Category Archives: Police/Fire

EASTVALE: Traffic Saturations Raise Questions from Residents

BY: JENNIFER MADRIGAL

(Image courtesy : City of Eastvale)

(Image courtesy : City of Eastvale)

EASTVALE – On March 25, residents contacted our Eastvale Community News Facebook about a large presence of police on Limonite. Authorities were contacted and we reported that the Riverside Sheriff’s Department was just conducting routine patrols and no major issues were reported. Later that day, the City of Eastvale released a press release explaining that the Eastvale Traffic Police Department’s Traffic Division conducted a Safety Enforcement Operation as part of its commitment to public safety. The operation was conducted at two different intersections. The first intersection was near Limonite Avenue and Sumner Avenue and the second intersection was Limonite Avenue and Hamner Avenue. This operation is one of many that will be conducted throughout the year and was done in response to ongoing citizen concerns of speeding, texting and using cellphones while driving. This operation resulted in 50 citations being issued of which 4 vehicles were towed for drivers operating without a valid drivers license. The traffic saturation, as these are commonly called, was conducted between the hours of 7am-8:30am and again from 12pm-2:20pm.

At the March 25 Safety Council Meeting, Eastvale resident, Don Pettinger,  questioned the necessity of this operation and was concerned that these types of “sweeps” give the city a bad reputation.  Pettinger addressed the commission and stated that, ”All that we (Eastvale Police Department) do is issue citations on Limonite, Hamner and Sumner and everyone kind of knows where those officers are hidden”. In response to Mr. Pettinger’s concerns, Lieutenant Yates, Eastvale’s Asst. Chief of Police, explained that the original purpose of todays traffic saturation was actually aimed towards the local schools, but when officers realized that the schools were on spring break, they made a last minute decision to instead focus on speeding, texting and drivers using cellphones. This in itself is a large issue and residents have complained about these issues frequently to The Riverside Sheriff’s Department.  Yates further explained that these types of sweeps are common and that citations are necessary because, “warnings don’t always work and so we have to issue citations because that’s how you bring traffic collisions down”.

According to Yates, the purpose of these sweeps is in direct response to community concerns. For example, Riverside Sheriff’s Department has done numerous sweeps on issues from bike safety and helmet usage, to truancy, to burglary and drug sweeps, etc. All of these sweeps have been done with the intent of improving public safety.  The issue of the City doing these sweeps in order for a revenue boost was also brought up, but City Manager Carol Jacobs, shook her head and asserted that that simply was not true. According to Jacobs, the city gets very little revenue from citations and that the amount of money from  fines and citations is merely “a drop in the bucket”.

While the need for these sweeps and saturations is definitely needed and valid, especially around our schools, many residents feel that other areas need more attention. Pettinger voiced this issue when he said, ” Eastvale’s two major problems are residential burglaries and burglaries from vehicles during the daytime hours, so  what do they do, they create saturations and shoot radar instead of giving neighborhoods saturated patrols for possible burglary activities”.  In response to this, Yates again explained how the saturations work and how revenue is generated with very little of the revenue going to the City.  Yates also explained how the Sheriff’s Department is committed to acting on the concerns of the citizens and actively trying to conduct various sweeps to increase overall public safety.

One way that the Riverside Sheriff’s Department plans on conducting strategic sweeps, is by issuing a calendar with a priority list of schools that would receive extra traffic enforcement. These saturations would be rotated by school, starting with those that have the highest need or priority. This calendar would obviously be shared only by law enforcement and city officials and not to the public. Yates hopes that continued saturations and sweeps will increase safety and cause citizens to be more aware .

The City of Eastvale and the Riverside Sheriff’s Department encourage citizens to always obey the posted speed limits, wear your seat belt(s), refrain from using a hand-held wireless telephone device while driving and follow the traffic signal movements.

Citizens may submit an anonymous crime tips using the Sheriff’s CrimeTips online form.

Eastvale: Situation Awareness

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

 

LEAFF Law Enforcement and Fire Protection

L.E.A.F.F. Eastvale

One of the most important factors of being safe is being aware of your situation. This can be applied to the home, workplace and outside, whether one is at work or play.  Be aware of what is going around you.

 

HOME:  With spring arriving and the time change, it is essential to remember to do things like renew the batteries in your smoke detectors, replenish the supplies in your first aid kit and review a safety plan with your family. Do your children know where to go in case of a major emergency? Make sure as a family you discuss a meeting place in the event of a disaster and have a plan in place.  It is also essential to make sure that your family is prepared and has enough food and water for three days to one week, at a minimum.

 

OUTSIDE:  Be aware of your surroundings when you are outside.  If you see drifters or people that look like they shouldn’t be there (such as a random person sitting in their car for a long period of time), call it in.  It is better to be safe than sorry.  Pay attention to your neighbors and your neighborhood by being vigilant and looking out for one another.  Joining a Neighborhood Watch is a great way to learn more about your surroundings as well as learn even more ways to keep you and your family safe.

 

Children need to remember to wear helmets when riding their bikes, but most importantly, they need to look around and make sure that vehicles see them.  Vehicles should be at a full stop before crossing in front of them.  Don’t assume that because you are in the crosswalk, you are safe. Distracted drivers and children not paying attention have resulted in many collisions that could have been avoided had both people been aware of their surroundings.

 

Overall, situation awareness leads to less crime and a higher level of personal safety. The first step in avoiding disaster and becoming a statistic is making sure that your situation is safe. Be vigilant, pay attention and have a plan.

EASTVALE: 295 Marijuana Plants Seized in Illegal Marijuana Grow

eastvale police curfew

(Image courtesy : City of Eastvale)

INFORMATION FROM RIVERSIDE SHERIFF DEPARTMENT PRESS RELEASE:

During an ongoing investigation related to illegal residential marijuana grow operations in the city of Eastvale; officers assigned to the city of Eastvale’s Special Enforcement Team obtained new information regarding a residence being used for an illegal marijuana grow operation. A follow-up investigation was initiated and a search warrant was obtained for the residence. Residence was located in the 6000 Block of Massey Way, Eastvale.

