Swift Police Response Leads to Arrest of Armed Shoplifting Suspects Linked to Previous Shooting Incident

Date: January 27, 2024

Calexico, CA - In a dramatic turn of events on January 27, 2024, local officers swiftly responded to a report of a shoplifter possibly armed with a rifle at a business in town. The business staff, vigilant and quick-thinking, managed to detain the shoplifter but soon discovered a firearm protruding from his waistband, prompting concerns for public safety.

Given the potential threat, the shoplifter was released, and he promptly fled the store with another individual. Officers promptly initiated a search of the area and obtained crucial surveillance footage that confirmed the presence of a firearm.

Shortly after, a subsequent report led officers to a children's playground where an armed individual was reported. Astonishingly, the same two subjects from the earlier shoplifting incident were located. A short standoff ensued, ultimately ending with the surrender of both individuals.

A subsequent search revealed an AR-15 style rifle concealed by one subject, accompanied by bloodstains on their clothing. The suspects were identified as Mauricio Julian Mondragon, an 18-year-old from El Centro, and a 17-year-old resident of Brawley.

Further investigation revealed a connection between the two suspects and an earlier shooting incident that had been under investigation by El Centro Police. Charges of Assault with a Deadly Weapon were filed against Mondragon and his accomplice in relation to the previous incident, where an 18-year-old man was shot in the leg.

The efficient response of local officers, combined with the cooperation of the community and timely surveillance footage, played a crucial role in the arrest of these individuals, ensuring the safety of the public and potentially preventing further harm. The collaboration between law enforcement and vigilant citizens underscores the importance of community involvement in maintaining public safety.