Press Release Date: 03-14-2026 Suspect Arrested for Felon in Possession of a...

Press Release Date: 03-14-2026

Suspect Arrested for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Narcotics for Sales, and Possession of a Destructive Device

Suspect: Martin Rodriguez, 48-year-old male Hispanic, resident of Tehachapi

On March 14th, 2026, Tehachapi Police Department Officers conducted a search warrant at Martin Rodriguez residence, in the City of Tehachapi.

During the search warrant Officer located a stolen shotgun, ammunition, and narcotics for sales. As Officers were completing their search, they located items that appeared to be modified explosive devices. Officers evacuated the location and contacted Kern County Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad. Kern County Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad responded to the location and determined the devices were modified and highly flammable. The items were rendered safe and removed by the Kern County Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad.

Mr. Rodriguez was booked into Kern County Jail Lerdo for multiple felony charges including Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Narcotics for Sales, Possession of a Destructive Device, and Possession of Stolen Property.

Anyone with more information regarding this case is encouraged to contact Detective Orozco or Sgt. Mike Adams at the Tehachapi Police Department (661-822-2222).

Richard Standridge, Chief of Police