On Thursday, March 20, 2014, at 5:30 p.m., the search warrant was served by officers assigned to the city of Eastvale’s Special Enforcement Team. During the service of this search warrant, no subjects were detained inside the residence. Officers discovered the residence had been modified for the sole purpose of cultivating, processing and packaging marijuana for sales.  Officers seized 295 marijuana plants.  Additionally, electricity was being bypassed around the meter, causing a serious fire hazard and resulting in approximately $5,000.00 a month in stolen electricity.

The Eastvale Police Department is committed to the safety of the citizens of Eastvale and will be vigilant in investigating all crimes of this nature. The investigation is ongoing and we are reaching out to the public and asking anyone with information about this incident to contact Officer Javier Morando at the Jurupa Valley Station at 951-955-2600.

Eastvale: Crime Recap

STAFF REPORTS

 Eastvale -– The following crime incidents have been reported by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the City of Eastvale, and eyewitnesses throughout the community. Here is a recap of the local crime for last month.

Crime ImageOn Tuesday, Feb. 25, a search warrant was obtained at the 6400 block of Gold Dust St., Eastvale, where Eastvale Police seized 921 marijuana plants, one pound of processed marijuana and packaging material. Yongchao Huang, 32, of San Gabriel, was arrested for cultivation of marijuana and grand theft of utilities. He is accused of bypassing the home’s electricity meter, stealing about $7,600 worth of energy per month and causing a serious fire hazard.  Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Officer Javier Morando at the Jurupa Valley Station at (951) 955-2600.

On Feb. 19, at around 7:45 a.m., a 17-year-old female was struck by an oncoming vehicle while riding her bike eastbound on the north side of Citrus St.  Fortunately, the victim was able to walk away with only a scraped knee. The vehicle that struck the victim and fled the scene was reported to be a silver Volkswagen, according to eyewitnesses. When the suspect fled the scene, a witness followed the suspect’s vehicle and contacted the Eastvale Police Department. However, deputies were unable to identify the vehicle when they arrived. They are asking the community to contact the Eastvale Police at (951) 776-1099 if they see a silver Volkswagen with damage to the front or side.

On Tuesday, Feb. 13, Julie Kalberg, 34, of Eastvale, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter, felony abuse and child engagement in Riverside Superior Court. Kalberg was convicted after she babysat 1-year old, Caitlyn Jolley, in her Eastvale home on Elias Street back on April 30, 2010. She was reportedly a friend of the Jolley family and had previously babysat for them. The child was injured and taken to a Corona hospital where she was reportedly found to have major head trauma and signs of shaken-baby syndrome.  The results of the medical examination led to the arrest of Kalberg the following day.  Jolley was transferred to Loma Linda University Medical Center for more advanced care; however, she died four days later as a result of her injuries. On Feb. 13, after the jury deliberated for two days, Kalberg was found guilty of causing the fatal injuries.  Kalberg has been held at the Robert Presley Detention Center for the last four years.  At her hearing on Feb. 28, she was sentenced to time served and the court did not impose any additional jail time.

On Monday, Feb. 10, at 6:25 p.m., the Eastvale Fire Department responded to a home fire in the 12000 block of Craigburn Circle in Eastvale. The fire was extinguished and the Eastvale Fire Department discovered that the residence contained an indoor marijuana grow operation.  A search warrant was obtained and served by officers assigned to Eastvale’s Special Enforcement Team.  Officers were able to seize 1,103 marijuana plants and 35 lbs of processed marijuana. Electricity was also being bypassed around the meter, which may have been the cause of the fire.  Anyone with information about this incident is requested to contact Officer Javier Morando at the Jurupa Valley Station at (951) 955-2600.

Over the last several months, there have been several incidents of graffiti at Orchard Park located at 5900 Festival Way in Eastvale, and the surrounding neighborhood near the park, according to the City of Eastvale.  Sheriff’s reports state that spray paint and markers were used to deface property at Orchard Park, including the toys at the playground.  Deputy Avila, who is assigned to patrol the parks in the City of Eastvale, began an investigation regarding the graffiti. On Feb. 6, at 4:55 p.m., after several leads, Deputy Avila received information that a juvenile was seen at the Eastvale Community Center with graffiti on his backpack. The juvenile, who is a 14-year old resident of Eastvale, was contacted while riding his bike. The graffiti on the juvenile’s backpack matched the graffiti at Orchard Park; therefore, the juvenile was detained.  Several pieces of evidence connecting him to the graffiti were located at his residence. A second juvenile was identified during the investigation, a 17-year old resident of Eastvale.  After searching the juvenile’s residence, additional evidence was located linking the juvenile to the graffiti at Orchard Park and surrounding areas. Both juveniles were arrested for felony vandalism and released into the custody of their parents. The total amount of damage caused by the suspects was $9,192.24. The Jurupa Community Services District will be seeking reimbursement to repair the damage from the juvenile’s parents.  This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information about this incident is requested to contact Deputy Avila at the Jurupa Valley Station at (951) 955-2600.

On Wednesday, Feb. 5, at 4:58 p.m., Eastvale officers responded to the 6000 block of Wells Springs Street, in Eastvale, where a burglary had occurred and numerous items were taken from inside.  Sheriff’s Deputies obtained information stating a gray Pontiac Grand-Am was used during the commission of the crime. Officers spotted the vehicle driving in the area and a traffic enforcement stop was conducted.  The driver of the vehicle was identified as Victor Saizholguin, a 19-year old Hispanic male from Eastvale. Property belonging to the residence on Wells Springs Street was located inside the Pontiac, as well as additional items of stolen property from at least one other residential burglary.  Saizholguin was arrested for residential burglary, possession of stolen property, and possession of burglary tools.  He was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center and is being held on $35,000 bail.  Additional suspects are sought and anyone with information on this case is encouraged to call Deputy Michelle Shamhart at the Eastvale Police Department at (951) 955-2600.

