In honor of Gun Violence Awareness Month, we are sharing one of our most recent firearm arrests highlighting our officers' commitment to removing illegal firearms off the streets of Campbell and ensuring the safety of our community.
On the morning of June 7th at approximately 5:25 am, Campbell Officers observed a red Hyundai Elantra violating multiple California Vehicle Codes. These violations included using a printed piece of paper as a license plate, nonfunctional brake lights, and swerving into the bike lane.
After initiating a traffic stop, CPD officers observed drug paraphernalia in plain sight inside the car. The driver and passenger were identified as Rene De La Cruz (47 years old of Campbell) and Mindy Bernal (46 years old of Campbell).
A search was conducted, and officers found a loaded illegal firearm on Ms. Bernal. While searching Mr. De La Cruz, officers discovered a butter knife modified into a master postal key, multiple pieces of Personal Identifying Information (PII) belonging to other people (ID cards, social security cards, credit cards), a pocketknife, scissors with altered blades, and over $700 in cash. A further search of the vehicle uncovered more PII, burglary tools, and various drugs with intent to sell, including meth, fentanyl, and MDMA pills.
Bernal was arrested on multiple charges, including being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of PII, and various drug charges. De La Cruz was arrested for various drug charges and possession of burglary tools and PII.
De La Cruz has an extensive criminal history spanning 28 years, including multiple arrests for child endangerment, possession of controlled substances, burglary, and other charges. Similarly, Bernal has a criminal history spanning 25 years, including arrests for stolen vehicles, possession of controlled substances, and DUIs.
