Tag Archives: Chino Police Department

Fatal Traffic Collision In Chino

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Courtesy City of Chino

Chino– A man suffered fatal injuries and another was airlifted with serious injuries after being hit by a vehicle while performing work on Edison Ave. The fatal traffic collision took place on Wednesday, April 13.

At approximately 4:12 p.m., Officers responded to an injury traffic collision in the 5900 block of Edison Ave. The collision involved a 2011 Toyota Yaris and a 2006 Ford F550 work truck with a warning signal trailer attached.

A preliminary investigation determined that the Toyota, driven by Bobby Bustos, 26 of Corona, was traveling eastbound in the 5900 block of Edison Ave. when he collided into the signal trailer.  The trailer was stopped in the Eastbound lane of Edison Ave.

At the time of the collision, the two victims, performing work duties for a landscaping company, were in the process of attaching the trailer to the truck. Due to the collision, both victims were pinned between the trailer and the truck.

Jose Chicas, 31 of Ontario, died instantly at the scene. The other male victim suffered severe, but non-life threatening injuries and was airlifted to a local hospital for treatment. Bustos was uninjured.

During the investigation, Edison Ave. was closed for approximately six hours between Oaks Ave. and Magnolia Ave. The cause of the collision is still under investigation.

Please contact Chino PD, Traffic Unit, Corporal Trosper if you have any information regarding the case: strosper@chinopd.org or (909) 334-3153.

Chino Man Fires at Officers, Sets Home on Fire

Courtesy of the Chino Police Department

Courtesy of the Chino Police Department

Staff Reports

 

CHINO– A man who was about to be evicted from a rental property in Chino barricaded himself in his home after shooting at police officers and was later found dead.

Around 8:20 a.m. March 9, Chino Police officers approached the home in the 11400 block of Santa Anita with the landlord in order to serve an eviction notice, when the man inside the home began shooting at the officers.

“Upon our officers arrival … an unknown subject came to the front of the location and fired upon the officers,” Police Captain Wes Simmons said. “The officers did return fire, and they did deploy chemical agents on the house.”

Neighborhood residents were evacuated for several hours.  The house became fully engulfed in flames after officers deployed non-incendiary chemical agents into the home.  Officers do not believe that the chemicals started the fire.

Monica Gutierrez, spokeswoman for the city of Chino, said that police learned later that the man had planned to set the house on fire and commit suicide. His remains were retrieved from the home on Thursday.

The owner of the home had been trying to evict the man for several months.

Chino Valley Fire was able to knock down the flames, but the house is a complete loss.  The suspect remains unidentified.

No officers, fire personnel or citizens were injured during the incident.

 

Chino P.D. Combating Package Theft with GPS Bait Packages

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Courtesy of Chino Police Department

CHINO – Chino P.D. is utilizing GPS tracking technology in an effort to combat the growing concern of package theft from residences this holiday season.

Several bait packages equipped with GPS trackers have been placed at residential locations throughout Chino this week as an enforcement tool and proactive prevention measure. The device will notify police personnel when packages have been stolen and allow officers to locate suspects with a high degree of accuracy.

“We want these thieves to know we are stepping up our enforcement efforts to protect our citizens,” states Special Enforcement Team Sergeant Marotta. “We hope that through the use of tools such as this, we can both prevent these thefts and apprehend those who victimize our community members.”

If you have any information related to incidents of package theft or have been a victim of package theft in Chino and would like to report it, please contact Chino PD at 909.628.1234.

Chino PD Receives Traffic Enforcement Grant

Courtesy of Chino Police Department

CHINO– Chino PD has been awarded a $167,872 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) for a yearlong program of special enforcements and public awareness efforts to prevent traffic related deaths and injuries.
After falling dramatically between 2006 and 2010, the number of persons killed and injured in traffic collisions has been slowly rising. Particularly alarming are recent increases in pedestrian and bicycle fatalities, the growing dangers of distracting technologies, and the emergence of drug-impaired driving as a major problem. This grant funding will provide opportunities to combat these and other devastating problems such as drunken driving, speeding and crashes at intersections.
“Chino PD has an ongoing commitment to keep our roadways safe through enforcement and education. The partnership and support provided by OTS will allow us to further enhance those efforts and put a stop to the emerging upward trend,” said Chino Police Chief Karen Comstock.
Activities that the grant will fund include:

