August 30, 2025 – Modoc County Sheriff's Office officials report that on August 25, 2025, Modoc County Sheriff's Deputies served search warrants at four separate locations in the Surprise Valley area of Modoc County. Deputies recovered over 100 firearms, thousands of rounds of ammunition, a suspected stolen vehicle, methamphetamine, a suspected honey oil lab, and various items of drug paraphernalia.

Three of the four locations searched contained stolen firearms, ammunition, drugs, and other suspected stolen property. The firearms and ammunition recovered are connected to a burglary investigation reported in June 2025 from a residence in Cedarville, California.

Michael Bernie Sweeney 37, Bryce William Lemonds 29, Connie Lynne Sweeney 57, Rocky William Lemonds 61, and Robbie Ann Barnes 51 were arrested in connection with the investigation.

Michael Sweeney and Bryce Lemonds remain in custody at the Modoc County Jail without bail. The other three suspects were released on their own recognizance pending further court proceedings.

The Modoc County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate this case. Additional arrests and charges may follow as evidence is processed. If you have any information regarding this investigation, please contact the Modoc County Sheriff's Office at (530) 233-4416. You may remain anonymous.

"This operation demonstrates our commitment to protecting the citizens of Modoc County by removing dangerous weapons, narcotics, and stolen property from our communities. I want to thank the deputies for their dedication and hard work in this ongoing investigation", said William "Tex" Dowdy Sheriff-Coroner County of Modoc.

Source & photos: Modoc County Sheriff's Office