lonnie Butcher, 46, of Turlock.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Butcher, he discovered that he had three misdemeanor bench warrants out of Tuolumne County. The first one was a $35,000 one for failure to appear, the second one was a $25,000 one for failure to appear, and the third one was a $35,000 one driving under the influence of alcohol.

Butcher was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrants.

Woman laying on railroad tracks arrested on five warrants Friday afternoon

On Friday, March 17th, 2023, at 12:33 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a security check in the 400 block of S Tully Rd, Turlock, after a woman had been seen laying on the railroad tracks.

When officers arrived on scene, they found the woman still on the tracks all spread out.

The woman gave officers an alias, however, that was enough to discover her real name of Maria Lopez, 53, of Turlock.

When officers had their dispatcher run Lopez, they discovered that she had five local misdemeanor bench warrants. The first one was a $555,555 one for possession of methamphetamines, the second one was a $10,555 one for falsely identifying to a peace officer and trespassing, the third one was a $10,555 one for falsely identifying to a peace officer and possession of methamphetamines, the fourth one was a $5,555 one for possession of methamphetamines, and the fifth one was a $5,555 one for unlawful camping and storage of personal property in public places.

Lopez was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on her warrants.

Man arrested after lighting fire in abandoned house early Friday morning

On Friday, March 17th, 2023, at 1:21 am, a Turlock Police officer near the 1500 block of Lander Ave, Turlock, came upon an abandoned residence with smoking coming out of its chimney.

Additional officers responded along with the Turlock Fire Department.

Firefighters assisted officers with making access into the residence where they found and detained Robert Pereda, 29, of Turlock.

Firefighters then extinguished a small fire in the fireplace.

During the investigation, it was discovered that Pereda had previously been trespass admonished from the residence.

Pereda was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of trespassing.

Man arrested after resisting and attempting to grab sergeant’s taser Wednesday night

On Wednesday, March 15th, 2023, at 9:08 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported suspicious person near the intersection of Vermont Ave and S Orange St, Turlock, who was swinging some sort of melee weapon at passing vehicles.

A sergeant arrived on scene and located a man in the area later identified as Caesar Casarez, 38, of Turlock. Casarez had an object in his hand, however, the sergeant was unable to tell what it was and Casarez failed to stop after being given several lawful orders to do so.

Casarez eventually began running away from the sergeant and was taken to the ground where he actively resisted. Casarez was tased, however, he continued to resist and even attempted to grab the sergeant’s taser.

Assisting officers eventually arrived and scene and assisted with handcuffing Casarez.

Casarez was arrested and transported to a local hospital where he was medically cleared. Afterward, he was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of a leaded cane, obstructing or resisting a public officer, and violation of parole.

Prior to Casarez being handcuffed, a responding officer was involved in a collision while responding “code 3”, meaning under emergency conditions. The officer was not injured, however, his patrol vehicle sustained moderate damage and had to be towed away after striking a few poles.

Man expected to survive after being shot in the chest at home Monday night

On Monday, March 13th, 2023, at 8:55 pm, the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office, Turlock Rural Fire Protection District, and American Medical Response were dispatched to a reported assault with a firearm that had just occurred at a residence in the 700 block of S Daubenberger Rd, Turlock.

Deputies arrived to find a Hispanic man in his mid-20s suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound to the chest. Deputies rendered first aid to the victim until relieved by paramedics, who ultimately called for PHI Air Medical Services to air transport the victim to a local hospital.

The victim underwent surgery shortly after the shooting and is expected to survive.

No suspect information or motive is available at this point.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in it is encouraged to call Detective Curtis Hankins at 209-525-7042.

Man arrested on marijuana sales and resisting charges after running from traffic stop Monday morning

On Monday, March 13th, 2023, at 10:43 am, a Turlock Police officer southbound State Route 99 near the Turlock Rest Area, Turlock, observed a man driving a vehicle with expired registration, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s two occupants, including passenger Jose Escalante, 26, of Texas.

When the officer questioned the driver about the contents of his vehicle, Escalante immediately got out of the vehicle and ran westbound off the freeway.

Escalante made his way up and down properties on E Greenway Ave, being monitored by assisting officers who were unable to access him due to fencing and such. An officer with a police drone also arrived and assisted.

After a short while, a sergeant was able to get to Escalante and apprehend him without further incident.

Back at the traffic stop, a search of the vehicle was conducted which led to the discovery of approximately 30 pounds of marijuana. The investigation revealed that the marijuana belonged to Escalante.

Escalante was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of cannabis for sale and obstructing or resisting a public officer.

An interesting fact to note is that possession of cannabis for sale is a misdemeanor. Escalante would have likely been released on a citation if arrested for it, however, his decision to run earned him a trip to jail.

Man robbed of car keys by couple after attempting to rent them motel room Monday morning

On Monday, March 13th, 2023, at 7:35 am, the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to a reported armed robbery that had just occurred at the intersection of E Greenway Ave and Golf Rd, Turlock.

When deputies arrived on scene, they contacted the victim who told them that he had been following a couple he had just met a few hours prior to a motel in Livingston to help them rent a room.

While on the way, the couple randomly pulled over on E Greenway Ave just west of Golf Rd, and exited their vehicle. They then approached the victim, pointed a gun at him, and demanded he empty his pockets. The woman then attempted to steal the victim’s vehicle, however, he was able to fight her away. The victim was able to get his money and phone back, however, the woman was still able to make off on foot with some other miscellaneous property, including the victim’s car keys.

The remaining suspect fled in the vehicle the couple had originally been in, simply described to be light-colored and foreign-made.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Sex offender out of compliance arrested with paraphernalia while trespassing Monday morning

On Monday, March 13th, 2023, at 7:27 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported city ordinance violation at Aspiranet, 440 E Canal Dr, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with a man who identified himself as Timothy Brace, 41, of Clovis.

During the course of the investigation, officers determined that Brace was a sex offender out of compliance, was in possession of drug paraphernalia, and was trespassing.

Brace was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of failure to register as a sex offender, possession of drug paraphernalia, and trespassing.

Man arrested on drug sale and impersonation charges during traffic stop early Sunday morning

On Sunday, March 12th, 2023, at 12:46 am, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of Lander Ave and Bernell Ave, Turlock, observed a man driving a vehicle with expired registration, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with the man and was given a name and date of birth, however, the officer became suspicious and believed that he had been lied to. When the officer gave his dispatcher the name and date of birth, there was no record on file for it, however, a similar record returned with a slightly different date of birth.

A second officer then arrived on scene and was able to identify the man as Keith Hobbs, 47, of Turlock, who he had previously dealt with.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Hobbs, he discovered that he had a suspended driver’s license due to DUI drugs.

Hobbs was arrested and a search of his vehicle was conducted incident to arrest. During the search, large amounts of narcotics and marijuana were located, all individually packaged appearing to be for sale.

Hobbs was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of a controlled substance for sale, false personation, selling or transporting cannabis, and driving with a suspended driver’s license due to DUI.

Teens fire off shot in hardware store parking lot Saturday evening

On Saturday, March 11th, 2023, at 7:29 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to reported shots fired at Ace Hardware, 3051 Geer Rd, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they found a handgun casing laying in the middle of the parking lot.

Employee witnesses reported hearing the shot and then seeing five teens running away from the area toward Regis St. Officers reviewed surveillance camera video which showed one of the teens fire off a handgun, possibly toward a vehicle, however, no victims came forward.

Minutes later, at 7:37 pm, an officer near the intersection of Andre Ln and Curt Ct spotted a group of five teens and made contact with them. The group stated that they were walking to a party and another officer was able to confirm that a party was indeed going on. They were determined to be uninvolved.

A short time later, at 8:01 pm, a different officer near the intersection of W Tuolumne Rd and Cottage Park Ln spotted a second group of five teens and attempted to make contact with them. The group took off running from the officer and split off in different directions, beginning to hop fences into backyards. A perimeter was set up and the area was checked with a police drone, however, officers were unable to locate anyone and eventually broke down the perimeter.

Two arrested on warrants after disturbance at memorial park Saturday afternoon

On Saturday, March 11th, 2023, at 2:07 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported disturbance at Turlock Memorial Park, 425 N Soderquist Rd, Turlock, involving seven subjects.

When officers arrived on scene, they made contact with and identified the seven subjects.

When officers had their dispatcher run the seven, they discovered that two of them, Kiera Scheele, 22, of Modesto, and Steve Gonzales, 31, of Modesto, had warrants. Scheele had a misdemeanor bench warrant out of Modesto for driving under the influence of alcohol, driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or greater, and possession of a controlled substance, while Gonzales had a no-bail felony bench warrant out of Modesto for burglary and a $15,550 misdemeanor bench warrant out of Stanislaus County for driving with a suspended driver’s license.

Both Scheele and Gonzales were arrested on their warrants. Scheele was released on a citation, while Gonzales was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center.

Man arrested on weapon charge after crashing car with suspended license and no insurance Friday afternoon

On Friday, March 10th, 2023, at 3:50 pm, the Turlock Police Department, Turlock Fire Department, and American Medical Response were dispatched to a reported vehicle collision with unknown injuries at the intersection of S Orange St and Vermont Ave, Turlock.

When crews arrived on scene, they found two vehicles. The first was a white 2005 Honda Accord and the second was a red 2016 Dodge Challenger.

No one suffered any injuries, however, the driver of the red Challenger, Salvador Millan, 28, of Turlock, was discovered to have a suspended driver’s license and no proof of insurance.

Millan was arrested and found to be in possession of metal knuckles.

Millan was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of metal knuckles, failure to provide evidence of financial responsibility to a peace officer, and driving with a suspended driver’s license due to DUI.

It’s currently unknown how the collision occurred.

Suspect fails at attempting to burn down Turlock Senior Center early Sunday morning

On Sunday, March 12th, 2023, at 1:39 am, the Turlock Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire at the Turlock Senior Center, 1191 Cahill Ave, Turlock.

When firefighters arrived on scene, they found a small debris pile burning against the building, charring the exterior wall and causing it to turn black. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and prevented it from doing any interior damage to the building.

Upon further inspecting the property, firefighters located a second debris pile that had been on fire at one point up against a different side of the building. The pile and circumstances were identical to the first, indicating that both fires had been intentionally set and were likely meant to burn the building down.

The Turlock Police Department and Stanislaus Regional Fire Investigations Unit responded to investigate.

An officer checked the area for any possible suspects, however, was unable to locate any.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in it is encouraged to call the Stanislaus Regional Fire Investigations Unit at 209-525-5537.

Man arrested after being found passed out behind the wheel feet away from railroad tracks with open alcohol container early Saturday morning

On Saturday, March 11th, 2023, at 2:03 am, an off-duty Turlock Police canine handler near the intersection of W Canal Dr and N First St, Turlock, was driving home with his canine in his marked patrol vehicle when he came across a driver passed out behind the wheel just feet away from railroad tracks.

The officer got out with the driver, noticed he was holding an open alcohol container, and requested that on-duty officers respond.

On-duty officers arrived and blocked the man’s vehicle with their patrol vehicles to prevent him from driving onto the railroad tracks if his foot were to slip off the brake. They then woke the man up and identified him as Oliver Thompson, 25, of Turlock.

Thompson was asked to participate in standardized field sobriety tests and to blow into a preliminary alcohol screening device, however, he refused.

Based on the totality of the circumstances, officers determined that Thompson was under the influence of alcohol.

Thompson was arrested and refused to provide a chemical sample as required by California’s implied consent law, so he was transported to a local hospital where a blood sample was forcefully drawn after a search warrant was obtained.

Afterward, Thompson was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of driving under the influence of alcohol. Additionally, he was issued an administrative driver’s license suspension order by the California Department of Motor Vehicles and his vehicle was impounded.

Man with grand theft warrant arrested and found to have narcotics Friday night

On Friday, March 10th, 2023, at 10:43 pm, a Turlock Police officer near a residence in the 200 block of W Minnesota Ave, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the driver as Antonio Ramos, 28, of Montana.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Ramos, he discovered that he had a $10,000 felony Ramey warrant for grand theft and forgery.

Ramos was arrested and a search of his vehicle was conducted incident to arrest. During the search, the officer came across narcotics.

Ramos was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of methamphetamines and possession of a controlled substance, as well as his warrant.

Parolee arrested while under the influence Friday night

On Friday, March 10th, 2023, at 9:38 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported suspicious person at QuikStop, 1260 Geer Rd, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with Spencer Silva, 28, of Turlock, who they knew to be on parole for assault by a deadly weapon other than a firearm.

Silva was obviously under the influence of narcotics, so he was arrested.

Officers then called Silva’s parole agent and reported to him what had occurred. The agent found that there was probable cause a violation of parole had occurred, so he authorized that Silva be placed on a hold while awaiting a parole revocation hearing.

Silva was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of using or being under the influence of a controlled substance and violation of parole.

Woman arrested on two felony warrants Thursday morning

On Thursday, March 9th, 2023, at 10:17 am, Turlock Police investigators arrived at Travelodge, 201 W Glenwood Ave, Turlock, to conduct follow-up investigation.

During the investigation, investigators contacted April Croy, 33, of Turlock, and determined that she had two local felony bench warrants. The first was a $50,500 one for robbery and the second was a $55,500 one for possession of metal knuckles.

Croy was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on her warrants.

Suspect fails at attempting to burglarize gun store early Friday morning

On Friday, March 10th, 2023, at 2:02 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a burglary alarm at Alquist Arms, 1400 Freitas Park, Turlock.

The alarm activation indicated that the front door’s glass had been broken and officers found just that upon their arrival.

Officers began investigating, determining that the door led into a vestibule and that access was not able to be made through the second door where the sales floor is.

Two subjects in a nearby vehicle were temporarily detained during the investigation, however, they were eventually released due to a lack of evidence that supported they were involved in the incident.

Officers stood by and waited for a keyholder to respond from a neighboring county to secure the business.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in it is encouraged to call Officer Gregory Roton at 209-668-6536.

Man wanted for robbery arrested after being recognized by officer Thursday night

On Thursday, March 9th, 2023, at 11:59 pm, a Turlock Police officer near Verizon Wireless, 3202 W Monte Vista Ave, Turlock, got out with a man who he recognized as a wanted person from a robbery that had occurred on Saturday, February 11th, in the 2800 block of Countryside Dr.

The officer had his dispatcher run the man, Karl Zamora, 37, of Turlock, and it was confirmed that he was still wanted.

Zamora was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of robbery.

UPDATE: Suspect from November 2022 Chevron ExtraMile armed robbery arrested Tuesday evening

On Tuesday, March 7th, 2023, at 5:39 pm, Turlock Police detectives arrived at the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center to conduct follow-up investigation in the armed robbery that had occurred on Wednesday, November 23rd, 2022, at Chevron ExtraMile, 100 E Glenwood Ave, Turlock.

A few days prior, officers had arrested Luis Torres, 21, of El Nido, on weapon charges and a warrant during an unrelated traffic stop. We previously covered the arrest.

