FRESNO - On April 28, 2018, just after 9:00 p.m. Fresno Police Officer Andrew Espino and Officer Arthur Barraganfrom the Southwest Patrol district were assigned as a Proactive Patrol Unit working a known gang area. The officers chose to continue their efforts in focusing on subjects armed with illegal firearms.
Halfway through their shift the officers spotted 43-year old, Jose Garcia, a Parkside Bulldog Gang Member. Officer Espino and Barragan attempted to stop Garcia for riding his bicycle in violation of the vehicle code. Garcia refused to stop, first he fled on his bicycle and then on foot. After a short foot chase Garcia ran into a light pole and his firearm fell out of his waistband. The firearm was a loaded .22 caliber revolver. The officers safely arrested Garcia and placed him into custody.
The officers found that Garcia was wanted by the Fresno County Probation Office for being in violation of his probation conditions. Garcia is on felony probation for a firearm charge.
Officers Espino and Barragan removed a firearm from the streets of Fresno and the hands of a violent gang member. These officers and the rest of the Southwest District continue to show their dedication to the citizens of Southwest Fresno, with yet another arrest and seizure of a firearm. Southwest District Officers continually show their dedication in bettering our Southwest Community with record breaking firearms being recovered by Southwest District Officers this year. the commitment and lean forward approach is effectively growing.
The Fresno Police Department would like to remind the public that Crime Stoppers has enhanced the rewards for information related to gang members who are involved in narcotic sales, firearm possession, and human trafficking. The new campaign consists of the following monetary rewards for anonymous tips.
If a gang member is arrested for possessing a handgun, the reward is $2,000. If a gang member is arrested for possessing an assault rifle, the reward is $3,000. If a gang member is arrested for human trafficking, the reward is $3,000 and if a gang member is involved in drug sales, the reward is $1,000. Anyone with information is urged to call crime stoppers at (559)-498-STOP (7869) with information. Your information is kept confidential.
