Ceres Police Department

06/16/2026

Please join us in congratulating Chief Trenton Johnson on earning a gold medal in the United States Police and Fire Games currently being held in San Diego!! Chief Johnson earned his gold medal in the bench press competition. He also set a new games record by successfully bench pressing 165kg or 363lbs. Congratulations Chief!!

06/10/2026

Last week, we had the honor of recognizing Officer Kevin Gallenkamp for receiving his first CHP 10851 Award Pin, a distinguished recognition presented to law enforcement officers who demonstrate exceptional commitment and effectiveness in stolen vehicle enforcement.

Officer Gallenkamp’s proactive approach, attention to detail, and dedication to protecting our community have led to significant contributions in identifying and recovering stolen vehicles while holding offenders accountable.

His efforts not only help return valuable property to its rightful owners but also contribute to reducing crime and improving public safety throughout our city.

The Ceres Police Department is proud to recognize Officer Gallenkamp for this outstanding achievement and his continued commitment to excellence in law enforcement.

Please join us in congratulating Officer Gallenkamp on this well-deserved recognition!

06/08/2026

Proactive Policing Leads to Arrest and Recovery of Stolen Firearm

On June 4, 2026, at approximately 8:00 p.m., while conducting proactive patrol enforcement, Officer Gallenkamp conducted a traffic stop in the area of Whitmore Avenue and Morgan Road on a motorcycle rider for a vehicle code violation.

During the investigation, the driver, identified as Fernando Espinoza, was found to be in possession of a stolen firearm reported out of Oklahoma, along with a large-capacity magazine.

Espinoza was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on multiple felony-related charges.

The Ceres Police Department remains committed to proactive enforcement efforts that help remove illegal fi****ms from our community and enhance public safety.

06/07/2026

🚨 TWO MINORS ARRESTED AFTER ELECTRIC DIRT BIKE PURSUIT 🚨

On June 6, Officer Huff was patrolling the area of Mitchell Road and Service Road when she observed two electric dirt bikes traveling into oncoming traffic.

Officer Huff attempted to conduct a traffic stop for multiple traffic violations, but both riders chose to flee. The riders continued through the area with disregard for traffic laws and public safety, running stop signs and driving on walking paths. At one point, Officer Huff lost sight of the riders.

As additional officers responded to assist, Officer Lord-Huff located the riders again. Both riders once more failed to stop for officers.

Following a coordinated effort, both riders were taken into custody. Investigators later learned that both riders were minors and they were released to their parents with felony charges pending. The electric dirt bikes were impounded for 30 days.

The electric dirt bikes involved in this incident are classified as off-road vehicles and are not permitted to be operated on public roadways.

As summer approaches, the Ceres Police Department reminds riders and parents to familiarize themselves with laws regarding electric bicycles and electric dirt bikes. Unlawful operation can result in impoundment, criminal charges for riders, potential criminal liability for parents, and serious injuries.

Please ride responsibly and help keep our community safe.

Please use the link below for the Ceres Police Department’s electric bicycle brochure for informaiton on laws relating to various electric bicycles.

http://www.ceres.gov/DocumentCenter/View/8299/Bicycle-brochure-Updated-22626

06/05/2026

On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, Ceres Police Chief Trenton Johnson and his wife, Tammie, had the honor of attending the Law Enforcement Torch Run Ceremony on the steps of the California State Capitol. The ceremony celebrated the arrival of the “Flame of Hope” as it continues its journey to Minneapolis, Minnesota, for the kickoff of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games on June 20.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest public awareness and fundraising movement benefiting Special Olympics athletes worldwide. The ceremony recognized the dedication of law enforcement personnel, Special Olympics athletes, and community members who work together to promote inclusion, acceptance, and opportunity for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Chief Johnson was proud to represent the Ceres Police Department and the City of Ceres at this inspiring event, which highlights the positive impact of strong partnerships between law enforcement and the communities we serve.

The Ceres Police Department is grateful for the opportunity to support the Special Olympics movement and the incredible athletes who continue to inspire us through their determination, perseverance, and unwavering spirit.

06/04/2026

06/04/2026

While officers were handling a theft in progress and making an arrest at Walmart Supercenter on June 2, 2026, an unexpected moment reminded us why community connections matter.

As we were wrapping up the call, a young boy and his grandmother approached our officers. His grandmother shared that he loves the police, and the young man excitedly asked if he could take a picture with us.

Moments like these serve as a reminder that even during challenging calls, positive interactions can leave a lasting impression. We were happy to take a moment for a photo and appreciate the support from our community’s youngest residents.

Thank you to this young man and his grandmother for making our day a little brighter.

06/03/2026

Please join us in congratulating Officer Romy McClain on completing our Field Training Program! Officer McClain was one of two academy recruits sponsored through the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department Police Academy and is now serving as a solo beat officer.

Congratulations, Officer McClain! We are proud to have you as part of the Ceres PD family!

05/29/2026

Please join us in congratulating Officer Maloney for completing our field training program! Officer Maloney was one of two academy recruits sponsored through the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department Police Academy and is now working as a solo beat officer. Congratulations Officer Maloney!! We are proud to have you join our Ceres PD family!

05/26/2026

Ceres, CA — On Sunday, May 24, 2026, at approximately 11:30pm, Ceres police officers responded to the 800 block of Willow Lake Way regarding a disturbance involving weapons. While officers were enroute, the victim advised dispatch she had safely fled the residence and requested contact at a nearby location. The victim reported her ex-boyfriend, Rafael Echeverria, 30, came to her home, threatened her with a firearm, and prevented her from leaving. She was eventually able to escape through a window and leave the area safely.

On Monday, May 25, 2026, at approximately 4:30am, the victim returned home and discovered Echeverria hiding inside the residence. According to the victim, Echeverria was armed and threatened to kill her. The victim fled and called 911.

Ceres police officers, assisted by the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department and Modesto Police Department, established a perimeter around the residence to prevent Echeverria from leaving. During the investigation, officers determined Echeverria was wanted for several violent felony crimes, including assault with a deadly weapon involving a firearm, domestic violence, criminal threats, false imprisonment, and violation of a domestic violence restraining order.

Due to the severity of the alleged crimes and the belief Echeverria remained armed inside the residence, the Ceres SWAT Team was activated. Crisis negotiators attempted communication while nearby homes were evacuated for public safety. After repeated announcements and tactical operations, SWAT officers located Echeverria in a neighboring yard and safely took him into custody without incident.

Echeverria was booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on multiple felony charges, including domestic violence, criminal threats, false imprisonment, assault with a deadly weapon involving a firearm, violation of a restraining order, and multiple felony warrants.

The Ceres Police Department would like to thank the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department, Modesto Police Department, and assisting allied agencies for their coordinated response during the high-risk incident.