BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — Bakersfield police have made multiple arrests and recovered several guns following a deadly gang-related shooting at an Independence High School football game Friday night.
Bakersfield Police Department investigators confirmed the shooting was gang-related. Since the incident, officers assigned to the Special Enforcement Unit have been working to identify and prevent potential retaliatory violence.
On Saturday night, SEU officers arrested 18-year-old Jaheim Leverett and two 15-year-olds who were found in possession of a gun, face coverings, and gloves.
Early Monday morning, BPD officers stopped a vehicle occupied by 18-year-old Adam Porras, 18-year-old Sean Reyes, and a 17-year-old juvenile. Officers recovered 2 guns, along with masks and gloves during that investigation.
Police say all individuals involved in the arrests are known gang members. Investigators believe they may have been preparing to commit retaliatory acts of violence related to the ongoing gang conflict.
BPD said enforcement alone will not solve the problem and is asking parents, families, and the community to help prevent further violence.
"While these arrests highlight the proactive work being done by our officers, enforcement alone will not solve this problem. We are asking parents, families, and our entire community to help us prevent the next act of violence."
The department urged anyone with a young person in their life to watch for changes in behavior, who they are spending time with, what they are posting or seeing on social media, and whether they suddenly have access to weapons, masks, gloves, or other concerning items.
"Having that conversation may be uncomfortable, but the alternative can be devastating."
"Our goal is not simply to make arrests. Our goal is to intervene before another young person loses their life, takes someone else's life, or makes a decision that forever changes their future and the lives of their family."
The City of Bakersfield Office of Violence Intervention & Prevention works with community partners to provide violence-prevention, intervention, outreach, mentorship, and support resources for individuals and families. OVIP can be reached at (661) 852-7000.
Anyone with information regarding potential acts of violence can contact the Bakersfield Police Department at (661) 327-7111. To report suspected gang activity, call the Gang Hotline at (661) 325-GANG (4264). In an emergency or when there is an immediate threat to someone's safety, call 911.
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