Joshua Tree Man Arrested on Witness Tampering and Firearm Charges Following Multi-Month Investigation

JOSHUA TREE, California — A San Bernardino County man is behind bars in the Coachella Valley following his arrest in connection with a multi-month investigation into weapons violations and witness tampering. The Riverside County Sheriff's Department confirmed that thirty-year-old Joshua Tree resident Salvador Cardenas Jr. was taken into custody without incident on Wednesday morning, June 10, 2026.

The legal case stems from an initial investigation launched in April 2026 by the Thermal Sheriff’s Station Investigations Bureau. According to authorities, detectives received formal complaints alleging that Cardenas had brandished a firearm during an altercation and subsequently attempted to illegally intimidate or dissuade a witness from cooperating with law enforcement officials. Following weeks of tracking and evidence gathering, investigators successfully identified Cardenas as the primary suspect in the case.

On Wednesday, specialized deputies assigned to the Riverside Sheriff’s Emergency Service Team located Cardenas’ vehicle traveling near a prominent regional transit corridor. Tactical units executed a coordinated vehicle stop near the intersection of Interstate 10 and Highway 62, apprehending Cardenas without further disruption.

Following the highway arrest, Thermal Station detectives executed a court-authorized search warrant at Cardenas’ primary residence, located within the 7000 block of Sunny Vista Road in Joshua Tree. During the systematic search of the property, investigators discovered specific evidence directly connecting the suspect to the initial April crimes.

Cardenas was transported to the Coachella Valley and formally booked into the John Benoit Detention Center in Indio on felony charges of brandishing a firearm and attempting to dissuade a witness. Jail records indicate he is scheduled to make an initial court appearance on Friday, June 12, 2026, at the Larson Justice Center in Indio. The investigation remains active, and anyone possessing supplementary information regarding the case is urged to contact Investigator Adonis Glasper at the Thermal Sheriff’s Station.

Explore NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the valley.