Torres was still in custody and he was interviewed about the armed robbery.

Eventually, detectives rearrested and rebooked Torres on charges of robbery and threatening to commit a crime which will result in death or great bodily injury to another person.

“I applaud our staff for their determination and the hard work they continue to demonstrate,” said Turlock Police Captain Miguel Pacheco. “Our staff is committed to solving these types of violent crimes and holding criminals accountable for their actions. The goal of the Turlock Police Department is to keep our community safe,” he continued.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in it is encouraged to call Detective Raul Garcia at 209-664-7314.

Luis Torres

Repeat trespasser arrested on warrants after lighting fire Friday night

On Friday, March 10th, 2023, at 8:25 pm, the Turlock Fire Department was dispatched to a reported fire at an abandoned residence in the 1500 block of Lander Ave, Turlock.

When firefighters arrived on scene, they found light smoke coming from the chimney. They made entry and found a small fire contained to the fireplace, as well as a man who immediately walked out and began walking northbound on Lander Ave.

Firefighters quickly put the fire out and the fire battalion chief followed the man, providing dispatch location updates, and ultimately leading to officers contacting him in the Dollar General Market parking lot.

The man was identified as Cecil McMillan, 31, of Winton, someone who has been arrested for trespassing in the same house countless times during the course of the past few months.

Because the only crimes committed were misdemeanors and they were not in the presence of officers, they were unable to make an arrest for any fresh charges, however, it was discovered that McMillan had two local misdemeanor bench warrants for trespassing. The first was a $1,500 one and the second was a $2,050 one.

McMillan was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrants.

Woman arrested after stomping on, dragging, and punching dog Thursday morning

On Thursday, March 9th, 2023, at 10:23 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported animal abuse in progress at Mister Car Wash, 487 N Golden State Blvd, Turlock, after a woman had been seen stomping on, dragging, and punching her chocolate-colored labrador dog.

When officers arrived on scene, they found a woman later identified as Shawnaice Azevedo, 37, of Turlock, sitting on the bus stop in front of the business with the dog. An animal control officer also arrived and found a fresh laceration on the dog.

Azevedo was asked to identify herself and she gave someone else’s name. Dispatch was able to find history with the person Azevedo claimed to be, however, the date of birth she gave didn’t match. A sergeant who had previously dealt with who Azevedo claimed to be then arrived and said that that wasn’t her.

Azevedo finally admitted to who she really was and it was discovered that she had a $100,500 local felony bench warrant for assault with a deadly weapon other than a firearm.

Azevedo was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of animal abuse or endangerment, false personation, and falsely identifying to a peace officer, as well as her warrant.

The dog was impounded.

Man on probation for forgery arrested after attempting to cash fraudulent check Wednesday afternoon

On Wednesday, March 8th, 2023, at 12:50 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported fraud in progress at U.S. Bank, 427 E Olive Ave, Turlock, where a man was attempting to cash a fraudulent check of over $3,000 that appeared to be a photocopy.

Employees attempted to stall the man, however, he eventually left through the back door of the business and got into the passenger seat of a white Ford Expedition being driven by a woman. The caller was able to obtain the first two digits of the vehicle’s license plate and an on-duty police captain in an unmarked vehicle spotted it as it was driving northbound on N Golden State Blvd.

The captain followed the vehicle until patrol officers were able to catch up to it and stop it in the 99 Cents Only Store parking lot.

The man was contacted in the vehicle and identified as Elias Herrera, 26, of Modesto. A bank employee was able to positively identify Herrera without having to respond to the stop due to Herrera giving them his identification card when attempting to cash the check.

Throughout the course of the investigation, it was determined that Herrera had successfully cashed another fraudulent check of over $3,000 at the same branch on Monday, February 27th and that he was on probation for forgery.

Herrera was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of forgery.

The woman who was driving Herrera was released, however, follow-up will be conducted for possible conspiracy charges.

Cold-plated vehicle called in as dangerous driver leads officer on pursuit Wednesday afternoon

On Wednesday, March 8th, 2023, at 4:36 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported dangerous driver near the intersection of Geer Rd and W Monte Vista Ave, Turlock, who was running red lights and passing in the turn lane.

As an officer was looking for the vehicle, he located it and attempted to make a traffic stop on it near the intersection of E Canal Dr and N Palm St.

The driver of the vehicle took off from the officer, driving through a neighborhood and eventually leaving the city southbound on S Golden State Blvd. The officer chased the vehicle up to Griffith Rd, where he eventually lost it as it either turned onto Griffith Rd or merged onto southbound State Route 99.

The pursuit lasted about three minutes and covered a total distance of about four miles.

The license plate on the vehicle was later determined to not belong to it.

Nine-year-old stabbed by older brother after argument Tuesday afternoon

On Tuesday, March 7th, 2023, at 3:27 pm, the Turlock Police Department, Turlock Fire Department, and American Medical Response were dispatched to a reported aggravated assault that had just occurred at an apartment complex at 777 Chestnut St, Turlock.

When crews arrived on scene, they found a nine-year-old child sitting in the front yard that had been stabbed by his ten-year-old brother after an argument over unknown reasons. The stab wound was determined to be non-life-threatening and superficial. The victim was ground transported by American Medical Response to a local hospital.

Due to current state law, the age of the suspect and nature of the crime prevented officers from making an arrest.

The Stanislaus County Community Services Agency’s Child & Family Services Division was made aware of the incident so that they could conduct follow-up.

Man arrested after attempting to burglarize TID truck Monday afternoon

On Monday, March 6th, 2023, at 12:02 pm, Turlock Police officers arrived at a residence in the 1400 block of Cahill Ave, Turlock, to conduct follow-up in an attempted burglary investigation.

At 6:55 am the same morning, a man had been seen using a crowbar or similar object to attempt to pry open a side storage compartment of a Turlock Irrigation District truck. When the man was confronted, he got into a vehicle parked across the street and fled the area in it. The license plate of the vehicle was obtained and history showed that Dustin Degetaire, 25, of Turlock, had previously been arrested in the vehicle.

Officers found Degetaire in the driveway of his residence and he was detained. He was determined to be on searchable probation, so a probation search was conducted. During the search, officers located a crowbar and clothing similar to what the attempted burglary suspect had, as well as methamphetamines.

Degetaire was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of attempted burglary, possession of methamphetamines, and possession of burglary tools.

Woman arrested after putting hole in neighbor’s door and throwing pipe at another neighbor’s window Sunday afternoon

On Sunday, March 5th, 2023, at 2:55 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported suspicious person at a residence in the 1300 block of Violet Way, Turlock, after the caller had thought that a woman who had asked her to charge her phone was trying to scam her somehow.

The caller stated that she did not want to give the woman her phone back until officers arrived and while waiting for them, the woman decided to put a hole in the caller’s door. The woman then returned to her own home on the same block and decided to light a small fire in her own front yard and throw a pipe at her neighbor’s window.

By the time officers arrived on scene, the woman had retreated back into her home and was refusing to come out, however, was able to be identified as Cleotilde Diaz, 49, of Turlock.

Officers eventually gave up on trying to get Diaz out of her home and left, however, were called back out a short time later after Diaz had been seen outside again.

Officers arrived and found Diaz, arresting her.

Diaz was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of vandalism and attempting to deter or resist an executive officer in the performance of their duty by means of threat or violence.

Man arrested after being found with stolen property during suspicious person contact early Friday morning

On Friday, March 3rd, 2023, at 1:45 am, a Stanislaus State Police officer near the intersection of Rochelle Ave and Danny Ave, Turlock, noticed and got out with a suspicious person.

The officer’s investigation led him to believe that the man, whose identity we currently don’t know, was in possession of property that had been taken in a vehicle burglary that had occurred a short time prior in the 2000 block of Dels Ln. The officer made contact with the vehicle’s owner and confirmed his suspicions.

The man was arrested and released on a citation on charges of buying or receiving stolen property and possession of methamphetamines.

Woman with robbery warrant arrested after being recognized by officer six months later Saturday morning

On Saturday, March 4th, 2023, at 10:15 am, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of Andre Ln and W Minnesota Ave, Turlock, recognized and got out with a woman who was the suspect in a robbery he had taken six months prior.

The officer had his dispatcher run the woman, Michelle Kumar, 36, of Modesto, and it was confirmed that she still had a warrant for the incident, a $50,000 local felony warrant of arrest for robbery. She also had two additional misdemeanor bench warrants out of Modesto, the first being a $3,000 one for theft and possession of drug paraphernalia, and the second being a $55,555 one for contempt of court.

The robbery occurred the night of Monday, September 19th, 2022, at Walgreens, 1591 Geer Rd. Kumar was shoplifting from the business and pushed an employee out of her way as she was fleeing with unpaid merchandise, upgrading misdemeanor shoplifting to felony robbery. One of the responding officers was able to identify Kumar as the suspect which is how the warrant was issued.

Kumar was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on her warrants.

Man with warrant for robbery arrested during traffic stop Friday night

On Friday, March 3rd, 2023, at 11:09 pm, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of W Linwood Ave and W Glenwood Ave, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s driver as Edward Alderson, 26, of Modesto.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Alderson, he discovered that he had a $50,000 felony Ramey warrant out of Stanislaus County for robbery.

Alderson was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrant.

Parolee-at-large riding bicycle arrested after being recognized by officer early Friday morning

On Friday, March 3rd, 2023, at 2:23 am, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of Geer Rd and Twentieth Century Blvd, Turlock, noticed a man riding a bicycle which he recognized as a parolee-at-large, so he made a bicycle stop on him.

The officer made contact with and detained Spencer Silva, 28, of Turlock, for his investigation.

The officer then called a parole agent who verified Silva’s parolee-at-large status.

Silva was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of violation of parole.

Parolee-at-large arrested with two guns during traffic stop Thursday night

On Thursday, March 2nd, 2023, at 9:25 pm, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of S Golden State Blvd and E Main St, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s four occupants, including passengers Marcos Perez, 18, of Turlock, and Luis Torres, 21, of El Nido.

When the officer had his dispatcher run the vehicle’s four occupants, he discovered that the driver was on post release community supervision, so he removed everyone from the vehicle to conduct a PRCS search. During the search, two handguns were located underneath a seat.

Information gathered during the investigation led to Perez and Torres being linked to the guns. They were both arrested.

After Torres was arrested, it was discovered that he had a no-bail felony bench warrant out of Merced County for violation of parole. The delay in the discovery was caused by a human miscommunication error during the identification process.

Perez and Torres were both booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center, Perez on the charge of carrying a concealed firearm and Torres on charges of possession of a controlled substance while armed, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon or person addicted to a narcotic, possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, carrying a concealed firearm, and violation of parole, as well as his warrant.

Drunk driver riding around with eight-year-old girl and drunk friend kicks officer after being arrested Thursday night

On Thursday, March 2nd, 2023, at 9:18 pm, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of W Olive Ave and Grant Ave, Turlock, observed a woman driving an unsafe vehicle with expired registration, so he made a traffic stop on her.

The officer made contact with and identified the woman, Adriana Perez, 25, of Ceres, as well as her passenger, Jennifer Vega, 30, of Turlock. Also in the vehicle was an eight-year-old girl.

While speaking with Perez, the officer noticed that she was exhibiting objective symptoms of being under the influence, so he removed her from her vehicle and asked her if she would be willing to participate in standardized field sobriety tests. Perez agreed and completed the first test, however, became belligerent when she noticed another officer attempting to control Vega, her passenger, who was becoming passively resistive.

Based on the totality of the circumstances, officers determined that Perez was under the influence of alcohol, so she was arrested. Vega was also arrested due her behavior and level of intoxication.

When officers attempted to place Perez in one of their patrol vehicles, she began to resist and kicked an officer several times.

Perez eventually calmed down and provided two breath samples at the scene as required by California’s implied consent law. The breath samples revealed that Perez had a blood alcohol content of .08% or greater.

Perez and Vega were both booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center, Perez on charges of child abuse or endangerment under circumstances likely to produce great bodily harm or death, bringing or sending an alcoholic beverage or non-controlled substance or paraphernalia for such into a jail or prison, attempting to deter or resist an executive officer in the performance of their duty by means of threat or violence, driving under the influence of alcohol, and driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or greater, and Vega on the charge of public intoxication. Perez was also issued an administrative driver’s license suspension order by the California Department of Motor Vehicles and her vehicle was impounded.

The eight-year-old girl was comforted by an officer on scene and then transported to the Turlock Police Department where she was picked up by her grandmother.

UPDATE: Suspect from January 15th downtown homicide arrested Wednesday evening

On Wednesday, March 1st, 2023, at 7:13 pm, Turlock Police detectives and investigators in Los Banos were conducting follow-up on the homicide that had occurred on Sunday, January 15th, behind The Udder Place, 110 W Main St, Turlock, when they came across their suspect.

With the assistance of the Los Banos Police Department, Alejandro Ortuno, 23, of Los Banos, was stopped in the 1200 block of W I St and arrested.

Ortuno was transported to the Turlock Police Department where he was interviewed about the incident. Afterward, he was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on a no-bail felony Ramey warrant for murder.

With the assistance of the Merced County Sheriff’s Office Special Weapons and Tactics Team, Turlock Police detectives and investigators then searched two Los Banos homes in the 200 block of Wisteria Ave and 2300 block of Rock Creek Dr for evidence in the investigation.

“I’m proud of the work our investigative teams put into this investigation,” said Turlock Police Sergeant Victor Barcelos. “Our team is continuing to work on this investigation, and other recent crimes, to bring those responsible to justice,” he continued.

“Our sympathy goes out to the victim’s family, and we hope the arrest of Ortuno starts to bring some sense of closure as they continue to mourn the loss of Robert,” said Turlock Police Detective Raul Garcia, whose in charge of the case

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in it is encouraged to call Detective Raul Garcia at 209-664-7314.

Alejandro Ortuno

Man runs from officer and leaves woman behind with metal knuckles early Thursday morning

On Thursday, March 2nd, 2023, at 3:03 am, a Turlock Police officer near a residence in the 400 block of Julian St, Turlock, got out with a suspicious vehicle occupied by two.

The man sitting in the vehicle’s driver seat immediately exited and took off running from the officer, leaving a woman in his passenger seat behind.

The officer stayed with the woman, later identified as Patricia Nieves, 40, of Turlock, while assisting officers began checking the area for the man who had ran.

Assisting officers set up a perimeter and began searching the area with a drone, however, were unsuccessful in their efforts.

Back at the vehicle, Nieves was found to be in possession of metal knuckles, so she was arrested.

Nieves was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of possession of metal knuckles.

Man with warrant for attempted robbery arrested after battering someone and breaking window early Thursday morning

On Thursday, March 2nd, 2023, at 12:03 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported disturbance in progress at a residence in the 700 block of N Soderquist Rd, Turlock, where two drunk men were attempting to get back into a home that they had just been kicked out of.

