Fountain Valley police arrest Irvine man on weapons charges

An Irvine man was arrested on weapons violations earlier this month after being on the run from a March incident, according to a news release issued Thursday by the Fountain Valley Police Department.

David Kalani Gardner, 43, was taken into custody May 4 after police detectives received a tip that he was hiding out in a Santa Ana Motel 6.

A stolen rifle, a loaded handgun, body armor, a pair of rifle scopes and methamphetamine were found during a search of Gardner’s motel room, police said.

In March, Fountain Valley police arrested Gardner during a traffic stop near the intersection of Harbor Boulevard and Heil Avenue, authorities said. On that occasion, according to the news release, police said Gardner had a loaded handgun, about 1.5 pounds of methamphetamine, 1.5 ounces of heroin and a large amount of cash.

Fountain Valley crime suppression unit detectives then worked with Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms personnel to secure a federal complaint and warrant for Gardner in connection with the March incident, police said.

Gardner, who was on probation, allegedly attempted to avoid further arrest by traveling to Northern California and Oregon, authorities said, and he was placed under surveillance once he returned to Orange County.

The federal warrant, as well as multiple warrants issued by the county, were used to take Gardner into custody, according to the news release.

According to police, the charges Gardner faces include possession of body armor and of a firearm by a felon, ownership of ammunition as a prohibited person, possession of a firearm by a probationer and drug possession while armed with a firearm. He also faces a misdemeanor for possession of a controlled substance.

Gardner’s bail was set at $100,000, Orange County district attorney officials confirmed. Jail records show that he is being held at the Theo Lacy Facility, and his next appearance in court is scheduled for May 20.

Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber.