On July 20th, at approximately 11:12 p.m., a Visalia PD officer conducted a security check at Ruiz Park on East Buena Vista Avenue, following recent violent crimes in the area. The officer approached a group including known Norteno gang members. Anthony Canchola, 21, attempted to hide a loaded gun in a bush and was found with cocaine in his socks. A 14-year-old in the group had a loaded gun in his waistband, and a vehicle search revealed a third gun linked to the driver, 20-year-old Janesa Smith.
Canchola was booked for being a felon with a firearm and ammunition, possessing a controlled substance while armed, attempting to hide evidence, and a no-bail warrant for shooting at an inhabited dwelling. The 14-year-old was booked for minor in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Smith was booked for carrying a concealed firearm.