Between November 2013 and January 2014, there have been several incidents involving the theft of amplifiers from cable company boxes within Eastvale and the surrounding areas. These cable boxes are located in most neighborhoods, and the thefts are typically occurring between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m.  It is believed the suspects responsible for these thefts may have a professional appearance and may be driving utility trucks.  If you observe individuals working on, or removing parts from these cable boxes, or have information which may assist with the investigation, you are asked to contact your local Law Enforcement agency immediately.  Crime reporting tips should include a description or photo of the suspect vehicle and license plate, description or photo of the suspect(s), direction of travel of the suspect(s) after theft, and determining if the suspect(s) is known to the area.

Anyone with information is asked to contact one of the following numbers:  For an in-progress crime, call 911; for a crime in Eastvale, call (951) 955-9240; Jurupa Valley, call (951) 955-2661; and for a crime in Norco, call (951) 270-5673.

Eastvale: Police Conduct Daytime Curfew Checks

BY STAFF REPORTS

eastvale police curfew

(Image courtesy : City of Eastvale)

In an effort to decrease juvenile truancy rates, the Eastvale Police Dept. in collaboration with the Corona Norco School District conducted a city wide daytime curfew enforcement operation. The “sweep” took place on Friday, March 07, 2014,between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 2:00 P.M. According to a press release, the deputies patrolled the city of Eastvale in search of students who failed to report to school or left the campus without having permission to do so. While patrolling the city, deputies also checked several areas where juveniles are known for congregating, including parks, shopping centers, washes, and convenience stores. During the enforcement, several individuals were contacted, two of whom were found to be truant and were issued a citation for violating Riverside County Ordinance 9.12.030(a).

The few juveniles found to be in violation of the daytime curfew ordinance is a good indication of the positive effects the Corona-Norco Unified School District in Eastvale is having on their students by stressing the importance of regular school attendance.

The goal of this daytime curfew enforcement was to take a proactive approach to daytime curfew violators. Deputies also counseled juveniles and explained the importance of attending school on a regular basis and how failing to do so could significantly impact their future. This enforcement operation met expectations and future operations of this type are planned.

Eastvale: Police Conduct Sex Offender Compliance Check

BY STAFF REPORTS

Image courtesy : City of Eastvale

Image courtesy : City of Eastvale

Press Release Courtesy of Riverside County Sheriff’s Dept.

On Thursday, March 06, 2014, from the hours of 5:00 pm – 10:00pm, investigators from the Eastvale Police Department conducted compliance checks of thirty-two registered sex offenders.

Section 290 of the California Penal Code requires persons convicted of specific sex related crimes, to register with local law enforcement in the city or unincorporated area of their specific residence. During today’s operation, the offenders were contacted and found to be in compliance with the terms of their registration.

The Investigators assigned to the Eastvale Police Department are responsible for conducting random visits of all registered sex offenders living within the city to ensure the safety of the community. The Eastvale Investigators will take all enforcement measures against any subject found to be willfully out of compliance with the terms of their mandatory registration.

Eastvale: Did You Know…

Neighborhood Watch

Neighborhood Watch (Photo Courtesy: Bing Images)

STAFF REPORTS

Eastvale – Did you know that the City of Eastvale’s web page hosts a Persons of Interest connection page to help residents stay informed about crime in the City? There are a number of information sources at a glance, including a Crime Tip Hotline; photos of individuals possibly involved in or having knowledge of criminal activity; photos of persons recently taken in custody; and photos of recovered stolen property that has not yet been claimed.

This information is another facet of Neighborhood Watch, whereby staying informed, you become additional eyes and ears to help the Eastvale Police Department in keeping our City safe. In addition, the Police Department page has links to brochures and videos that provide you with tips on Vehicle Burglary Prevention, Vehicle Safety, Personal Safety and Home Safety. The Eastvale Police Department, in contract with Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, is committed to providing the very best in public safety.

Visit http://www.eastvalecity.org and click on City Hall, Police Department, then the Persons of Interest link to see this page.

NORCO: 3 Suspects Captured after Violent Home Robbery

BY: JENNIFER MADRIGAL

(L-R) Stevie Rae Andrew Pena, Ashley Chaney and Abel Soto

(Top to Bottom) Abel Soto, Ashley Chaney and Stevie Rae Andrew Pena

jvs14-0226-AshleyChaney_Norco burglary

jvs14-0226-StevieRaeAndrewPena Norco burglary
NORCO – On Wednesday, February 26 at 11:44 pm. Norco Police Officers responded to a 911 emergency call at a residence in the 4000 block of Pedley Avenue. When officers arrived, they located a male adult suffering from moderate injuries. Three additional adult victims were also located with minor injuries. The victims were taken to a local hospital for treatment.
According to the Riverside sheriff’s Department, an investigation revealed two male suspects and one female suspects forced their way into the victims’ residence and assaulted them, during the course of the home invasion robbery. After a neighborhood canvas, police were unable to locate the suspects.
However, on Friday February 28, Norco Investigators along with Norco deputies continued the investigation that led them to a residence on the 1400 block of Elegante Court, in the city of Corona.
Abel Soto, a 20 year old resident of Corona, and Ashley Chaney, a 19 year old Corona resident, were both arrested for assault causing great bodily injury, burglary, and felony vandalism. They are both being held on $75,000 bail. Stevie Rae Andrew Pena, a 21 year old resident of Corona, was arrested for assault causing great bodily injury, burglary, felony vandalism and four felony no bail arrest warrants for vehicle theft and narcotics related violations. Pena is being held without bail.
According to the Press Release, officers have arrested all three suspects responsible for this crime and booked them into the Robert Presley Detention Center. Anyone with additional information on this case is encouraged to contact Norco Investigator, Ted Gonzales (951) 955-2600

