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Gang task force arrests 18 after seven-month long investigation
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The movement to squash the growing gang problems in the area took another step forward with a multi-agency operation that resulted in 18 arrests and the seizure of narcotics and weapons.

The seven-month long investigation was lead by the Central Valley Gang Impact Task Force and focused on disrupting a group of Norteno street gang members who were carrying out instructions from the La Nuestra Familia prison gang, according to the task force.

The investigation revealed evidence of criminal activities that included the sell of narcotics, robberies, home invasions, and murder.

Beginning around 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, the task force started serving out 10 search warrants in the Modesto and Ceres areas. The searches turned up stashed of narcotics and weapons, according to the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office. Items seized were: Eight guns, including a MAC 10 submachine gun, a sawed-off shotgun, and ammunition; methamphetamine, scales and packaging material; two marijuana grows; and two police scanners.

The individuals arrested and their charges are:

• Terrance Nathaniel Gaspard, 23, of Modesto on suspicion of violating parole, resisting arrest.

• Jose Michael Gomez, 26, of Modesto on suspicion of cultivating marijuana, possession of narcotics for sales, possession of a loaded firearm, armed while committing a felony and a gang enhancement.

• Michael Don Hardy, 42, of Modesto on suspicion of possession of narcotics.

• Lola Herena, 18, of Modesto on suspicion of possession of narcotics for sale, conspiracy and a gang enhancement.

• Rafael Jaquez, 26, of Modesto on suspicion of possession of narcotics for sales, conspiracy and a gang enhancement.

• Marty Jeff Johnson, 24, of Modesto, resisting arrest.

• Jose Becerril Navarro, 24, of Modesto on suspicion of carrying a loaded weapon in a vehicle, possession of stolen property and resisting arrest.

• Jesse Edward Pulido, 28, of Modesto on suspicion of carrying a loaded firearm and a gang enhancement.

• Miguel Angel Ramirez, 22, of Modesto on suspicion of carrying a loaded weapon in a vehicle and cultivating marijuana.

• Anthony Joseph Rodriguez, 28, of Modesto on suspicion of violating probation.

• Paulimar Rodriguez Jr., 26, of Modesto on suspicion of possession of narcotics for sales, conspiracy and a gang enhancement.

• Ignacio Salcedo, 22, of Modesto on suspicion of possession of narcotics for sales, possession of a firearm while committing a felony and a gang enhancement.

• Johnathon Eugene Thomas, 20, of Modesto on suspicion of resisting arrest.

• Angela Marie Zuniga, 35, of Modesto on suspicion of possession of forged checks.

• Sylvia Marie Zuniga, 22, of Modesto on suspicion of possession of narcotics.

• Three juveniles.

The Central Valley Gang Impact Task Force is a federally funded agency that draws members from area law enforcement agencies and the Federal Bureau of Investigations.

To contact Sabra Stafford, e-mail sstafford@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2002.