Porterville gang members suspected of vandalism

Porterville police have arrested two suspected Southern Gang members who reportedly caused about $4,600 worth of damages when they vandalized block walls with graffiti and other areas on North Newcomb Street and West Westfield Avenue on Tuesday.

Porterville residents Jose Ricardo Ramirez, 19 and Edgar Manrriquez, 21, were arrested after the Porterville Police Department investigated the vandalism and found information that Manrriquez was involved.

According to press release, detectives responded to the 1800 block of W. Wall Avenue and contacted Mannriquez at Ramirez’s residence. During a search of the home, the detectives found evidence that connected the men to the vandalism. They also found a loaded pistol grip .22-caliber rifle.

During interviews, one the suspects admitted to the graffiti, and the other admitted to possessing the rifle.

The suspects were identified as Southern Gang Members and were booked into the Tulare County Main Jail on suspicion of vandalism, conspiracy, and being members of a criminal street gang while armed with a firearm.