Eastvale: Fight Crime, One Neighborhood at a Time

Neighborhood Watch

Neighborhood Watch (Photo Courtesy: Bing Images)



BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Eastvale – With the recent high “perception” of crime in Eastvale, one way to help resolve it is to get involved. Communities that participate in Neighborhood Watch Programs statistically have less crime than those that do not. The National Crime Prevention Council shows that Neighborhood Watch works because it reduces opportunities for crimes to occur. It doesn’t rely on altering or changing the criminal’s behavior or motivation, but instead relies on a cooperative partnership between neighbors and their Police Departments designed to improve security, reduce crime and combat illegal activity.

Last July, the City of Eastvale, in collaboration with L.E.A.F.F. and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, hosted a Neighborhood Watch Kick-off to get the community excited about the program. The program however, has failed to successfully get off the ground. Concerned with the lack of public involvement, the Eastvale Public Safety Commission has been asked by the City Council to ensure that the program gets back up and running again.

At the last Public Safety Commission Meeting in February, Eastvale Police Department’s Captain Danny Feltenberger spoke to the commission and audience about the Neighborhood Watch Program. According to Feltenberger, “The program is about community, not about law enforcement, and it takes a lot to keep it going, a lot of hard work.” He suggested that the commission find people who are active in the community and recruit three chairs to head up the three sections of the city. These people can then appoint block captains who will work in their neighborhoods. Training for block captains is done by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, who will send a representative to a meeting to train and prepare residents for their own neighborhood program. The hope is that once this program successfully gets going, block captains can take reports from their individual neighborhoods and report to the chair people who will then report to the Public Safety Commission and City Council. In addition to helping spread information, this “chain of communication” will also help provide a reliable way of conversing in the event of an emergency or disaster.

The City of Eastvale is a community unlike many others in that we have an extremely active social media dynamic. Many crimes have been solved and further investigated because of information shared on Facebook and other social media sites, like the City of Eastvale’s “Persons of interest Page”. The large number of law enforcement and firefighters who are active throughout the community has also helped to raise awareness and deter crime. According to L.E.A.F.F., the nation’s only law enforcement and fire fighter organization, founded in Eastvale, “We are asking that the community come together and participate. We need you all to be the eyes and ears in order to help law enforcement better do their jobs”.

According to Asst. Chief of Police, Michael Yates, at January’s Public Safety Commission Meeting, Eastvale residents have a 100% accuracy rate when identifying and calling in suspected marijuana grow houses as they are aware of the signs. This shows that residents are vigilant and active and those skills are what are needed in Neighborhood Watch block captains and participants.

The Public Safety Commission has been asked to start a subcommittee that will look into ways to help make the Neighborhood Watch program more successful. During February’s Public Safety Commission Meeting, Commission Member, Melonee Cruse, happily stepped forth and agreed to head up the subcommittee. She will now work with other members of the commission, local law enforcement and the community to further this program along.

If you are interested in volunteering to be a Neighborhood Watch Chairperson or a block captain, contact Melonee Cruse at MCruse@EastvaleCA.gov, or contact Deputy Jeff Cryder at (951) 955-9225 or via email at jcryder@riversidesheriff.org.

EASTVALE: Pit Bull Injured During Suspected Burglary Arrest

BY: JENNIFER MADRIGAL
According to a Riverside County Sheriff’s Press Release, a pit bull was shot and injured after charging a deputy during an attempted arrest. The dog was fired upon after it charged the Deputy and the Deputy was forced to fire two rounds at the animal in order to protect himself. The dog is expected to survive.

According to the Press Release, On Sunday, March 2, 2014, at about 2:23 p.m. Eastvale officers responded to the 12000 block of Limonite Avenue to investigate a burglary in progress. Two adult male suspects were observed removing the protective security packaging from items in the electronics department of the Target Shopping Center (Located on Hamner/Limonite). After they both exited the building, at separate times, an individual who reported the theft was able to provide a vehicle description to authorities.

Once deputies arrived on location and were able to locate the vehicle matching the description, an enforcement stop was conducted. According to the press release, “Upon making contact, the suspect opened the door to the vehicle, releasing a large pit bull that immediately charged at the deputy. The deputy was forced to defend himself and fired two rounds at the dog, striking it. The dog is expected to survive. None of the suspects or the deputies were injured during the altercation”.

The suspects were identified as Salvadore Lopez Garcia, age 38 of Fullerton, who was detained outside the business with stolen property in his possession. The second suspect was identified as Sage Hall, age 25 of Canyon Lake.

The vehicle was searched and stolen property from the business was discovered. Garcia was booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center for burglary, possession of stolen property, conspiracy and providing false identification to law enforcement. Hall was booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center for burglary, possession of stolen property, and conspiracy.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is committed to the safety of the citizens of this community and will be vigilant in investigating all crimes of this nature. The Sheriff’s Department is asking anyone with information about this incident to contact Deputy Myers at the Jurupa Valley Station at 951-955-2600.

EASTVALE: 961 Marijuana Plants Seized in Eastvale Home

By: Jennifer Madrigal

Plants seized during investigation. Picture courtesy of Eastvale Police Dept.

Plants seized during investigation. Picture courtesy of Eastvale Police Dept.