  • Educational presentations
  • DUI checkpoints
  • DUI saturation patrols
  • Motorcycle safety enforcement
  • Distracted driving enforcement
  • Seat belt and child safety seat enforcement
  • Bicycle and pedestrian safety enforcement
  • Speed, red light and stop sign enforcement
  • Warrant service operations targeting multiple DUI offenders
  • Compilation of DUI “Hot Sheets,” identifying worst-of-the-worst DUI offenders
  • Specialized DUI and drugged driving training such as Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST), Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE), and Drug Recognition Evaluator (DRE)
  • Stakeout operations to observe the “worst-of-the-worst” repeat DUI offender probationers with suspended or revoked driver’s licenses

“Overall, California’s roadways are among the safest in the nation,” said OTS Director Rhonda Craft. “But to meet future mobility, safety and accessible transportation objectives, we have to reverse this recent trend in order to reach our common goal – zero deaths on our roadways. The Office of Traffic Safety and the Chino Police Department want to work with everyone to create a culture of traffic safety across Chino and the state.”

Funding for this program is from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. For more information on Traffic Unit services contact Corporal Trosper at 909-334-3153 or email, strosper@chinopd.org.

Chino Police Department Launches Social Media

Staff Reports

Chino – In keeping with Chief Karen Comstock’s strong community ties, the Chino Police Department has launched its social media pages. Chief Comstock’s goal is to enhance communication with the community and maintain an open dialogue with residents, businesses and partners in safety.

Social media has proven to be a valuable tool for Law Enforcement agencies to use as a means to communicate timely and effectively with topics such as crime prevention, community programs, incidents and investigations.

“The Chino Police Department values the positive relationships and interactions it has with the community,” states Comstock. “Having social media as another tool to communicate and engage with residents will only enhance our relationships.”

The City of Chino has been successful in increasing community engagement through their use of Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. As government social media continues to grow, the Chino Police Department sees an opportunity to expand its efforts by creating additional accounts specifically for the Department and the Chief of Police.

For more information, connect with the Chino Police Department on the following sites:

facebook.com/chinopolicedept; facebook.com/ChiefComstock; twitter.com/chinopolicedept.

Chino Valley: Stay Safe This Fourth Of July Holiday

Staff Reports

Chino Valley – The Chino Valley Fire District wants to remind residents that fireworks of any kind are prohibited in the city of Chino Hills, and that only State Fire Marshal approved “Safe and Sane” fireworks can be used in the city of Chino.

“Safe and Sane” fireworks do not fly or blow up and are registered with the California State Fire Marshal as a “Safe and Sane” firework.  In the city of Chino, these fireworks can only be used or possessed in residential areas from noon on July 1 through midnight July 4, and not on school grounds, parking lots, commercial areas or parks.  No fireworks of any kind are permitted in Chino Hills and in the unincorporated County areas.  Also, fireworks are not permitted in the city of Chino in the area south of Pine Avenue and in the area east of Euclid Avenue between Merrill and Kimball avenues.

The Chino Valley Fire District, Chino Police Department and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department/Chino Hills Police Department will be enforcing zero tolerance for illegal fireworks.  The penalty for using illegal fireworks is up to a $1,000 fine and up to one year in jail.  Parents/guardians will be held liable for any fire suppression costs, damages or injuries caused by their children’s use of fireworks.

The Chino Valley Fire District encourages residents to enjoy the various professional fireworks shows scheduled throughout the county.  Below are some helpful tips for the use of “Safe and Sane” fireworks.

  • Always read and follow the directions
  • Have an adult supervise all fireworks activities
  • Buy from a reliable fireworks vendor
  • Ignite fireworks outside and have a water source available
  • Never experiment with fireworks, modify fireworks or try to make fireworks of your own
  • Ignite fireworks one at a time
  • Never reignite malfunctioning fireworks
  • Store unused fireworks in a cool, dry place
  • Never throw fireworks or carry them in your pocket

For additional information regarding fireworks, visit www.chinovalleyfire.org.

