The Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative, aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence, has led to several recent prosecutions in Fresno, California. Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced the sentences of multiple individuals for illegally possessing firearms and ammunition.
Arturo Talamantes, 31, from Fresno, received a four-year prison sentence for being a felon in possession of a firearm. On December 16, 2023, police responded to a call about a man with a gun at a crowded bar in Fresno. Talamantes was found with a loaded Kahr P40 handgun and ignored officer commands before hiding the weapon. He is prohibited from possessing firearms due to previous felony convictions. The investigation involved the Fresno Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
David Diaz, 48, from Bakersfield, was sentenced on March 3, 2025, to eight years and eight months for possessing ammunition as a felon. Diaz and co-defendant Jesus Alejandro Lopez were arrested after attempting to sell methamphetamine while armed. A stolen Rock Island Armory .45 caliber handgun was seized from Diaz. He has prior felony convictions related to controlled substances and domestic violence.
Lopez pleaded guilty on March 10, 2025, to being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition. His sentencing is scheduled for June 23, 2025. The case was investigated by the Fresno Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Tionte Beard, 25, also from Fresno, received three years and ten months on March 3 for firearm possession as a felon. A probation compliance check revealed firearms hidden in his apartment following social media posts showing guns. Beard's prior convictions include carjacking and domestic violence.
Amed Taylor Muhammad, 24, was sentenced on January 13 to two years and six months for firearm possession after police responded to reports of shooting near schools in southwest Fresno. Muhammad had prior felony convictions including assault.
Felix Alejandro from Delano received four years and three months on January 6 for possessing ammunition as a felon during a traffic stop where police found a loaded semi-automatic pistol in his vehicle.
These cases are part of PSN's efforts involving law enforcement collaboration with communities to enhance safety by setting strategic enforcement priorities against violent crime.