Category Archives: Police/Fire

October Is Fire Prevention Month

Staff Reports

 

Chino Valley – The Los Angeles County Fire Department, along with other public safety advocates, will be reminding everyone about fire safety during Fire Prevention Month.  Although the week of October 5 – 11 has been proclaimed, “National Fire Prevention Week for 2014,” the Fire Department and the Board of Supervisors are proclaiming the month of October as “Fire Prevention Month.”

This year’s theme set by the National Fire Protection Association – “Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives – Test Yours Every Month!” – emphasizes how important it is to ensure that smoke alarms function properly by checking them once a month.

The Chino Valley Fire District and Chino Valley Fire District Board of Directors invites the public and media to visit Fire Station 61 and Training Center (located at 5092 Schaefer Avenue in Chino) during the annual Fire Prevention Month Open House on Sat., Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Firefighters will conduct various demonstrations throughout the day, including a presentation where firefighters highlight multiple uniforms and protective gear they wear to demonstrate the various capabilities and specialty teams of the Chino Valley Fire District staffs.

There will be static displays of Fire District equipment and units from partner agencies. Children will be able to go through a Junior Firefighter academy and the public can tour Fire Station 61 every 30 minutes throughout the day. Visitors will also be invited to tour the inside of the Training Center to learn about the Emergency Medical Services the Fire District provides on a daily basis to the communities they serve.

Representatives from several organizations and agencies will be hosting information booths for the public. They include agencies, departments and organizations from the cities of Chino and Chino Hills.

There will be free popcorn and snow cones for everyone to enjoy. Participating in the various activities available at the Open House is completely free.

“The Fire District’s Annual Open House is a great way for the community to interact with their Fire District and to learn about proactive steps they can take to keep their families and homes fire-safe,” said Fire Chief, Tim Shackelford.

In addition to honoring Fire Prevention Month, Chino Valley Firefighters will be raising awareness for Breast Cancer through a pink t-shirt fundraiser during the month of October. The shirts are available for men and women, at just $15, with all proceeds going toward Breast Cancer research. Order your shirt at CVPinkshirt2014@gmail.com, or pick one up at the Open House on Oct. 11.

For more information on the annual Open House, follow the Chino Valley Fire District on social media, or visit the website at www.chinovalleyfire.org.

 

A Hero Falls in Eastvale

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER

 

Libertone 700Eastvale – On Tues., Aug. 12, Lieutenant Patrick Libertone passed away while on duty. A beloved husband, father, friend, and member of the community, Pat will be greatly missed.

Libertone was conducting a traffic stop in the City of Eastvale after a driver had recklessly cut him off. After speaking with the driver of the vehicle, Libertone collapsed on the sidewalk as he was walking back to his patrol car. An off-duty paramedic who happened to be nearby attempted to revive Libertone by commencing CPR and other lifesaving measures until other medical assistance arrived at the scene. Libertone was transferred to Corona Medical Center, where doctors continued to attempt to save his life; however, they were not successful. He was soon afterward pronounced dead due to a massive heart attack that claimed his life.

Libertone lived in Eastvale with his wife and the youngest of his six children. He had served the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for 31 years, and was assigned to the Fraud and Cyber Crimes Bureau before his passing.

Throughout his years of service and involvement within the community, Libertone was the recipient of many awards and recognitions. Beloved by his family, friends, and coworkers, he will continue to be missed by many. At the memorial service, loved ones shared stories about how he was “born to be a cop,” always quick to put the needs of others before his own, and how he loved a good laugh.

Not only are the people that knew Libertone directly feeling the loss of such a great man, but the community has been greatly impacted as well. As a result, many have banded together to provide support to Libertone’s family. On the morning of the services, the community paid respect and showed support to his family by making signs and gathering to see his funeral procession off. Children from the nearby schools stood on the sidewalks waving American flags proudly and holding up signs thanking him for his service.

 

From the Editor-in-Chief

10-year old Dayton Goegebuer, who was a friend of Lt. Libertone, chose to do a current event presentation for his 5th Grade Class. This is an excerpt from that presentation:

 

Lt. Patrick L. Libertone was a cop. He died on Aug. 12, 2014. On that day, Lt. Libertone pulled over a reckless driver in the Eastvale area. He went to speak to the driver. When he was done, he was walking back to his vehicle when he suddenly collapsed. He had a heart attack and died immediately. Lt. Libertone lived in Eastvale with his wife and kids. Libertone was a great man, and everyone who knew him would like to see him again, including me.

