Category Archives: Weekly News Top Stories

Shooting at Willie White Park

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy: City of Pomona

Photo Courtesy: City of Pomona

Pomona – On Sun., Mar. 1 at approximately 3:20 p.m., the Pomona Police Department received a “Victim of a Shooting” call at Willie White Park, located at 3065 Battram Street.  Upon arrival, Officers observed a male African-American victim near the playground area suffering from a gunshot wound.  Additional information from witnesses indicated that there was a possible second victim; however Officers were unable to locate him.

The victims, Jonathan Watts, 42, of Pomona; and a juvenile, 16, of Las Vegas, were in the park barbequing prior to the shooting, when suspects stopped their vehicle and proceeded to fire at the crowd indiscriminately.  The motive for this shooting may be gang related; however, this has not been confirmed.
Preliminary information received indicated that four male African-American suspects fled northbound in a gray or silver 4-door sedan. The victim, Watts, was transported by ambulance to a local hospital in critical condition, where he succumbed to his wounds and was pronounced deceased. While at the hospital, officers contacted the second victim who walked into the emergency room suffering from non life-threatening gunshot wound(s).
Anyone with information regarding this incident should call the Pomona Police Department at (909) 620-2085. For anyone willing to provide information that wishes to remain anonymous, contact “Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477.

Walnut HS Alum Is “Idol” Top 16

By Kelli Gile

(Photo Courtesy: Fox Broadcasting Company) Diamond Bar resident and “American Idol” finalist, Adanna Duru.

(Photo Courtesy: Fox Broadcasting Company) Diamond Bar resident and “American Idol” finalist, Adanna Duru.

Walnut – Diamond Bar resident, Adanna Duru, has been named a finalist on the current season of “American Idol.”  The show revealed its Top 24 contestants last week and the roster included the talented Walnut High 2014 alumna. On Thursday’s episode, she was announced as Top 16!

Duru wowed “Idol” judges with her performance of Lady Gaga’s, “You and I” during her San Francisco audition. Duru even received a Tweet from pop star, Jennifer Lopez, saying, “Congratulations, you killed it!”

The 18-year old teen kept her momentum during Hollywood Week and the House of Blues performances.

Duru began singing at age 4, and decided at age 9 that she would be on “Idol” one day. She plays guitar and piano, and wrote her first song when she was 10.

Duru performed in musicals at Suzanne Middle School, starring as the Duchess in Alice in Wonderland, and an Oompa Loompa in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. For three years, she was a member of the Walnut High School Choir. During her sophomore year, Duru also competed on Season Three of “The Voice.”

On the second night of Top 24 Week, Feb. 26, Duru sang, “Rather Be,” and Hollywood.com said her performance was “pretty amazing, actually.”

On Thursday night’s episode, Mar. 5, Harry Connick, Jr. raved about Duru’s rendition of Lionel Richie’s, “Hello” saying, “I give you an A+ for singing those lyrics like you did.”

At press time, four of the gentlemen and four of the women in the Top 24 had been voted off, leaving Duru in the Top 16! Keep voting to help keep this hometown girl on the show!

There are five ways to vote and you can vote up to 100 times!

Online voting ends at 9 a.m. PST the day after performances. Phone lines are open for calls and texts up to 2 hours after the show.

“American Idol” Season 14 airs Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8 p.m. on FOX.

Good luck, Adanna!

(This article has been modified to reflect the most recent results of the show upon going to press.)

CNUSD Teacher Arrested

(Photo Courtesy: Corona PD) Shane Alan Kent

(Photo Courtesy: Corona PD) Shane Alan Kent

Staff Reports 

Corona – On Feb. 26, the Corona Police Department was notified by site administration from the Corona Norco Unified School District (CNUSD) of the possible inappropriate touching of a student by a teacher at the Orange Elementary School, in the City of Corona.

During the investigation, Orange Elementary Teacher, Shane Alan Kent, 55, of Corona, was identified as the teacher accused of the inappropriate touching of a female student. Corona Police Detectives discussed applicable charges with the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office and on Feb. 27, Kent was arrested for lewd or lascivious acts with a child under the age of 14.

As a result of the investigation and arrest, CNUSD has placed Kent on administrative leave.
At this time the investigation is ongoing and detectives believe there may be other victims. The Corona Police Department is asking for parents of students who attend, or attended, Orange Elementary School to speak to their children about any inappropriate contact they may have had with Kent, or any inappropriate behavior they may have witnessed.

If anyone has any information pertaining to this investigation, please contact Detective Martin Vega of the Corona Police Department at (951) 817-5796.

Pomona Gang Member Sentenced To Death

Staff Reports

(Photo Courtesy: City of Chino) Robert Louis Caballero

(Photo Courtesy: City of Chino)
Robert Louis Caballero

Pomona – A Pomona 12th Street gang member – convicted of a series of kidnappings and killings in 2009 – was sentenced to death on Thurs., Feb. 19, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

On Aug. 14, 2014, a jury found that Robert Louis Caballero, 37, committed multiple murders, that the murders were committed during the course of a kidnapping and that the defendant was able to carry out the killings by lying in wait. The same jury recommended that Caballero receive the death penalty.