While officers were responding, one of the two men battered someone and broke a window. The two then began walking away from the scene before being contacted by officers on Chestnut St a few minutes later.

The two were identified, including Ismael Farias, 20, of Turlock. Farias had cuts to his arm because he was the one who had broken the window, so American Medical Response was requested. Farias refused transport to the hospital, so he was treated on scene.

Afterward, officers had their dispatcher run Farias and they discovered that he had a $50,000 local felony Ramey warrant for attempted robbery and conspiracy.

Farias was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of battery and vandalism, as well as his warrant.

The other man who Farias was with had not committed any crimes besides public intoxication, so he was given a courtesy ride to an address of his choosing to get him off the streets until he sobered up.

Man present at sideshow event with child arrested after ghost gun found in vehicle Wednesday night

On Wednesday, March 1st, 2023, at 9:58 pm, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of Fulkerth Rd and Fransil Ln, Turlock, observed a man driving a vehicle with several equipment violations, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s driver as Anthony Griffin, 25, of Turlock.

Just before the stop, Griffin was present at a sideshow event down the street and had a Killing Cali Streets sticker on his rear windshield, the most active sideshow group in Turlock.

The officer decided that he was going to tow Griffin’s vehicle, so he conducted an inventory search of it prior. During the search, the officer located a loaded and unserialized handgun, commonly referred to as a ghost gun, behind Griffin’s seat, easily accessible to and right next to his six-year-old child.

Griffin was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of an undetectable firearm, carrying a concealed firearm, and child abuse or endangerment under circumstances likely to produce great bodily harm or death.

Griffin’s child was picked up by someone Griffin called and the Stanislaus County Community Services Agency’s Child & Family Services Division was notified of the incident.

Man arrested on two misdemeanor warrants during traffic stop early Wednesday morning

On Wednesday, March 1st, 2023, at 2:00 am, a Turlock Police officer near the 300 block of Twentieth Century Blvd, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s two occupants, including passenger Mace Burgess, 59, of Turlock.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Burgess, he discovered that he had two $25,500 misdemeanor bench warrants. The first one was for theft while the second one was for possession of methamphetamines and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Burgess was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrants.

Man on PRCS arrested after being found with pepper spray and narcotics Tuesday morning

On Tuesday, February 28th, 2023, at 8:11 am, the Turlock Police Department, Turlock Fire Department, and American Medical Response were dispatched to a security check at Petco, 2687 Countryside Dr, Turlock, after a man had been seen passed out behind the wheel of an improperly parked vehicle in the parking lot.

Officers arrived on scene first and contacted the man, who identified himself as Johnathon Richey, 29, of Hughson, and had drug paraphernalia in plain view. Richey denied medical, so the Turlock Fire Department and American Medical Response were canceled.

When officers had their dispatcher run Richey, they discovered that he was on post release community supervision for possession of methamphetamines for sale, driving or taking a vehicle without the consent of its owner, attempted carjacking, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon or person addicted to a narcotic.

Officers conducted a PRCS search of Richey’s vehicle and came across pepper spray, which he is prohibited from possessing due to his convicted felon status. A search of Richey’s person was then conducted which revealed that he was in possession of a controlled substance.

Richey was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of a tear gas weapon by a convicted felon or person convicted of an assault crime, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, and violation of post release community supervision.

Man with warrants arrested after yelling profanities at police Saturday evening

On Saturday, February 25th, 2023, at 5:24 pm, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of W Main St and Lander Ave, Turlock, was sitting in his vehicle when a man walked up to him and began yelling profanities.

The officer immediately recognized the man as Michael Pianta, 40, of Turlock, who he knew from previous contacts. The officer got out with Pianta and he began walking away eastbound on Market St.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Pianta, he discovered that he had three local misdemeanor bench warrants. The first one was a $1,000 one for causing a public nuisance, the second one was a $1,000 one for trespassing, and the third one was a $5,500 one for trespassing and failure to appear.

The officer caught back up with Pianta down the street and arrested him.

Pianta was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrants.

Man wanted after committing bank robbery Saturday morning

On Saturday, February 25th, 2023, at 10:22 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported bank robbery that had just occurred at PNC Bank, 1955 Geer Rd, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they contacted employees who told them that a man had entered the bank and walked up to a teller demanding money, standing that it was a robbery. The teller provided the man an undisclosed amount of cash before he exited and fled the area on foot westbound on Pedras Rd.

The suspect was described as either a light-complexion Black or Hispanic male. He was last seen wearing a black beanie, blue surgical mask, gray hoodie, gray sweatpants, and gray shoes.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Man wanted for shoplifting incident arrested after attempting to flee officers Sunday night

On Sunday, February 26th, 2023, at 10:40 pm, Turlock Police officers arrived at a residence in the 2600 block of Porsche Strasse, Turlock, to arrest a wanted person.

Officers were looking for Henry Alfonso, 44, of Turlock, who lived at the residence. Alfonso was wanted for a shoplifting incident that had occurred at Dick’s Sporting Goods a few days prior as well as a no-bail misdemeanor bench warrant out of Manteca for theft and a $50,500 local felony bench warrant for identity theft.

When officers knocked on Alfonso’s front door, he immediately ran into his backyard and jumped his fence in an attempt to flee, however, was met by an officer who was waiting on the other side of the fence in case he did exactly that.

When Alfonso noticed the officer, he immediately retreated back into his backyard where he was confronted by the two officers who were originally knocking on his front door. Alfonso was arrested at gunpoint.

A search of Alfonso incident to arrest was conducted which led to the discovery of narcotics.

Officers then came across Billy Nix, 38, of Turlock, who they knew and recognized. When they had their dispatcher run him, they discovered that he had a misdemeanor bench warrant out of Tuolumne County for a traffic offense. He was arrested.

Alfonso was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of grand theft, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of methamphetamines, as well as his warrants, while Nix was released on a citation on his warrant.

Shots fired after suspected drug deal goes wrong Saturday night

On Saturday, February 25th, 2023, at 11:05 pm, the Turlock Police Department, Turlock Fire Department, and American Medical Response were dispatched to a reported assault with a firearm in progress in front of a residence in the 400 block of Locust St, Turlock.

While officers were responding, they were advised by their dispatchers that they were hearing shots being fired through the phone. They were then advised that an involved vehicle had been involved in a collision.

When officers arrived on scene, they found a black 2008 Lexus IS that had collided with a parked vehicle in the 100 block of Vermont Ave. The Lexus was still running and its rear wheels were actively spinning. The Turlock Fire Department arrived and secured the vehicle.

Based on shell casings located at the scene, officers believe that someone had fired several rounds toward the street from the front yard of a residence. Officers also believe that the incident was a drug deal that had gone wrong due to a large amount of marijuana being found in the Lexus.

Officers spoke to witnesses in the area who stated that they had seen three subjects running away from the vehicle eastbound on Vermont Ave just after the collision.

No injuries were reported.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in the investigation is encouraged to call Officer Benjaman Silva at 209-668-6528.

Drunk motorcyclist arrested after crashing and causing injury Saturday night

On Saturday, February 25th, 2023, at 10:12 pm, the Turlock Police Department, Turlock Fire Department, and American Medical Response were dispatched to a reported vehicle collision with injuries at the intersection of N Olive Ave and E Hawkeye Ave, Turlock.

When crews arrived on scene, they found two vehicles involved. The first was a 2021 Harley-Davidson Road Glide and the second was a 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class.

The Road Glide had a single rider, Kevin Vandewark, 49, of Turlock, and the GLA-Class had two occupants, a driver and his passenger. Vandewark only suffered minor injuries, and so did the passenger of the GLA-Class, who complained of pain in her side. The passenger of the GLA-Class was ground transported by American Medical Response to a local hospital.

Officers began speaking with Vandewark and noticed that he was exhibiting objective symptoms of being under the influence.

Based on the totality of the circumstances, officers determined that Vandewark was under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested.

Vandewark was transported to a local hospital where he was medically cleared. Afterward, he was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of driving under the influence of alcohol causing bodily injury to another person. He was also issued an administrative driver’s license suspension order by the California Department of Motor Vehicles and his vehicle was impounded.

It’s currently unknown how the collision occurred.

Seven burglarize veterinary research business Friday night

On Friday, February 24th, 2023, at 10:45 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported commercial burglary in progress at Young Veterinary Research Services, 3000 Spengler Way, Turlock, after seven subjects had been seen making entry into the business through a live surveillance camera feed.

When officers arrived on scene, they found that the front glass door of the business had been shattered.

Officers entered the building and searched it for the seven subjects, however, found that they had already left.

Surveillance video was reviewed which showed the subjects arriving at the business in two separate vehicles at about 10:30 pm. The first vehicle was a dark-colored SUV or minivan, possibly a newer Ford Expedition, and the second was a light-colored sedan. The subjects then exited the two vehicles and forced entry into the building through the shattered glass door that officers had found. After only a short time of being inside, surveillance video showed the subjects exiting the building and fleeing in their respective vehicles.

If identified, all seven subjects face charges of burglary and conspiracy.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Man arrested after interfering with officers on unrelated stop and resisting Wednesday afternoon

On Wednesday, February 22nd, 2023, at 1:27 pm, Turlock Police officers were conducting a stop in the 100 block of Almond Ave, Turlock, and preparing to issue a citation, when they were approached by a man who began recording them.

The officers originally had no issue with the man, later identified as Radni Ghafoori, 51, of Turlock, exercising his constitutional right to record police activity, however, Ghafoori eventually put himself in a position extremely close to the stop. Ghafoori’s proximity to the stop caused interference and officers had to shift their attention from it to Ghafoori.

Officers decided to detain Ghafoori in handcuffs and he began to resist them while they were doing so.

Eventually, Ghafoori was arrested and released on a citation on the charge of obstructing or resisting a public officer in the discharge of their duty.

Serial shoplifter arrested on 26 warrants Tuesday afternoon

On Tuesday, February 21st, 2023, at 12:46 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported shoplift in progress at The Home Depot, 2800 Countryside Dr, Turlock, after a known shoplifter had been spotted by a loss prevention officer inside the business selecting merchandise.

While officers were responding, the suspect, Ricky Agundez, 42, of Turlock, discarded the merchandise he had selected and exited the business. He then got into a vehicle being driven by a female accomplice and they took off northbound through the parking lot.

An officer then arrived and was flagged down by the loss prevention officer who pointed out the vehicle Agundez was in as it was in front of Target.

The officer quickly caught up to the vehicle and made a traffic stop on it based on the reasonable suspicion he had that Agundez was in it and knowing that he had warrants.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s driver, while also confirming that Agundez was in it.

The officer had his dispatcher run the two, and sure enough, Agundez returned with three felony no-bail bench warrants and 23 misdemeanor bench warrants or warrants of arrest. 22 warrants were from various agencies from here within Stanislaus County, while four were from various Bay Area agencies. The charges within the warrants included grand theft, forgery, shoplifting, possession of burglary tools, attempted burglary, and petty theft.

Agundez was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrants, while his female accomplice was released after it was determined that she had not committed any crimes.

Agundez is a well-known shoplifter by the Turlock Police Department and other various agencies within the area. A majority of the things that Agundez steals end up online for sale, typically on the website OfferUp. Since April 2021, he has made 10 different sales on the website and currently has advertisements up for brand-new never-opened items on sale for prices significantly less than retail value.

Agundez managing to rack up 26 warrants is a perfect example of California’s politics causing a failing justice system. The cases Agundez’s warrants stem from go all the way back to January 2020, however, he has yet to be convicted and sentenced for his crimes and continues to be released on his own recognizance. At least this time Agundez has three no-bail warrants and his next court date is set for May, which will give him some time in jail.

Proposition 47 was passed by California voters in 2014 after it was strategically masked by the extremely misleading name, “The Safe Neighborhoods and Schools Act.”

Prior to Prop 47, any person who entered a business with the intent to steal was committing second-degree burglary, a felony punishable by up to three years in state prison. Prop 47 made shoplifting its own crime, only punishable by up to six months in county jail, although even that is extremely rare.

Prop 47 also turned drug possession offenses into straight misdemeanors rather than wobblers and upped the grand theft threshold to $950 from $450.

Recently, Assembly Bill 335 was introduced by California Assembly Member Juan Alanis. Alanis is a recently retired Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Sergeant and represents California’s newly reorganized 22nd Assembly District, which includes Turlock, some other parts of Stanislaus County, and parts of Merced County. AB335 repeals Prop 47 in its entirety, with the exception of marijuana-related offenses.

AB335 will be heard by the California State Assembly Committee on Public Safety on Tuesday, March 7th, at 9:00 am. To show your support for it, you can submit a position letter to the committee by visiting https://calegislation.lc.ca.gov/Advocates/.

Two arrested on warrants during traffic stop early Wednesday morning

On Wednesday, February 22nd, 2023, at 1:46 am, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of S Tegner Rd and W Linwood Ave, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s two occupants, driver Jesus Arteaga, 42, of Turlock and passenger David Cadwalader, 43, of Modesto.

When the officer had his dispatcher run the two, he discovered that Arteaga had a no-bail felony warrant out of Santa Clara County for violation of post release community supervision, while Cadwalader had a $5,000 misdemeanor warrant out of Modesto for possession of drug paraphernalia, driving with a suspended driver’s license, and possession of methamphetamines.

Both Arteaga and Cadwalader were arrested on their warrants. Arteaga was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center, while Cadwalader was released on a citation. Additionally, Arteaga’s vehicle was impounded.

Man arrested on five misdemeanor warrants during traffic stop early Tuesday morning

On Tuesday, February 21st, 2023, at 2:44 am, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of W Hawkeye Ave and N Golden State Blvd, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and asked the vehicle’s driver, Miguel Hernandez, 27, of Palm Springs, to identify himself. Hernandez gave an alias.

When the officer had his dispatcher run the alias Hernandez had given, she was unable to locate a driver’s license record, however, found history with that alias being used in the past. The dispatcher found Hernandez’s real name and discovered that he had five misdemeanor bench warrants. The first one was a $2,025 one for driving with a suspended driver’s license, the second one was a $25,555 one for domestic violence inflicting corporal injury, the third one was a $25,555 one for driving with a suspended driver’s license, the fourth one was a $25,555 one for possession of a controlled substance, and the fifth one was a $1,020 one for driving with a suspended driver’s license.

Hernandez was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrants. Additionally, his vehicle was impounded.

The Infamous Kando arrested after handing stolen vehicle keys to owner and walking off Sunday evening 

On Sunday, February 19th, 2023, at 5:57 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported stolen vehicle recovery at Target, 3000 Countryside Dr, Turlock.

While officers were responding, they received information that the suspect was the one and only well-known Donald Kando, 43, of Turlock. The victim personally knew Kando and suspected that he had stolen their vehicle two days prior on Friday, February 17th, from the Western View Mobile Ranch located at 1400 N Tully Rd.

