Press Release

Thursday, March 30, 2023

PRESS RELEASE: Out of State Arrest Made in January 14th Homicide Investigation

Turlock, CA – On March 23, 2023, an arrest warrant was issued in Stanislaus County after Turlock Police Department Detectives identified 22-year-old Gary Harold Jackson Jr. as the suspect in the shooting death of 21-year-old Romeo Xavier Portillo. The shooting occurred during the early morning hours of January 14, 2023, in Downtown Turlock.

On March 28, 2023, Turlock Police Detectives were contacted by Cobb County Police Department in Georgia and advised they had arrested Jackson for the homicide warrant obtained by the Turlock Police Department

According to Cobb County Police Department Officials, Jackson entered their police headquarters to apply for an alcohol permit. During a criminal history check, they learned of Jackson’s warrant. Officers with their Violent Crime Bureau were notified and Jackson was taken into custody minutes later, without incident.

Turlock Police Detectives are actively working with Cobb County Sheriff’s Office to extradite Jackson back to Stanislaus County where he will face homicide and attempted homicide charges.

“We will not tolerate violent crime in Turlock,” Chief Jason Hedden said. “Our team is relentless and they will not stop until those who commit crime in our community are arrested, charged, and held accountable for their actions.”

Turlock Police Detectives served several search warrants related to this investigation and all firearms believed to have been used in the homicide have been recovered. All individuals involved in the investigation have been identified and interviewed.

Detective Gina Giovacchini said, “Our sympathy goes out to the victim’s family, and we hope the arrest of Jackson will help bring some sense of closure as they continue to mourn the loss of Romeo.”

Although Jackson and Portillo were known to one another, the motive for this crime is not being released at this time.

Captain Miguel Pacheco said, “I could not be more pleased with the dedication Turlock Police Department Detectives have demonstrated. They have shown the tenacity required to bring resolution to long-term investigations.”

The Turlock Police Department asks that anyone with information about this investigation to call Detective Gina Giovacchini at (209) 668-6539. You can also contact the Turlock Police Department’s Tip Line at (209) 668-5550 extension 6780 or email at tpdtipline@turlock.ca.us.

The Turlock Police Department is an active participant in the Crime Stoppers Program. Callers can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 and may be eligible for a cash reward.

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