Deputy District Attorneys, Sarika Kim and Robert Serna of the Hardcore Gang Division, said Caballero was found guilty of three counts of first-degree murder, two counts of kidnapping, one count of assault with a firearm, one count of possession of a firearm by a felon and evading an officer, and willful disregard. Furthermore, jurors found gun and gang allegations to be factors.

Caballero’s codefendant, Pete Trejo, Jr., 32, was found guilty of first-degree murder and kidnapping. Jurors also found gun and gang allegations, as well as the special circumstance allegations of lying in wait and murder during the course of a kidnapping, to be factors.

Another defendant in this case, Andrew Valenzuela, 23, was also was convicted of first-degree murder and kidnapping, along with the gun and gang allegations, and the special circumstance allegation of murder during the course of a kidnapping.

Trejo and Valenzuela were both sentenced in October 2014 to life in state prison without the possibility of parole.

On Sept. 29, 2009, prosecutors said that Caballero killed Armando Vidana, a Cherryville gang member. Vidana was shot eight times and his body was found in the street.

On Nov. 5, 2009, Caballero was at a home with an 18-year old kidnapped female victim, his cousin David Padilla, and Lorraine Minjarez. During the visit, Caballero became suspicious of Minjarez and believed she was going to tell police that he killed Vidana.

Caballero lured Minjarez to a nearby vehicle driven by his cousin. Seated in the car was the kidnapped female victim. From that location, Caballero, Minjarez and the kidnapped female victim picked up codefendant Trejo.

During the ride, Caballero directed the driver to take them to Mt. Baldy. After they arrived, Caballero then directed Trejo to dig a grave while he strangled Minjarez. Once she was killed, Trejo buried her body and Caballero ordered the kidnapped female victim to hide the evidence.

The next day, suspicious of Padilla’s loyalty to him, Caballero lured his cousin to a remote freeway overpass. Once there, he directed codefendant Valenzuela to strangle Padilla while forcing the kidnapped female victim to watch. Valenzuela strangled and beat Padilla to death with rocks, prosecutors said.

Two months later, Caballero, Trejo and Valenzuela were charged in connection with the crimes.

The case was jointly investigated by the Pomona Police Department, Chino Police Department and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The defendant was arrested in 2009 by the Pomona Police Department, after a vehicle pursuit.

Hacienda Heights Teacher Arrested

LASD Special Victims Unit is investigating a Los Altos teacher for allegedly having a sexual relationship with a student at the high school.

(Photo Courtesy: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department) Special Bulletin for David Park, a Los Altos High School Teacher arrested on Feb. 23.

(Photo Courtesy: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department)
Special Bulletin for David Park, a Los Altos High School Teacher arrested on Feb. 23.

Staff Reports

Hacienda Heights – Special Victims Bureau Detectives have arrested a Los Altos teacher for having a sexual relationship with a student at the high school.

David Park, 37, of Chino Hills, was arrested on Feb. 23 at his residence by Industry Sheriff’s Station Deputies and Special Victims Bureau Detectives after information reported by school officials led to an investigation.

According to the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department (LASD), the suspect has been a full-time teacher at Los Altos High School since the fall of 2009.  It was there that the suspect met the 15-year old victim who was enrolled in his classroom.  An inappropriate intimate relationship developed where acts were committed inside the classroom, after class, and at the suspect’s home. The relationship spanned between the months of Sept. and Nov. 2014.

Park had also worked as a “walk-on” football coach in 2007/2008 at Ruben Ayala Chino Valley High School in Chino, and at Western Christian High School in Upland.

The suspect was arrested for Oral Copulation, Lewd Acts with a 15-year old child, and Sexual Battery; bail was set at $1,000,000.

The suspect is currently housed at Industry Sheriff’s Station and was expected in Pomona Superior Court on Feb. 25.

Detectives are seeking the help of the public to identify any possible additional victims during the suspect’s tenure at the various schools.  Anyone with additional information is asked to call the LASD Special Victims Bureau at (877) 710-5273.

Former Ontario Police Officer Arrested

Staff Reports

(Photo Courtesy: San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department) Former Officer, Tyler Stone

(Photo Courtesy: San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department)
Former Officer, Tyler Stone

Ontario – On Nov. 8, 2014, investigators from the Ontario Police Department received information that one of their officers, Tyler Stone, 30, of Rancho Cucamonga, had an inappropriate relationship with a juvenile female. The Sheriff’s Department immediately placed Stone on administrative leave, and on Dec. 9, 2014, began an investigation into possible criminal acts.