The victim had found their stolen vehicle in the Target parking lot and noticed Kando walking toward it. The victim confronted Kando and he handed over the keys and began walking away as if nothing had happened.

Officers quickly arrived in the area and located Kando still in the parking lot.

Kando was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of buying or receiving a stolen vehicle.

Kando had just recently been released from jail prior to this arrest.

Drunk driver crashes into pole and gets found with crystal meth early Monday morning

On Monday, February 20th, 2023, at 3:08 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported vehicle collision that had just occurred at the intersection of W Main St and N Tully Rd, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they found a single vehicle involved, a white Lexus RX, that had struck a traffic light pole.

The vehicle had a single occupant, driver Hung Chen, 49, of San Jose, who was still sitting in it. Chen did not suffer any injuries.

Officers began speaking with Chen and noticed that he was displaying objective symptoms of being under the influence of alcohol, so they asked him to participate in standardized field sobriety tests and blow into a preliminary alcohol screening device. Chen agreed and performed poorly.

Based on the totality of the circumstances, officers determined that Chen was under the influence of alcohol.

Chen was arrested and a search of his property incident to arrest was conducted. During the search, officers located a small baggy containing crystal meth.

Due to the new discovery, officers formed the belief that Chen was also under the influence of drugs, so he was transported to a local hospital to provide a blood sample as required by California’s implied consent law. Chen refused, so a search warrant was obtained and a blood sample was forcefully drawn.

Chen was medically cleared and then booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of driving under the combined influence of alcohol and drugs and possession of methamphetamines. Additionally, he was issued an administrative driver’s license suspension order by the California Department of Motor Vehicles and his vehicle was impounded.

Chen’s vehicle sustained moderate damage.

It’s currently unknown how the collision occurred, however, Chen stated that he was coming from Motel 6, which meant he was heading eastbound.

Drunk driver arrested after crashing into home and fleeing scene Saturday night

On Saturday, February 18th, 2023, at 11:20 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported hit-and-run vehicle collision that had just occurred in the 400 block of Vassar Ave, Turlock, where a pickup truck had left the roadway, drove up onto a lawn, and struck the front of a residence before fleeing the scene.

While officers were responding, the suspect vehicle description and its last known direction of travel were aired over the police radio. An uninvolved person at the intersection of Geer Rd and E Canal Dr listening to the police scanner spotted the suspect vehicle and began following it, calling dispatch and providing location updates.

The vehicle eventually pulled into an apartment complex in the 1500 block of Lander Ave and that information was relayed to responding officers. Officers arrived a few minutes later and found the vehicle in the back of the apartment complex after it had been involved in a second very low-speed rear-end type collision with a parked vehicle. Standing next to the vehicle were Jorge Vasquez, 19, of Turlock, and his female passenger. Vasquez was urinating.

Officers contacted the two and noticed that Vasquez was displaying objective symptoms of being under the influence. Vasquez became belligerent, so he was detained in handcuffs and placed in the back of a patrol vehicle.

Vasquez was given the opportunity to blow into a preliminary alcohol screening device and participate in a standardized field sobriety test. He blew extremely high and performed poorly on the test.

Based on the totality of the circumstances, officers determined that Vasquez was under the influence of alcohol.

Vasquez was arrested and provided two evidentiary breath samples at the scene as required by California’s implied consent law. The breath samples revealed that Vasquez had a blood alcohol content of .08% or greater.

During the first collision into the residence, Vasquez’s passenger suffered a minor non-life-threatening injury to her head. Neither Vasquez nor the people inside the residence suffered any injuries and both Vasquez’s vehicle and the residence sustained minor damage.

During the second collision into the parked vehicle, neither Vasquez nor his passenger suffered any injuries and the parked vehicle was unoccupied. Both Vasquez’s vehicle and the parked vehicle sustained minor damage.

Vasquez was transported to a local hospital where he was medically cleared. Afterward, he was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol causing bodily injury to another person, driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or greater causing bodily injury to another person, and fleeing the scene of an accident resulting in injury or death to another person. He was also issued an administrative driver’s license suspension order by the California Department of Motor Vehicles and his vehicle was impounded.

Man leaving for work pistol-whipped early Friday morning

On Friday, February 17th, 2023, at 3:43 am, the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to a reported robbery that had just occurred at a residence in the 1100 block of Mae St, Turlock.

When deputies got on scene, they made contact with the victim who reported that he had been confronted and pistol-whipped in the head by an unknown man in the open carport area of his residence as he was leaving for work.

As a result of the incident, the victim suffered a bump to his head. He was checked out by American Medical Response, however, refused transport.

Deputies checked the area for the suspect, however, were unable to locate him.

No property had been taken, so the incident is going to be investigated as an assault rather than a robbery.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Backyard prowler arrested after climbing onto roofs early Tuesday morning

On Tuesday, February 21st, 2023, at 4:08 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported prowler at a residence in the 1300 block of Estrella Way, Turlock, who was in the backyard.

While officers were responding, they received a call from a resident in the 1300 block of W Springer Dr stating that the prowler was now in their backyard.

By the time officers arrived in the area, the prowler had already left, however, they were given a description of him. One of the officers checking the area spotted a man matching that description at the intersection of Crowell Rd and Shady Ln, so he attempted to make contact. When the man noticed the officer, he began running and jumping fences.

An officer who was already on scene launched his drone and located the man going between the backyards of two residences in the 1200 block of Shady Ln. Officers surrounded the yards and the man eventually began climbing onto rooftops.

After a few minutes, the man decided to give up and went down to officers. He was detained and identified as Lelynd Allen, 32, of Turlock.

The residents of the two homes that had originally reported prowlers in their backyards responded to where Allen was detained and both positively identified him as who they had seen.

Allen was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of loitering or prowling for the purpose of committing a crime, public intoxication, and obstructing or resisting a public officer in the discharge of their duty.

Armed man arrested after hour-long standoff with officers Thursday afternoon

On Thursday, February 16th, 2023, at 2:02 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported suspicious person near the intersection of N Denair Ave and Wayside Dr, Turlock, who was possibly carrying a handgun.

When officers arrived in the area, they found and made contact with a man later identified as Joseph Reina, 35, of Modesto, in the 900 block of N Mitchell Ave.

Officers gave Reina several lawful orders to drop everything he was holding his hands, however, he refused to comply. He was eventually surrounded by several additional officers and Stanislaus County Sheriff’s deputies.

Officers and deputies had a standoff with Reina which lasted about an hour and ended with Reina giving up and dropping everything, which included a handgun.

Reina was arrested without a use of force and the gun was recovered.

Reina was searched incident to arrest and officers located narcotics on his person.

Reina was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of a controlled substance while armed, carrying a concealed firearm, carrying a loaded firearm, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon or person addicted to a narcotic, possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, attempting to deter or resist an executive officer in the performance of their duty by means of threat or violence, falsely identifying to a peace officer, and possession of methamphetamines.

Drunk man arrested after jumping fence into backyard and threatening officers Wednesday evening

On Wednesday, February 15th, 2023, at 7:39 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported disturbance in progress at a residence in the 600 block of W Main St, Turlock, possibly involving a knife.

When officers arrived on scene, two subjects were detained, including a man later identified as Israel Hernandez, 29, of Newman.

Officers began investigating and determined that Hernandez was intoxicated and had jumped a fence into the backyard of a home he wasn’t associated with. The other man who was detained was a neighbor and noticed Hernandez, so he confronted him. Hernandez didn’t like being confronted and a fight ensued, which was still ongoing when officers arrived.

During the investigation, Hernandez threatened officers.

The neighbor who had originally been detained was released, while Hernandez was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of public intoxication and attempting to deter or resist an executive officer in the performance of their duty by means of threat or violence.

Teen arrested with metal knuckles after doing burnout in front of officer early Thursday morning

On Thursday, February 16, 2023, at 1:38 am, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of W Hawkeye Ave and Dels Ln, Turlock, observed a driver doing a burnout in the roadway, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s driver, Angel Aragon, 19, of Turlock, and his four passengers, whose ages ranged from 15 through 19.

Additional officers arrived on scene and all five were removed from the vehicle.

Officers planned on impounding the vehicle due to Aragon’s reckless driving, so they conducted an inventory search of it. During the search, officers came across metal knuckles.

Aragon was arrested and released on a citation on charges of reckless driving and possession of metal knuckles. Additionally, his vehicle was impounded.

The juveniles were then released to the father of one of Aragon’s passengers. The adult teens also hitched a ride with him.

Armed man arrested after leading officers on foot pursuit Wednesday evening

On Wednesday, February 15th, 2023, at 7:23 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported suspicious person at Ross, 2405 Geer Rd, Turlock, who was walking back and forth inside the store with a gun possibly seen in his waistband.

While officers were responding, they were informed that the man was associated with a woman as well as a white Chevrolet Malibu that was parked in a handicap stall in front of the business.

When officers arrived on scene, they located the Malibu and had their dispatcher run it. They discovered that it belonged to a known probationer.

Officers then noticed Justinn Casaday, 29, of Turlock, in front of the business. He matched their suspect description, so they attempted to contact him. When they did, Casaday took off running with a handgun seen and a foot pursuit ensued.

Casaday ran to the east side of the parking lot, around Little Caesars and Yogurt Mill, and then back westbound towards Save Mart. Casaday then exited the parking lot onto W Minnesota Ave and began running westbound on the sidewalk, however, eventually gave up and surrendered across the street from Cherry Tree Village. He was taken into custody without further incident, however,  the gun that he had been seen with was no longer on him.

A minute later, a Yogurt Mill employee called to report that Casaday had dropped the gun in a flower pot outside their business and that she was guarding it from some kids who were getting close to it. Officers responded and recovered the gun, a .22 caliber.

During a search of Casaday’s person incident to arrest, officers located narcotics.

After the foot pursuit, the woman on probation who Casaday was with was located still inside Ross. She was detained, however, released a few minutes later after it had been determined that she had not committed any crimes.

Casaday was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon or person addicted to a narcotic, possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, possession of a controlled substance while armed, carrying a concealed firearm, and obstructing or resisting a public officer in the discharge of their duty.

Man with felony identity theft warrant arrested during traffic stop early Wednesday morning

On Wednesday, February 15th, 2023, at 2:28 am, a Turlock Police officer near Arco AMPM, 2015 W Main St, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the driver as Steven Mihalovic, 55, of Planada.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Mihalovic, he discovered that he had a $25,500 local felony bench warrant for obtaining and using personal identifying information of another person for an unlawful purpose, forgery, and burglary.

Mihalovic was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrant.

Man arrested after brandishing cane and machete during argument Tuesday night

On Tuesday, February 14th, 2023, at 8:24 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported weapon offense that had just occurred at 250 D St, Turlock, after a man had brandished a machete during an argument.

When officers arrived on scene, they made contact with the victim who told them that he and Alan Johnson, 49, of Turlock, had gotten into an argument. During the argument, Johnson had grabbed a cane and machete from his property and walked toward the victim. The victim felt threatened and believed that Johnson was going to harm him, so he grabbed a pole from his belongings to defend himself and create distance from Johnson. Johnson eventually calmed down and walked away from the victim.

Officers checking the area located Johnson nearby and detained him. The victim confirmed that Johnson was the suspect and placed him under citizen’s arrest.

When officers had their dispatcher run Johnson, they discovered that he had three local misdemeanor bench warrants for storing personal property on public property. Two were $250 ones and the third was a $21,555 one.

Johnson was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of exhibiting a deadly weapon other than a firearm in a rude or threatening manner, as well as his warrants.

Three catalytic converter thieves arrested Sunday morning

On Sunday, February 12th, 2023, at 9:30 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a burglary alarm at Alfred Matthews Collision Center, 2440 N Golden State Blvd, Turlock, after a man prowling on the property had set off a video alarm.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with two suspicious people in a vehicle parked behind the business on Porsche Strasse. They were identified as Joseph Franklin, 22, of Ceres, and Paul Jimenez, 38, of Modesto.

When officers had their dispatcher run Jimenez, they discovered that he was on searchable probation for violating a domestic violence protective order and vandalism.

Officers then conducted a probation search of the vehicle Jimenez was in and located various stolen items, including several catalytic converters.

Officers then began searching the property for any additional suspects when they came across Brian Becerra, 36, of Modesto, hiding underneath a vehicle. Becerra was detained at gunpoint.

Eventually, Franklin, Jimenez, and Becerra were all arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of stolen property, grand theft, conspiracy, and possession of burglary tools. Becerra was also booked on additional charges of vandalism, trespassing, and possession of methamphetamines.

Man beaten and held at gunpoint for money Saturday night

On Saturday, February 11th, 2023, at 8:20 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported battery in progress at the intersection of W Main St and Fransil Ln, Turlock.

While officers were responding, the suspect left the area and one of the callers got out with the victim, who told him that he had just been robbed.

Officers arrived on scene and contacted the victim, who told them that an unknown man had hit and kicked him, before pulling out a handgun and demanding money. The victim complied and gave the man money before he fled the area westbound on W Main St in a vehicle.

The victim suffered minor injuries, however, refused to be transported to the hospital.

The suspect vehicle was described as a black 1999 to 2004 Ford Mustang hardtop.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in it is encouraged to call Officer Chukwuemeka Nwando at 209-668-1200.

Man with felony warrant arrested after stealing scooter and resisting officers Friday evening

On Friday, February 10th, 2023, at 5:32 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported larceny that had just occurred at Big 5 Sporting Goods, 599 N Golden State Blvd, Turlock, after a man had been seen walking out of the business with a scooter that he hadn’t paid for.

Officers arrived in the area and began searching for the suspect when they came across a man later identified as Victor Garcia, 37, of Modesto, matching his description near the intersection of E Olive Ave and N Thor St.

Officers contacted Garcia, who was in possession of a large cardboard box that contained the stolen scooter. When officers attempted to detain Garcia in handcuffs, a struggle ensued. Officers were able to eventually overcome Garcia and put him in handcuffs.

The manager of Big 5 was then brought to Garcia and he confirmed that Garcia was indeed who had stolen the scooter.

When officers asked Garcia to identify himself, he gave someone else’s name, however, his actual name was discovered after he was fingerprinted. Garcia turned out to have a no-bail felony bench warrant for assault by means of force likely to produce great bodily injury.

Garcia was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of false personation, shoplifting, and obstructing or resisting a public officer in the discharge of their duty, as well as his warrant.

Man arrested on misdemeanor child support warrant during traffic stop early Tuesday morning

On Tuesday, February 14th, 2023, at 12:49 am, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of West Ave S and South Ave, Turlock, observed a driver driving a vehicle without any license plates attached to it, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the driver as Kyle Story, 30, of Turlock.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Story, he discovered that he had a misdemeanor warrant out of the California Department of Child Support Services and his driver’s license was suspended.

Story was arrested and released on a citation on the charge of driving with a suspended driver’s license, as well as his warrant. Additionally, his vehicle was impounded.

