Category Archives: Weekly News Top Stories

Scammer Arrested Then Released

Staff Reports

Upland – An Upland man was recently arrested for conducting numerous scams throughout Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, but was recently released. Police officials are looking for additional victims.

The first known scam occurred on July 25 when a victim contacted a reputable pool repair company from the City of San Bernardino. The suspect, identified as Todd William Karcher, 49, told the victim he was a new employee. He then gave the victim an “estimate under the company name, and a separate estimate under his name for additional work,” according to the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department.

The victim ultimately agreed to have Karcher do the work and gave him a personal check of $1,500, which was labeled as a deposit. “Karcher cashed the check the following day and never contacted the victim or refunded the money. The victim attempted to obtain a refund from Karcher but was unsuccessful,” said a SBSD news release.

After an investigation, it was learned that Karcher was fired from the reputable pool company for scamming other victims in Riverside County and San Bernardino County.

This resulted in Karcher being arrested and booked for theft charges on August 10 at the 11600 block of Lozano Place, Loma Linda. However, he posted bail and was released from custody at 10 p.m. that same night.

Anyone who has had recent contact with Karcher is encouraged to call the Central Station and speak to Detective Ruiz at (909)387-3545. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com.

Recent Fires Prompt CVFD Weed Program

Staff Reports   

Photo courtesy: Jennifer Carrillo The Blue Cut Fire can be seen clearly from a home in Oak Hills.

Photo courtesy: Jennifer Carrillo
The Blue Cut Fire can be seen clearly from a home in Oak Hills.

Chino- Fire season is here and on high alert. The most recent and current fire is named the Blue Cut Fire, shutting down major freeways such as Highway 138 and the I-15. The fire has forced people to mandatory evacuate from their homes, and close down several schools.

As of August 16, California had a total of 11 fires; 8 that were current and 3 reported to be contained, according to the online source at www.fire.ca.gov.

With Chino Valley Fire District’s (CVFD) commitment to safety, they have scheduled the weed abatement program on August 29 that will focus on preventing brush fires and the accumulation of combustible materials.

Any tumbleweeds, combustible vegetation and rubbish must be cleared by August 29. If they find a hazard does exist, the property owners will be assessed a non-compliance fee. If the property is not cleared by September 28, an additional administration fee may be placed and the property would have to be cleared by a contractor. The legal owner of the property that is on record at the time of the citation will be responsible for any fees, including contractor charges.

The Chino Valley Fire District says, “Property owners are required to maintain their properties clear of tumbleweeds, combustible vegetation and rubbish year round. Tumbleweeds are a high fire danger due to their propensity to break loose once dry and be carried by the wind to areas where they can accumulate along flammable vegetation, wood fences, homes and other combustible materials.”

CVFD also provides several helpful tips for clearing vegetation safely and effectively:

  • Use trimming, mowing and power equipment before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
  • Never use a lawn mower in dry vegetation. Use a weed trimmer to cut down dry weeds and grass.
  • Keep a cell phone nearby and call 911 immediately in case of a fire.
  • Never put yourself in harm’s way to extinguish a fire.

For more information about the weed abatement program, you may visit www.chinovalleyfire.org or you may also call the Community Risk Reduction Division at (909) 902-5285.

Superheroes Unite

By Sarah Sanchez   

Both adults and kids dressed up as superheroes and celebrated with Spider-Man in the Hall of Justice.

Photo courtesy: Sarah Sanchez
Both adults and kids dressed up as superheroes and celebrated with Spider-Man in the Hall of Justice.

Chino – Spider-Man, Captain America, Wonder Woman, and Ironman all joined together to combat villains on Aug. 6 at the Jr. Hero Run.

The run took place at Prado Regional Park, located at 16700 S. Euclid Ave. in Chino. Between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., waves of Jr. Heroes and spectators (their parents or guardians) started on their journey of combating bad guys. Their mission as a hero was to find a fortress and recover

Jr. Runners were excited for the Jr. Hero Run!

Photo courtesy: Sarah Sanchez
Jr. Runners were excited for the Jr. Hero Run!

a coin. Along the way, they were asked to shoot villains with their water guns, while battling large water cannons.