Detectives from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department (SBSD) Crimes Against Children Detail assumed the investigation and discovered Stone met the victim while he was on duty and later developed a sexual relationship with her. The illegal acts occurred in the city of Ontario and at Stone’s residence in the city of Rancho Cucamonga.

On Dec. 22, 2014, Stone resigned from the Ontario Police Department.

According to SBSD, the District Attorney’s Office issued a warrant on Feb. 19 for Stone’s arrest for two counts of Oral Copulation of a Minor, one count of Unlawful Sex with a Minor, and one count of Annoying/Molesting a Child.

Stone turned himself in on the evening of Feb. 19, and was booked at the West Valley Detention Center. His bail was set at $150,000. Stone posted bail and was released from custody.  His arraignment date has not been set.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to contact Detective John Everman or Sergeant Dana Foster at (909) 387-3615. 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.

Garage Fire Ruins Chino Hills Home

(Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District) A Firefighter suppresses the last of the flames at a residential structure fire in the early morning hours of Feb. 24.

(Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District)
A Firefighter suppresses the last of the flames at a residential structure fire in the early morning hours of Feb. 24.

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Chino Valley Fire District Firefighters responded to a single-family residential structure fire on the 17800 block of Lone Ranger Trail in Chino Hills just after 3 a.m. on Tues., Feb. 24.

Firefighters on scene found a working fire in the garage with some extension into the home.  Two vehicles inside of the garage were destroyed. The two residents of the home were displaced due to smoke damage throughout the home.

The Fire District’s Community Liaison Officer is assisting the homeowners through the recovery process.  Chino Valley Fire District Investigators determined the cause of the fire was the dryer.  Damage was estimated at $150,000.

The Fire District encourages residents to check and clean their home dryers.  Lint can build up in your dryer or in the exhaust duct over time, blocking airflow and causing excessive heat buildup that can result in a fire.  Below are some safety tips to help prevent a dryer fire in your home.

  • Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional.
  • Do not use the dryer without a lint filter.
  • Make sure you clean the lint filter before or after each load of laundry. Remove lint that has collected around the drum.
  • Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating. Once a year, or more often if you notice that it is taking longer than normal for your clothes to dry, clean lint out of the vent pipe or have a dryer lint removal service do it for you.

La Verne Double Homicide Still Unsolved

Staff Reports

(Image Courtesy: L.A. County Sheriff’s Department) Composite sketch of the Person of Interest in the Isom double murder investigation.

(Image Courtesy: L.A. County Sheriff’s Department)
Composite sketch of the Person of Interest in the Isom double murder investigation.

Pomona – On Dec. 26, at approximately 1 p.m., Armie Troy Isom, 89, and his wife, Shirley Isom, 74, were brutally murdered inside their home in the 300 block of Roughrider Road in La Verne.  Near the time of the murder, neighbors saw a white or Hispanic man in his late 20s or early 30s, dressed in a dark hooded jacket and carrying a large backpack on his shoulders, leaving the hillside community.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau, along with Deputies from the San Dimas station, FBI, COP Bureau, and the Pomona Police Department conducted a Vehicle Canvass Operation on Fri., Feb. 13 in the City of Pomona in an effort to find possible witnesses who may have knowledge regarding the person of interest (see composite sketch), or anything to do with this case.  Deputies also contacted passengers aboard the San Bernardino Metrolink line at the same time.

Detectives are seeking the public’s assistance by asking anyone with information to contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.  Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar’s City Council met on Feb. 17 for its last meeting of the month, with heavy consideration being given to the Grand Avenue Beautification Project.

Before that, the Council overheard the schedule of future events which included a Planning Commission meeting on Feb. 24, a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on Feb. 26, and the next City Council meeting on March 3.

The Council then moved onto approve all items on its consent calendar, which included the minutes for the Council meeting on Feb. 3; the Parks and Recreation Commission minutes on Nov. 20; the ratification of a check register dated Jan. 29 through Feb. 11 in the amount of $1,246,456.02; the award of contract to ICG, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $49,750 for the design of the Steep Canyon Connector Trail and the Pantera Park Trail; an award of contract to Ortco, Inc. for the removal and replacement of playground surfacing at Maple Hill, Ronald Reagan and Pantera Parks in an amount not to exceed $66,856.10, plus 10% contingency of $6,685.61 for unexpected conditions; approval of notice of completion for the traffic signal battery back-up system project; adoption of a resolution authorizing participation in the National Intergovernmental Purchasing Alliance to purchase janitorial supplies for City facilities from Waxie Sanitary Supply as distributor for network services in an amount not to exceed $65,000; and the award of contract to And 1 to officiate the City’s youth and adult basketball programs for the period of Sept. 14 through June 30 in an amount not to exceed $35,000.