Man arrested on misdemeanor narcotics warrant during traffic stop Monday night

On Monday, February 13th, 2023, at 10:06 pm, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of Lander Ave and W Linwood Ave, Turlock, observed a driver violate the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s three occupants, including passenger Emilio Lopez, 40, of Turlock.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Lopez, he discovered that he had a $5,000 misdemeanor bench warrant out of San Benito County for possession of methamphetamines and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Lopez was arrested and released on a citation on his warrant.

Intoxicated man arrested after pretending to be Jesus early Monday morning

On Monday, February 13th, 2023, at 4:12 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported traffic offense that had just occurred at New Life Christian Center, 2918 W Tuolumne Rd, Turlock, after a man had been seen recklessly driving around the parking lot with a flat tire and honking his horn.

When officers arrived on scene, they found a man later identified as Somsack Keovilayphone, 36, of Elk Grove, near a vehicle with a torn-off tire. When Keovilayphone noticed the officers, he began running towards the freeway.

Keovilayphone eventually stopped by the large cross next to the freeway and decided to climb up on its post, putting his arms up as if he were Jesus and beginning to yell for help and a supervisor.

After a few minutes, additional officers arrived on scene and were able to detain Keovilayphone without further incident.

Keovilayphone was displaying objective symptoms of being under the influence, so he was arrested.

Keovilayphone was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of public intoxication.

Territorial dog confronts officers needing to conduct vehicle search early Monday morning

On Monday, February 13th, 2023, at 1:56 am, a Turlock Police officer near Chevron ExtraMile, 100 E Glenwood Ave, Turlock, recognized and made contact with a man in the parking lot.

When the officer had his dispatcher run the man, Jesus Galvan, 47, of Turlock, he discovered that he had a $100,500 local felony bench warrant for domestic violence inflicting corporal injury. He was arrested.

Officers then located a nearby vehicle associated with Galvan that they needed to search incident to arrest, however, were confronted by a highly territorial dog, so they requested that the on-call animal services officer respond and dart the dog.

When the animal services officer arrived, she and the patrol officers worked to safely remove and secure the dog without darting it. Although it was a challenging task, it was eventually completed. The vehicle was then searched, however, nothing of interest was located.

Galvan was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrant, while Gorda, the dog, was impounded at the Turlock Animal Services facility.

Woman arrested on two misdemeanor warrants during traffic stop early Monday morning

On Monday, February 13th, 2023, at 12:12 am, a Turlock Police officer near 76 DoubleTime, 101 N Tully Rd, Turlock, observed a driver violate the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s two occupants, including passenger Dona Zanardi, 43, of Modesto.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Zanardi, he discovered that she had two misdemeanor bench warrants out of Modesto. The first one was a $25,500 for domestic violence inflicting corporal injury, while the second one was a $1,500 one for contempt of court.

Zanardi was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on her warrants.

Woman arrested on misdemeanor warrant during traffic stop Sunday night

On Sunday, February 12th, 2023, at 11:28 pm, a Turlock Police officer near Sun Garden Mobile Village, 425 Twentieth Century Blvd, Turlock, observed a driver violate the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on her.

The officer made contact with and identified both of the vehicle’s occupants, including Ashley Lanter, 30, of Turlock.

When the officer had his dispatcher run the two, he discovered that Lanter had a $7,555 local misdemeanor bench warrant for possession of methamphetamines and driving without a valid driver’s license.

Lanter was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on her warrant.

Man arrested on felony warrant after being recognized by officer Sunday afternoon

On Sunday, February 12th, 2023, at 12:53 pm, a Turlock Police officer near Broadway Park, 501 N Broadway, Turlock, recognized and got out with a man who he believed had a felony warrant.

When the officer had his dispatcher run the man, Marion Phillips, 67, of Turlock, his suspicions were confirmed as Phillips returned with a $100,500 local felony bench warrant for possession of ammunition by a prohibited person.

Phillips was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrant.

Trespasser with meth arrested after leading officers on short foot pursuit Saturday afternoon

On Saturday, February 11th, 2023, at 2:26 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported trespass in progress at a residence in the 400 block of High St, Turlock, where a man was refusing to leave the caller’s porch.

When officers arrived on scene, the man, later identified as Shaquille Pleasant, 28, of Merced, had left the residence.

Officers began searching the area for Pleasant and eventually located him nearby. When officers attempted to make contact with him, he took off running and a brief foot pursuit ensued. Pleasant was eventually caught and arrested without further incident.

During a search of Pleasant’s person incident to arrest, officers located methamphetamines and drug paraphernalia.

Pleasant was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of methamphetamines, obstructing or resisting a public officer in the discharge of their duty, trespassing, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Parolee wanted for carjacking arrested after being recognized by officer Saturday morning

On Saturday, February 11th, 2023, at 9:08 am, a Turlock Police officer near 319 S Tully Rd, Turlock, noticed and recognized a parolee which he knew to be wanted in a carjacking case, so he got out with him.

The officer held Dix Herbert, 54, of Livingston, at gunpoint and eventually detained him without incident.

The officer had his dispatcher run Herbert and it was confirmed that he was still wanted for the carjacking. He also had two bench warrants out of Merced County, the first one was a no-bail one for violation of parole and the second one was a $5,000 one for possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamines.

The officer then called Herbert’s parole agent and reported to him what had occurred. The agent found that there was probable cause a violation of parole had occurred, so he authorized that Herbert be placed on a hold while awaiting a parole revocation hearing.

The carjacking that Herbert was wanted for had occurred on Wednesday, December 25th, 2022, in the 1900 block of Noble Ln. The person who was carjacked knew Herbert which is how he was identified.

Herbert was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of violation of parole, robbery, and driving or taking a vehicle without the consent of its owner, as well as his warrants.

Man hits restaurant employee with vehicle after dining and dashing early Friday morning

On Friday, February 10th, 2023, at 5:32 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported aggravated assault that had just occurred at Denny’s, 1991 Lander Ave, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they made contact with the victim who told them that an unknown man had exited the business without paying for his food. The man got into a red Chevrolet sedan and began driving off, when the victim stood in his path in an attempt to block him. The man then accelerated into the victim, causing a minor injury, and fled the area southbound on Lander Ave.

The area was checked, however, officers were unable to locate the suspect or his vehicle.

The victim refused any medical treatment or transport.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in it is encouraged to call Officer Gustavo Gomez at 209-668-1200.

Man wanted for burglary found passed out on random apartment’s porch early Friday morning

On Friday, February 10th, 2023, at 1:26 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a security check at the Patel Palms Apartments, 1545 N Palm St, Turlock, after an unknown man had been spotted sitting on the caller’s porch and then falling asleep and hitting the ground.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with a man who identified himself as Mario Williams, 39, of Lathrop.

Officers immediately recognized Williams’ name from the be on the lookout log and arrested him.

Williams was wanted from a burglary that had occurred on Monday, January 30th at a residence in the 500 block of E Glenwood Ave. Williams had been seen on surveillance camera video entering an open garage and stealing a Fuji bicycle. The incident was reported to police a week later on Wednesday, February 8th, and Williams was identified by an officer who recognized him the following day.

Williams was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of burglary and grand theft.

Man arrested after allegedly having sex with a child Thursday morning

On Thursday, February 9th, 2023, at 10:37 am, Turlock Police detectives arrived at a residence in the 1100 block of W Tuolumne Rd, Turlock, to conduct follow-up investigation in one of their cases.

Inside the home, detectives encountered Ramon Rodriguez, 31, of Turlock, who they arrested.

Rodriguez was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of lewdly committing a lascivious act with a child and unlawful sexual intercourse.

It should be noted that this is not the same Ramon Rodriguez that regularly attends and speaks at city council meetings. It’s just a coincidence that their names and ages are the same.

Parolee arrested after causing disturbance at medical facility Thursday morning

On Thursday, February 9th, 2023, at 7:51 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported trespass in progress at Sutter Health, 3100 W Christoffersen Pkwy, Turlock, where a man was causing a disturbance and refusing to leave.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with a man who identified himself as Christopher Smith, 36, of Palo Alto.

When officers had their dispatcher run Smith, they discovered that he was on parole for threatening to commit a crime which will result in death or great bodily injury to another person.

A subsequent parole search of Smith’s person led to the discovery of narcotics. Additionally, Smith was displaying objective symptoms of being under the influence.

Smith was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of public intoxication, possession of methamphetamines, possession of drug paraphernalia, and violation of parole.

Man with work release violation warrant arrested early Thursday morning

On Thursday, February 9th, 2023, at 12:45 am, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of W F St and S First St, Turlock, recognized a man and had his dispatcher run him.

The officer discovered that Dexterlee Trotter, 29, of Turlock, had a no-bail felony bench warrant out of Stanislaus County for violation of a work release program and buying or receiving a stolen vehicle.

The officer got out with Trotter and arrested him.

Trotter was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrant.

Bicyclist arrested on two misdemeanor warrants Wednesday night

On Wednesday, February 8th, 2023, at 10:26 pm, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of North Ave and Geer Rd, Turlock, observed a bicyclist riding without proper lighting equipment, so he made a bicycle stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the bicyclist as Cristian Valdovinos, 32, of Turlock.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Valdovinos, he discovered that he had two local misdemeanor bench warrants. The first one was a $15,500 one for trespassing, while the second one was a $35,550 one for driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or greater.

Valdovinos was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrants.

Driver flees rollover collision scene leaving one injured Wednesday evening

On Wednesday, February 8th, 2023, at 7:59 pm, the Turlock Police Department, Turlock Fire Department, and American Medical Response were dispatched to a reported vehicle collision with injuries at the intersection of East Ave and S Rose St, Turlock.

While officers were responding, they were informed that the driver of one of the involved vehicles had begun running away from the scene through an alleyway. Officers checked the area, however, were unable to locate him.

When crews arrived on scene, they found two vehicles involved. The first one was a white Nissan Frontier and the second one was a Dodge Ram. The Frontier had overturned and was on its roof.

Only one of the involved parties remained at the scene, the driver of the Frontier. He was ground transported by American Medical Response to a local hospital with unknown injuries.

It’s currently unknown how the collision occurred.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in it is encouraged to call Officer Donna Anthieny at 209-668-1200.

Two arrested after traffic stop leads to narcotics sales evidence Wednesday afternoon

On Wednesday, February 8th, 2023, at 1:03 pm, Turlock Police investigators near the intersection of N Front St and N Golden State Blvd, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so they made a traffic stop on him.

The investigators made contact with and identified the vehicle’s two occupants, Nickole Espinoza, 41, and Jacob Vigil, 39, both of Turlock.

The two consented to a vehicle search which led to the discovery of narcotics sales evidence. Espinoza then consented to the search of her room at a nearby motel which led to the discovery of additional narcotics sales evidence.

Additionally, Vigil was discovered to not have a valid driver’s license.

Espinoza and Vigil were both arrested, Espinoza was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of possession of a controlled substance for sale, while Vigil was released on a citation on the charge of driving without a valid driver’s license.

Three shoplifters arrested Wednesday afternoon

On Wednesday, February 8th, 2023, at 12:12 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported suspicious person at Lowe’s, 3303 Entertainment Way, Turlock, after two known shoplifters had been spotted inside the business loading up shopping carts.

While officers were responding, they were updated that two had exited the business with unpaid merchandise and were fleeing the area in a vehicle westbound on W Monte Vista Ave.

A responding officer spotted the vehicle and made a traffic stop on it underneath the State Route 99 overpass.

Additional officers arrived and three subjects were contacted inside the vehicle, they were identified as Carl Goodman, 41, of Modesto, Primitivo Gratton, 39, of Fresno, and Bethanie Smith, 38, of Modesto.

When officers had their dispatcher run the three, they discovered that Goodman had a $2,000 local misdemeanor warrant of arrest for shoplifting, Gratton had a $10,000 misdemeanor bench warrant out of Tuolumne County for possession of drug paraphernalia, and Smith was on parole for assault with a firearm.

Due to Smith’s parole status, a search of the vehicle was conducted which led to the discovery of narcotics and power tools that had just been stolen from a different business less than an hour prior.

Goodman, Gratton, and Smith were all arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of conspiracy and theft, as well as their warrants. Additionally, Smith was charged with possession of methamphetamines, possession of drug paraphernalia, and violation of parole.

Woman with felony child abuse warrant arrested with narcotics Tuesday afternoon

On Tuesday, February 7th, 2023, at 2:30 pm, Turlock Police investigators arrived at a residence in the 1000 block of E Linwood Ave, Turlock, to conduct a probation search.

A tent was located on the property which was determined to belong to the searchable probationer. Inside the tent, investigators located Kelsey West, 28, of Turlock.

West originally lied to investigators about her identity, however, they quickly figured out who she was and discovered that she had two bench warrants. The first one was a $50,500 felony one out of Modesto for child abuse or endangerment under circumstances likely to produce great bodily harm or death, while the second one was a $7,500 misdemeanor one out of Merced County for possession of methamphetamines, possession of drug paraphernalia, eluding a peace officer by vehicle, and driving without a valid driver’s license.

West was arrested and a search of her person incident to arrest led to the discovery of narcotics.

West was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of possession of a controlled substance, as well as her warrant.

Man arrested for attempted murder after fight at home escalates early Wednesday morning

On Wednesday, February 8th, 2023, at 3:07 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported battery in progress at a residence in the 200 block of Locust St, Turlock.

While officers were responding, the incident was upgraded to an aggravated assault due to the suspect, Joseph Luna, 24, of Turlock, cutting the victim.

Officers arrived in the area and detained Luna without incident after locating him nearby.

They then went to the residence and met with the victim, who told them that she, Luna, and another person had gotten into an argument that eventually turned physical. During the incident, Luna decided to pick up a cutting instrument and cut the victim with it.

The victim was ground transported by American Medical Response to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Luna was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon other than a firearm.

Man with warrants arrested with large-capacity magazine after being recognized by officer Tuesday night

On Tuesday, February 7th, 2023, at 11:49 pm, a Turlock Police officer near Arco AMPM, 1801 Lander Ave, Turlock, noticed and recognized a suspect from a be-on-the-lookout from Merced County, so he got out with him.

The man, Marco Toste, 31, of Hilmar, and a woman who he was with were detained due to three warrants that Toste had out of Merced County. The first one was a $100,000 felony one for threatening to commit a crime which will result in death or great bodily injury to another person, the second one was a $10,000 misdemeanor one for violating a domestic violence protective order, and the third one was a $10,000 felony one for forgery.

Toste was arrested pursuant to his warrants and a subsequent search of his vehicle was conducted. The search led to the discovery of a large-capacity magazine.

Toste was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of possession of a large-capacity magazine, as well as his warrants.

Intoxicated man arrested after hitting house doors with stick Tuesday night

On Tuesday, February 7th, 2023, at 10:53 pm, the Turlock Police Department and Stanislaus State Police Department were dispatched to reported shots heard in the area of a residence in the 4000 block of St George Pl, Turlock.