EASTVALE- Yongchao Huang was arrested Tuesday Feb. 25 at the 6400 block of Gold Dust St. in Eastvale during a search warrant where Eastvale Police seized 921 marijuana plants, one pound of processed marijuana and packaging material.
The 32-year-old San Gabriel man was detained inside the residence and arrested after Eastvale’s Special Enforcement Team discovered the residence had been modified for cultivating, processing and packaging marijuana. Huang was also accused of bypassing the home’s electricity meter, stealing about $7,600 worth of energy a month and causing a serious fire hazard.
Huang has been charged with cultivation of marijuana and grand theft of utilities.

This is an ongoing investigation and anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Officer Javier Morando at the Jurupa Valley Station at (951) 955-2600.

EASTVALE: Protecting your Children From Cyber Predators

BY: JENNIFER MADRIGAL and LEAFF Member Det. Syvock

LEAFF Law Enforcement and Fire Protection

L.E.A.F.F. Eastvale

With the rise of internet and app use among a younger and younger generation, the cases of child molestation cases has also continued to rise. Sadly, the age of children being victimized continues to get younger and younger as pedophiles continue to get braver and bolder in their pursuits. Many parents think that they are monitoring their children well enough to avoid any of these incidences from happening to “their child”, but the sad reality is that even the most vigilant parents can miss the signs.

First and foremost, there are some key words that define the “lingo” of the child pornography world: Collectors– Collect images of child pornography.  Collectors can and will transition to chatters.  Chatters– Chatters will surf the social media and gaming sites (Xbox, Play station, etc…) known to be used by children.  These chatters are looking for children to communicate with and the topics will transition to discussions involving sexual contact.  Chatters can and will become Travelers. Travelers– Adults that will meet with children for the purpose of engaging in sexual activities.  Travelers could be from the town/city next door or may travel across country to meet children.  Travelers can and will become manufacturers of child pornography as they will document their meetings in videos and photographs. Manufacturers– Manufacturers will produce images and videos depicting children being exploited (Child Pornography) to share with other likeminded individuals via the internet or through mailings.

According to Detective David Sycock, who is part of the Orange County Child Exploitation Task Force, once contact between the predator and the child has been established, the grooming process begins. These predators are able to spend more time with our children daily, through the internet, than a predator who has face to face access. They will often shower the victim with attention. This gives the child a sense that the predator cares about them because they are so patient and they listen so intently. The relationship will then progress to a relationship with an “us/them” mentality as it relates to parents or authority, which helps establish the groundwork for abuse. The predator will encourage the child to share secrets and try and earn their trust. The predator needs to make sure that the child will feel “safe” with them to ensure that the relationship and the eventual face to face meeting will remain a secret. Unfortunately, this is where sexual topics are gradually introduced in an effort to gauge the child’s reaction and willingness to move forward towards the face to face meeting. The predator will at this point encourage the child to share images with them. Images will usually be innocuous at first, but will transition into more graphic images involving sexual images. Some predators will even send the victim a camera or other gifts to take pictures with. The ultimate goal of the predator is always a face to face encounter, “Meeting In Real Life” (MIRL), where the physical sexual abuse will begin.

Once the abuse occurs, how do we as parents discover our child has been victimized? Usually, parents stumble onto graphic text messages, pictures, videos, etc. between the child and the predator. The child will often be uncooperative as the predator has spent so much time grooming them to believe that the predator is the good person and the parents are the bad people. Again, the “Us vs. Them” mentality is continued and encouraged by the predator, as they often have already coached them on how to respond. The difficulties with parenting the child will continue to get worse as the child will withdrawal further as they are confronted by parents. Parents may notice the child becoming more of a “loner” by separating themselves from family and social events, and problems in school will often increase as grades and attendance decrease.

So what can we do to make sure our children don’t become victims? First, be involved and vigilant. Know your way around the computer, smart phones, video games, etc. Do not give your children devices that you yourself do not know how to operate. Second, set house rules and stay firm. Have times and perimeters for internet use. Monitor their time and what sites they are on, and set boundaries on where children are allowed to use their internet devices. As a parent, you own the device and thus should be actively monitoring and checking your children’s devices for inappropriate content.

If you have any questions or think your child may be a victim please call your local law enforcement agency.

EASTVALE: Hit and Run (Vehicle vs. Student)

roosevelthighBY: JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Wednesday morning, Feb. 19, around 7:45am a 17 year old female Roosevelt student, was struck by an on coming vehicle while riding her bike. The vehicle that struck the victim did not stop and fled the scene, the suspect was driving a Silver Volkswagen, according to eyewitnesses at the scene.

“The victim was riding her bike eastbound on the north side of Citrus St. when she crossed against the red light across the rear access road to the high school,” said a witness, who will remain unidentified until the investigation is complete. “When she rode into the roadway and off the sidewalk, she was struck by the suspect’s vehicle.”

Another witness followed the suspects vehicle for around 20 minutes and contacted Eastvale Police Department. Eastvale PD Deputies promptly responded to the scene and attempted to locate both the victim and the suspect vehicle. According to students at Roosevelt, an announcement was made over the PA system asking for the unidentified student to please come to the office. Once she arrived, she was checked out and her parents were notified. Luckily, the victim was not majorly injured and walked away with only a scraped knee.

As of Wednesday morning, Police were still attempting to identify the suspect vehicle. If you see a silver Volkswagon with damage to the front or side, please contact the Eastvale PD at 951.776.1099.

Eastvale: Crime Recap

STAFF REPORTS

The following crime incidents have been reported by the Riverside County Sheriff Department and by residents on our Eastvale News Facebook page (www.facebook.com/Eastvale CommunityNews). One of the ways our Facebook page is used is by informing the community about crimes happening in the City, so we can work together to report suspicious activity to the Sheriff’s Department in order to keep crime low. Here is a recap of the local crime last month:

On Jan. 7, a City of Eastvale resident reported that someone went through their side gate to their back yard twice in one week, resulting in their dogs being let loose and a mountain bike stolen from their backyard. Another Eastvale resident suggested that they should always lock their gate to make it more difficult for burglars to come in, since this has happened several times before in Eastvale.

