UPDATE, 10:19 a.m.:

Curious about the origin and legal implications of the law enforcement agency patches referenced in this press release, we reached out the the Rio Dell Police Department with a couple of follow-up questions. Chief Josh Phinney promptly responded:

We do not know how he obtained the patches. While it is not illegal to possess patches as many collectors do, it is illegal to use Law Enforcement Agency patches to pose as a member of law enforcement.

Agencies with whom the patches belong to have been notified to determine if they have any reported crimes in their jurisdictions that would match this equipment being used in the commission of a crime.

###

Original post:

Photo via RDPD.

###

Press release from the Rio Dell Police Department:

On December 7, 2025, Rio Dell Police Department officers arrested Justus Arreguin (DOB 07/17/1995) on the 4100 block of Grizzly Bluff Rd. in Ferndale for an outstanding warrant related to a prior Domestic Violence investigation.

During the arrest, officers observed multiple firearms in Arreguin’s possession. Based on those observations, RDPD obtained a search warrant for the residence and associated property. The subsequent search resulted in the seizure of numerous rifles, handguns, firearm magazines, and substantial quantities of ammunition.

Also located and seized was a tactical vest equipped with multiple high-capacity magazines, a TASER-style device, handcuffs, zip ties, and uniform patches, including a Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office patch and Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office patches. These items were taken as evidence pending further review and investigation.

Arreguin was transported and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for the outstanding warrant and the following additional violations:

  • 29805(a) PC – Prohibited Person in possession of a firearm
  • 32310(a) PC – Possession of large-capacity magazines
  • 11377(a) HS – Possession of a controlled substance
  • 273.6(a) PC – Violation of a court order

The Rio Dell Police Department would like to thank the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in ensuring the safe arrest of Arreguin. Their support helped bring the situation to a safe and orderly conclusion.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information relevant to this case is encouraged to contact Corporal Landry with the Rio Dell Police Department at (707) 764-5642 or landryc@cityofriodell.ca.gov.