I chose this topic to write about because Lt. Libertone was a good man who helped a lot of people. I am sad to write about him dying, but glad that he did so many good things in his life. I think I can help his family cheer up because they are close friends, so I could make them happy. I also think that people should be more like Mr. Libertone because he helped so many people.

 

Meet Captain Jason Horton

STAFF REPORTS

Captain Jason Horton (Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale)

Captain Jason Horton (Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale)

Eastvale – The Eastvale Police Department – in contract with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department – is under the command of Captain Jason Horton, acting as Police Chief. The personnel under Horton’s command operate out of the Jurupa Valley Station, and they are dedicated to providing progressive, innovative and efficient public safety.

Horton began his law enforcement career with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department in 1989 as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff, patrolling the communities now serviced by the Jurupa Valley Station. At the time, he was the youngest Reserve Deputy Sheriff to be hired in the history of the Department, at age 19.

Four years later, in 1993, Horton graduated from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Basic Academy, was hired as a full-time Deputy Sheriff. During the time Horton spent as a Deputy Sheriff, and subsequent promotions to the ranks of Senior Deputy Sheriff and Corporal, he held assignments in corrections and field operations. While assigned to patrol, Horton held collateral assignments as a Field Training Officer, Special Enforcement Team member, and School Resource Officer at Jurupa Valley High School. The majority of his field service time was spent patrolling communities within Jurupa Valley.

Horton was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2004. He worked as a sergeant for five years and was assigned to the jail, academy training unit, and patrol. In 2009, Horton was promoted to Lieutenant and was assigned to the jail, patrol, and the Special Investigations Bureau. During this time, Horton was involved in transitioning three newly created contract cities from previous unincorporated county areas including Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, and Menifee. Each of these cities began with newly created teams of existing Sheriff’s personnel to provide law enforcement services to their jurisdictions. Horton was promoted to Captain in 2013 and is currently assigned to Jurupa Valley Patrol as the Station Commander.

Horton has earned a Bachelor’s Degree from California State University San Bernardino in Criminal Justice, and a Master’s Degree from the University of Redlands in Management. Horton is a graduate of Class #214 of the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Course (SLI), a leadership school for law enforcement sergeants throughout the state.

Horton is proud to be the fourth generational member of his family to serve in law enforcement, which started with his great-grandfather being a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in the early 1900s, serving in the Yukon Territory. Horton’s father was also a member of the department, serving almost 30 years with much of it patrolling in the Jurupa Valley area. Horton is married, has four school-aged children, and resides in Riverside, California, where he has lived most of his life.

We are proud to have Captain Horton at the helm of the fine men and women that protect the City of Eastvale.

Eastvale: Watch Your BAC: DUI Prevention

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Photo Caption: A participant checks his Blood Alcohol Content (Photo Courtesy: Eastvale News)

Photo Caption: A participant checks his Blood Alcohol Content (Photo Courtesy: Eastvale News)

Eastvale – The Eastvale Traffic Team – in its continued dedication to public safety – conducted a special DUI Prevention Program at the local Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant on Fri., Aug. 15. The purpose of the program was to educate the public on just how alcohol may affect you. While many residents were concerned that the event would deter business at the restaurant, the opposite seemed to happen.

Officers of the Traffic Team made their way throughout Buffalo Wild Wings, located in Eastvale’s Gateway shopping center, performing screenings on willing participants. The team performed Blood Alcohol Content (B.A.C.) analyses using a Preliminary Alcohol Screening device, or PAS. The popular restaurant, which is equal parts family seating and sports bar, was packed that night as patrons were approaching officers and eagerly awaiting their turns.

The legal alcohol limit is 0.08%, and many participants were surprised to see that they were above that level. It was also interesting to see how people of different sizes were affected by the same amounts of alcohol.

Throughout the night, participants were educated about the dangers of driving under the influence. They enjoyed a fun event with our local law enforcement, who takes a proactive approach in the education of our citizens.

Eastvale: Stay Cool This Summer

By LEAFF (Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters)

 

LEAFF Law Enforcement and Fire Protection

L.E.A.F.F. Eastvale

Eastvale – With all the heat and humidity that we are experiencing this summer – not to mention the drought conditions that make us look forward to rain and cooler weather – LEAFF recommends that you use these Tips for Staying Safe in the Heat:

1. Make sure to keep hydrated. Lots of water and fluids are crucial when playing or working outside. If your children are in sports they should be drinking water consistently- ALL DAY- even before their activity begins.