“Armed with courage and a water gun of your own, you will overcome great odds in an epic struggle to save the world!”

Once the Jr. Heroes completed their mission and got to the finish line, they turned their coin in and were awarded a medal in the Hall of Justice.

 

A group of friends called themselves the Comic Crushers and sported their custom t-shirts

Photo courtesy: Sarah Sanchez
A group of friends called themselves the Comic Crushers and sported their custom t-shirts

Local residents enjoyed vendors, a great selection of food, music from a local DJ, and photo ops with live action heroes. Spider-Man, Captain America, a Storm trooper, and even a Biker Scout stopped by for pictures! There was also a Hero costume contest at the end of the day.

If a hero didn’t have a costume to wear, local vendors provided the runners with capes, t-shirts, water guns, and other merchandise they could purchase to wear at the event.

Merchandise was suggested to be picked up at the Gear Up event prior to the race day. The Gear Up event was hosted by Tommy Hilfiger and they donated $1 to Make-A-Wish Greater Los Angeles for every hero that came to the event.

Jr. and adult heroes said they loved the run and had a lot of fun. One group of friends called themselves the Comic Crushers and wore matching t-shirts.

The Hulk, Ironman, Captain America, and a Batman family were excited that they received their medals after the race.

Photo courtesy: Sarah Sanchez
The Hulk, Ironman, Captain America, and a Batman family were excited that they received their medals after the race.

Spider-Man (provided by Strength and Courage Squad) said he had a great time at the event. There was a point where he was mistaken as a villain though, as Jr. Heroes shot their water guns at him in a playful way! But he said he didn’t mind.

“I was so honored to be at this event. I had a great time talking and taking pictures with the mini heroes. As Spider-Man, my goal is to bring smiles to kids’ faces because remember, with great power comes great responsibility!”

Suspect Arrested After Disturbance

Staff Reports

San Bernardino– A suspect attempted to flee from a deputy after a disturbance call was made at Glen Helen Regional Park last week.

On August 7, the Sheriff’s Central Station responded to a call from the Glen Helen Regional Park of complaints that a subject had been causing problems with the employees and customers.

The suspect was identified as Victorville resident, Kadell Agee, 27-years-old. When Deputy Sandoval arrived on the scene, Agee took a fighting stance after refusing to speak with the deputy.

According to San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, “Sandoval attempted to gain control of Agee’s arm when Agee struck Sandoval’s arm and fled on foot. Deputy Sandoval chased after Agee and gave him orders to stop, but he refused. Agee then stopped, turned around and took a fighting stance again.”

Once Agee took his fighting stance against the deputy for the second time, Deputy Sandoval was able to gain control of the suspect and take him into custody without further incident.

Kadell Agee was arrested for Felony Resisting an officer and booked into the West Valley Detention Center.

If you have any information in regards to this incident, you may contact the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department’s Central Station at (909) 387-3545. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can call We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463), or you may also leave information on the website at http://www.wetip.com

Police Seek CH Citibank Robber

citibank-robber-1-WEB

Photo courtesy: CHPD This is the Chino Hills Citibank robber. If you have any information in regards to the incident, please contact CH police/sheriff’s station at 909-364-2000.

Staff Reports  

Chino Hills- On August 4, the Chino Hills Police/Sheriff’s station assisted in a silent alarm call made by the Citibank on Pipeline Avenue around 4:51 p.m.

Once the deputies arrived on scene, they were notified by Citibank employees that a robbery had occurred inside.

According to the Chino Hills Police/Sheriff’s Station, “Through investigation, it was determined the suspect entered the bank, and after a short wait he approached the teller and handed her a hand written note. After reading the note, the teller gave the suspect an undisclosed amount of cash and left the bank. The suspect claimed he had a weapon but never brandished it. It is unknown if the suspect left on foot or in a car once he exited the bank.”   citibank-robber-2-WEB

The suspect was described according to CH police department as an adult male with a medium complexion, light colored eyes, a dark mustache and beard. He appeared to be about 5’8 with a medium build. His clothing description was described as a grey hat, black shirt, long black shorts, black ankle socks, and black shoes with red shoe laces.