On Jan. 11, at 4:04 p.m., deputies assigned to the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station responded to a burglary in progress in the 5800 block of Hamner Avenue, in the City of Eastvale. Deputies arrived within minutes and located a male subject inside of a residence, who appeared to be gathering several pieces of property from inside the residence.  Deputies made several announcements for the subject to exit the residence, but he refused.  A short while later, the male subject exited the residence and attempted to flee the location.  After a brief foot pursuit, the subject was apprehended while attempting to hide in the carport of a nearby residence. The suspect, Adam Barefield, 19, a transient from Eastvale, was arrested for burglary and resisting an officer as well as for an outstanding felony warrant for burglary and was later booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center.

On Jan. 13, at around 9:30 p.m., an Eastvale resident reported on our Facebook page that there were sirens in Eastvale and asked what happened. Our Social Media Department answered that there were two responses near Schleisman Avenue and Archibald Avenue. One response was for medical aid for a teenager and the other was for a report of someone who hurt themselves. We reported there was no danger to the community.

Also on Jan. 13, deputies responded to the 4000 block of Sundance Lane in the city of Norco regarding a theft of a UPS package from the residence’s front porch. The victim captured video of the theft on a home surveillance system. Deputies assigned to the city of Norco Community Oriented Police and Problem Solving (COPPS) Team conducted an investigation which resulted in identifying the suspect in the video. On Friday, Jan. 17, at 4 a.m., a search warrant was executed in the 10000 block of Gramercy Place, in the City of Riverside. As a result of the search warrant, evidence related to the theft was recovered. The suspect was identified as Angela Maria Desiderato, 31, of Riverside, who was arrested for possession of stolen property related felony arrest warrant and booked into jail at the Robert Presley Detention Center.

crime recap pic1On Jan. 14, at 6:25 p.m., a search warrant was served by officers assigned to the city of Eastvale’s Special Enforcement Team after new information was obtained regarding an investigation for illegal residential marijuana grow operations in the City of Eastvale. During the service of this search warrant, two subjects were detained inside the residence. Officers discovered the residence had been modified for the sole purpose of cultivating, processing and packaging marijuana for sales.  Officers seized 398 marijuana plants, five pounds of processed marijuana and packaging material.  Additionally, electricity was being bypassed around the meter, causing a serious fire hazard and resulting in approximately $6000 a month in stolen electricity. The suspects were identified as John Tran, 27, of Los Angeles, and Vinh Tran, 26, of San Gabriel. Both were arrested for conspiracy, cultivation and possession of marijuana for sales, and grand theft of utilities and booked in jail at the Robert Presley Detention Center.

On Jan. 23, deputies assigned to the Eastvale Special Enforcement Team, assisted by the Riverside County Gang Taskforce and Probation Department, conducted a probation compliance sweep on persons residing within the city of Eastvale.  During this operation, compliance checks were conducted at 30 residences, resulting in three felony arrests. During this operation, deputies seized narcotics and narcotic paraphernalia. Cynthia Gomez, 23, of Eastvale, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and violation of probation. Anthony Rodriguez, 32, of Eastvale, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and violation of probation. Ashly Hawkins, 20, of Eastvale, was arrested for possession of heroin, under the influence of a controlled substance, and violation of probation. All three subjects were booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center.

On Jan. 25 at Hamner Avenue and Alhambra Street between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m., the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department / Jurupa Valley Station / Norco Office conducted a DUI/Driver’s License checkpoint. While conducting a sobriety checkpoint, a driver identified as Jon Thomas, advised he had a suspended license.  Upon conducting a records check of his vehicle, it returned stolen out of the City of Corona on Jan. 22.  As a result of this investigation, Thomas was arrested for an outstanding felony warrant, driving on a suspended license, possession of a stolen car, possession of drug paraphernalia, being under the influence of a controlled substance, and driving under the influence of a controlled substance.

In addition to the arrest, 517 vehicles screened out of the 571 vehicles that went through the checkpoint, four DUI-Alcohol suspects were arrested, one DUI-Drug impaired suspect was arrested, one suspect was arrested for illegal drugs (possession/transportation/sales), two drivers were cited/arrested for operating a vehicle unlicensed or while suspended/revoked, three citations were issued and one person was arrested on other Criminal Charges. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department / Jurupa Valley Station / Norco Office will be conducting another DUI/Driver’s License Checkpoint on Saturday, February 15, 2014 from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. in their ongoing commitment to lowering deaths and injuries upon our streets and highways.

On Jan. 30  in the 12800 block of Thornbury Lane, Eastvale at 9:30 a.m., the Eastvale Special Enforcement Team served a search warrant after previous investigation. During the search, Lou Zhong Wu, a suspect, was detained inside the residence. The residence had been modified for the purposes of cultivating, processing and packaging marijuana for sales. 1170 marijuana plants, 26 pounds of processed marijuana and packaging materials were seized. Electricity was bypassed around the meter, causing a serious fire hazard and resulting in $8700 a month in stolen electricity. The suspect was arrested and booked.

Anyone with information regarding any of these incidents is asked to contact the Jurupa Valley Station at (951) 955-2600.

Eastvale: Residential Fire Confirmed as Marijuana House

BY: JENNIFER MADRIGAL

eastvale pot house marijuana

Firefighters respond to residential fire in Eastvale. (Photo courtesy of Mimi Perez)

Eastvale – On Monday night, February 10th, at 6:25p.m. the Eastvale Fire Department responded to a home on fire in the 12000 block of Craigburn Circle in Eastvale. The fire was extinguished and fire personnel’s investigation discovered that the residence contained an indoor marijuana grow operation. According to a press release from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, Eastvale Police Department was notified. A search warrant was obtained and served by officers assigned to Eastvale’s Special Enforcement Team. Officers were able to seize 1103 marijuana plants and 35 lbs of processed marijuana. Electricity was also being bypassed around the meter, which may have been the cause of the fire.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is committed to the safety of the citizens of Eastvale and will be vigilant in investigating all crimes of this nature. Anyone with information about this incident please contact Officer Javier Morando at the Jurupa Valley Station at 951-955-2600.