Officers arrived in the area and didn’t immediately locate anything, however, were told by other nearby residents that there was a man going around with a stick hitting random houses’ doors. Officers were given a description of the man and even shown a video of him.

Officers continued checking the area and eventually found the man in front of a residence in the 300 block of E Springer Dr. He was contacted and identified as John Forbis, 29, of Modesto.

Forbis displayed objective symptoms of being under the influence and was also discovered to be on parole. Forbis’s parole agent was contacted, however, he determined that there was no violation of parole.

Forbis was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of public intoxication.

Woman reporting false vehicle theft arrested on four warrants Tuesday night

On Tuesday, February 7th, 2023, at 9:53 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported vehicle theft in progress at Motel 6, 250 S Walnut Rd, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they made contact with and identified all of the involved parties, including the caller, Tiffany Antunez, 32, of Hilmar.

Officers determined that no crimes had been committed, however, when they had their dispatcher run the three, they discovered that Antunez had four bench warrants. The first one was a $15,500 local felony one for grand theft, the second one was a $5,500 local misdemeanor one for theft, the third one was a $2,000 misdemeanor one out of Ceres for shoplifting, while the fourth one was a $5,5000 misdemeanor one out of Ceres for theft and trespassing.

Antunez was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on her warrants.

Two flee armed robbery in cold-plated vehicle Tuesday afternoon

On Tuesday, February 7th, 2023, at 4:53 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported armed robbery that had just occurred at VIP Smoke Shop, 1560 Geer Rd, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they met with the victim who told them that two men had entered the business and approached him. One of the men pointed a handgun at the victim who responded by giving him $2,000 in cash and a large number of cigarette boxes. The two men then exited the business and fled the area northbound on Geer Rd in a white Toyota Camry with a license plate that didn’t belong to it.

The first man was described as a Black male adult wearing a red hat and a blue Reebok tracksuit, while the second man was simply described to be wearing all black and a hoodie.

Similar robberies were reported to have happened in Modesto by similarly described suspects.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in it is encouraged to call Officer Rosalio Nunez at 209-668-1200.

Man arrested on weapon with narcotics warrant during traffic stop Monday morning

On Monday, February 6th, 2023 at 9:33 am, a Turlock Police officer near the 300 block of Wayside Dr, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s driver as Jorge Calderon, 36, of Mexico.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Calderon, he discovered that he had a $50,000 felony bench warrant out of Alameda County for possession of a controlled substance while armed.

Calderon was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrant.

Teen arrested after attempting to burglarize home Sunday morning

On Sunday, February 5th, 2023, at 6:53 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported attempted burglary that had just occurred at a residence in the 3500 block of Whistler Ct, Turlock, after the caller had caught a boy attempting to break into their home through the garage door.

Officers arrived in the area and began checking, locating a 14-year-old Black male nearby who matched the description.

The teen was contacted and identified. When officers had their dispatcher run the teen, they discovered that he had a warrant for assault.

The teen was eventually positively identified by the caller as the suspect.

The teen was arrested and booked into Stanislaus County Juvenile Hall on the charge of attempted burglary, as well as his warrant.

Trespasser met by gunfire after driving vehicle toward property owner early Sunday morning

On Sunday, February 5th, 2023, at 1:13 am, the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to a reported trespass in progress at a residence in the 3800 block of W Barnhart Rd, Turlock.

The property owner stated that he had been having ongoing issues with people coming onto his property to steal copper wiring and that he had encountered a woman, later identified as Dynasty Climer, 40, of Keyes, in a vehicle on his property.

The property owner eventually confronted Climer and she began driving her vehicle toward him. The property owner, who was lawfully armed with a firearm, immediately became concerned for his safety and discharged at Climer’s vehicle in an attempt to disable it.

Another vehicle that was likely associated with Climer then sped away from the area.

Deputies conducted their preliminary investigation, interviewed witnesses, and took Climer’s vehicle and the property owner’s firearm for evidentiary purposes. The investigation revealed that entry had been forced onto the property indicative of likely a burglary or larceny attempt of some sort.

Climer was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of trespassing.

The investigation remains ongoing. Once completed, it will be submitted to the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office for a review of the legality involving the discharge of a firearm.

Man arrested after leading police on high-speed pursuit and driving off overpass early Monday morning

On Monday, February 6th, 2023, at 12:36 am, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of S Golden State Blvd and Golf Rd, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so he attempted to make a traffic stop on him, however, he took off from the officer and a pursuit ensued.

The driver, Dominic Gumiran, 34, of Delhi, went southbound on S Golden State Blvd at a high rate of speed and eventually merged onto southbound State Route 99. He then took the W Bradbury Rd exit, however, was unable to negotiate the right turn he wanted to make at the end of the off-ramp due to his high rate of speed. Gumiran’s vehicle drove off the overpass in a southwesterly direction and landed front-end first in an embankment after a 20-foot drop, before overturning several times and coming to rest on the driver’s side.

Additional officers arrived and assisted Gumiran out of his vehicle by breaking his vehicle’s sunroof.

The Merced County Fire Department and Riggs Ambulance Service responded and ground transported Gumiran to a local hospital with minor injuries, while the California Highway Patrol responded to investigate the collision.

After Gumiran was medically cleared, he was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of eluding a peace officer by vehicle with disregard for public safety.

The pursuit lasted about two minutes and covered a total distance of just under three miles.

Man arrested month after causing and running away from collision Sunday night

On Sunday, February 5th, 2023, at 9:30 pm, a man arrived at the Turlock Police Department to surrender himself after fleeing the scene of a vehicle collision with injuries that had occurred on Friday, January 6th, 2023, at the intersection of A Street and Fourth St, Turlock.

The collision had occurred at 5:28 pm that day and was caused by Marcos Flores, 19, of Denair. Two other drivers suffered minor injuries.

Flores was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of fleeing the scene of an accident resulting in injury or death to another person.

Drunk woman arrested after crashing into parked truck Sunday evening

On Sunday, February 5th, 2023, at 7:45 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported vehicle collision in front of a residence in the 1800 block of Fulkerth Rd, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they found two vehicles involved. The first one was a white Chevrolet Malibu and the second one was a gray Ford F-250.

The Malibu had a total of two occupants, including driver Amanda Laughlin, 36, of Denair. Neither Laughlin nor her passenger suffered any injuries. The F-250 was parked and unoccupied.

While speaking with Laughlin, officers noticed that she was displaying objective symptoms of being under the influence.

Based on the totality of the circumstances, officers determined that Laughlin was under the influence of alcohol.

Laughlin was arrested and provided two evidentiary breath samples at the scene as required by California’s implied consent law. The breath samples revealed that Laughlin had a blood alcohol content of .20%.

Laughlin was released on a citation on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol and driving with a blood alcohol content of .08% or greater. She was also issued an administrative driver’s license suspension order by the California Department of Motor Vehicles and her vehicle was impounded.

The Malibu sustained moderate damage, while the F-250 sustained minor damage.

It’s currently unknown how the collision occurred.

Woman arrested after lighting fire at home Saturday afternoon

On Saturday, February 4th, 2023, at 1:50 pm, the Turlock Fire Department and Turlock Police Department were dispatched to a reported structure fire at a residence in the 300 block of Almond Ave, Turlock.

When firefighters arrived on scene, they found a scorching area behind a dryer where a fire had been.

The resident expressed her concerns that Machelle Smith, 48, of Turlock, had started the fire, and officers located her nearby. Smith admitted to it and gave her reasoning behind it.

Smith was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of arson.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Man arrested after leading officers on foot pursuit during burglary attempt early Saturday morning

On Saturday, February 4th, 2023, at 3:22 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported burglary in progress at Ruyi Massage, 340 E Olive Ave, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they found a man later identified as Julius Conner, 20, of Modesto, prying on a window.

When Conner noticed officers, he began fleeing from, them on foot, however, was eventually caught in the 100 block of S Center St.

Conner was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of attempted burglary, obstructing or resisting a public officer in the discharge of their duty, and possession of burglary tools.

Two carjacked at gunpoint early Friday morning

On Friday, February 3rd, 2023, at 12:40 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported suspicious person in the 3100 block of N Berkeley Ave, Turlock.

When officers arrived in the area, they were immediately contacted by two men who reported that they had just been carjacked.

The victims reported that they had just purchased food and were eating it in their vehicle, when a Black male and a Hispanic male approached, both armed with handguns. The Black male knocked on the driver’s window and ordered him out while holding a handgun. The driver complied and then the Hispanic male did the same to the passenger, who also complied. The two suspects then got into the vehicle and fled.

Inside the vehicle was one of the victim’s cell phones, which was tracked to and recovered in Delhi within an hour.

A few hours later, the vehicle itself was tracked to the 3000 block of W Kamm Ave in Caruthers and recovered with collision damage. It was towed back.

The only additional suspect information available was that they were wearing dark clothing and had masks covering their faces.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in it is encouraged to call Officer Hunter Gallup at 209-656-3151.

Man arrested on four misdemeanor warrants during traffic stop early Sunday morning

On Sunday, February 5th, at 2023, at 12:30 am, a Turlock Police officer near Save Mart, 1631 Lander Ave, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s two occupants, including driver Lonnie Butcher, 46, of Turlock.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Butcher, he discovered that he had four misdemeanor bench warrants. The first one was a $1,000 local one for driving with a suspended driver’s license, the second one was a $30,000 one out of Tuolumne County, the third one was a $30,000 one out of Tuolumne County, and the fourth one was a $20,000 one out of Tuolumne County.

Butcher was arrested and released on a citation on his warrants.

Man with three theft warrants arrested with meth and burglary tools during bicycle stop Friday night

On Friday, February 3rd, 2023, at 11:59 pm, a Turlock Police officer near the 500 block of Almond Ave, Turlock, observed a bicyclist violating the California Vehicle Code, so he made a bicycle stop on him.

The officer made contact with the bicyclist and immediately recognized him to be Devin Tillery, 29, of Turlock.

When the officer had his dispatcher run Tillery, he discovered that he had three $25,550 local misdemeanor bench warrants for theft.

Tillery was arrested and a subsequent search of his person incident to arrest led to the discovery of methamphetamines, drug paraphernalia, and burglary tools.

Tillery was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of methamphetamines, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of burglary tools, as well as his warrants.

Man arrested on felony warrant during narcotics sales investigation Thursday afternoon

On Thursday, February 2nd, 2023, at 2:13 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported suspicious incident behind Cal-Neva, 311 S First St, Turlock, where four men were believed by the caller to be selling narcotics.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with the four men, including William Andrews, 47, of Oroville.

When officers had their dispatcher run the four, they discovered that Andrews had a $75500 felony bench warrant for preventing or dissuading a witness or victim from giving testimony at a trial.

Officers then began investigating the original narcotics sales claim, however, did not find it to be true.

Andrews was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrant.

Man arrested on meth sales warrant during burglary investigation Thursday afternoon

On Thursday, February 2nd, 2023, at 12:18 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported burglary in progress at a residence in the 600 block of W Minnesota Ave, Turlock, where a few subjects were attempting to break into the residence through the doors and windows.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with two subjects, including a man who was later identified as Timothy Lameira, 50, of Turlock.

When officers had their dispatcher run Lameira, they discovered that he had two bench warrants. The first one was a $50,500 felony one for possession of methamphetamines for sale, while the second one was a $5000 one for possession of methamphetamines.

It’s unknown what the original burglary claim was about, however, Lameira was not arrested on any fresh charges.

Lameira was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrants.

Parolee arrested on warrant after possible involvement in arson Thursday morning

On Thursday, February 2nd, 2023, at 11:16 am, the Turlock Fire Department was dispatched to a reported vegetation fire behind Tilly’s, 2737 Countryside Dr, Turlock.

While firefighters were responding, dispatch received information that a man had possibly started the fire, so the Turlock Police Department was also dispatched.

Firefighters arrived on scene and quickly extinguished a smoldering tree fire, preventing its spread.

Officers arrived in the area and began checking, making contact with Karl Zamora, 37, of Turlock, a known parolee.

Officers had their dispatcher run Zamora and they discovered that he had a no-bail felony warrant for violation of parole.

The Stanislaus Regional Fire Investigations Unit responded and interviewed Zamora for his possible involvement in the arson, however, they were unable to develop probable cause for an arrest.

Zamora was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrant.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in it is encouraged to call the Stanislaus Regional Fire Investigations Unit at 209-525-5537.

Convicted felon arrested after attempting robbery with stun gun Wednesday night

On Wednesday, February 1st, 2023, at 9:11 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported weapon offense that had just occurred at the We Care Program, 219 S Broadway, Turlock, after a man had brandished what was believed to be a handgun.

When officers arrived on scene, they found a man later identified as Sherman Wallace, 65, of Turlock, standing outside of the business. Wallace matched the suspect description given by the caller and was held at gunpoint until the additional officers could arrive and assist with safely detaining him in handcuffs.

Officers began investigating and discovered that Wallace was in possession of a stun gun, which was what had initially been mistaken for a handgun. Officers also discovered that when Wallace had brandished the stun gun, he had done it in an attempt to commit a robbery.

Wallace was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of attempted robbery and possession of a stun gun by a person convicted of a felony or an assault.

Man with felony warrant arrested after being recognized by officer Tuesday evening

On Tuesday, January 31st, 2023, at 5:16 pm, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of Grant Ave and Chestnut St, Turlock, recognized and got out with a man who he believed had a felony warrant.

The officer had his dispatcher run the man, Derek Gaspar, 33, of Turlock, and it was confirmed that he had a no-bail local felony bench warrant for possession of ammunition by a prohibited person.

Gaspar was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrant.

Man arrested on warrants after setting up camp behind home Tuesday afternoon

On Tuesday, January 31st, 2023, at 3:46 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported city ordinance violation at a residence in the 1300 block of N Golden State Blvd, Turlock, after two transients had begun to set up camp behind the home.

Officers arrived on scene and contacted the two, including Ryan Stocker, 42, of Turlock.

When officers had their dispatcher run the two, they discovered that Stocker had two local bench warrants. The first one was a no-bail felony one for possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, and the second one was a $5,000 misdemeanor one for possession of methamphetamines.


Stocker was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrants.

Two arrested on warrants after shoplifting from drug store Monday night

On Monday, January 30th, 2023, at 9:38 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported larceny in progress at Rite Aid, 653 N Golden State Blvd, Turlock, after the caller had seen two subjects putting merchandise in their clothing.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and contacted the two in the parking lot who had just left the business with the stolen merchandise. They were identified as Teofilo Ramos, 39, of Merced, and Autumn Trousdale, 25, of Ceres.

When officers had their dispatcher run the two, they discovered that Ramos had three bench warrants and Trousdale had a misdemeanor bench warrant out of Tuolumne County for falsely identifying to a peace officer. Ramos’s first warrant was a $3,000 local misdemeanor one for possession of methamphetamines, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving without a valid driver’s license, his second one was a no-bail felony one out of Merced for violation of probation, and his third one was a no-bail felony one out of Merced for violation of probation and violation of mandatory supervision.

