BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — A 66-year-old man was arrested on drug and weapons charges as part of an investigation aimed at addressing narcotics activity and ongoing public safety concerns at Panama Lane shopping centers.
The Bakersfield Police Department said that over the last several months, the department has received numerous calls for service at various shopping centers on Panama Lane.
Police said calls have reported people loitering in the parking lots, consuming narcotics and/or being under the influence of narcotics, trespassing, assaults, threats, and vandalisms to properties in the area.
According to police, in response, BPD Impact Unit officers have worked to identify distributors of narcotics to those known to loiter in this area.
On Monday, August 17th, 2026, BPD Impact Unit officers arrested 66-year-old Jesus Rodriguez as part of a narcotics investigation in the 4800 block of Panama Lane, near Stine Road.
Police said Rodriguez allegedly had a total of 2.4 oz of crystal methamphetamine, packaging materials, a scale, a pay-and-owe ledger, and over $192.
Officers executed a search warrant at Rodriguez’s home and allegedly found and seized a shotgun.
A 66-year-old man was arrested on drug and weapons charges as part of an investigation aimed at addressing narcotics activity and ongoing public safety concerns at Panama Lane shopping centers. PHOTO: BPD
“This case highlights BPD’s continued commitment to address quality of life concerns. Impact Unit officers will continue efforts to disrupt drug trafficking operations, reduce the availability of dangerous substances, enhance the public’s safety and well-being as we protect the lives and property of the people we serve,” said in the release.