Tips for Spotting Pot Houses:

  • Windows often covered from inside residence
  • Commercial grade air conditioners and electrical equipment may be seen being moved or installed (especially by individuals other than uniformed utility workers may be accessing the electrical vaults near the street).
  • Lights and televisions are set on timers, and turn on and off at the same time every day
  • People come and go and leave within a few hours. Often pull in and out of the garage and immediately shut the door.

Eastvale: Is A Police Substation In Eastvale’s Future?

BY GLENN FREEMAN

More than three years after incorporation, some have wondered whether Eastvale, a city of nearly 60,000 residents, should have its own police substation. The young city currently contracts with the Riverside County Sheriff for policing services and are based at the department’s Jurupa Valley station.

Situated on Mission Boulevard near Valley, the station is approximately eight miles from the Gateway shopping center, where Eastvale’s City Hall is located. The station serves the cities of Jurupa Valley and Norco as well as nearby unincorporated communities, including Highgrove, Home Gardens, Coronita, and El Cerrito. There is also a separate substation in Norco.

Michele Nissen, Public Information Officer for Eastvale, points out that although officers begin their shifts with daily briefings at the Jurupa Valley station, “they head to Eastvale where they remain until the end of their watch. I think there is a misunderstanding that they come and go throughout the day from the Jurupa Valley Station, which is completely incorrect,” Nissen said in an email.

Lieutenant Mike Yates of the Jurupa Valley station confirmed that officers spend their entire shift in Eastvale following the daily briefing. He also said the average response time for priority one calls in Eastvale is 6.27 minutes.

Regarding the substation, Nissen says that due to budget constraints, there are no current plans to build one, and that to do so would be “cost prohibitive.”

Eastvale Planning Commissioner Joe Tessari says the idea of a substation “has been on the radar.” He agrees the current city budget makes it difficult to establish one in the immediate future. “However, we should keep it as a long term goal,” Tessari says.

Tessari expanded by saying he would like to see planning started on setting aside funds for a civic center, which he says would likely include a city hall and police substation. “A one-stop service center for the general public…Possibly 4-5 years down the road,” Tessari says, mentioning that any resolution with the state over the Vehicle Licensing Fees could help fund such a project.

In the meantime, Tessari, who was a candidate to fill the city council seat vacated by former councilmember Kelly Howell, suggests Eastvale could explore other options, including the possibility of sharing space at the current Sheriff’s substation in Norco.

“I’m not sure there is space (in Norco), but if our officers could change into their uniforms and park vehicles there, this would help save travel time,” says Tessari, explaining current patrol allocations from the Sheriff includes travel time to Eastvale from the Jurupa Valley station.

Located behind the Stater Bros. shopping center on Hamner Avenue near Fourth Street, the Norco substation is about two miles from Eastvale’s southern city limit and approximately five miles from Eastvale City Hall.

According to Captain Danny Feltenberger, who oversees the Jurupa Valley station, there are 27 full-time equivalent sworn positions in the Eastvale department. Finance documents for 2013-14 posted on Eastvale’s website indicate the contract will consume $6.17 million from the city’s overall general fund budget of $10.7 million.

In comparison, Chino Hills contracts with San Bernardino County Sheriff for its police. The city’s public safety budget for 2013-14 is $11.26 million and includes 38 deputies, according to Denise Sesma of the Chino Hills station.

Elsewhere, the cities of Diamond Bar and Walnut in eastern Los Angeles County both contract with Los Angeles County Sheriff for policing services, sharing a substation in Walnut. Finance documents for 2013-14 posted on the respective city websites indicate Diamond Bar pays $5.91 million for 21 deputies, and Walnut pays $2.87 million for 8 deputies.

“As for a substation (in Eastvale), that is a decision for the city to ponder and decide.  I would offer my input if asked. But ultimately, the decision and any associated costs would be decided and borne by the city of Eastvale,” says Capt. Feltenberger.

Eastvale: Police Shut Down Another Marijuana House

Marijuana found inside an Eastvale residence. (Riverside Sheriff's Dept.)

Marijuana found inside an Eastvale residence. (Riverside Sheriff’s Dept.)

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Eastvale – After a relatively quiet period, the Eastvale Police Department has been successful in shutting down yet another marijuana grow house. The house was located on the 12800 block of Thornbury Lane in Eastvale.

According to a press release from Riverside County Sheriff’s website, the house was part of an ongoing investigation. Once it was confirmed the residence was being used as part of an illegal residential grow operation, officers obtained a search warrant for the residence.

The Eastvale Special Enforcement team served the search warrant on Thursday, Jan. 30 at 9:30 am. During the search, Lou Zhong Wu, a suspect was detained inside the residence. The residence had been modified for the purposes of cultivating, processing and packaging marijuana for sales. Seized were 1170 marijuana plants, 26 pounds of processed marijuana and packaging materials. Electricity had been bypassed around the meter causing a serious fire hazard and resulting in $8700.00 a month in stolen electricity, according the press release.

Lou Zhong Wu, 52, of Monterey Park, was arrested and booked into jail. He was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center in Riverside for conspiracy, cultivation and possession of marijuana for sales, and grand theft of utilities.

This investigation is ongoing and any information should be reported to officers Angeles and Thompson at the Jurupa Valley Station at 951-955-2600.

