Arrests made after Citrus Heights police find dozens of explosives, illegal weapons

By Mike Hazlip—
Citrus Heights police arrested 29-year-old Maxem Kuzko and 24-year-old Rosemary Poling after reports of a shooting led to a multi-agency response in a residential neighborhood near Auburn Boulevard and Donegal Drive on Saturday morning.

Police Lt. Michael Wells told The Sentinel in an email Tuesday that officers responded to the 6000 block of Wexford Circle on Oct. 23 after receiving multiple 911 calls around 5:30 a.m.

Officers did not find evidence of a shooting, Wells said, however while investigating they encountered an individual on probation next to his vehicle. Police observed a firearm inside the vehicle along with “a suspicious device” on the vehicle’s rear seat.

Officers searched the vehicle and reportedly found illegal firearms, stolen firearms, explosives, and “explosive-making” material, Wells said. Citrus Heights police obtained a search warrant for the individual’s residence and executed the warrant with assistance from the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Explosive Ordinance Detail and the FBI.

Wells said over 30 explosive devices were found between two locations, along with illegal fireworks, explosive materials, additional illegal weapons and illegal drugs.

The two individuals were arrested on multiple charges related to possession of explosive devices and materials, illegal gun charges, and transportation of narcotics for sale.

“We are extremely proud of the outstanding work done by our patrol officers,” Wells said in a statement to The Sentinel. “The officers quick response to a dangerous call for service involving the report of shots fired and their great investigative skills removed numerous weapons and dangerous explosives from our neighborhoods.”

Wells said the incident is believed to be an isolated issue, which does “not appear to be part of a specific plan or larger organized effort with any intended targets.”

Sacramento County Jail records show Poling and Kuzko are currently in custody on multiple felonies and misdemeanors and are ineligible for bail.