PRESS RELEASE-ROBBERY SUSPECT ARRRESTED
April 24th, 2026
The Ridgecrest Police Department announces the arrest of Kenmajay Rayyon in connection with a recent armed robbery investigation.
On April 7, 2026, at approximately 11:07 p.m., officers responded to a reported robbery at a local smoke shop in the City of Ridgecrest. The suspect, described as a male adult wearing a yellow hoodie and yellow sweatpants, entered the business armed with a handgun and demanded money from the clerk. The suspect fled the scene on foot after taking cash and merchandise.
Detectives with the Ridgecrest Police Department initiated an extensive investigation, which included witness interviews, surveillance review, and follow-up investigative leads. Through these efforts, detectives identified Kenmajay Rayyon as the primary suspect.
On April 24, 2026, Rayyon was taken into custody by the specialized Kern Crisis Response Unit (CRU) without incident. He was subsequently booked on charges related to armed robbery and additional related offenses. Additionally, his mother Kenyetta Russell was taken into custody as an accessory to this crime.
This arrest reflects the department’s commitment to public safety and its dedication to holding individuals accountable for violent criminal behavior. If you commit crimes in Ridgecrest we will hunt you down and find you.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Ridgecrest Police Department Detective Bureau at (760) 499-5100.
Chief Mario Ysit Prepared by: Sgt. R. Ortiz