Tips to Help Prevent a Burglary

LEAFF Law Enforcement and Fire Protection

L.E.A.F.F. Eastvale

By LEAFF

Eastvale – In light of a few residential burglaries that have occurred in the city and the repercussions of AB109, 12 basic steps to prevent your house from being burglarized can be taken.

1. Perform routine tasks and clean up the outside of your property on a regular basis to show you are occupying your home. Empty your mailbox on a regular basis, collect old newspapers from your driveway, and pick up discarded trash that has landed in your yard.

2. Install timed lights or leave a radio or television playing if you are traveling or will be absent from your home for long periods of time. You may want to enlist a trusted friend or neighbor to keep an eye on your property and to collect your mail while you are traveling away from home.

3. Lock all your doors, windows, garages, and sheds when you leave your home to make it difficult for burglars to enter without attracting the attention of others. Test your locks durability by trying to open your doors and windows from the outside. Install sturdy deadbolt locks on your doors to prevent thieves from breaking in easily. If you have double front doors, use bungee cords to connect the door knobs to prevent thieves from kicking the door in. Remove the red knob tied to the string on your garage door track lock. This prevents hooking the knob and unlocking your garage door.

4. Make your doors and windows visible to the neighborhood and to the street. Cut away tree branches or high shrubbery that can hide burglars when they are breaking and entering your home.

5. Store your valuables away from windows or doors where they can easily be seen from the outside. You may want to hang privacy curtains over windows to make it difficult for others to see inside. Close shutters, blinds and pull curtains to prevent thieves from peering into your house.

6. Hide or destroy any outside trash that may advertise your personal belongings to the rest of your neighborhood. For example, you may want to break down or destroy boxes that contained valuable, expensive electronic devices you may have just purchased, such as a large television or stereo system.

7. Leave spare house keys with trusted friends, family, or neighbors instead of placing them outside on your property. Burglars may be familiar with common hiding places for spare keys.

8. Park your vehicles inside a closed garage to make it difficult for burglars to determine if you are home or not.

9. Install a home alarm system to deter burglars and to alarm authorities if there is a break-in. Consult with your home insurance provider to seek discounts for alarm systems. Place home alarm signs in the front yard to alert burglars that your home has an alarm.

10. Stray away from routine schedules to make it more difficult for burglars to predict when you will be absent from your home.

11. Only use fully shielded neighbor-friendly lighting that is equipped with motion or infrared detectors. Don’t create a nuisance or safety hazard with glaring lights that impair vision. Crime Prevention through Environmental Design recommends, “Lighting that does not create glare, light trespass, or deep shadows. Lighting only has potential to act as a deterrent if witnesses are present and can counter-productively attract attention to a target and assist a burglar. FBI statistics demonstrate that the majority of residential break-ins occur during daylight hours.”

12. Alter your outside landscaping to make it difficult for burglars to navigate your property without being seen or heard. You may want to surround your windows or home with loose gravel, stones, or rocks that will make noise when stepped on. Place plants or shrubbery under your windows or on your property that are difficult to navigate around, such as rose bushes with lots of thorns.

Diamond Bar: Dr. Jeffery W. Lowe Passes Away

By Michael Armijo

Jeffrey Lowe

Jeffrey Lowe (Photo Courtesy of SB County Sheriffs Dept/Chino Hills)

Diamond Bar – Dr. Jeffrey W. Lowe, a long time Chiropractor and Community Activist, passed away at 48 years old on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2014 of apparent heart failure.

Dr. Lowe held his practice in the Albertsons shopping center on Diamond Bar Boulevard and Grand Avenue for almost 20 years. He was the current President of the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff Booster Club, former Diamond Bar Rotary President, past board member of the Diamond Bar Chamber of Commerce, and a San Bernardino County Sheriff Reserve Deputy for over 20 years, in the patrol and homicide division.

Dr. Lowe was born in Montebello, California and grew up in La Habra, where he graduated from La Habra High School in 1983. From there, he went on to get his Bachelor’s Degree in 1992 from the Los Angeles Chiropractic College.
He was described by his peers as a “giver, family man, compassionate individual, special, caring, and a loving man.”

“Jeff always made me feel special and beautiful,” his wife, Kim Lowe said. “I am so very proud of all his accomplishments.”
“He was an excellent partner, neighbor, and friend,” said fellow Deputy Mike Kreeger. “Laughter and friendship are both words that describe Jeff well, as he loved to laugh.”

I write this story, as a reporter, but more importantly, as a personal friend to Jeff. I will always miss his infectious smile, his servant’s heart, warmth-filled hugs, and compassionate element of being a healer, brother, giver, deputy, friend, and leader.

Dr. Lowe was married in 2005 to his wife, Kim, and has been a Chino Hills Resident for over 20 years. He is survived by his step-daughter Robin, grandmother Nana, parents Ron and Karen, sister Kellee, brother-in-law Paul, and nephews Dylan, Karissa, and Sydney. On his wife’s side, he is survived by his brother-in-law Larry, his wife Edenna, and his three nieces Lilly, Tori, and Violet.

Eastvale: RCSD Conducts Probation Sweep

By: Staff Reports

According to a Riverside County Sheriff Department Press Release, on Thursday, January 23, 2014, deputies assigned to the Eastvale Special Enforcement Team, assisted by the Riverside County Gang Taskforce and Probation Department, conducted a probation compliance sweep on persons residing within the city of Eastvale. During this operation, compliance checks were conducted at 30 residences, resulting in three felony arrests. During this operation, deputies seized narcotics and narcotic paraphernalia.

All three subjects were booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center and have been identified as:
1.Cynthia Gomez, 23-year-old resident of Eastvale – Possession of methamphetamine and violation of probation
2.Anthony Rodriguez, 32-year-old resident of Eastvale – Possession of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and violation of probation
3.Ashly Hawkins, 20-year-old resident of Eastvale – Possession of heroin, under the influence of a controlled substance, and violation of probation