Avenal Gang Members Arrested For Firearm Possession

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release:
Date: March 12, 2024
Prepared By/Contact Person: Sean Young, Police Commander

Avenal Gang Members Arrested for Firearm Possession

On 03/11/24 at about 10:40 am, officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for a mechanical
violation near Fifth and Glenn. Upon contacting the two male occupants, officers learned that the
driver was driving on a suspended license and the passenger was on Fresno County Felony Probation and open to search & seizure.

Officers conducted a compliance search of the interior passenger compartment of the vehicle and found a loaded 9mm pistol. The pistol was a privately manufactured firearm, “Ghost Gun”, that was concealed underneath the passenger front seat.

Initially the two occupants denied having any knowledge of the firearm being there. Through the investigation process, the passenger, identified as Avenal resident Alfonso Patino Jr., admitted the firearm belonged to him. The driver, and registered owner of the vehicle, was identified as Avenal resident Umberto Mendiola. Mendiola was issued a traffic citation for mechanical violations and for driving on a suspended license and his vehicle was towed.

Upon further investigation it was found that both Patino Jr. and Mendiola have active ties to the Avenal Varrio Lomas (AVL) Criminal Street Gang. Patino Jr. was booked and later transported to the Fresno County Jail for multiple felony firearms charges and a probation violation.