2. Make sure there is adequate shade for your animals outside or bring them inside, if possible, when the temperatures rise.

3. Make sure animals have fresh, clean water to last all day; and be sure to change their water completely at least every two days to avoid stagnation, which pets tend to avoid.

4. Try to exercise outdoors either early in the morning, or in the evening when it’s cooler.

5. Never leave animals or children inside of a hot vehicle, no matter what!

EASTVALE: Tragic Child Drowning in Eastvale

Posted Date: 8/14/2014 11:45 AM
Agency: Eastvale Police
Courtesy of RIVERSIDE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Details:

On Tuesday, August 12, 2014, at approximately 9:15 PM, officers from the City of Eastvale Police Department responded to the 7200 Canopy Lane in reference to an emergency call of a child drowning.

A male adult, who was supervising five children ranging in age from six to seventeen years old was outside with the children while they were playing in the pool. After several minutes past, the male adult noticed one of the small children was unresponsive in the pool. The child was immediately removed from the pool and lifesaving efforts were immediately administered. Upon the officers arrival they observed the child being given cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) but was unresponsive. Paramedics and members of the Eastvale Fire Department continued to give the child CPR and immediately transported the child to a local hospital where the child died a short time thereafter. The child’s name is being withheld due to age.

This investigation is continuing and anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Investigator Peralta at the Eastvale Police Station at 951-955-2600.

Andrea Milbourne, a Girl Scout Leader here in Eastvale, is collecting items (such as flowers, cards, meals, etc) for her troop to deliver. If you would like to contribute, please contact her via phone call or text at 909-264-0977

Eastvale: New Lieutenant For The Eastvale Police Department

STAFF REPORTS

 

Lieutenant evan peterson of eastvale police department

New Eastvale Lieutenant, Evan Peterson (Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale)

Eastvale – Lieutenant Evan Petersen has been selected to serve as the new lieutenant for the City of Eastvale Police Department, Jurupa Valley Station. Peterson replaces Assistant Chief of Police, Lt. Michael Yates, who ended his tenure with Eastvale in July for another assignment.

Petersen has been with the Riverside Sheriff’s Department since 1996. Prior to entering law enforcement, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University San Bernardino in Business Management.

Petersen’s first patrol assignment was for the Jurupa Valley Station at the beginning of 1999, where he remained until 2004. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2004, and promoted again to Lieutenant in 2008.

During his tenure as a Sheriff’s Lieutenant, Petersen has held commands within Sheriff’s Personnel, the Moreno Valley Station, Sheriff’s Homicide, and has spent the last year at the Jurupa Valley Station.

Petersen and his wife, Andrea, have three children, Ethan, Emma, and Ellen.

Please join us in welcoming Lt. Petersen to the Eastvale Police Department.  He may be reached at the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station at epetersen@riversidesheriff.org, or by calling (951) 955-2600.

 

Eastvale: Disability Placard / Plate Misuse Operation

City of Eastvale
handicap placard finalThe Eastvale Police Department, in its continued efforts in public safety awareness, conducted a Disability Placard/Misuse Prevention Program.

The purpose of the program was to educate the public regarding the misuse of handicap placards in the possession of those who have not been issued a handicap placard for their own personal use. This operation was conducted in conjunction with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and the Eastvale Traffic Team.

The program consisted of five sworn deputies and two Community Service Officers to better help educate the public in the surrounding Eastvale locations. The goal was to educate the public about illegally parking in designated handicap parking stalls and the misuse of the DMV-issued Disability Placards. There have been a growing number of complaints by the citizens of Eastvale, regarding multiple vehicles parking in handicap stalls which either are not displaying the appropriate DMV placard, or parking in a handicap parking stall and having never been issued a DMV Disability Placard. Through minimal enforcement of the handicap placards in the past, we have found many citizens misusing the placards and designated handicap parking stalls at various locations throughout the city of Eastvale.

After the completion of the operation, 23 handicap violations were found and cited, along with 19 other violations, such as expired registration and registration tabs. In addition, 3 vehicles were towed for registration expired over six months, per the vehicle code section 4000(a)(1) CVC.