Officers then contacted the business employees and they stated that they did not want the two prosecuted, however, when they had originally called, they told the dispatcher that they did.

Ramos and Trousdale were arrested on their warrants, Ramos was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center and Trousdale was released on a citation.

Man with felony assault warrant arrested during disturbance at home Sunday night

On Sunday, January 29th, 2023, at 11:19 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported disturbance in progress at a residence in the 1700 block of N Denair Ave, Turlock, after a woman had reported that her drunk husband was breaking things inside the home.

While officers were responding, they learned that the husband, Juan Maldonado, 35, of Merced, had a $50,000 felony Ramey warrant out of Merced for assault with a deadly weapon other than a firearm.

Officers arrived on scene, made contact with the wife who was in her vehicle near the residence, and determined that no new crimes had been committed.

Officers then contacted Maldonado in the home and arrested him without incident.

Maldonado was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrant.

Man arrested on felony warrant after showing up at apartment and starting argument early Sunday morning

On Sunday, January 29th, 2023, at 2:53 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a security check at the Brentwood Apartments, 303 Wayside Dr, Turlock, after a man who wasn’t making much sense had called to report that someone who had tried stabbed his mother was outside.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with Sergio Ramirez, 35, of Ceres.

Officers began investigating and learned that Ramirez was the ex-boyfriend of the caller’s mother, who he had gotten into a verbal argument with. No crimes had been committed and no knife had been involved.

When officers had their dispatcher run Ramirez, they discovered that he had three bench warrants. The first one was a $200,550 felony one out of Ceres for driving or taking a vehicle without the consent of its owner and buying or receiving a stolen vehicle, the second one was a $55,555 local misdemeanor one for driving under the influence of alcohol, driving with a blood alcohol content of .08 or greater, and hit and run causing property damage, and the third one was a $55,555 misdemeanor one out of Stanislaus County for driving under the influence of alcohol and driving with a blood alcohol content of .08 or greater.

Ramirez was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrants.

Man with stalking warrant arrested after reportedly following estranged wife to motel room early Sunday morning

On Sunday, January 29th, 2023, at 2:34 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported court order violation in progress at Days Inn, 185 N Tully Rd, Turlock, after a woman had seen her estranged husband who was restrained from her nearby and believed that he had followed her there.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and contacted Pablo Garcia, 50, of Livingston, who was by his vehicle parked near his wife’s room.

When officers had their dispatcher run Garcia, the order restraining him from her was confirmed and he was also found to have two bench warrants out of Livingston. The first one was a $50,000 felony one for stalking and violating a domestic violence protective order, while the second one was a $10,000 misdemeanor one for violating a domestic violence protective order.

Garcia was arrested and a search of his person incident to arrest led to the discovery of narcotics.

Garcia was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of violating a domestic violence protective order, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of methamphetamines.

Man with felony warrant arrested after being recognized by officer on alarm call Saturday night

On Saturday, January 28th, 2023, at 10:45 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a burglary alarm at the Turlock Chamber of Commerce, 115 S Golden State Blvd, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they did not see any signs of a burglary, however, one of them noticed a man who he believed had a felony warrant hanging out nearby.

Officers contacted Raymond Fajardo, 26, of Turlock, and had their dispatcher run him to confirm his warrant. Sure enough, Fajardo returned with a no-bail local felony bench warrant for resisting an executive officer in the performance of their duty by the use of force.

Fajardo was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrant.

Bicyclist arrested on felony warrant Friday night

On Friday, January 27th, 2023, at 9:58 pm, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of W Main St and southbound State Route 99, Turlock, observed a bicyclist violating the California Vehicle Code, so he made a bicycle stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the bicyclist as Nicholas White, 43, of Ceres.

When the officer had his dispatcher run White, he discovered that he had two bench warrants. The first one was a no-bail felony local one for threatening to commit a crime which will result in death or great bodily injury to another person, while the second one was a $5,000 misdemeanor one out of Stanislaus County for possession of methamphetamines.

White was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrants.

Woman driving stolen vehicle arrested with meth Friday night

On Friday, January 27th, 2023, at 8:05 pm, a Turlock Police officer near Carl’s Jr., 100 N Walnut Rd, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on her.

As the officer gave his dispatcher the vehicle’s license plate, she informed him that it had been reported stolen, so a high-risk stop was conducted.

The vehicle’s driver, later identified as Blanca Mulgado, 42, of Turlock, was removed from the vehicle and detained without incident.

The vehicle was confirmed to be stolen and Mulgado was discovered to have a $50,500 felony bench warrant out of Stanislaus County for child abuse or endangerment under circumstances likely to produce great bodily harm or death.

Mulgado was arrested and a search of her person incident to arrest led to the discovery of methamphetamines.

Mulgado was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of driving or taking a vehicle without the consent of its owner, buying or receiving a stolen vehicle, and possession of methamphetamines, as well as her warrant.

Parolee and sex offender out of compliance arrested with ammunition Sunday evening

On Sunday, January 22nd, 2023, at 5:59 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported suspicious person at the Park Place Apartments, 3601 Crowell Rd, Turlock, who was in the laundry room.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with a man who identified himself as Angel Zamora, 44, of Denair.

When officers had their dispatcher run Zamora, they discovered that he was a sex offender out of compliance with his terms and was also on parole for threatening to commit a crime which will result in death or great bodily injury to another person.

Officers then searched Zamora and discovered that he was in possession of ammunition.

Zamora was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of failure by a transient sex offender to update their registration at least every 30 days, possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, and violation of parole.

Two arrested on multiple felony charges during suspicious vehicle call Tuesday night

On Tuesday, January 24th, 2023, at 10:46 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported suspicious vehicle in the parking lot of Walmart, 2111 Fulkerth Rd, Turlock, that possibly had subjects inside of it smoking drugs.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with both subjects still in the vehicle. They were identified as Matthew Detherage, 34, of Modesto, and Marissa Zabala, 33, of Turlock.

During the contact, officers noticed narcotics and paraphernalia in plain view, so they removed the two from the vehicle to conduct a probable cause search. During the search, officers located evidence of narcotics sales and check fraud.

Detherage and Zabala were both arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center, Detherage on charges of possession of a controlled substance for sale, forgery, conspiracy, and possession of methamphetamines, and Zabala on charges of forgery, conspiracy, and possession of a controlled substance.

Man with several warrants trespassing in abandoned house arrested after pretending to be someone else Tuesday afternoon

On Tuesday, January 24th, 2023, at 3:48 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported trespass in progress at an abandoned residence in the 1500 block of Lander Ave, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with two subjects, later identified as Joshua Morris, 33, of Aptos, and Cecil McMillan, 31, of Winton.

When officers asked the two to identify themselves, Morris originally gave someone else’s name, however, his true identity was eventually discovered.

When officers had their dispatcher run Morris, they discovered that he had five bench warrants. The first one was a $50,550 local misdemeanor one for failure to appear and possession of drug paraphernalia, the second one was a $50,550 misdemeanor one out of Stanislaus County for failure to appear and possession of drug paraphernalia, the third one was a $1,000 misdemeanor one out of Stanislaus County for trespassing, the fourth one was a $20,500 misdemeanor one out of Stanislaus County for possession of methamphetamines and possession of drug paraphernalia, and the fifth one was a $15,000 felony one out of Santa Cruz County for grand theft.

Morris and McMillan were both arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center, Morris on charges of false personation, trespassing, and possession of drug paraphernalia, as well as his warrants, and McMillan on the charge of trespassing.

Man on PRCS for attempted murder arrested on felony warrant Monday morning

On Monday, January 23rd, 2023, at 8:35 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported city ordinance violation at Turlock Plaza, 140 N Center St, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with a man who identified himself as Anthony Ayala, 41, of Turlock.

When officers had their dispatcher run Ayala, they discovered that he had a no-bail local felony bench warrant for attempting to drive or take a vehicle without the consent of the owner. They also discovered that he was on post release community supervision for several charges, including attempted murder.

Ayala was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrant.

Two reportedly involved in mailbox vandalism arrested after leading police on two high speed pursuits early Monday morning

On Monday, January 23rd, 2023, at 1:05 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported vandalism that had just occurred at Lakeside Apartments, 300 Tampa St, Turlock, after three men had broken into a few community mailboxes in the apartment complex.

The caller, who was a security guard for the complex, observed the men get into a white 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class and begin driving away. He followed them until they pulled into the QuikStop at 1260 Geer Rd.

The security guard then observed what he believed to be the same vehicle, but wasn’t, leaving the QuikStop northbound on Geer Rd and then turning westbound on Pedras Rd. He followed it, but then lost it after it turned onto an unknown street.

An uninvolved person who was listening to the police scanner and was in the area then called to report that the suspect vehicle was still at the QuikStop. The second caller then observed the vehicle leave the QuikStop and pull into the Walgreens at 1591 Geer Rd. He called police dispatch again to inform them of the update.

Within minutes, officers arrived at Walgreens and located the vehicle backed into a parking stall near the front entrance of the business. Two of the three men were in it, and the third was likely inside Walgreens.

As officers exited their patrol vehicles and began approaching the suspect vehicle on foot, it pulled out and went southbound through the parking lot, eastbound on Twentieth Century Blvd, and then southbound on Geer Rd. The vehicle made a U-turn in front of the QuikStop and began to accelerate quickly northbound on Geer Rd. The vehicle then blew a red light at E Hawkeye Ave and a pursuit was initiated.

The suspect vehicle continued northbound on Geer Rd while being pursued by officers, reaching speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour. As the vehicle went through E Keyes Rd, the pursuit was terminated by the watch commander due to safety reasons.

A few minutes later, at 1:27 am, a Stanislaus County Sheriff’s deputy observed the same vehicle driving recklessly in the downtown Modesto area. The deputy was able to catch up to the vehicle at the intersection of N Seventh St and Tuolumne Blvd, where he observed it run a red light.

The deputy initiated a pursuit with the airship flying overhead and the vehicle began heading northbound on State Route 99. The deputy on the ground had a hard time keeping up with the vehicle, however, the airship was able to keep up with no problem and continued to follow the vehicle up to the Kiernan Ave exit, updating deputies on the ground.

At the Kiernan Ave exit, the vehicle ran out of fuel and came to a stop. A short foot pursuit ensued after both of the vehicle’s occupants exited it and hopped a fence onto Sisk Rd, however, they were quickly apprehended.

The driver was identified as Jeffrey Santos, 23, of San Rafael, while the passenger was identified as Anthony Aromin, 33, of Lathrop.

Santos and Aromin were both arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety, Santos on charges of flight from a peace officer with disregard to public safety and reckless driving, and Aromin on the charge of obstructing or resisting a public officer in the discharge of their duty.

The Turlock Police Department will be conducting follow-up in their own investigation and additional charges will likely be later added.

The third man who was likely inside Walgreens was unable to be located after Turlock officers returned from their own pursuit to check for him.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in it is encouraged to call Officer Kevin Blanc at 209-668-6540.

Drunk driver arrested after leading officer on pursuit early Saturday morning

On Saturday, January 21st, 2023, at 12:52 am, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of N Walnut Rd and Maryann Dr, Turlock, observed a driver driving recklessly, so he attempted to make a traffic stop on him, however, he failed to stop for the officer and a pursuit ensued.

The driver of the vehicle, later identified as Jesus Pulido, 19, of Turlock, went westbound on W Main St and then southbound on S Kilroy Rd, before deciding to pull over on the wrong side of the road in the 1000 block of S Kilroy Rd.

A high-risk stop was conducted where Pulido was removed from his vehicle and detained at gunpoint.

The pursuit lasted about two minutes, covering a distance of about one mile and staying at reasonable speeds.

Officers began speaking with Pulido and noticed that he was exhibiting objective symptoms of being under the influence, so they asked him if he would be willing to complete standardized field sobriety tests. Pulido agreed and did so.

Based on the totality of the circumstances, officers determined that Pulido was under the influence of alcohol.

Pulido was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of flight from a peace officer and driving under the influence of alcohol.

Man with warrants arrested after running from officers and hiding in shed Friday night

On Friday, January 20th, 2023, at 11:17 pm, the Stanislaus State Police Department and Turlock Police Department were dispatched to a reported suspicious person at Housing & Residential Life, 1 University Cir, Turlock, after a man had been seen possibly smoking narcotics inside one of the dormitory buildings.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with a man later identified as Yishmael Yisrael, 22, of Stockton.

Yisrael gave officers a slightly different spelling of his name with his birthday being a year off, and officers had their dispatcher run it. The officers’ dispatcher was unable to locate a matching driver’s license record, however, his actual record hit due to the similarities. When the officers’ dispatcher ran that name and date of birth, Yisrael returned with two bench warrants. The first one was a $25,000 misdemeanor one out of Stanislaus State for battery, while the second one was a no-bail felony one out of San Joaquin County for burglary.

When officers confronted Yisrael about his warrants, he took off running from them.

Yisrael was originally able to get away, however, a Turlock Police Department drone was able to locate him running through an alleyway and into the backyard of a residence in the 100 block of Hedstrom Rd.

Officers surrounded the residence and gave Yisrael several orders to surrender, which he ignored.

Officers eventually entered the backyard and located Yisrael hiding in a shed. He was arrested without further incident.

Yisrael was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of obstructing or resisting a public officer in the discharge of their duty and falsely identifying to a peace officer, as well as his warrants.

According to Stanislaus State Police Department Captain Cheri Silveira, Yisrael is not a student there.

Gas thief with warrant arrested after pretending to be brother Thursday afternoon

On Thursday, January 19th, 2023, at 3:34 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported larceny in progress at Chevron ExtraMile, 2725 W Monte Vista Ave, Turlock, after a man had returned to the business for the second time in a two-day period to steal gasoline after somehow bypassing a pump’s payment system.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with the suspect, who was later identified as Daniel Dunn, 33, of Waterford.

Dunn was found to be in possession of about 30 gallons of stolen gas.

When officers asked Dunn to identify himself, he gave his brother’s name and date of birth, however, it was quickly discovered that that wasn’t him and his true identity was eventually discovered.

When officers had their dispatcher run Dunn, they discovered that he had a $15,000 misdemeanor bench warrant out of Riverbank for flight from a peace officer, obstructing or resisting a public officer in the discharge of their duty, reckless driving, and possession of methamphetamines.

Dunn was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of false personation and theft, as well as his warrant.

Elderly sex offender arrested after reportedly kissing five-year-old girl on the mouth at motel Wednesday afternoon

On Wednesday, January 18th, 2023, at 2:56 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported juvenile molest that had just occurred at Sunrise Inn, 1350 N Golden State Blvd, Turlock, after a man had exited his room to hug and kiss a five-year-old girl on the mouth and forehead who was outside playing with her two older brothers.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with the suspect, who was later identified as Eduardo Hernandez, 86, of Crows Landing.