If anyone has information regarding the incident, you are urged to contact the Chino Hills Police/Sheriff’s Station at (909) 364-2000. If you wish to remain anonymous, you may call WeTip at 800 78-CRIME.

3 Die After HARD Event

Staff Reports

Fontana– On July 30 and 31, the HARD Summer Music Festival was held at the Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, CA. After the two day musical festival, three people passed away.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department released the three persons listed below who had attended the Hard Summer Music Festival:

Derek Lee, 22, of San Francisco, died at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Alyssa Dominguez, 21, of San Diego died at Kaiser Foundation Hospital of Fontana, and Roxanne Ngo, 22, of Chino Hills, died at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

“Each was transported from the event to different hospitals for medical attention. These deaths are being investigated individually and, at this time, are not believed to be related. The cause and the manner of death are still under investigation. Because the cases are still being investigated, the coroner division will not be releasing any further details,” said the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

HARD summer festival goers also had many concerns of the lack of properly trained medical staff on site for the event in case of someone needing attention. The organization of getting people into the event seemed to also be of concern, as metal wires sticking out through the tunnel they were led through to get into the event.

As per any event, things don’t always run smoothly, but there are definitely some bright moments to these types of events that bring so many people together. Recent HARD event attendee Michele Pila says, “Raving and music festivals aren’t just what you hear in the news. All the negativity you see is unfortunately all that gets out. You don’t see how it’s one large community of people who just enjoy a good time. Don’t let people’s mistakes make you look down on our beautiful community!! I feel so free and absolutely LOVE this environment! I get it, it’s not for everyone. But it’s for me and thousands of others! For some it’s our escape from reality for a bit…and for just a day or 2 we forget all our problems.”

When asked how she felt about the three who passed, Pila said she didn’t know how she felt about it because they haven’t confirmed what the cause of death was. However, she did say, “It’s really sad that lives were lost, and I just wish the outcome could have been different.”

Suspect Attempts To Take Deputy’s Gun And Vehicle

Staff Reports

Chino Hills- The Chino Hills Police Department arrested a suspicious suspect last week after attempting to grab a Deputy’s gun and vehicle during an altercation.

On July 27, a deputy from the Chino Hills Police Department came into contact with the suspect identified as Taylor Smith, 24 year-old, resident of San Bernardino.

Smith was standing suspiciously next to a vehicle in a commercial business complex that is located near Los Serranos Country Club and Torrey Pines Drive.

Once the deputy approached Smith, the suspect fled on foot and out of the deputy’s sight. The suspect then returned to the vehicle after a short time. The deputy then attempted again to detain Smith to investigate, but Smith resisted the lawful orders and a physical altercation occurred. In the midst of trying to gain control of Smith, Smith grabbed the deputy’s firearm and attempted to remove it from the holster.

Although the officer prevented Smith from grabbing his weapon, the suspect was able to break free from the deputy and ran to the deputies marked patrol vehicle. However, Smith’s failed attempts to gain control and take the vehicle led the deputy to arrest and take him into custody where he was booked into the West Valley Detention Center and is being held on $50,000.00 bail.

If you have additional information, please call the Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000 or WeTip at 1 (800) 78-CRIME (27463).

 

Officer Involved Shooting In Chino

Staff Reports

Chino- An officer involved shooting took place on the night of July 23 after a citizen contacted the Chino Police Department to report suspicious activity in the 12100 block of Central Avenue.

At approximately 9:21 p.m. the citizen informed officers that the subject was driving a car and stopped her to ask a question. The citizen did not want to engage in conversation, and reported the man had a gun in his vehicle. The citizen directed the officers to the nearby business area where the man had parked his car.

Once an officer arrived on scene and approached the vehicle, the suspect got out of his car and refused to cooperate with the officer. Other officers were alerted once the suspect started to run on foot.

According to the Chino Police Department, “The suspect ran to an adjacent shopping center and encountered another responding officer. The suspect pointed his gun at the officer and the officer fired upon the suspect.”

The officers conducted CPR until the Chino Valley Fire District arrived at the scene. The male suspect was identified as Bernard Wells III, 31-year-old resident of San Diego. Wells was transported to the Chino Valley Medical Center where he died from his wounds.

