Ceres Police Department

Proactive Policing Leads to Arrest and Recovery of Stolen Firearm

On June 4, 2026, at approximately 8:00 p.m., while conducting proactive patrol enforcement, Officer Gallenkamp conducted a traffic stop in the area of Whitmore Avenue and Morgan Road on a motorcycle rider for a vehicle code violation.

During the investigation, the driver, identified as Fernando Espinoza, was found to be in possession of a stolen firearm reported out of Oklahoma, along with a large-capacity magazine.

Espinoza was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on multiple felony-related charges.

The Ceres Police Department remains committed to proactive enforcement efforts that help remove illegal fi****ms from our community and enhance public safety.

Ceres, CA — On Sunday, May 24, 2026, at approximately 11:30pm, Ceres police officers responded to the 800 block of Willow Lake Way regarding a disturbance involving weapons. While officers were enroute, the victim advised dispatch she had safely fled the residence and requested contact at a nearby location. The victim reported her ex-boyfriend, Rafael Echeverria, 30, came to her home, threatened her with a firearm, and prevented her from leaving. She was eventually able to escape through a window and leave the area safely.

On Monday, May 25, 2026, at approximately 4:30am, the victim returned home and discovered Echeverria hiding inside the residence. According to the victim, Echeverria was armed and threatened to kill her. The victim fled and called 911.

Ceres police officers, assisted by the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department and Modesto Police Department, established a perimeter around the residence to prevent Echeverria from leaving. During the investigation, officers determined Echeverria was wanted for several violent felony crimes, including assault with a deadly weapon involving a firearm, domestic violence, criminal threats, false imprisonment, and violation of a domestic violence restraining order.

Due to the severity of the alleged crimes and the belief Echeverria remained armed inside the residence, the Ceres SWAT Team was activated. Crisis negotiators attempted communication while nearby homes were evacuated for public safety. After repeated announcements and tactical operations, SWAT officers located Echeverria in a neighboring yard and safely took him into custody without incident.

Echeverria was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on multiple felony charges, including domestic violence, criminal threats, false imprisonment, assault with a deadly weapon involving a firearm, violation of a restraining order, and multiple felony warrants.

The Ceres Police Department would like to thank the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department, Modesto Police Department, and assisting allied agencies for their coordinated response during the high-risk incident.