In a law enforcement sweep targeting repeat offenders, the Coachella Valley Violent Crime Gang Task Force (GTF) apprehended 41-year-old Leroy Melgoza, a convicted felon found with firearms and ammunition, Riverside County Sheriff's Department reported.
The task force received a tip-off in December 2023 about Melgoza, hailing from Desert Hot Springs, holding onto several firearms in violation of law, due to his previous felony conviction. Acting on the intelligence, GTF members took Melgoza into custody on January 16, 2024, in Rancho Mirage, just after 4 p.m.
Leroy Melgoza's residence was searched under a warrant, revealing two firearms and ammunition in the 15500 block of Bubbling Wells Road, which followed his arrest. Subsequently, Melgoza was booked at the John Benoit Detention Center in Indio on charges of being a prior convicted felon in possession of firearms and ammunition.
The GTF, comprising various agencies, stands dedicated to the mission of making communities safer by eradicating violent crimes and gang activities. The task force encourages anyone with information related to the case or other gang-related offenses to reach out through the official Gang Task Force Tip Form or by calling Deputy Chavez directly at (760) 836-1600. If wishing to remain anonymous and have information about criminal activities, Valley Crimestoppers is available at (760) 341-7867 for contact.