Wells was on parole with warrants for his arrest, as well as had an extensive criminal history.

The City of Chino Police Department says, “The officer involved in the shooting was placed on administrative leave per department policy. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is conducting the investigation.” The Department also said, “The name of the officer involved will not be released at this time due to the on-going investigation.”

Anyone who has information regarding this incident is asked to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Investigations Unit at (909) 387-3589.

13 Year-Old Arrested

Staff Reports

Highland– The Adult Protective Services (APS) contacted the Highland Deputies on July 25 to report in reference to an elderly female who had been assaulted by a thirteen-year-old male on the 7000 block of Lynwood in Highland.

The Deputies made contact with the 80-year-old elderly woman, who reported an incident that happened on July 17.

The woman walked out to her front yard to hear the suspect arguing with his sister. She describes him as a neighborhood kid; she asked the suspect and his sister to stop arguing in front of her residence. The 13-year-old suspect picked up a brick from her yard, in which he threw it towards her, striking her in the leg. He caused a significant injury to the elderly woman who had to be treated at the hospital.

After the boy assaulted the elderly woman, he picked up another brick and shattered the window to her vehicle.

The 13 year-old has been arrested and booked at Juvenile Hall for Elder Abuse.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Highland Police Department at (909) 425-9793.

If you are in San Bernardino County and want to know how to report elderly abuse, you can contact the Department of Aging and Adult Services, located at 686 East Mill Street San Bernardino, CA  92415. You may also call the 24 Hour Abuse Hotline:  (877) 565-2020 or you can fax at (909) 388-6718. Or you may visit courts.ca.gov for additional information and steps to obtain a restraining order.

 

Missing Woman Found Dead

Staff Reports   laura-johnson-WEB-v2

Chino– On July 17, Chino Police Department released information of a missing woman, Laura Johnson, 68 year-old resident of Ontario.

The missing person report was made on July 16 to Chino Police personnel, stating that Johnson had last been seen July 15 when she had left her mother’s residence in Chino to run errands. Chino PD also received information that Johnson had been suffering from memory loss and disorientation.

An alert was issued by the California Highway Patrol describing her and the vehicle she drove. The vehicle had been described as a 1982 Toyota Corolla Sedan.

The following updated information on this incident was released on July 21: at approximately 3 p.m. on July 20 the Chino PD was notified that Johnson and her vehicle had been located in an area near the City of Niland. The area belongs to a Navy Seal bomb training facility; therefore a range master had discovered Johnson deceased near her vehicle.

Chino PD states, “The preliminary investigation indicates there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. The autopsy is pending by the Imperial County Coroner’s Office.”

However, anyone with information regarding this case may contact Detective Girasek at (909) 334-3015 or you may email him at mgirasek@chinopd.org

 

DB Coyote Sightings

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar– In the last few weeks, there have been numerous reports of coyote sightings.

One resident reported that, “Coyote sighting tonight behind my backyard nearby by Ronald Reagan Park and the fire station. My mom called me to tell me she was outside with our pug when she spotted out of the corner of her eye a coyote. She immediately grabbed our pug and ran inside. Luckily, we always go outside with our dogs for this reason. Keep an eye on your pets diamond bar!”

Another report was made by a resident saying, “Coyote alert…..behind the homes of Armitos between Pikes and Goldpoint. It stood behind the fence staring at my dog. I scared it off….and it ran toward the hillside behind the homes. Watch your fur babies.”

Not only were there report of coyotes, a Diamond Bar resident reports of a bobcat sighting while at home saying, “I sat quietly reading under our patio Monday evening when I saw something move in the corner of my eye and to my amazement it was a bobcat about to sneak past me to get to our back hill garden. To my surprise the bobcat stopped about ten feet from me considering its option and then as I stood up it turned, it jumped up on the wall and went on its way to our garden where it stayed for at least fifteen minutes, even with my wife and I stalking it!”

Diamond Bar residents have given some advice saying, “just wanted to warn anyone who has a very small dog: do not to leave it in your garden alone especially at dusk as not only do you have to watch out for coyotes but I have noticed that the bobcats are also around. They normally only feed on rats, mice and rabbits but a large bobcat could potentially kill a very small dog.”

