Traffic stop leads to seizure of ghost guns, suspected explosives, and drugs in Yucca Valley
YUCCA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) - A 47-year-old man was arrested after a traffic stop in Yucca Valley led to law enforcement seizing ghost guns, drugs, and suspected explosives.
The traffic stop happened on Dec. 17 near the intersection of Twentynine Palms Highway and Kickapoo Trail.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, deputies determined that the driver, identified as James Gagnon, was out on bail for possession of a controlled substance while armed.
"During the investigation, Gagnon was found to be in possession of a “Ghost” firearm with an extended magazine, ammunition, an AR-15-style “Ghost” rifle, an electronic vehicle key-cloning device, and suspected methamphetamine," reads a news release by the agency.
Based on the information obtained during the traffic stop, detectives and deputies continued their investigation into Gagnon.
Investigators served a search warrant at Gagnon’s residence and located several rounds of ammunition, rifle magazines, suspected controlled substances, and suspected explosive materials. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Bomb and Arson Detail responded to the residence and recovered the suspected explosive materials.
Gagnon is currently being held at the West Valley Detention Center without bail.
He was officially charged Monday. His charges include Possession of Destructive Device in a Private Habitation, Felon/Addict/Etc Possess Firearm, Possess Controlled Substance While Armed With Loaded/Etc Firearm. Gagnon pleaded not guilty to all charges and is scheduled to return to court on Dec. 26.
Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact Deputy R. Quiroz or Detective Tyler A. Bengard at the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Morongo Basin Station, at (760) 366 4175. Those wishing to remain anonymous may contact We-Tip at 1-888-78-CRIME.