This program was part of the ongoing public safety awareness effort being made by the city of Eastvale. The Eastvale Police Department takes a proactive approach in the education of our citizens and enforcement of the laws dealing with the illegal use of DMV Disability Placards and misuse of handicap parking stalls.

Eastvale: National Night Out

You won’t want to miss this year’s National Night Out on Tuesday, August 12, 2014. It’s a great opportunity to get acquainted with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, your neighbors, and the City’s Public Safety Commission.  This is a community event with activities and opportunities to learn more about the fight against crime in your neighborhood. The event will be held at the Eastvale Gateway Target Parking lot at 12471 Limonite Ave in Eastvale. Visit http://www.NNO.org for more information.

National Night Out

Eastvale: Crime Recap July 2014

STAFF REPORTS 
Crime ImageThe following is a crime recap for the month of July in the Cities of Eastvale, Corona, Norco, and Jurupa Valley. Information is from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and from our Eastvale Community News Facebook Page.

On Tues., July 15 about 11:45 a.m., deputies assigned to the Jurupa Valley Station, Norco Sheriff’s Office, responded to the 2200 block of Vista Ridge in the city of Norco. This was in reference to a stolen vehicle investigation. Upon arriving, deputies located the stolen vehicle parked in the driveway of a residence. As the deputies continued with their investigation, they were able to locate and identify the suspects, who were found hiding in the residence. Lawrence Piper, 30, was arrested for possession of stolen property, burglary, and two felony warrants for parole violations; Julie Stewart, 28, was arrested for possession of stolen property, burglary, and a felony warrant for possession of controlled substance; and Tayler Jenkins, 23, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and violation of probation.

On July 18, at about 1:30 p.m., members of the Riverside Sheriff’s Special Investigation Bureau, along with deputies assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office, served a search warrant in the 3700 block of California Avenue, in the city of Norco. The search warrant was the result of an investigation into an illegal outdoor marijuana grow operation at the location. During the search warrant service, over 400 marijuana plants were located and seized. The subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of two adult suspects, identified as Israel Martinez, 49, and Wilivaldo Arteaga Martinez, 34, residents from the city of Ontario. They were each booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center (RPDC) for marijuana cultivation and conspiracy charges.

On Sat., July 19, at approximately 8:30 a.m., officers from the Jurupa Valley Police Department responded to an assault with a deadly weapon report in the 3400 block of Skylane Drive. At the scene officers found Simona Mateas, 43, lying in the driveway suffering from gunshot wounds. There was reportedly a second victim at the home as well. Both were transported to a local hospital where Mateas succumbed to her injuries. The San Bernardino Police Department was dispatched later in the day responding to a suicide report, whereby Ayram Mateas, the husband of Simona, was found deceased inside the front door of a residence in the 1600 block of West Lincoln Avenue in San Bernardino. Upon further investigation it was found that the Mateas couple had been going through divorce proceedings, which may have instigated the murder/suicide.

On Sunday, July 20, two women were killed in a fiery crash on the I-15 freeway in the early morning hours. According to the California Highway Patrol, Julio Reyes, 34, of Riverside, was driving a black 2014 Lexus sedan while he was traveling southbound at alleged speeds of over 100 mph near Hidden Valley Parkway in Corona, when he slammed into the back of a silver Toyota. The Toyota burst into flames and both women were pronounced dead at the scene. Reyes was found by officers to be under the influence of alcohol and was he arrested on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and drunken driving causing bodily injury. Reyes and two other passengers in his car sustained minor injuries. The names of the women have not yet been released.

 

NORCO: Illegal Marijuana Grow House Bust

INFO. COURTESY OF RIVERSIDE SHERIFF’S DEPT.

 

Israel Martinez

Israel Martinez

Wilivaldo Arteaga Martinez

Wilivaldo Arteaga Martinez

NORCO-On July 18, 2014, about 1:30 p.m., members of the Riverside Sheriff’s Special Investigation Bureau, along with deputies assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office, served a search warrant in the 3700 block of California Avenue, in the city of Norco. The search warrant was the result of an investigation into an illegal outdoor marijuana grow at the location. During the search warrant service over 400 marijuana plants were located and seized.

The subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of two adult suspects, identified as Israel Martinez, age 49, and Wilivaldo Arteaga Martinez, age 34, residents from the city of Ontario. They were each booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center (RPDC) for marijuana cultivation and conspiracy charges.