Finally, the Council adopted the last item on the consent calendar for the award of two items for the Grand Avenue Beautification Project. The first being the construction administration services contract to Onward Engineering in the amount of $114,855, plus a contingency amount of $10,000, and appropriate Prop C savings of $53,000 from fiscal year 2014-15 Arterial Zone 1 CIP budget, Prop A exchange funds savings of $44,000 from fiscal year 2014-15 Residential Area 2 CIP budget, Prop C savings of $100,000 from fiscal year 2014-15 Dial-A-Cab Transit program, Gas Tax Savings in the amount of $180,000, and Unrestricted Traffic Mitigation Funds in the amount of $165,014 from fiscal year 2014-15 Grand Avenue Beautification CIP budget; adopting the resolution for approving plans and specifications and establishing a project payment account, rejecting the lowest bidder and awarding the construction contract for the project to All American Asphalt in the amount of $1,939,190, with a contingency of $193,900, for a total of $2,132,900.

After the final item was approved, the Council entered its committee reports and adjourned for the evening with plans to meet at 6:30 p.m. on March 3 at the Diamond Bar City Council chambers at 21865 Copley Drive.

3 Men Charged In Human Trafficking Porn Ring

Staff Reports

Riverside County – On Tues., Feb. 17, the Riverside County District Attorney’s office announced that charges have been filed against three men for their involvement in a significant ring of human traffickers and child pornographers.

John David Yoder, 43, of Desert Hot Springs, has been charged with one count each of oral copulation of a child under 14, human trafficking of a victim under 18, conspiracy, lewd acts with a child under 14, and aiding to avoid the arrest of another. Yoder entered pleas of not guilty to all charges at his arraignment on Feb. 9.  If convicted as currently charged, Yoder faces a maximum of 35 years to life in prison.

Erick Alan Monsivais, 29, of Los Angeles, has been charged with four counts of sexual intercourse or sodomy with a victim 10 years old or younger, three counts of oral copulation by force or fear of a child under 14, and one count each of lewd acts on a minor under 14 by force or fear and of human trafficking of a victim under 18. Monsivais entered pleas of not guilty to all counts at his arraignment on Feb. 5.  If convicted as currently charged, Monsivais faces a maximum of 167 years to life in prison.

William Clyde Thompson, 54, of Las Vegas, Nevada, has been charged with one count each of sexual intercourse or sodomy with a victim 10 years old or younger, oral copulation or sexual penetration with a victim 10 or younger, sexual assault of a child under 14, lewd and lascivious acts against a child under 14, procurement of a child under 16 for lewd and lascivious acts, human trafficking of a victim under 18, use of a minor to perform prohibited acts, sending or bringing into the state child pornography, and conspiracy to commit child pornography. There also will be a sentencing enhancement of multiple victims. Thompson is currently being held in federal custody in Nevada. Because of his federal case status, his arraignment in Riverside County has not yet been scheduled. If convicted as currently charged in Riverside County, Thompson faces a maximum sentence of 85 years to life in prison.

The Riverside County Sexual Assault and Felony Enforcement/Internet Crimes Against Children (SAFE/ICAC) task force began an investigation into this case on Jan. 28, after receiving information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about the arrest of Thompson in Nevada.

Among the items seized by authorities subsequent to the arrest was Thompson’s cellular phone, on which was found the phone numbers for Yoder and Monsivais. Investigators believe that Yoder was paid by Thompson to recruit minor boys to be photographed for use in child pornography.

On Jan. 30, investigators determined that Yoder had adopted sons and was a licensed foster care provider in Riverside County. It was also discovered that Yoder worked as a special education teacher’s assistant at Desert Hot Springs High School in the Palm Springs Unified School District (PSUSD). PSUSD is said to be cooperating completely with the District Attorney’s Office and all law enforcement officials.

Riverside County District Attorney, Mike Hestrin, said, “The District Attorney’s Office is committed to doing everything we can do to ensure that those who prey upon our children are brought to justice and to ensure that our children are safe.”

Authorities believe it is possible that there may be additional victims who investigators are not aware of. Anyone who believes they may have had suspicious or illegal contact with any of these defendants is asked to call the SAFE/ICAC task force toll-free at (866) SAFE595 or (866) 723-3595.

Assemblywoman Chang Seeks Accountability For Veteran Funding

By Chris Wangsaporn  

“I think that when it comes to helping our veterans, we should make sure that we are doing all that we can.” -Ling Ling Chang

(Photo Courtesy: ad55.assemblygop.com) Assemblywoman Ling Ling Chang, 55th District

(Photo Courtesy: ad55.assemblygop.com)
Assemblywoman Ling Ling Chang, 55th District

Sacramento – On Wed., Feb. 18, Assemblywoman Ling Ling Chang (R-Diamond Bar) introduced Assembly Bill 388, legislation to ensure that funds generated by Proposition 41 are spent efficiently and effectively.  AB 388 will place a requirement on those who receive Prop 41 generated funds to report on the effectiveness of their housing programs for homeless and low-income veterans.

