Kern County deputies uncovered chop shops, stolen property, firearms, and a marijuana grow in a series of arrests. (Kern County SO)
- Kern County deputies discovered chop shops, stolen vehicles, and a marijuana grow during multi-location search warrant operations.
- Roy Stevens, Albert Thompson, and Jason Hopkins were arrested; Stevens and Thompson face felony conspiracy and vehicle theft.
- Edward Lujambio arrested after deputies found firearms, stolen property, marijuana cultivation, and burglary evidence; more stolen items recovered later.
Share
|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
A series of probation and search warrant operations in eastern Kern County led to multiple arrests, the recovery of stolen property, and the discovery of two chop shops and an illegal marijuana cultivation site, authorities said Wednesday.
The Kern County Sheriff’s Office said deputies from the Ridgecrest Substation began the investigation Aug. 27 with a probation search at a residence on the 1400 block off Highway 14 in Inyokern. Deputies arrested Roy Stevens, 74, on a felony warrant and Jason Hopkins on two misdemeanor warrants. Investigators also found a stolen vehicle and an active chop shop.
Stevens, Hopkins and Albert Thompson, 71, were booked into Lerdo Jail. Stevens and Thompson face additional felony charges, including conspiracy, vehicle theft, possession of a stolen vehicle and operating a chop shop.
Nearly a month later, on Friday, Sept. 26, deputies responded to the 3500 block of North Mesquite Street, where they contacted Edward Lujambio, 62. Lujambio, who was barred from possessing firearms or ammunition, also had an active misdemeanor bench warrant out of Nevada, the sheriff’s office said.
Search warrants served at his property uncovered an active marijuana grow, a stolen trailer, a chop shop and multiple firearms and ammunition, including items linked to a recent burglary. The sheriff’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area unit seized more than 200 pounds of marijuana for destruction.
Lujambio was booked on multiple charges, including grand theft of a firearm, possession of a stolen vehicle, cultivation of marijuana, felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and maintaining a place for drug activity.
Deputies returned to Lujambio’s residence Tuesday with a third search warrant based on new leads, recovering additional stolen property, including firearms and air guns.
He faces further felony charges.
Got a Tip?
The sheriff’s office said the investigation remains active and encouraged anyone with information to call (661) 391-3110 or Secret Witness at (661) 322-4040.
—
Connect with Anthony W. Haddad on social media. Got a tip? Send an email.
RELATED TOPICS:
Categories