The City of Diamond Bar also provided the following tips:

If coyote sightings are common in your neighborhood or place of recreation, the City recommends the following tips to help deter them for inhabiting private properties or having conflicts with small pets.

Make your property less hospitable for wild animals by removing shelter, water and food sources:

  • Thin ground level shrubbery that can serve as a den or hiding place, take down and store bird feeders, and promptly gather low-hanging fruit and collect any fallen pieces.
  • Teach your children to learn how to identify coyote and know what to do if they come in contact with one.
  • Keep a close watch on small pets, feed them indoors, supervise them while they are outdoors, and always walk dogs on a leash.
  • Store refuse containers in your garage or another secure area until collection day.
  • Also of great importance is that you and your neighbors do not intentionally feed or attempt to tame coyotes as this causes them to lose their innate fear of humans, thereby increasing the potential for encounters and conflicts with people and pets.

In the event you encounter an aggressive or fearless coyote, the Department of Fish and Wildlife suggest you take the following steps:

  • Make sure you are standing up and pick up any small pets or young children who may be with you.
  • Face the coyote and try to frighten it away by shouting loudly and waving your arms above your head to appear larger and menacing; do not stop until it has left. If it does not leave or starts walking toward you, throw rocks, sticks or other objects in its direction.
  • Retreat by walking backward so that you do not turn your back on the coyote.

Report incidents of aggressive coyotes or conflicts to City Hall by calling 909.839.7010 or visitingwww.diamondbarca.gov/wildanimal.

 

 

Theft Suspect Sought

Staff Reports   

Chino PD is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the theft suspect pictured above.

Photo courtesy: City of Chino
Chino PD is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the theft suspect pictured above.

Chino – The Chino Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a vehicle theft suspect after a pursuit took place in Chino last week.

On Monday, July 11, at 7:49 a.m., a Chino Police Officer attempted to stop a blue Sand Rail, off-road vehicle that was driving recklessly near the intersection of Bickmore and Euclid Avenue in Chino. It was later learned that the vehicle was previously stolen from the City of Norco.

The driver fled at high speeds in the off-road vehicle and refused to stop. A pursuit began for several minutes until it was cancelled due to safety concerns. The vehicle then became disabled in the 15500 block of El Prado Road, where the driver fled on foot into the Chino Creek Basin, according to the City of Chino.

Chino Officers and Chino Hills Deputies, along with an Ontario Police Department helicopter, searched for the suspect for several hours but they were unable to locate him.

The suspect was identified as a Hispanic adult male who is approximately 25-30 years old. Surveillance camera images of the suspect were released and the Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in locating or identifying the suspect.

Anyone who can help locate or identify this suspect can contact Officer Thomas at (909) 334-3103 or mthomas@chinopd.org.

CH Allows Watering 3-Times Per Week

Staff Reports

Chino Hills- A meeting that was held on July 12 recommended that the Chino Hills City Council review a recommendation to adopt an urgency Water conservation Ordinance that would allow watering to move to three-times per week instead of the two-times per week.

June has been a record high with the heat, so concerns about distressed and dying trees was fast tracked for a special meeting in the City Council Chambers at the City Hall.

On July 13, Chino Hills City Council released that they took action on an Urgency Water Conservation Ordinance and declared a Stage II Moderate Conservation Alert that went into effect immediately. This is now allowing the community to use water for outdoor irrigation three-times per week.

The City of Chino Hills released the following restrictions:

The Stage II Moderate Conservation Alert that went into effect immediately with last night’s Council action limits outdoor irrigation to 3 days per week. Residential addresses ending in an even number may use water: Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays (except 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.). Residential addresses ending in an odd number may use water: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays (except 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.). Non-residential addresses may use water: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (except 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.). All irrigation shall not exceed fifteen (15) minutes per watering-station, except for drip or micro-spray irrigation systems which shall not exceed 30 minutes per station.