The Norco Sheriff’s Office is committed to the safety of the citizens of Norco and is vigilant in combating crime. Anyone with information about this case can contact Deputies Robles or Ghiliotty at (951) 270-5673.

Citizens may also submit an anonymous tip using the Sheriff’s CrimeTips online form.

NORCO: Vehicle Theft Suspects Arrested

INFO. COURTESY RIVERSIDE SHERIFF’S DEPT.

Julie Stewart

Julie Stewart

Tayler Jenkins

Tayler Jenkins

On Tuesday, July 15, 2014, about 11:45 a.m., deputies assigned to the Jurupa Valley Station, Norco Sheriff’s Office, responded to the 2200 block of Vista Ridge in the city of Norco. This was in reference to a stolen vehicle investigation. Upon arriving, deputies located the stolen vehicle parked in the driveway of a residence. As the deputies continued with their investigation, they were able to locate and identify the suspects, who were found hiding in the residence.

The following suspects were arrested and booked into Robert Presley Detention Center:

Lawrence Piper – 30 years old – Possession of stolen property, burglary, & two felony warrants for Parole Violations.
Julie Stewart – 28 years old – Possession of stolen property, burglary, & a felony warrant for possession of controlled substance.
Tayler Jenkins – 23 years old – Possession of methamphetamine & Violation of probation.
The Norco Sheriff’s Office is committed to the safety of the citizens of Norco and is vigilant in combating crime. Anyone with information about this case can contact Deputy Nicholas Padilla #2781 at 951-270-5673.

Thank You, Lt. Michael Yates

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Eastvale – Lt. Michael Yates has been with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department for almost 25 years. He has served as Eastvale’s Assistant Chief of Police for the last two years. With his tenure in Eastvale ending in July as he moves on to another assignment, we asked him to comment on his time taking care of our citizens.

According to Yates, the best part of serving Eastvale these last years has been actively pursuing crime, and the satisfaction that comes from taking the “bad guys” off the streets. “There is crime everywhere, in every city, and you can either turn your head the other way or go out there and find it. I have always tried to inspire my officers to bring me arrests and find the crime.”

With multiple traffic and safety saturations, 55 marijuana house closures, decoy programs, and making the City of Eastvale safer, Yates has done everything within his power to achieve his goals. His swan song for Eastvale was the second-degree murder arrest of the suspect that killed bicyclist, Troy Davids, in June. The Ghost Bike Memorial at the northeast corner of Hamner and Limonite avenues is not only a tribute to the life of Davids, but a reminder of the countless hours that Yates and his team invested to bring justice to this heartbreaking hit-and-run crime.

When asked what he wanted the community to know about the Eastvale Police Department, Yates replied, “Our officers are approachable and do care. They may not all come off as passionate as me, but they like working in the City because the residents are good people, and the officers enjoy being around them.”

We thank you for your service, Lt. Michael Yates, and wish you the very best in all of your future endeavors.

 

 

Eastvale: LEAFF Update-June

By L.E.A.F.F. (Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters)

leaff-logoEastvale – LEAFF has always been supportive of our military, and as such we are thrilled that the Eastvale Community Services Foundation will be taking over the Military Banner Program. At the June 11 City Council meeting, Sharyn Link, Executive Director of the foundation, spoke to the Council about their desire to manage the program. They had originally wanted to run the program, but did not have the staff or the funds to do so when it first began. Link and the foundation are excited to work with the community on ensuring that the Military Banner Program stays a success. One of the first ways they plan on doing this is by purchasing better brackets for the banners and getting all the banners up where they belong. The City Council apparently agreed as the item was unanimously voted in by the entire council. We look forward to helping the Eastvale Community Foundation with their endeavors in the future.

LEAFF, a huge proponent of public safety, also wanted to take the time to express gratitude to Lt. Mike Yates, who will be transferring out of the Eastvale Police Department and on to another assignment. Lt. Yates has always been an invaluable asset to this community and to our organization. He has an excellent record in conducting various traffic and safety saturations; has been committed to eradicating “pot houses” from Eastvale; and was tireless in his dedication to making an arrest in the Troy Davids hit and run case. According to LEAFF President, Rigo Arrellano, “Lt. Yates is always willing to listen to our concerns and his dedication to Public Safety is obvious in the many different ways he has found to promote public safety in our community.” We wish Lt. Yates the best of luck in his new endeavor.