“$600 million dollars is a large sum of money which will create real possibilities when it comes to providing homes to men and women who have served our country,” said Chang. “I think that when it comes to helping our veterans we should make sure that we are doing all that we can.  I am confident that the voters who approved these bond funds will agree that accountability is necessary in order to make sure we are helping as many veterans as possible.”

Proposition 41 was approved by voters in June 2014, authorizing $600 million in bonds.  Those funds will be allocated to various local governments and non-profits in order to provide multi-family housing to low-income veterans and supportive housing for homeless veterans.   While the language of Prop 41 imposes reporting requirements on the Department of Housing and Community Development as well as the Department of Veterans Affairs, AB 388 strengthens the efficiency of reporting by requiring those who receive the funds to demonstrate the effectiveness of their housing programs.

Chang added, “It is shameful that veterans who serve our country come home and end up sleeping in shelters or under freeway overpasses.  I want to know that the programs that are put in place to help them are working and that we are showing them the gratitude they deserve.”

The 55th Assembly District contains parts of Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino Counties. It includes the cities of Diamond Bar, Walnut, City of Industry, Rowland Heights, West Covina, Brea, La Habra, La Habra Heights, Placentia, Yorba Linda, Covina, and Chino Hills. Follow Assemblywoman Chang on Twitter @AsmL2Chang

Chino Hills: “Getting 2 Zero”

By Claire Lewis

 

(Photo Courtesy: ipaws.com) A microchip reader shows this pup is protected.

(Photo Courtesy: ipaws.com)
A microchip reader shows this pup is protected.

Chino Hills – Last November, the Chino Hills City Council adopted a resolution making a commitment to eliminate the euthanasia of adoptable dogs, with a goal of becoming a “No Kill” community by Jan. 1, 2016.  Their “Getting 2 Zero” program is at the helm of their commitment, helping to focus on the prevention of animal abandonment and avoiding euthanasia.

In order for the program to be successful, the community will need to be educated, adoption centers will have to become more prevalent, and the provision of low-cost veterinary clinics – including the installation of microchips (now a requirement, along with licensing, for dogs over four months of age) – will need to be made available.  In addition, the sales restriction of dogs and cats at Chino Hills pet stores and the Municipal Code legislation banning the sale of unhealthy puppy mill and cat factory animals also helps to encourage adoption.

The Inland Valley Humane Society has recently adopted a strategy to eliminate euthanasia in healthy and adoptable animals, and a multitude of local cities have been contacted with the request to adopt the policy.  Kudos go to Chino Hills for being way ahead of the game by already introducing this compassionate and common sense approach to the community.

In fact, Chino Hills has launched a dog microchip rebate program as an important component of their “Getting 2 Zero” plan.  Microchips – an easily injectable GPS-like tracker – helps reunite pets that become lost with their owners.  Now a requirement of dog ownership, Chino Hills will provide a rebate of up to $30 for dogs that are properly licensed through the Inland Valley Humane Society, and registered to a Chino Hills Address.

According to the City of Chino Hills website, the dog’s microchip must be registered with the microchip company, and the expenses incurred after Oct. 28, 2014.  This rebate program is funded through the City’s General Fund as part of Animal Control Services.  Residents can bring their dog license paperwork, the microchip receipt and proof of registration to Chino Hills City Hall (14000 City Center Drive).  The rebate check will be delivered in approximately 15 days after approval.

If you are considering becoming a pet owner, or getting a companion for a pet already part of your family, take a look at your local shelter.  There are dogs and cats of every age and breed, just waiting and hoping to become part of a loving home environment.  The City of Chino Hills and the Inland Valley Humane Society have implemented programs to make adoption a viable and positive choice.

Ask your city if they are part of the “Getting 2 Zero” program.  For more information, please contact the City of Chino Hills at (909) 364-2714.

SGV Toilet Arsonist Caught

Staff Reports

David Lin (Photo Courtesy: L.A. County Sheriff’s Dept.)

David Lin (Photo Courtesy: L.A. County Sheriff’s Dept.)

SGV – Suspect, David Lin, 42, a local transient man (formerly of West Covina), was arrested on Tues., Feb. 3 for an unusual arson spree taking its toll on retail establishment restrooms in and around the City of Rowland Heights since December 2014.

Lin, in multiple acts of dangerous bravado, allegedly paid visits to local restaurants during business hours and set fires in toilets, using toilet paper, seat covers and other flammable materials as kindling.

In total, seven fires were set in local establishments within approximately two months (three within one day), including L&L Hawaiian Barbecue in Walnut; Rolling Wok, McDonald’s, Del Taco, Ten Ren’s Tea Time, and Office Depot in Rowland Heights; and Guppy House in Hacienda Heights

According to the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department, surveillance photos, witness accounts and other information led detectives to Lin, who was spotted by a patrol on the afternoon of Feb. 3.   Although no injuries were reported from the fires, thousands of dollars in property damage occurred from Lin’s alleged arson binge.

