FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - 10/22/2025 Search Warrant Leads to Recovery of Illegal Assault Weapon
SUSPECT(S): Gavin Pitman - 21 year old Ridgecrest Resident
CHARGE(S): (PC) 30605(a) – Illegally possessing an assault weapon (PC) 26500(a) – Selling a firearm without a license (PC) 29800(a)(1) – Prohibited person possessing a firearm (PC) 602(m) – Trespassing (HS) 11364 – Possession of drug paraphernalia
RIDGECREST, CA - On October 21, 2025, at approximately 1:45 p.m., Ridgecrest Police Department officers served a search warrant in the 300 block of North Cisco Street following an investigation that revealed Gavin Pitman, a prohibited person, was in possession of an illegal rifle and attempting to trade it for two handguns.
Through a detailed investigation led by Sergeant Groves and Corporal Cushman, officers were able to locate both the suspect and the firearm. Due to the potential danger posed by the high-powered weapon, nearby schools were temporarily placed on lockdown as a precaution. The Ridgecrest Police Department deployed its BearCat armored rescue vehicle and members of the Crisis Response Unit (CRU) to safely execute the warrant. Using de-escalation tactics and best practices, officers were able to persuade the suspect to surrender without incident.
Inside the residence, officers located a FA-91 .308 caliber rifle, which is classified as an assault weapon under California law. Pitman was subsequently transported to the Kern County Jail, where he was booked on multiple firearm-related charges.
“Our officers demonstrated professionalism and courage in a situation that involved significant risk,” said Chief Mario Ysit. “Their dedication to keeping Ridgecrest safe reflects the values and commitment of this Department. I’m proud of their efforts and grateful for the teamwork shown by everyone involved.”
Mario Ysit, CHIEF OF POLICE PREPARED BY: Sergeant Nathan Lloyd