By SDCN Editor
Escondido, CA–A routine patrol by the Escondido Police Department’s Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving (COPPS) Unit on Wednesday, led to the arrest of a man for possession of drugs and weapons.
The incident occurred in the Harmony Grove Creek bed, west of 1800 Harmony Grove Road, in Escondido, on city-owned property closed to the public.
The COPPS Unit, tasked with addressing blight and persistent crime and disorder in the area, encountered 30-year-old Jalen Owens, who was occupying an illegal encampment during the patrol. Owens, known to be on active probation with the San Diego County Probation Department, was searched by officers.
During the search, officers discovered approximately 80 grams of fentanyl, 17 grams of methamphetamine, $2,000.00 in cash, body armor, and a loaded firearm in Owens’ possession. Owens was arrested and later booked into the Vista Detention Facility on charges including possession of narcotics with intent to sell, being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, and violation of probation.
The Escondido Police Department encourages community members to report any suspicious activity to help maintain a safe environment for all residents.
