FRESNO, Calif. — A former Fresno police detective has been arrested following a joint federal and state investigation into allegations that he stole more than $60,000 in cash from the department’s evidence room.
The California Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that 37-year-old Rey Ariel Medeles, a former detective assigned to the Major Narcotics Team, is facing two counts of grand theft and two counts of preparing false documentary evidence.
According to officials, in May 2024, the Fresno Police Department discovered that Medeles had improperly checked out over $60,000 in evidence cash and failed to return it. Due to the potential criminal nature of the findings, the department requested the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to conduct an independent probe.
Medeles was subsequently terminated from the department in June 2025 following the internal investigation.
Authorities say the stolen funds were originally seized during searches conducted in 2023 and 2024. Medeles allegedly prepared false records stating that the cash was being returned to suspects but instead kept the money for himself.
Attorney General Rob Bonta condemned the alleged misconduct, saying,
“Individuals who abuse public trust for personal gain violate their duty to the people and the law. We will vigorously prosecute corruption at every turn.”
Fresno Police Chief Mindy Casto described the arrest as a “deeply troubling moment” but said the department acted swiftly and transparently.
“When we discover serious misconduct, we take decisive action. No one is above the law,” Chief Casto said.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel praised the department’s cooperation, emphasizing that abuses of power undermine community trust.
The case is being prosecuted by the Attorney General’s Special Prosecutions Section, with investigative support from the FBI, California DOJ Bureau of Investigation, and Fresno Police Department.
Officials noted that the charges remain allegations, and Medeles is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
