Two gang members arrested in robbery attack

PORTERVILLE – Two Porterville teenagers were arrested for robbing, beating and cutting a 46-year-old man, police officials said Thursday.

Porterville police officers arrested verified gang members Noel Martinez, 19, and Edgar Briseno, 18, on charges of robbery, mayhem, criminal threats, conspiracy and participation in a criminal street gang, said Det. Aaron Sutherland. Police are still looking for other suspects in the case.

The attack occurred May 1 near the intersection of Orange Avenue and G Street. A passerby mistook the robbery victim for a hit and run casualty when the victim was seen bleeding on the sidewalk.

When police arrived they learned that the man was attacked and robbed. He was suffering from a large laceration to his ear and was unable to immediately provide a detailed account. He was taken to the Regional Medical Center in Fresno for surgery.

Det. Sutherland said he interviewed the victim, who remains hospitalized at Kaweah Delta Medical Center in Visalia because of his injuries.

Sutherland provided photos of possible suspects who are known to be gang members near where the attack occurred. The victim was able to pick out two of his attackers from a photo lineup.

Sutherland said a search warrant was obtained for Martinez’ residence and was served by detectives on May 12. Martinez was located at the residence and arrested without incident. He remains in jail in lieu of a $75,000 bond.

Briseno was found later and arrested on the same charges as Martinez.

Sutherland said the victim does not have ties to gangs, but both suspects are known gang members. Police did not release the name of the victim.