It’s currently unknown what the investigation revealed, however, when officers had their dispatcher run Hernandez, they discovered that he was a sex offender who had been convicted of committing a lewd or lascivious act with a child under the age of 14 years back in 2013.

Hernandez was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of annoying or molesting a child.

Eduardo Hernandez

Man wanted in felony assault case arrested after being recognized by off-duty officer Friday morning

On Friday, January 13th, 2023, at 11:03 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported suspicious person at QuikStop, 1260 Geer Rd, Turlock, after an off-duty officer had spotted a man who he recognized and believed was wanted.

When on-duty officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with the man, Guillermo Hernandez, 32, of Turlock.

When officers had their dispatcher run Hernandez, it was confirmed that he was wanted by the Turlock Police Department for an aggravated assault case. It was also discovered that Hernandez was a sex offender who was out of compliance with his terms.

Hernandez was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of assault with a deadly weapon other than a firearm, exhibiting a deadly weapon other than a firearm in a rude or threatening manner, vandalism, failure to register as a sex offender, and violation of post release community supervision.

Gang-related robbery occurs at dog park Monday afternoon

On Monday, January 16th, 2023, at 4:55 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported robbery at Swanson-Centennial Dog Park, 2101 Pinto Way, Turlock.

When officers arrived on scene, they made contact with the victim who told them that as he attempted to flee a group of suspects, they knocked him off his bicycle and stole it.

Officers checked the area for the suspects, however, were unable to locate them.

The incident appeared to be gang-related.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in the investigation is encouraged to call Officer Benjaman Silva at 209-668-6528.

Parolee arrested after grabbing ahold of people and refusing to let go Tuesday night

On Tuesday, January 17th, 2023, at 10:28 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported disturbance in progress at Walmart, 2111 Fulkerth Rd, Turlock, where a woman was grabbing ahold of people and refusing to let go of them.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with a woman who identified herself as Gisele Hernadez, 24, of Modesto.

When officers had their dispatcher run Hernadez, they discovered that she was on parole for burglary.

Officers called Hernadez’s parole agent and reported to him what had occurred. The agent found that there was probable cause a violation of parole had occurred, so he authorized that Hernadez be placed on a hold while awaiting a parole revocation hearing.

Hernadez was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of battery, trespassing, and violation of parole.

Drunk driver arrested for felony DUI after crash results in injury to child Tuesday afternoon

On Tuesday, January 17th, 2023, at 2:50 pm, the Turlock Police Department, Turlock Fire Department, and American Medical Response were dispatched to a reported vehicle collision with injuries in front of 632 Ninth St, Turlock.

When crews arrived on scene, they found three vehicles involved. The first one was a 2000 Chevrolet S-10, the second one was an unknown vehicle, and the third one was a black 1999 Honda Accord.

The S-10 had a total of three occupants, including its driver, Jason Freitas, 39, of Turlock, and a child. The child suffered minor injuries and was ground-transported by American Medical Response to a local hospital. The other two vehicles were parked and unoccupied.

Officers began speaking with Freitas and noticed that he was exhibiting objective symptoms of being under the influence, so they asked him if he would be willing to complete standardized field sobriety tests. Freitas agreed and did so.

Based on the totality of the circumstance, officers determined that Freitas was under the influence of alcohol.

Freitas was arrested and provided two evidentiary breath samples at the scene as required by California’s implied consent law. The breath samples revealed that Freitas had a blood alcohol content of .08 or greater.

Freitas was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol causing injury to another person, driving with a blood alcohol content of .08 or greater causing injury to another person, and child abuse or endangerment under circumstances likely to produce great bodily harm or death. He was also issued an administrative driver’s license suspension order by the California Department of Motor Vehicles and his vehicle was impounded.

It’s currently unknown how the collision occurred.

Two with misdemeanor warrants arrested after leading officers on short pursuit Sunday night

On Sunday, January 15th, 2023, at 10:42 pm, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of N Walnut Rd and W Monte Vista Ave, Turlock, observed a driver fail to stop at a red traffic signal, so he attempted to make a traffic stop on him, however, the driver failed to yield to the officer and a pursuit ensued.

The vehicle’s driver, later identified as Tunet Taryorn, 38, of Turlock, drove southbound on N Walnut Rd, westbound on W Tuolumne Rd, and then southbound on N Golden State Blvd.

As Taryorn approached W Syracuse Ave, he began to slow his vehicle down, made a westbound turn, and stopped.

With the assistance of additional officers, a high risk stop was conducted and the vehicle’s three occupants were removed at gunpoint, including Taryorn and a man later identified as Saymon Safargavlan, 38, of Turlock.

The pursuit lasted about two minutes, covered a distance of about two miles, and reached a top speed of about 65 miles per hour.

When officers had their dispatcher run the three, they discovered that Taryorn and Safargavlan had warrants. Taryorn had two misdemeanor bench warrants out of Tuolumne County, the first one was a $5,000 one for failure to appear and the second one was a $30,000 one for falsely identifying to a peace officer, possession of methamphetamines, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and failure to appear, while Safargavlan had two $2,000 misdemeanor warrants, the first one bench warrant out of Ceres for possession of a controlled substance and the second one was a local warrant of arrest for theft.

Taryorn and Safargavlan were both arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center, Taryorn on the charge of flight from a peace officer as well as his warrants, and Safargavlan on his warrants.

Man arrested after burglarizing construction site at school and running from officers Saturday night

On Saturday, January 14th, 2023, at 10:03 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported larceny in progress at Osborn Two-Way Immersion Academy, 201 N Soderquist Rd, Turlock, after a man had been seen on a live surveillance feed carrying a duffle bag through the construction site on campus.

Officers arrived on scene and deployed a drone over the campus in an attempt to locate the suspect. Through the live drone feed, officers spotted a man later identified as Jonathan Rock, 25, of Turlock, tampering with a Conex box’s door.

Rock eventually began walking away from the Conex box carrying a duffle bag, which he eventually dropped to begin running after spotting officers.

Rock was given lawful orders to stop running and to surrender, however, he failed to comply with them.

Officers were unable to get to Rock due to the fence surrounding the campus, so they continued using the drone to track him. He eventually jumped a fence and entered the Turlock Memorial Park where officers were able to capture him.

Afterward, officers were allowed into the construction site by an employee, where they discovered that the Conex box’s lock had been broken and copper wire had been removed from inside.

The duffle bag was recovered and stolen property was found in it. Additional stolen property was also recovered from Rock’s vehicle which was parked nearby.

Rock was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of burglary and obstructing or resisting a public officer in the discharge of their duty.

Parolee sitting in stranger’s vehicle with large amount of meth and stolen merchandise arrested Saturday morning

On Saturday, January 14th, 2023, at 6:49 am, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported occupied suspicious vehicle in the parking lot of The Home Depot, 2800 Countryside Drive, Turlock.

Officers arrived on scene and located the vehicle, finding a man later identified as Marcos Cardenas, 28, of Delhi, inside of it.

When officers had their dispatcher run Cardenas, they discovered that he was on parole for burglary.

Officers began investigating and determined that Cardenas was not the vehicle’s owner and upon further investigation learned that its owner was a Home Depot employee. The owner was contacted and he stated that he had no idea who Cardenas was and that he was not supposed to be in his vehicle.

Cardenas was removed from the vehicle and a search was conducted, which led to the discovery of a large amount of methamphetamine and recently stolen merchandise from the business.

Officers called a parole agent and reported to him what had occurred. The parole agent found that there was probable cause a violation of parole had occurred, so he authorized that Cardenas be placed on a hold while awaiting a parole revocation hearing.

Cardenas was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of transporting or selling methamphetamines and violation of parole.

Man with warrant for attempted arson arrested after being recognized by officer Friday afternoon

On Friday, January 13th, 2023, at 3:27 pm, a Turlock Police officer near Turlock City Hall, 156 S Broadway, Turlock, recognized and got out with a man who he believed had a warrant.

The officer had his dispatcher run the man, William Rock, 54, of Denair, and he confirmed that he did indeed have a $25,000 felony Ramey warrant for attempted arson and possession of an incendiary device.

The incident that the warrant stemmed from occurred the evening of Saturday, December 3rd, 2022, in the 600 block of Mitchell Ave. Rock had attempted to light the fence of a residence on fire and then fled the area. Officers checked the area, however, were unable to locate him. Surveillance camera video provided by the victim led to his identification and the warrant being issued.

Rock was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on his warrant.

Man arrested after randomly throwing brick at vehicle and causing damage Friday afternoon

On Friday, January 13th, 2023, at 12:07 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported vandalism that had just occurred at 76 DoubleTime, 101 N Tully Rd, Turlock.

Officers arrived on scene and contacted the suspect, later identified as Guillermo Lopez, 39, of Denair.

Officers began investigating and determined that Lopez had thrown a brick at the victim’s pickup truck for no apparent reason and caused damage to it.

The victim stated that he did want Lopez prosecuted.

When officers had their dispatcher run Lopez, they discovered that he had a $2,500 civil bench warrant out of Stanislaus County.

Lopez was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the charge of vandalism, as well as his warrant.

Drunk driver arrested after leading deputy on high speed pursuit and crashing early Sunday morning

On Sunday, January 15th, 2023, at 1:19 am, a Stanislaus County Sheriff’s deputy near the intersection of W Main St and N Tully Rd, Turlock, observed a driver illegally pass another vehicle while traveling at a high rate of speed, so he attempted to make a traffic stop on him, however, he took off from the deputy and a pursuit ensued.

The driver of the vehicle, later identified as Rogelio Casillas, 22, of Ceres, went westbound on W Main St, turned off all of his vehicle’s lights, and began blowing through red lights at speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour. It was at that point that the pursuit was terminated for safety reasons.

Less than a minute after the pursuit was terminated, the deputy came across the vehicle on W Main St just east of S Washington Rd after it had been involved in a collision with a semi-truck and an orchard.

With the assistance of additional deputies, a high risk stop was conducted and Casillas was removed from his vehicle at gunpoint.

Casillas was detained and displayed objective symptoms of being under the influence.

Even though the collision occurred within the City of Turlock, the California Highway Patrol responded to handle it as the Turlock Police Department was busy handling an assault with a firearm that later turned into a homicide.

California Highway Patrol officers determined that Casillas was under the influence of alcohol, so he was arrested.

Casillas was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of flight from a peace officer with disregard to public safety and driving under the influence of alcohol. He was also issued an administrative driver’s license suspension order by the California Department of Motor Vehicles and his vehicle was impounded.

No specific information about injuries was released, however, it’s safe to say that no one besides Casillas was injured as he was not charged with felony DUI.

Man arrested on narcotic charges and two felony warrants after reportedly tampering with vehicle Thursday night

On Thursday, January 12th, 2023, at 10:53 pm, the Turlock Police Department was dispatched to a reported auto burglary in progress at Fast Lane Motors, 1060 N Golden State Blvd, after two men had been seen tampering with a vehicle on the property.

When officers arrived on scene, they found and made contact with the two men as they were walking away from the business heading eastbound on Almond Ave. Both were identified, including Arthur Rincon, 45, of Modesto.

Officers began investigating and determined that no crimes had been committed.

When officers had their dispatcher run the two, they discovered that Rincon had two $20,000 felony bench warrants. The first one was out of Eureka for identity theft and violation of probation, while the second one was out of Siskiyou County for failure to appear, violation of probation, and committing a felony while on bail or release.

Rincon was arrested and a search conducted incident to arrest led to the discovery of methamphetamines and drug paraphernalia.

Rincon was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of methamphetamines and possession of drug paraphernalia, as well as his warrant.

It should be noted that what appears to be a firearm in one of the photos is just a replica.

UPDATE: Additional information about early Sunday morning’s downtown homicide released

On Sunday, January 15th, 2023, at 12:17 pm, we received additional information about the homicide that had occurred early that morning behind The Udder Place, 110 W Main St, Turlock.

The victim who succumbed to his injuries at the hospital has been identified as Robert Morgan, 31, of Turlock.

So far, the investigation has revealed that Morgan was a security guard at The Grand Cru, but had a day off and was hanging out with friends at the bar. While there, on-duty security guards got involved in an altercation with several Hispanic male patrons and were able to move them outside. The altercation continued outside and Morgan stepped out to assist his on-duty coworkers.

Morgan was reportedly in an altercation with someone behind The Udder Place when an unidentified occupant of a dark-colored sedan stopped, got out, and fired multiple shots at Morgan before getting back into the sedan and fleeing the scene.

According to Turlock Police Sergeant Victor Barcelos, this homicide and the one from the prior morning are unrelated.

Detectives continue to investigate the incident with the assistance of investigators from the department’s Special Investigations Unit and Major Accident Investigations Team.

Jerry Powell, who owns The Udder Place, The Grand Cru, and Cuts Steakhouse, has voluntarily closed The Grand Cru for two weeks to review internal procedures related to evaluating and improving safety measures at the establishment.

“I had a discussion with Mr. Powell regarding this tragedy at Grand Cru, and he let me know he is heartbroken at the loss of a valued staff member and friend,” said Turlock Police Chief Jason Hedden. “He also informed me that he is closing his business immediately to conduct a review and ensure that Grand Cru is a safe place for both patrons and employees. I am employing new, state-of-the-art technologies and resources to combat violent crime in our city to keep our residents and businesses safe and secure. We will not tolerate this kind of activity and want our residents to know we are working hard and will continue to update the public as information can be shared during these investigations,” he continued.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist in it is encouraged to call Turlock Police Detective Raul Garcia at 209-664-7314.

Woman with two meth possession warrants arrested during traffic stop early Thursday morning

On Thursday, January 12th, 2023, at 1:14 am, a Turlock Police officer near the intersection of S Golden State Blvd and Golf Rd, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so he made a traffic stop on him.

The officer made contact with and identified the vehicle’s two occupants, including passenger Jessica Bueno, 35, of Nevada.

When the officer had his dispatcher run the two, he discovered that Bueno had two $25,555 misdemeanor bench warrants for possession of methamphetamines, the first one out of Oakdale and the second one out of Stanislaus County.

Bueno was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on her warrants.

Parolee arrested with meth during traffic stop Wednesday morning

On Wednesday, January 11th, 2023, at 9:10 am, Turlock Police investigators near Travelodge, 201 W Glenwood Ave, Turlock, observed a driver violating the California Vehicle Code, so they made a traffic stop on him.

The investigators made contact with and identified the vehicle’s two occupants, including passenger John Roberts, 42, of Oklahoma.

When the investigators had their dispatcher run Roberts, they discovered that he was on parole.

A parole search was subsequently conducted which led to the discovery of methamphetamines and paraphernalia in Roberts’ possession.

The investigators called a parole agent and reported to him what they had found. The parole agent found that there was probable cause a violation of parole had occurred, so he authorized that Roberts be placed on a hold while awaiting a parole revocation hearing.

Roberts was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of possession of methamphetamines, possession of drug paraphernalia, and violation of parole.