Lin was arrested on suspicion of arson, felony evading of police and drug possession.  Lin – who is reportedly living out of his car – was arraigned on Thurs., Feb 5, and is being held on $250,000 bail pending a Feb. 19 hearing.

Anyone with information about this crime is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Arson/Explosives Detail at (323) 881-7500.

Walnut Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Members of the Walnut City Council congratulate Jose Luis Angel and his wife Mayra Angel, for having their business - Los Amigos Restaurant – named as the Winter 2015 Business of the Quarter. Los Amigos Restaurant is located at 20835 Valley Blvd. and is known for its friendly customer service and well-liked Mexican food. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

Members of the Walnut City Council congratulate Jose Luis Angel and his wife Mayra Angel, for having their business – Los Amigos Restaurant – named as the Winter 2015 Business of the Quarter. Los Amigos Restaurant is located at 20835 Valley Blvd. and is known for its friendly customer service and well-liked Mexican food. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

Walnut – Walnut’s City Council met for its first regular meeting of the month on Feb. 11.  The meeting opened with the commendation of Los Amigos Restaurant, located at 20835 Valley Blvd, as the official Winter 2015 Business of the Quarter recipient.

Mayor Nancy Tragarz was absent from the meeting.

In place of Tragarz delivering the congratulatory speech, Mayor Pro Tem, Eric Ching, spoke to owner Jose Luis Angel and his wife Mayra Angel, commenting on the family owned business and how Angel’s work ethic should stand as an inspiration for the residents of Walnut.

“This is a role model we need to look up to,” Ching said. “Many people like his food, (Angel) is good to kids; he gives a lot of opportunities for kids to work in his shop…that’s why he is chosen (as the Business of the Quarter).”

Ching also commented that he loved the restaurant’s ceviche and that he wished the restaurant luck as it continues to do business.

Following the award ceremony, the Council approved the only item on its public hearings schedule, which was Ordinance No. 15-02 to establish Article XXVIV for historical preservation of the Walnut Municipal Code.

After that, the Council approved all the items on its consent calendar, including a resolution of certain claims and demands in the amount of $869,983.61; a joint resolution approving and accepting a negotiated exchange of property tax revenue resulting from annexation of the territory to the Walnut Valley Water District; a resolution regarding the payment of salaries, sick leave, vacations, leave of absences and other regulations by revising authorized positions/salary Schedule A; and an additional appropriation request for Leibold, McClendon & Mann to provide special legal services in connection with the proposed disposition of Lot 269 in Three Oaks.

Finally, the Council moved onto the successor agency consent calendar, approving both items for the adoption of Resolution No.15-02, approving the ROPS for July through December 2015; and adoption of Resolution No.15-13, approving the administrative budget for July through December 2015.

After Council announcements, the members then adjourned into closed session to discuss negotiations of real property pursuant to Government Code 54956.8.

The next City Council meeting will take place on Feb. 25, at 7 p.m., in the Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Corona Bank Robbery Ends In Fatality

Staff Reports

Johnson, inside the Corona bank during the robbery. (Photo Courtesy: Corona Police Department)

Johnson, inside the Corona bank during the robbery. (Photo Courtesy: Corona Police Department)

Corona – On Wed., Feb. 4, the Pacific Premier Bank, located at 102 E. Sixth Street, was involved in a robbery with a man, who reportedly forced employees at gunpoint into the vault where he proceeded to rob the bank and its employees of a large sum of cash.  The man threatened to kill the employees if they called the Police.

According to the Corona Police Department, Officers responded to the bank at approximately 4:07 p.m., to find the suspect had fled after an alleged carjacking.  Through the use of a tracking device bank employees were able to place with the money, Officers were quickly able to locate the suspect vehicle and a chase ensued.

Patricia Cheree Smith, the driver and accomplice, who lied about being carjacked (Photo Courtesy: Corona Police Department)

Patricia Cheree Smith, the driver and accomplice, who lied about being carjacked (Photo Courtesy: Corona Police Department)

As the Officers attempted a high risk enforcement stop, the vehicle briefly stopped near San Antonio and Bickmore avenues in Chino.  The female driver – later identified as Patricia Cheree Smith, 26, of Hemet – exited the vehicle and was contacted by Police. The suspect fled the area in the vehicle with Officers in pursuit.

Smith initially told Officers she had been the victim of a car-jacking, and the unknown suspect had a gun. Corona Police Detectives conducted a follow-up interview with Smith and determined that she was involved in the robbery. Smith was arrested for robbery and additional criminal charges are pending.

Deceased bank robbery suspect, Paul Alfred Eugene Johnson (Photo Courtesy: Corona Police Department)

Deceased bank robbery suspect, Paul Alfred Eugene Johnson
(Photo Courtesy: Corona Police Department)

The pursuit ended when the suspect vehicle crashed off the 71 Expressway.  As the suspect exited the vehicle, he was struck multiple times by Police gunfire and was pronounced deceased at the scene.  The suspect was identified as Paul Alfred Eugene Johnson, 59, of Hemet.  Further investigation revealed a large sum of cash, an unknown type handgun, and additional evidence linking Johnson and the vehicle to the bank robbery in Corona.

