Gang Task Force Nabs Curfew Violators

PALM DESERT – On Monday evening, June 1, following a peaceful protest in Civic Center Park, the Coachella Valley Violent Crime Gang Task Force conducted a proactive patrol in the area of El Paseo and Portola Avenue and found three individuals on foot in violation of the countywide curfew order that took effect 6 p.m.

At 8 p.m. Gang Task Force Officers identified one of the subjects as convicted felon and documented criminal street gang member,

Raymond Cantu, 21 of Indio. Cantu was on active California Department of Corrections State Parole. During a subsequent investigation, Gang Task Force Officers located a .357 revolver handgun, ballistic proof body armor, ammunition, methamphetamine, and evidence of narcotics sales in Cantu’s possession.

A second subject was identified as Jaylen Smith, 18 of Desert Hot Springs. Smith was in possession of a hammer which was concealed inside his backpack.

A third subject was identified as a 17-year-old male juvenile.

Cantu was arrested and charged with Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Gang Member in Possession of a Firearm, Convicted Felon in Possession of Body Armor, Convicted Felon in Possession of Ammunition, Possession of Narcotics for Sale, Violation of Parole and Violation of County Curfew.

Smith was arrested and charged with Possession of Burglary Tools, Violation of Probation and Violation of County Curfew.

The male juvenile was arrested and charged with Violation of County Curfew.

Cantu and Smith were booked at the Indio Jail and the male juvenile was cited and released to a parent.

The Coachella Valley Violent Crime Gang Task Force is dedicated to creating safe and secure neighborhoods free of violent crime and gang activity. If you have any information about this crime, please contact CVVCGTF member Officer Budnik at (760) 836-1600. If you have non-emergency information regarding gang activity, please use our online Gang Task Force Tip Form or call 951-922-7601.