A large cache of assault rifles and magazines was intercepted at the California and Arizona border on Wednesday, June 12. The seizure resulted from a coordination between the U.S. Border Patrol and the Coachella Valley Violent Crime Gang Task Force (CVVCGTF). A vehicle driven by 25-year-old Jose Palma Almendarez from Calexico, accompanied by his 17-year-old brother, was stopped and subsequently searched by Border Patrol Agents. Upon inspection, a hidden compartment in their Honda CRV was found to contain the weapons cache, as reported by the Riverside County Sheriff's Department.

According to the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, the firearms, which included 25 assault rifles and two handguns, were picked up in Phoenix, AZ, and were in the process of being trafficked into California. Palma Almendarez was arrested and booked into the Blythe Jail on several weapon-related charges. The male juvenile was released to his parents. The report noted that the Coachella Valley Violent Crime Gang Task Force is actively engaged in ensuring the communities they protect are safeguarded from violent crime and gang activity.

The task force provides several avenues for citizens to report tips anonymously if they wish. "If you have any information about this crime, please contact Gang Task Force Member Inv. Henson at (760) 836–1600," the department's statement noted. As part of their outreach, the department also encourages using their online Gang Task Force Tip Form or calling 951–922–7601 for non-emergency tips relating to gang activity. For those seeking to remain anonymous, Valley Crimestoppers can be reached at (760) 341–7867.