 

Eastvale: June Crime Recap 2014

By Staff Reports

 

Eastvale – The following is a crime recap for the month of June in the cities of Eastvale, Norco and Jurupa Valley. This information is from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and from our Eastvale Community News Facebook Page.

On June 13 at 3:30 a.m., deputies from the Jurupa Valley Police Department responded to a burglary alarm at Rubidoux High School. During a search of the interior of the school, a male suspect was located hiding inside with stolen items in his possession belonging to the school, as well as a stolen firearm. Markion Williams, a 19-year old, black male from Jurupa Valley, was arrested for commercial burglary, possession of stolen property, parole violation, discharging a firearm in a negligent manner, vandalism, and resisting arrest. Williams was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center and is being held without bail. Anyone with any additional information related to the burglary is encouraged to contact Investigator Brett Johnson at the Jurupa Valley Station, at (951) 955-2600.

On June 14 at 8 a.m., officers assigned to the City of Jurupa Valley’s Special Enforcement Team obtained information regarding a residence being used for illegal narcotic sales. A follow up investigation was initiated and a search warrant was obtained for the residence. A search revealed narcotics and other items conducive to sales. The subjects, David Voyles, Roxanna Voyles, John Cabral and Sean Rizzo, all Jurupa Valley residents, were all arrested and booked into jail at the Robert Presley Detention Center.

On June 17 around 3 p.m., Worry Free Gadgets, located in the City of Norco was burglarized. The thieves stole approximately 1,400 Zeepad Android Tablets valued at over $90,000. After deputies learned the tablets were being advertised on the Internet they arranged to purchase some tablets. On June 17 undercover deputies met the suspects to purchase the stolen tablets. As a result, 21-year old Nanak Singh and 31-year old Amrik Singh were arrested for possession of stolen property, embezzlement, and conspiracy. Two search warrants were served at their residence and at an off-site storage facility. In all, approximately 1,000 tablets were recovered. Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to call Deputies Robles or Ghiliotty at (951) 270-5673.

eneas-palacios

Eneas Palacios (Photo Courtesy: Riverside County Sheriff’s Department)

On June 26 at 10:56 a.m., Eastvale Police Department deputies responded to a report of indecent exposure that occurred on a walking trail near the area of Dearborn and Tisdale streets in the City of Eastvale. Deputies quickly arrived at the location and met with the victim who provided a detailed description of the subject. After an extensive search by several deputies, a subject matching the description was located on the walking trail. He was positively identified as the subject in question. Eneas Palacios, 23, of Eastvale was arrested for indecent exposure, lewd conduct, and violation of probation. He was booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center. An investigation revealed that Palacios may have been involved in previous incidents of this nature. Eastvale Police are asking citizens to contact Deputy Thompson at (951) 955-2600 with any information regarding this case. The Eastvale Police Department is committed to the safety of this community and they will be vigilant in investigating all crimes of this nature.

 

 

Norco: Sheriff’s Deputies Arrest Three for Felony Charges during Crosswalk Safety Operation

Norco Sheriff’s Office Press Release
June 23, 2014
Sergeant Christian Dekker

On Monday, June 23, 2014, Deputies assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office conducted an operation at the intersection of Hamner Avenue and 6th Street in the city of Norco, in response to traffic safety related complaints. “We had such an outpour of community support for our last crosswalk operation in April; that we decided to do another one.” Lieutenant Daniel Hedge said. “Many people within the Norco Community have voiced their frustration with the blatant disregard some drivers have for others safety.”

The main focus of the operation was to identify motorists who failed to yield to the pedestrian deputy in the crosswalk (Vehicle Code Section 21950(a)). The pedestrian deputy and the safety companion deputy would call out the observed violation over the radio to uniformed deputies staged nearby. The uniformed deputies would then conduct enforcement stops, contact the driver of the vehicle and issue citations.

While conducting the operation, deputies contacted three subjects who were subsequently arrested for felony charges. The following people were arrested and booked into Robert Presley Detention Center:

  1. Gonzalo Hurtado – 22 years old – Possession of controlled substance and violation of probation.
  2. Joseph Rosales – 26 years old – Possession of controlled substance and violation of probation.
  3. Gustavo Chavez – 23 years old – Felony warrant for possession of stolen property.

