Suspect Arrested for Possession of Firearms and Ammunition 

August 29, 2025 – Calaveras County Sheriff's Office officials report that on August 10, 2025, at approximately 11:00 P.M., a citizen advised a Calaveras County deputy of a small sedan parked in the middle of South Railroad Flat Road at Wharregard Road. The vehicle was blocking both lanes along a blind corner, creating a traffic hazard. The citizen stated the driver was asleep behind the wheel, and the vehicle was facing oncoming traffic.

The deputy arrived, locating the driver, later identified as 39-year-old Richard Alan Kessler III of Valley Springs. As the deputy initially approached the vehicle, Kessler exited and attempted to walk away, but eventually stopped, turned back, and spoke with the deputy. Two open alcoholic beverages were observed in the vehicle’s front cupholders. Kessler admitted to drinking and acknowledged he should not have been driving.

A records check revealed that Kessler is currently on active, searchable probation. It was also determined that Kessler was currently being sought for an unrelated investigation. Based on this information, Kessler was taken into custody without incident.

A search of the vehicle revealed a small baggie containing approximately 3 grams of marijuana in the driver’s side door panel. A .38-caliber handgun with four live rounds in the cylinder was found in the center console within reach of the driver. A second firearm, a .308-caliber rifle, was discovered in the rear hatch area. The rifle was unloaded; however, seven rounds were affixed to the stock in a shell holder. It should be noted that Kessler is prohibited from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.

Suspect Kessler was arrested and transported to the county jail where he was charged with several felony and misdemeanor crimes.

Source & photo: Calaveras County Sheriff's Office