A former Fresno police detective has been released on bond after being arrested Thursday for allegedly stealing $60,000 in cash from the department’s evidence room.
According to the Fresno Police Department, the suspect, Rey Medeles, a 10-year veteran of the force, is facing grand theft charges following an FBI investigation into the missing funds.
Police Chief Mindy Casto said the department discovered the theft earlier this year when Medeles checked out the cash without proper authorization. “It was very suspicious to us, to the point we believed criminal conduct may be involved,” Chief Casto said.
The department immediately referred the matter to the FBI in May 2024 to ensure an independent criminal investigation. An internal administrative review followed, leading to Medeles’ termination in June.
Chief Casto acknowledged the disappointment within the department and the community but emphasized the department’s quick response. “We place our trust in our officers when we pin that badge on them, and the community does as well,” she said. “This isn’t a lack of policy—it’s about one individual who intentionally abused his authority.”
Medeles, a former narcotics detective, had been involved in prior administrative and civil issues during his tenure, but none had led to criminal charges until now.
Chief Casto confirmed that all cases previously handled by Medeles are being reviewed to ensure integrity in past investigations.
Medeles is scheduled to appear in court on October 23.