The following are the results of the crosswalk safety operation:

  • 50 Citations were issue (Fail to Yield for Pedestrian/ Red Light/Grid Lock/ Cell Phone)
  • 1 Arrest for Unlicensed Driver
  • 1 Vehicle Impounded
  • 1 Arrested on a Felony Warrant
  • 2 Suspects arrested for illegal drugs (possession/transportation/sales)

It should be noted that many motorists yielded for the pedestrian in the crosswalk, which is to be commended. The Norco Sheriff’s Office plans to conduct additional operations in the near future.

Eastvale: Coffee With A Cop

Eastvale Police
June 24, 2014
Lieutenant Mike Yates

 

On July 2, 2014, the Eastvale Police Department and community members will be coming together in an informal setting at a local coffee house to discuss community issues and build relationships while enjoying a cup of coffee. All community members are invited to attend. The event will take place from 8:00AM – 10:00AM on July 2, 2014, at the Starbucks located at 14268 Schleisman Road.

Coffee with a Cop provides an opportunity for community members to ask questions, learn more about the Eastvale Police Department and meet your officers. There will be no agenda or speeches, just an opportunity to voice your concerns and get to know the officers in your neighborhood.

The majority of contacts law enforcement has with the public happen during emergencies, or emotional situations. Those situations are not always the most effective times for relationship building with the community, and some community members may feel that deputies are unapproachable on the street. Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction.

Coffee with a Cop is a national initiative supported by the United States Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. Similar events are being held across the country, as local police departments, sheriff’s offices, and state police forces strive to make lasting connections with communities they serve.

Eastvale: L.E.A.F.F. Update

leaff-logo
BY L.E.A.F.F. (LAW ENFORCEMENT AND FIRE FIGHTERS)

Eastvale – May was a busy month for LEAFF, and with summer upon us, things are set to become much busier.

On May 15, we had the privilege to present two exceptional Roosevelt High School seniors with plaques and scholarships to honor their efforts in the Police and Fire Explorer programs. Jacob Martin and Carlos De La Torre both worked really hard in their respective programs and we are excited to hear what their futures will bring for them and the community around us.

This summer also marks the return of Picnic in the Park, which we are very excited about. This is a great way to get out and meet your neighbors and community, and enjoy local food, music, carnival rides and a spectacular fireworks show. Picnic in the Park returns this year June 27 through 29, at the new Eastvale Community Park. We hope to see everyone there!

LEAFF has also given their support to WOLFF (Wives of Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters) for the 88iMPACT 1st Annual iMpact Festival, to be held at the Mid-Hill Golf Club in support of our community, small business development, military, law enforcement and firefighters. The event will feature live entertainment, great food, vendors, and maybe even a few celebrities. It is scheduled for August 2 at 4:00pm. Get your tickets while they last by visiting http://iPactfestival.eventbrite.com.

EASTVALE: Problematic River Rd. Bridge Will Get a Larger Police Presence

Recent Accident on River Rd. Bridge Photo: Matthew Zick

Recent Accident on River Rd. Bridge
Photo: Matthew Zick

BY: JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Eastvale: The problematic River Rd. Bridge connecting Eastvale and Norco will be getting more of a police presence. Several accidents have occurred on the bridge, with the most recent one occurring on May 14th. Five people were injured in the multi-vehicle crash , and many more near accidents are constantly happening.

Resident Matthew Zick, who lives near the bridge, has seen so many “almost crashes and crazy drivers speeding down the bridge that its become almost a daily occurrence. We hear the squealing of brakes and horns constantly”. Other residents, have reported seeing cars speeding by them at excessive speeds, cutting other cars off, racing,  and other unsafe driving.

One of the problems with the bridge is that the curve is more deceiving then it looks and when a vehicle is traveling at an excessive speed it makes it hard to slow down and take the curve responsibly. In addition, there is nothing to prevent another vehicle from traveling into the other lane of on-coming traffic, which is what is what occurred in the most recent accident.

The issue of the unsafe driving behavior was brought up recently at the Public Safety Council meeting and brought to the attention of the Riverside Sheriff’s Department Eastvale Division.  Residents were concerned that it is just a matter of time before yet another fatality occurs on this bridge. Lt. Yates informed the Safety Council that he will arrange more traffic and speeding saturations to try and curb the speeding and unsafe driving that is happening there. Other residents, on our Eastvale Community News Facebook page have suggested putting up cement barriers between the lanes to keep vehicles from veering over, as well as flashing “Here’s your Speed” signs to make drivers aware.