Modesto Daily Brief: Meth bust, stabbing arrest, red-light cameras return, and regional layoffs

Top local headlines

A multi-agency drug investigation with a Modesto connection made waves this week, while a daytime family dispute ended in a stabbing arrest. Drivers will also start seeing automated red-light enforcement again, and a nearby distribution center closure is set to bring layoffs in early April.

Major meth bust tied to Modesto

Investigators say search warrants served at properties in Modesto, Turlock and Valley Springs led to the seizure of about 2,700 pounds of methamphetamine in various stages of production. Authorities also reported recovering marijuana plants and processed marijuana, along with a cache of firearms. Multiple suspects were arrested, and officials said the case grew out of a months-long probe dubbed ‘Operation Trash Panda’.

Two stabbed during Modesto altercation

Police say two men were stabbed Tuesday afternoon in the 3600 block of McReynolds Avenue. Officers arrested a 22-year-old man from Riverbank at the scene. Authorities said the victims’ injuries were not considered life-threatening, and the suspect was booked on allegations including attempted murder.

Traffic and safety

Red-light cameras are back in Modesto after a long pause. The first camera went live Monday at eastbound Briggsmore Avenue and Coffee Road, kicking off a 30-day warning period. Starting April 1, violations are expected to carry a $485 citation. The city says an officer reviews video before any ticket is issued, and more intersections are expected to come online in the coming weeks.

Jobs and economy

A western distribution center in Patterson is slated to close, with a WARN notice indicating 98 workers will be laid off. The notice cited 91 job losses on April 4 and seven more on April 30. The company is in bankruptcy proceedings, and federal prosecutors have alleged its former top executives ran a large fraud scheme tied to the business.

Sources

https://www.turlockjournal.com/news/crime/major-drug-bust-seizes-2700-pounds-of-meth-firearms/
https://www.crimevoice.com/2026/03/03/central-california-narcotics-trafficking-investigation/
https://www.kcra.com/article/2-men-stabbed-in-modesto-during-family-altercation-police-say/70597817
https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/red-light-cameras-return-to-modesto/
https://www.kcra.com/article/stanislaus-county-layoff-first-brands-group-closes-facility-patterson/70563533