A convicted felon is back in custody after allegedly breaking into a Ridgecrest home and stealing firearms, jewelry, and a vehicle, police said.
On May 18, 2025, Ridgecrest Police responded to a residential burglary call in the 1200 block of West Las Flores Avenue. Officers discovered the home had been ransacked, with multiple items—including several guns and a vehicle—reported missing.
Surveillance footage from the neighborhood helped officers identify the suspect as John William Tagman, a Ridgecrest resident and convicted felon.
Police searched Tagman’s home, where they recovered most of the stolen items, including all of the missing firearms. The stolen vehicle was located and recovered a few streets away.
Due to Tagman’s status as a felon, his unlawful possession of firearms is considered a serious offense. Additional charges for burglary, vehicle theft, and firearms violations are being sent to the District Attorney’s Office.
“This is exactly the kind of proactive policing we take pride in,” said Police Chief Mario Ysit. “Our officers acted quickly to protect the community and remove a repeat offender from the streets. To anyone thinking of targeting Ridgecrest: think again. We are committed to keeping this city a safe place to live and raise a family.”