Corona Police Detectives conducted a follow-up investigation related to the Pacific Premier Bank robbery. Based on the information gathered, detectives obtained a search warrant for a residence located in the 26000 block of Cortrite Ave. in the City of Hemet.

On Fri., Feb. 6, Officers from the Corona Police Department’s Special Response Team served the search warrant seeking additional evidence to support their investigation, additional suspects and other similar bank robberies throughout Southern California.

This particular incident is a large, multi-jurisdictional investigation. The Corona Police Department is handling the bank robbery and vehicle pursuit, while the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the officer-involved shooting in their jurisdiction. All officers are currently on paid administrative leave, per Department policy.

The Corona Police Department is seeking public assistance and is asking anyone having information related to the bank robbery to please call Senior Detective Dan Bloomfield at (951) 817-5767.

CH Council Seeks Healthy Cities Applicants

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Residents who are interested in serving on the City of Chino Hills Healthy Steering Cities Committee (Healthy Cities) are invited to complete an application for consideration. The Council voted recently to accept applications so that each member may appoint one resident to serve on Healthy Cities.

Each council member will recommend an individual for appointment, which must be affirmed by the Council. The term of the appointment matches the term of the appointing council member.

Healthy Cities was formed in 1994 and revamped in 2014. The Committee was established to assist in assessing community needs, defining health priorities, and developing programs to enhance the quality of life within the community. Meetings are held quarterly, on Mondays at 6 p.m., to evaluate and recommend programs that meet the Committee’s goals through the use of a variety of service providers.

Programs operating under the Healthy Cities umbrella are as varied as enrichment programs for all ages, fitness and hiking programs, opportunities for youth involvement, health and wellness seminars, and more. A complete list is noted on the application.

The Healthy Cities Committee will be comprised of 25 people including City Commissioners; students at the high school and college level; and representatives from Chino Valley Unified School District, Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce, Chino Hills Police Department, County of San Bernardino, Chino Valley YMCA, Chino Valley Fire District, five residents appointed by the Committee, and five residents appointed by the City Council.

Completed applications must be returned to the City Clerk’s Office on the second floor of City Hall, 14000 City Center Drive, by 4 p.m. on Fri., Mar. 6.  Council members will review applications and schedule interviews. Selections are expected to be announced at the March 24 or April 14 City Council meeting.

The next Healthy Cities Committee meeting is on Mon., May 11, at 6 p.m.

Applications are available online at http://www.chinohills.org/HealthyCitiesApplication and at Chino Hills City Hall, 14000 City Center Drive, Chino Hills 91709, on the second floor in the City Clerk’s lobby.

Completed applications can also be mailed to the address above.  To request a faxed application, please call (909) 364-2620 or send an e-mail to www.cityclerk@chinohills.org.

For additional information, please call the City Clerk’s Office at (909) 364-2620.

DB Through My Lens Winner

Alfred Bertulfo’s beautiful entry of “Diamond Bar Center From Above” won the Grand Prize. (Photo Courtesy: City of Diamond Bar)

Alfred Bertulfo’s beautiful entry of “Diamond Bar Center From Above” won the Grand Prize. (Photo Courtesy: City of Diamond Bar)

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – The 2014 “Through My Lens” photo contest turned up a new batch of winning photos skillfully capturing moments and sceneries of Diamond Bar.

One photo in every division and category was selected as the front-runner, and another 17 images were chosen for honorable mention distinction, for a total of 22 winning entries.

Top prizes in the youth division went to Mikaela Pham, Lynn Lee and Garrett Masuda; and the winners in the adult division were Chuck Wong, David Moreno, Alfred Bertulfo, Steve Sustayta, and Tom Zeller.

Honorable mentions were presented to youth entrants Daniel Xu, Garrett Masuda, Mikaela Pham, Kyle Liu, Aish Rane, and Mustafa Arif; and adult entrants Amanda Pechy, Jet Long, Chuck Wong, Diana Dieu, Teresa Wang, Long Pham, Bruce Davis, William Anderson, and Robert Burns.

Alfred Bertulfo’s beautiful entry of “Diamond Bar Center From Above,” won the Grand Prize.

All winners were congratulated at the Jan. 20 City Council meeting.  Each winner took home a special certificate and a cash prize, courtesy of the Diamond Bar Community Foundation.

A panel of judges selected the winners from each division based on composition, creativity, originality and visual appeal, and how well the photographs illustrated the theme.

Co-sponsored by the City and the Diamond Bar Community Foundation, the Through My Lens contest is now entering its eighth year, and will reopen for entries this April. More information about the contest as well as the list of the winners and their entries can be viewed online at http://www.diamondbarca.gov/throughmylens.

