DATE/TIME: November 27, 2025 at 10:26 p.m.
INCIDENT: Weapons & Narcotics Violations
LOCATION: Post Road near Border Avenue, Joshua Tree, California
SUSPECT 1: James Gagnon, 47-yea-old Resident of Yucca Valley
SUSPECT 2: Ronald Sartain, 39-year-old Resident of Yucca Valley
VICTIM(S): State of California
SUMMARY:
On Thursday, November 27, 2025, while conducting proactive patrol, Deputy L. Gonzalez of the Morongo Basin Station initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle near Post Road and Border Avenue in Joshua Tree as a result of multiple vehicle code violations. During her contact, Deputy Gonzalez identified the driver as Ronald Sartain, who was found to be on felony probation and the passenger was identified as James Gagnon.
Deputy Gonzalez conducted a search of the vehicle, which resulted in her locating a loaded handgun, high-capacity magazines and ammunition. In addition to her search, Deputy Gonzalez also located methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia within Gagnon’s personal property. While conducting a records check of Gagnon, he was found to be a convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. Gagnon was arrested and booked HS 11395(b)(1), Possession of a Controlled Substance with Priors, HS 11370.1, Possession of a Controlled Substance While Armed, PC 29800(a) – Felon in Possession of a Firearm, PC 30305(a) – Felon in Possession of Ammunition, and PC 32310 – Possession of High-capacity Magazines.
The driver, Ronald Sartain, was arrested for violation of county parole. Both subjects were transported and booked into the Morongo Basin Jail.
Based on the recent reforms enacted under Proposition 36, formally titled the Homelessness, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act (HS 11395), this reform became law effective December 18, 2024. California voters overwhelmingly ratified this law, reflecting the approved changed intended to address ongoing recidivism and addiction, that has negatively affected public safety of California residents.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to contact the Morongo Basin Station at (760) 366-4175. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may contact the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or provide information online at www.wetip.com.
Refer: Deputy L. Gonzalez
Station: Morongo Basin Station
Phone No. 760-366-4175
Case No. 092501765
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
