14-year-old among gang members arrested in Visalia

VISALIA, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – A 14-year-old was one of three arrested in a Visalia park Saturday evening among gang members, the Visalia Police Department announced.

An officer was conducting a security check at Ruiz Park on East Buena Vista Avenue just before 11:15 p.m. Saturday police say, due to recent violent crimes.

Upon arrival, the officer contacted a group of people, including known Norteño gang members. As he approached, investigators say 21-year-old Anthony Canchola walked away and attempted to hide a loaded gun in a bush.

Officers report Canchola was later found with cocaine in his socks.

Detectives say for safety they searched the other individuals and discovered a loaded gun in the waistband of a 14-year-old. After searching their vehicle, officers also found a third gun linked to the driver, 20-year-old Janesa Smith.

As a result, the teen and two adults were arrested. Canchola was booked under suspicion of being a felon with a firearm and ammunition, having a controlled substance while armed, attempting to hide evidence, and a no-bail warrant for shooting at an inhabited dwelling.

Police say the 14-year-old was booked under suspicion of being a minor in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Smith was booked under suspicion of carrying a concealed firearm.

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