Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility
Merced Man Arrested After Child Exploitation Tip Leads to Search Warrant, Weapons Seizure
ANTHONY SITE PHOTO
By Anthony W. Haddad
Published 2 hours ago on
June 24, 2026

A Merced man was arrested after detectives investigating an Internet Crimes Against Children tip served a search warrant on a 9th Street residence and seized electronic devices, 11 firearms, and a grenade. (Merced PD)

Share

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Detectives with the Merced Police Department served a search warrant Tuesday at a residence on 9th Street following an Internet Crimes Against Children tip involving suspected possession and distribution of child pornography, according to authorities.

Investigators identified Rene Cuevas, 48, as the only adult male living at the home and took him into custody without incident, police said.

During the search, detectives seized multiple electronic devices tied to the investigation and identified as being associated with the possession of child pornography, according to the department. Investigators also located 11 firearms, including an assault weapon, along with a grenade. The bomb squad responded and determined the grenade was safe.

Cuevas was booked into the Merced County Jail on charges including obstruction, possession of an assault weapon, and possession of unregistered firearms.

The investigation remains ongoing as detectives conduct forensic examinations of the seized devices, police said.

Connect with Anthony W. Haddad on social media. Got a tip? Send an email

RELATED TOPICS:

Anthony W. Haddad,
Multimedia Journalist
Anthony W. Haddad, who graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with his undergraduate degree and attended Fresno State for a MBA, is the Swiss Army knife of GV Wire. He writes stories, manages social media, and represents the organization on the ground.
Send this to a friend