Arrest In OC Transgender Homicide

Staff Reports

 

Liborio De La Luz Ramos, 44, arrested for Voluntary Manslaughter. (Photo Courtesy: Santa Ana PD)

Liborio De La Luz Ramos, 44, arrested for Voluntary Manslaughter. (Photo Courtesy: Santa Ana PD)

Santa Ana – On Wed., Jan. 28, at approximately 10 p.m., the Orange County Coroner’s Office notified the Santa Ana Police Department of a suspicious death that occurred on Thurs., Jan. 22.  The decedent was a 40-year old transgender woman who died of silicone embolism syndrome related to a silicone injection to the buttocks for cosmetic reasons.

Homicide Detectives initiated a death investigation which revealed that the victim – Felipe De La Riva (who also went by the name of Katya) – went to a “silicone party” in the area sometime in late Dec. 2014.  On Jan. 1, De La Riva admitted herself into Kaiser Hospital due to a respiratory problem.  Silicone embolism syndrome symptoms include fever, chest pain, coughing up blood and altered consciousness.

On Jan. 21, at 7:06 p.m., De La Riva died of an embolism related to the silicone injection. Because the injection was received in a non-medical facility – possibly a hotel room – Kaiser contacted the coroner’s office.

On Thurs., Feb. 5, Santa Ana Police Homicide Detectives arrested Liborio De La Luz Ramos, 44, of Santa Ana, in connection with the death of De La Riva.  Ramos faces one felony count of voluntary manslaughter and two felony counts of the unauthorized practice of medicine, and is being held on $500,000 bail.  Detectives believe there may be additional victims who received injections from the suspect.

Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact Santa Ana Police Detectives at (714) 245-8390.

Stranded Motorist Or Wanted Kidnapper?

Chino Hills Deputies Stop to Assist a Stranded Motorist and Discover He’s Wanted for Kidnapping

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Feb., 5 at approximately 3:35 a.m., a Chino Hills deputy stopped to assist a stranded motorist on the northbound off ramp of Highway 71 at Grand Avenue, on the border of Chino Hills and the city of Chino.

While assisting the driver safely out of the roadway, the deputy noticed the subject had a bracelet on his ankle commonly associated with probation or parole out-of-custody monitoring. Upon further investigation, the subject, identified as Josue Rivera, was found to have warrants for traffic violations and a Kidnapping/False Imprisonment case.

During a search of his vehicle, a forged Resident Alien card bearing Rivera’s photo and another individual’s name was located in his wallet. Deputies believe Rivera used the forged identification card for employment and has used it during court proceedings to assume a false identity.

Rivera explained the GPS tracking bracelet was placed on his ankle by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents when he was unable to post bail on another criminal case.

Rivera was booked at West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga on the warrants, as well as Forgery.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact the Chino Hills Police/Sheriff’s Station at (909) 364-2000.

Treat Your Valentine To The Whole Enchilada

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Valentine’s Day is upon us, and what better way to show your love for your sweetheart than a delicious dinner at The Whole Enchilada!

From delicious platters and entrée meals to taco bars, The Whole Enchilada offers fresh, authentic Mexican recipes their resident chef brought from their homeland.  They guarantee you will enjoy your dining experience.

“All our food is made fresh daily,” says Lil Palmer of The Whole Enchilada. The restaurant has been in business for over 30 years, offering a variety of Mexican dishes ranging from enchiladas and burritos to carne asada and fajitas.

Planning a Valentine’s Day party?  The Whole Enchilada can help cater your event with handmade tamales – which are available year round. This traditional holiday dish is sold by the dozen and is available in pork, beef, chicken, green chili and cheese.  Other menu items, such as the taquito or street taco platters, are available for catering as well.

Whether it’s a Valentine’s fiesta, business meetings or parties, promotions, fundraisers, birthdays, or just an evening out, The Whole Enchilada will dazzle you with their excellent customer service and delicious food.  They look forward to helping you celebrate the special moments in your life.

If you are looking for a sweet Valentine’s treat after your meal, try The Whole Enchilada’s Mexican Kaluha Flan, Rio Grande Mud Pie, or popular Deep Fried Ice Cream.  Valentine’s Day never tasted so delicious!

The celebration doesn’t stop with just one visit.  The Whole Enchilada has gift cards available for purchase in person or online.  It’s the perfect gift for your Valentine, or anyone you are gift-shopping for; it’s always the perfect color and size.  And be sure to ask The Whole Enchilada about the Combo Punch Card, Enchilada Bucks, and their Kids Club.  With a wide variety of reasons to visit, it’s obvious that The Whole Enchilada wants to become your favorite restaurant.

Don’t deny your taste buds this Valentine’s Day, visit the Whole Enchilada soon!

The Whole Enchilada is located at 1114 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., (at Grand Avenue, in Diamond Bar). You can reach them at (909) 861-5340, and visit their website at www.wholeenchilada.com.  See their ad on the back page of this publication.