Indio Police Seize Narcotics and Weapons Cache After Traffic Stop
INDIO, CA — November 19th 2025 — The Indio Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit initiated an investigation resulting in the seizure of narcotics and weapons following a traffic stop on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. The initial stop occurred near Gore Street and Avenue 42.
Seized Items – Courtesy of Indio PD
During the traffic stop, detectives observed the driver, identified as Marcos Cruz Gaeta Jr., 45, allegedly discard approximately one pound of methamphetamine. Mr. Gaeta was subsequently taken into custody.
Following the arrest, a search warrant was secured for Mr. Gaeta’s residence. At 5:57 p.m., IPD detectives and K-9 officers, supported by regional partner agencies, served the warrant in the 82000 block of Pisa Court.
Investigators conducting the search located nearly 20 pounds of methamphetamine, a quarter-pound of heroin, eight pounds of marijuana, and Xanax pills. Additionally, law enforcement personnel recovered two assault rifles, three handguns, ammunition, and high-capacity magazines. Several 3D-printed devices designed to convert Glock-style firearms to fully automatic were also found inside the home.
Mr. Gaeta, who has been arrested numerous times in recent years, and who has multiple prior felony convictions and was reportedly out on bail related to a 2016 homicide case, was booked into the John Benoit Detention Center. He faces numerous narcotics and weapons-related charges. A female present inside the residence was also detained by police and later released.