The Stage II Moderate Conservation Alert also imposes the following restrictions:

  • Prohibits outdoor watering of landscaping between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.
  • Prohibits application of water to hard surfaces such as sidewalks, driveways, and parking areas etc. or irrigation causing runoff, etc.
  • Requires the repair of leaks within 48 hours.
  • Prohibits use of water hose without a shutoff valve.
  • Prohibits irrigating outdoor landscape after measure rain (1/10” or more within a 48 hour period)
  • Limits pool-filling to the above specified irrigation days.
  • Decorative water fountains at commercial properties may only be operated if the water is part of a re-circulating system.
  • Vehicles, trailers, boats, and livestock can be washed with a hand-held hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle.
  • Restaurants may not serve water unless the customer request water.
  • Water may not run off or leak from landscaped areas to streets, sidewalks, or other paved areas due to incorrectly directed or maintained sprinklers or over watering.
  • Fire hydrants may only be used for firefighting. *

*An exception may be made for construction use through a City-designated meter when recycled water is not available.

City of Chino Hills reminds everyone that the new Ordinance reinforces the need to continue to conserve water with the current drought conditions, and will continue to encourage the replacement of turf with drought tolerant vegetation; improve the water system to limit failures; and increase the use of recycled water as well as enforce water restrictions.

For additional information, you may view the Water Conservation Ordinance on the City website at: www.chinohills.org/waterconservationordinance.org

Stolen Car And Property Returned

By Racine Guajardo

Chino Hills– On July 3, a residential burglary and grand theft auto was reported on the 15000 block of Aqueduct Lane in Chino Hills before 7 a.m.

The two suspects were later identified as Jose Sandoval, 33-year-old resident of Ontario and Christopher Ross, 22-year-old resident of Montclair. The Chino Hills Deputies were called to investigate the crime and found that the suspects had taken the victim’s purse that contained the keys to her vehicle.

The Pomona Police Department stopped a stolen vehicle around 2 p.m., which were the two suspects Sandoval and Ross. In the vehicle, suspects were in possession of the stolen property from the victim’s residence and were both arrested.

The Chino Hills Police Department says, “This is a good example of the cooperation between two law enforcement agencies who work together to solve and provide safety for citizens.”

If anyone has any additional information, please contact Deputy Joseph Patrick of the Chino Hills Police/Sheriff’s Department at (909) 364-2000.

Below is a list of the most common ways auto theft occurs by http://www.stolen-property.com. Knowing this information can help defend you from being a victim.

  • Checking for an alarm system. Throughout the years, people have been conditioned to ignoring car alarms on the account a loud motorcycle or truck can set a car alarm off. People’s senses are so dulled to these car alarms, car alarms are often ignored while a car is being stolen. Prevention – instead of using a car alarm that just makes noise, use a car alarm that has a pager that alerts you if the alarm is activated. Another excellent prevention for auto theft is an ignition disabler. This makes it unable to start the car without pressing the hidden ignition disable switch.
  • Smash and grab. The most common form of auto theft; breaking a window, grabbing whatever it is the thief is after and running away. Prevention – always remove anything of value from plain sight. The majority of crime is “crime of opportunity.” Also, if you have a stereo with a removable face plate, bring it with you instead of leaving it under the seat or in the glove box.
  • Drive off in a car with the keys in it. Auto thieves case out ATM’s, movie rental store drop offs or other businesses with quick drop off or pick up. When a person walks away from a running car, they jump in and the car is stolen. Prevention – never leave your car running or with the keys in it for even a moment, that’s all it takes for an auto theft to occur.
  • Cutting a steering wheel. If you have a steering wheel locking device to deter from auto theft, a thief will actually cut the steering wheel to remove the anti-theft device. Prevention – invest in a “kill switch” that disables your vehicle from starting.
  • Disabling the alarm system. Professional auto thieves know how to disable a car alarm within 15 seconds if they know what kind it is. Prevention – when having an alarm system installed in your car, go to a professional alarm installer instead of a big retail chain store. Also, do not advertise with car alarm brand stickers. This tips professional thieves off when they know how to disable certain alarm makes.
  • Auto theft using back up or spare keys. Many stolen vehicles are done so with the actual car keys. Prevention – Don’t ever leave or “hide” any spare or back up key in the car or under the bumper in a magnetic key holder as thieves do look for these.
  • Stealing vehicles from big parking lots. Thieves often case out big parking lots such as that at sporting events or concerts. Prevention – park in secured, well lit parking lots when possible, especially ones with attendants on duty.

