Two validated criminal street gang members were arrested Thursday afternoon on suspicion of drug charges by members of the Merced Police Department's Gang Violence Suppression Unit.

GVSU Officer Thomas Martinez said Christopher Rodriguez, and Adam Castillo, both 23 and from Merced, were arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of meth for sale, conspiracy and a gang enhancement. Rodriguez also was charged with parole violation.

Martinez said the two men were arrested at 3:23 p.m. Thursday at Rodriguez' home in the 2700 block of Green Street following a parole search. Officers found $1,300 in cash on Rodriguez and a digital scale with white residue on it in Castillo's right front pocket. About 20 grams of meth were seized.

Rodriguez was being held in Merced County Jail without bail due to parole violation. Castillo remained incarcerated Thursday night in lieu of $75,000 bail, according to a correctional official.

-- Doane Yawger