One arrested, guns seized in Fresno probation roundup

One man was arrested and several guns were seized in a large-scale probation search operation, Fresno police said.

The operation’s goal was to find people who have been involved in violent crime and were currently armed, police said, and to build strong cases against them.

The Police Department’s Gun Crime Unit along with the Multi-Agency Gang Enforcement Consortium (MAGEC) conducted 16 probation searches.

During a search Aug. 5 near Jensen and Walnut avenues, plainclothed officers saw Davonte Kendricks. Kendricks saw tactical units approaching and walked quickly into a residence, but came outside a short time later, police said.

Officers searched the residence and found a loaded 9 mm pistol in a couch, police said. Kendricks told them he hid the gun when he saw the patrol units approach, police said. He said he had the gun for protection from rival gang members.

Kendrick was determined to be a Muhammad gang member out on bail for a felony charge and on felony probation for property crimes in San Joaquin County, police said. He was booked into Fresno County Jail for several firearm-related charges.

Officers also served a search warrant at a home near Tulare and Peach avenues. Mongolian Boy gang members admitted to having firearms in the residence, police said. Officers found two rifles and a shotgun, all stored improperly under children’s beds, police said.

The shotgun was reported stolen in 2002 but it could not be determined that the homeowner knew that, police said.

Police offer $500 rewards for information leading to firearm-related arrests. People can call Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-7867 with confidential information.

This story was originally published August 11, 2015 at 10:03 AM with the headline "One arrested, guns seized in Fresno probation roundup."