Deputies serving a search warrant yesterday at a Spring Valley home on Del Rio Road arrested a 34-year-old man and say they uncovered a major cache of weapons and suspected stolen property. Inside, investigators also reported finding a small “fraud lab” allegedly used to produce fake license plates and other items.
What deputies say they seized
According to FOX 5 San Diego, deputies recovered more than 20 firearms, large quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine, military-style armored vests, two motorcycles believed to be stolen, a toy-hauler trailer and a Home Depot rental truck that had been reported stolen. The warrant was served at about 6 a.m. Friday by a multi-agency team, authorities said.
Arrest and investigation
The 34-year-old suspect was booked into the San Diego Central Jail on suspicion of illegal possession of narcotics and firearms along with multiple fraud-related charges. Deputies from the Sheriff’s Special Enforcement Detail, the narcotics task force and the financial crimes unit were among those involved in the operation, and investigators say the probe is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Rancho San Diego Sheriff’s Station at (619) 660-7090, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Office.
Local context
Large caches and recovered stolen property have surfaced in other recent East County sweeps, reflecting the sheriff’s continued focus on illegal weapons and organized theft. Deputies seized about 50 guns during a search in the Potrero area last year, according to reporting by 10News.
Legal implications
Because the search turned up both suspected narcotics and a large number of firearms, prosecutors will review the evidence to determine the exact charges and whether any additional cases will be filed. The sheriff’s office has said the investigation remains active and evidence is still being evaluated, and San Diego County Sheriff's Office and FOX 5 San Diego have both reported details on the arrest and contact information for the Rancho San Diego station.