 

 

Search And Rescue

Staff Reports

San Bernardino County– A 911 call was received to Victor Valley Station on July 9 around 7:45 p.m. from a distraught female in regards to her husband, who went OHV riding of the El Mirage Dry Lake Bed and had not returned.

She provided the deputies with information as to exactly the color of the OHV he was riding, what he was wearing, and that she had not seen him for over 4 to 5 hours. Jaime Velasquez had never ridden before in the area, and went with no food and no water. After the information was received by the deputies, Velasquez was listed as a critical missing adult. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department assisted Victor Valley Station in the search.

A Command Post was set up on Oasis Road south of El Mirage Road near Black Mountain on Sunday, July 10 at 5 a.m. by search and rescue members with direction of the Search and Rescue Coordinator Deputy Mark Lewis. Teams were put together and deployed at around 4:45 a.m. on the search for Velasquez.

Jaime Velasquez was located a little after 6 a.m. suffering from a head injury and possible broken leg. He was carried back to the command post. Paramedics were on site waiting and transported him to Antelope Valley Hospital to be treated for his injuries.

Thanks to the team effort and the volunteers who responded to help in assisting the search and rescue.

The Victor Valley Sheriff’s Stations Off Highway Vehicle Team would like to remind everyone to be prepared with adequate food and water, ride in pairs, and never venture out alone. Helmets are required by California State Law when operating an Off Highway Vehicle.

For additional information on legal riding areas or California State Laws regarding Off Highway Vehicles, please contact Sergeant Jeff Toll at (760) 868-1006.

 

IE News: Volkswagen To Open Training Center In Eastvale

Staff Reports     

Eastvale– On June 15, Volkswagen confirmed that it will invest an estimated $4.5 million to open a new training center in Eastvale as well as its new $6.8 million Pacific Northwest Parts Distribution Center in Rocklin, CA. This will fulfill their commitment to the U.S. market and strategy to invest more than $7 billion in North America through 2019.

The President of and CEO of Volkswagen, Hinrich J. Woebcken says, “The new parts distribution center and upcoming training center in California is a testament to Volkswagen Group of America’s continued investment and commitment to the U.S. market, our customers, and dealers. Woebcken also stated, “The company remains focused on these types of strategic investments that will enable long-term growth in the United States.”

Volkswagen’s estimated $4.5 million to be invested in Eastvale will be to create a state-of-the-art training facility at the Goodman Commerce Center. It will house Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche for the purposes of technical, collision repair, and sales training. This is the first facility to house all three brands, which is expected to open in the first quarter of 2017.

Other facilities in the United States for Volkswagen includes: Electronic Research Laboratory in Silicon Valley, a regional sales operations office in Woodland Hills, and the Test Center California in Oxnard. Volkswagen is one of the world’s leading automobile manufacturers and the largest carmaker in Europe. They also operate a manufacturing plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The company’s headquarters are in Herndon, Va. Founded in 1955, and has approximately 6,000 employees currently in the United States, they also sell its vehicles through a network of approximately 1,000 according to Volkswagen.

 

Three Arrested For Loaded Firearm

Staff ReportsArrest-WEB

Chino Hills– On Saturday June 11, three male subjects were arrested on the cross streets of Beverly Avenue and Phillips Street in Ontario by Chino Hills Police/Sheriff’s Department for a routine traffic stop.

The vehicle was driven by Oscar Dimas, 19-year-old resident of Rancho Cucamonga. He was accompanied by Victor Nava, 19-year-old resident and Marcos Velazco Gonzalez, 19-year-old resident of Ontario.

Once the vehicle was searched, cocaine and items indicating the sales of illegal drugs were located. Deputies also found a loaded hand gun in the vehicle.

The three suspects were arrested for selling illegal narcotics and possession of dangerous weapons and booked in West Valley Detention Center.

