In a pre-dawn operation on May 8th, 2024, the Lassen County Sheriff’s Office conducted a high-risk search warrant at a residence on Dillon Court in Susanville. The operation involved the deployment of the Sheriff’s Office Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team and Drone Team due to safety concerns and the complexity of the location.
Upon arrival, the SWAT team, assisted by Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) members, utilized a Public Address System to call out the occupants. One suspect, identified as Drew Dixon, 37, attempted to flee but was apprehended with the assistance of the Drone Team.
Despite negotiation attempts, several occupants remained inside the residence. SWAT members deployed pepper-type gas to encourage their surrender. Eventually, three individuals, Paula Dixon, 59, Donald Luna, 59, and AmekoVaimasanuu Jr., 36, exited and were arrested without further incident.
A search of the residence uncovered illegal firearms, ammunition, and controlled substances, including AR-15 and SKS-style assault rifles with high-capacity magazines, as well as a sawed-off shotgun.
All five individuals, including Jenna Miles, 25, who had a felony warrant, were arrested and transported to the Lassen County Jail on various charges ranging from possession of firearms by felons to drug-related offenses and resisting arrest.
The operation was part of the Gun Violence Reduction Program (GVRP), funded by a grant from the California Department of Justice, aimed at targeting prohibited persons in possession of firearms. The Lassen County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to collaborating agencies including the California Highway Patrol, Susanville Police Department, and Lassen County District Attorney’s Office for their support.
Captain Mike Carney emphasized that the successful operation was a direct outcome of the grant funding provided by the GVRP.
