Weapon Seizure 

June 16, 2024 – Riverside County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, members of the Coachella Valley Violent Crime Gang Task Force (CVVCGTF) responded to the U.S. Border Patrol Blythe Station (PB) to assist with a weapon seizure.

During the investigation, Border Patrol Agents at the California and Arizona border contacted the driver, Jose Palma Almendarez, a 25-year-old from Calexico, and his 17-year-old juvenile brother in a Honda CRV. BP Agents discovered a large cache of assault rifles and magazines hidden in the rear of the vehicle. Through interviews, Task Force Officers later learned the firearms were picked up in Phoenix, AZ, and were being trafficked back into California.

CVVCGTF members were able to seize 25 assault rifles and two handguns. Palma Almendarez was ultimately booked into the Blythe Jail for several weapon-related charges. The male juvenile was released to his parents.

The Coachella Valley Violent Crime Gang Task Force is committed to creating safe and secure neighborhoods free of violent crime and gang activity. This investigation is ongoing. If you have any information about this crime, please contact Gang Task Force Member Inv. Henson at (760) 836-1600. If you have non-emergency information regarding gang activity, please use our online Gang Task Force Tip Form or call (951) 922-7601. If you have information regarding criminal activity and wish to be anonymous, please call Valley Crimestoppers at (760) 341-7867.

Reporting Deputy: Sergeant Cameron James

File # GE241650001

Source & photos: Riverside County Sheriff’s Office