Chino PD Arrest Homicide Suspect

Staff Reports 

Photo Courtesy City of Chino

Photo Courtesy City of Chino

Chino–On Sunday, June 5, Chino Police Investigators arrested Alejandro Delacruz, age 33 of Chino, for the murder of missing person Jorge Romo, age 35 of Eastvale.

Romo’s family reported him missing on May 28, and he was last seen on May 26, following a fight with the suspect Alejandro Delacruz at the 8000 block of Pine Avenue. The fight wasn’t reported to the Chino Police Department until June 1. Detectives issued missing persons under suspicious circumstances crime bulletin after a preliminary investigation. During the investigation, Detectives discovered the suspect had struck Romo multiple times with an unknown weapon.

According to reports, Delacruz fled the scene and Romo was also unable to be located. Witnesses were interviewed and detectives determined Delacruz placed Romo’s body in his pick-up truck and dumped it at an unknown location.

Workers in the area of the 16600 block of Hellman Avenue located Romo’s deceased body in a field on Saturday, June 4, just before 3 p.m.

With continued investigation, detectives located Delacruz hiding in a resident in the 17300 block in the City of Fontana. On June 5, he was arrested at the West Valley Detention Center for murder.

The motive for the homicide is still under investigation. Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

Chino Man Sentenced In Human Trafficking Case

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy: San Bernardino County District Attorney

Photo Courtesy: San Bernardino County District Attorney

Chino– A Chino man was sentenced to state prison on Thursday June 2, for sex trafficking an 18-year-old victim. James Anthony Otis, 36 years old, was sentenced to 40 years in prison.

The victim was originally from Michigan, who moved to California and met Otis and his live-in girlfriend Sonya. Sonya was the mother of Otis’ child and also worked as the “bottom” or “manager”. Bottom is a slang word that is used to describe a prostitute who has been with the pimp the longest, who sits atop the hierarchy of prostitutes.

Motel rooms were rented for weeks at a time to work out of, advertising the victim on Backpage.com, and the couple would take the victim to work various areas in Southern California, according to Deputy District Attorney Ross.

Ross said, “During an argument in Hollywood, the defendant yanked the victim by the hair, causing her to fall and sprain her knee.” The victim was treated at a hospital, “He then picked her up from the hospital and took her to his apartment.” Two days later, the victim informed Otis that she decided she wanted to go back home to Michigan. As she was leaving and attempted to walk out of the apartment, Otis was enraged. He told her she wasn’t going anywhere, grabbing her by her hair again, which caused her to fall and reinjure her sprained knee. Then, Otis picked her up and carried her back into the apartment, according to the Police Department.

A friend was called by the victim, and able to contact the Chino Police Department to report that the defendant wasn’t allowing the victim to leave the residence.

According to the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, “This was a collaborative effort between the Chino Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office, with great support from the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department High Tech Crimes Division,” said Ross. “In addition to the crime charged, evidence at trial showed James Otis to be a prolific exploiter of young women. His aggravated sentence for human trafficking is justified.”

Otis having a prior strike offense for robbery that was found true, his sentence was doubled from the 20 years for the aggravated sentence for human trafficking to a total of 40 years in state prison.

Gas Leak At CH Shoppes

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Staff Reports

Chino Hills– Construction workers reportedly hit a natural gas line Friday morning at The Shoppes in Chino Hills. Officials said crews were called and several businesses were evacuated for their safety.

A crew of construction workers were near Forever 21 on the 13800 block of City Center Drive and the Chino Valley Fire District were notified at around 7:45 a.m. about the gas line. A spokeswoman for the fire district, Massiel Ladron De Guevara, said “they had struck a 2-inch natural gas line.”

De Guevara also stated that about a dozen neighboring businesses were evacuated, and the Chino Police and the gas company were at the scene.

Spokeswoman for the utility company, Rosa Santana, said “Southern California Gas crews brought the gas leak under control at 9:22 a.m.”

According to an update on Twitter, Chino Valley Fire District lifted the evacuation order around 10 a.m., determining that there was no longer a leak.

If you have any concerns about the location and depth of gas lines, SoCalGas authorities advise contractors, homeowners, and businesses to call 811.