Probation Sweep at DeWolf and Shaw Nets Three Arrests

Clovis Police launched a probation search just before 7 o’clock this morning and got more than they bargained for. Inside the home at 5058 N. DeWolf, they found approximately 100 pounds of packaged marijuana with a street value of $250,000.00, three rifles and a shotgun, and more than $2,000.00 in cash.

Officers arrested the homeowner, 57-year-old Herbert Paul Bethel, for possession of marijuana for sale, for being a felon in possession of a loaded firearm, for being a felon in possession of ammunition.

Also arrested were 46-year-old Carl Brawley for a felony bench warrant for drugs, a $1,200.00 warrant for being an unlicensed driver while on probation for drug possession and sales and 27-year-old Ryan Bartleman for being a wanted parolee at large and for being in possession of a needle, a misdemeanor. A woman in the house was cited for not paying a water bill.

The Clovis Police Department initiated this probation search, because investigators had allegations that Bethel was selling and distributing narcotics in Clovis. The department’s narcotics, gang enforcement and patrol units participated in the search along with officers from Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), Fresno County Sheriff’s deputies, the Environmental Protection Agency and the CHP’s HEAT team. The Fresno County Buildings Division, Cal Fire, P.G. & E. and Fresno County Environmental Health also took part in the operation.

Some equipment with no VIN or identification numbers was seized to determine whether or not they were stolen. No other property was removed from the home or the 2-acre parcel upon which it sits.

News Release Date:  11/30/11
Contact:  Janet Stoll-Lee, Public Information Officer   (559) 324-2447