On August 13th, 2014 Inyo County Sheriff’s Deputies conducted a traffic stop on a white sedan in the Bishop area. A license check on the driver, Adriana Mendez (age 33) of Bishop, revealed she was driving without a valid license. Adriana was booked at the Inyo County Jail and released on a citation.

Deputies identified the front passenger in the vehicle as Ricardo Mendez (age 34) of Bishop. Deputies identified Ricardo as being on formal Inyo County Probation for domestic violence. As part of the terms of his probation, Ricardo was subject to search and test for drugs by any Peace Officer.

Agents with the Inyo Narcotics Enforcement Team assisted with a detailed search of Ricardo which resulted in the discovery of approximately one ounce of methamphetamine concealed within his clothing.

A search of the Mendez’s residence resulted in the discovery of counterfeit government documents (a driver’s license in the name of Ricardo, permanent resident cards in the name of Ricardo and Adriana, and Social Security Cards in the name of Adriana).

Ricardo was arrested and transported to the Inyo County Jail and booked on charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Controlled Substance

for Sale, and Forgery or Counterfeiting of Seals. Agents will be requesting the District Attorney’s Office also file charges on Adriana for the counterfeit government documents.