Search Warrant Leads to Seizure of AR-15-Style Machine Gun & Multiple Arrests
VISALIA, CA — On March 20, 2026, the Tulare County Agencies Regional Gun Violence Enforcement Team (TARGET) executed a search warrant at a residence located near the intersection of Hemlock Avenue and Heritage Avenue in Visalia. The operation was conducted with assistance from the Visalia Police Department’s SWAT Team and Narcotics Unit.
During the service of the warrant, law enforcement officers made contact with several individuals present at the home. A subsequent search of the premises resulted in the discovery and seizure of two firearms: a privately manufactured AR-15-style machine gun and a Glock pistol. Following the search, three residents were taken into custody and transported to the Tulare County Adult Pre-Trial Detention Facility for booking.
The individuals arrested include 18-year-old Elias Torres of Visalia, who faces charges of suspicion of possession of a machine gun. Additionally, 51-year-old Willard Sean Jones and Shenita Jones, both of Visalia, were arrested on suspicion of multiple violations. Their charges include possession of a machine gun, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of ammunition by a prohibited person.
