Salinas law enforcement officials have confiscated 18 ghost guns and arrested two suspects with ties to gang activity on weapons charges.
In a collaborative effort between the Salinas Police Department and the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, the dwelling of two suspects was searched, resulting in the seizure of the firearms and their subsequent arrests.
Ghost guns are assembled firearms that lack serial numbers, making them untraceable. Such weapons are illegal in California. The two suspects arrested were identified as being connected to a local gang.
“Ghost guns are a serious public safety concern and are often used in the commission of violent acts and other crimes,” said Salinas Police Chief Adele Fresé. “The removal of these firearms from our community is an important step in curtailing gang-related violence in Salinas.”
During the search, officers found a variety of firearm components, including an assault rifle, multiple semi-automatic handguns, and other parts for ghost guns.
The suspects, who have not been identified, are being held on bail.
The Salinas Police Department, working in conjunction with the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, has been engaged in a concerted effort to combat the proliferation of untraceable firearms and to curtail the prevalence of gang-related activity in the area.
The confiscation of these 18 ghost guns is a major victory, as it serves to significantly reduce the potential for gang violence in the community of Salinas.
The Salinas Police Department and Monterey County Sheriff’s Office are continuing their investigations into the possession and circulation of ghost guns in the area.
Law enforcement officials in Salinas have made immense strides in their efforts to stem the tide of gang-related activity and the proliferation of illegal firearms by seizing 18 ghost guns, arresting two suspects linked to a local gang, and maintaining a vigilant watch over the area.