Chino Police Department Launches Social Media

Staff Reports

Chino – In keeping with Chief Karen Comstock’s strong community ties, the Chino Police Department has launched its social media pages. Chief Comstock’s goal is to enhance communication with the community and maintain an open dialogue with residents, businesses and partners in safety.

Social media has proven to be a valuable tool for Law Enforcement agencies to use as a means to communicate timely and effectively with topics such as crime prevention, community programs, incidents and investigations.

“The Chino Police Department values the positive relationships and interactions it has with the community,” states Comstock. “Having social media as another tool to communicate and engage with residents will only enhance our relationships.”

The City of Chino has been successful in increasing community engagement through their use of Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. As government social media continues to grow, the Chino Police Department sees an opportunity to expand its efforts by creating additional accounts specifically for the Department and the Chief of Police.

For more information, connect with the Chino Police Department on the following sites:

facebook.com/chinopolicedept; facebook.com/ChiefComstock; twitter.com/chinopolicedept

Chino: Traffic Grant Awarded To Chino Police Department

STAFF REPORTS

Chino – The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) has awarded the Chino Police Department a $139,280 grant for special enforcement and public awareness efforts to prevent traffic related deaths and injuries from impaired and distracted driving. The funding is designed for a year and further supports the City’s ongoing commitment to keeping the roadways safe and improve the quality of life through enforcement and education.

“Remember, it’s not worth the risk,” states Chino Police Chief Miles Pruitt, “far too often our citizens are injured, and sometimes killed, as a result of traffic collisions caused by unsafe, impaired or distracted drivers. With the assistance of OTS we will be able to increase our enforcement efforts and hopefully keep more tragedies like these from happening.”

After falling drastically between 2006 and 2010, the number of persons killed and injured in traffic collisions slightly increased in 2011 and 2012. Particularly worrisome are recent increases in pedestrian and motorcycle fatalities and the dangers of distracting technologies. This grant funding will provide opportunities to combat these and other devastating problems such as drunk and drugged driving and speeding.

“California’s roadways are still among the safest in the nation,” said Office of Thrift Supervision Director, Rhonda Craft. “But to meet future mobility, safety and sustainability objectives, we must create safer roadways for all users. The Chino Police Department will be using these and other resources to reach the vision we all share toward zero deaths; every one counts.”

Activities that the grant will fund include:

  • Educational Presentations
  • DUI Checkpoints
  • DUI Saturation Patrols
  • Motorcycle Safety Enforcement
  • Distracted Driving Enforcement
  • Seat Belt and Child Safety Seat Enforcement
  • Speed, Red Light and Stop Sign Enforcement
  • Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Enforcement
  • Warrant Service Operations (targeting multiple DUI offenders)
  • Compilation of DUI Hot Sheets (identifying worst-of-the-worst DUI offenders)
  • Specialized DUI and Drugged Driving Training, such as Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST), Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE), and Drug Recognition Evaluator (DRE)For additional information regarding traffic enforcement and education programs, contact the Traffic Services Unit at (909) 334.3073.

Chino: Police Department Seeking Armed Robbery Suspects

STAFF REPORTS

Security footage of suspects. (Photo Courtesy: Chino Police Department)

Security footage of suspects. (Photo Courtesy: Chino Police Department)

Chino – The Chino Police Department is seeking the community’s help in identifying two suspects involved in an armed robbery at Village Liquor, located at 4117 Riverside Dr., on Sun., Oct. 26.

According to the Chino PD, Officers responded to a report at approximately 8:30 a.m. of two armed suspects entering the location and brandishing handguns at the clerk. The suspects then fled the scene with an undisclosed amount of items.

The suspects were last seen driving eastbound on Riverside Dr. in a 2001-2005 grey Toyota sedan.

The first suspect is described as a white male adult, 20-25 years old, 5’3”-5’5” tall, 230

pounds, with brown hair, last seen wearing a blue sweater with white patches and blue jeans.

The second suspect is described as a white male adult, 20-25 years old, 5’5”-5’7” tall, 160

pounds, with blonde hair, last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans and sandals.

This investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

 

Chino: Suspicious Person Warning To Community

STAFF REPORTS

Chino – The Chino Police Department has issued a warning to the community regarding a suspicious person who may be attempting to lure students walking to and from school.

On Wed., Oct. 22, at approximately 8:40 a.m. Officers responded to the 14300 block of Pipeline Avenue after receiving a report of a van, being driving by an unknown adult, followed a 15-year old female on her way to school. The victim stated that the driver of the van made multiple attempts to contact her, and continued to follow her despite her numerous attempts to elude the situation.

The victim reported that she was not able to clearly see the driver, but described the individual as having a large build, and stated that the vehicle was a grey, cargo-style van with tinted windows.

The Chino Police Department, along with the Chino Valley Unified School District, strongly encourage students to walk in pairs or groups whenever possible, and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the local police department.

This investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

Chino: Man Arrested For Lewd Acts

Staff Reports

 

Chino – At approximately midnight on Tues., Sept. 30, a Chino Police Department patrol unit approached a parked vehicle at Mountain View Park, at 13351 Mountain Avenue. Upon contact, officers witnessed two individuals in the vehicle. The occupants were identified as Emmilio Segovia, a 24-year old Chino resident, and an unidentified 15-year old minor from Chino.

Preliminary investigation revealed that Segovia used a social networking site to connect with the victim and lure him to the park with the intent of engaging in sexual acts.

Segovia was arrested and booked at the West Valley Detention Center for oral copulation of a person under 18, contact with a minor with the intent to commit sexual acts and arranging to meet a minor for the purpose of committing sexual acts with a prior sex offense.

This is an ongoing investigation, anyone with information is asked to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

Chino: Jury Duty Scam

STAFF REPORTS

 

Chino – The Chino Police Department is warning citizens about a Jury Duty Scam that has brought about a recent increase in calls from victims and concerned citizens who have been targeted by a telephone swindle.

Scammers are contacting victims by phone, claiming that they are from the San Bernardino County Court. They are telling victims that they have missed jury duty and a warrant has been issued. They are then told that they can clear the warrant if they pay a fine – usually in the amount of $495 – by sending a money order. Most of the victims being targeted are Senior Citizens.

Citizens are urged to not provide any personal information or send money to anyone attempting to collect fees over the phone. Also make sure to ask specific questions as to the identity of the caller anytime someone tries to solicit information or money from you.

The County does not use this process for dealing with jury duty summons.

If you think you have been the victim of a scam, please report it to your local police department.

Chino: Suspect Arrested for Attempted Murder of Local Family

 STAFF REPORTS

 

Chino – On Sept. 23, at approximately 6:50 a.m., Chino Police Officers responded to a call regarding a stabbing in the 6800 block of Cosmos Street. Upon arrival, the responding officers witnessed a male suspect, later identified as Aaron Hernandez a 19-year old Chino resident, walking down the street with a knife.

According to the City of Chino, Officers attempted to make contact with Hernandez, who was fleeing the scene of an attempted murder. He became uncooperative and Officers used a Taser to safely take him into custody.

The investigation revealed that Hernandez stabbed two family members. The victims were transported to a hospital with multiple stab wounds and are expected to survive. Hernandez was also transported to the hospital with minor self-inflicted wounds and has been arrested for attempted murder. He has a history of mental health issues and drug use.

This is an ongoing investigation, anyone with information is asked to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

 

 

Chino: DUI Checkpoint Yields 9 Arrests

City of Chino

Chino – The Chino Police Department successfully concluded a DUI/Driver’s License Checkpoint during the early hours of Sat., Aug. 23, resulting in nine arrests. Two subjects were arrested for DUI, three were arrested for drug related charges and four were arrested for outstanding warrants. Twenty-five citations were also issued for various offenses including 18 citations for unlicensed/suspended drivers. A total of 5 vehicles were impounded.

The checkpoint was part of the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign funded by the State of California, Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It took place from approximately 8:00 p.m. Friday, to 3:00 a.m. Saturday morning, in the 11600 block of Central Avenue.

The purpose of this type of checkpoint is to educate the public, arrest impaired drivers who are operating vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, cite unlicensed drivers, and to reduce the number of victims killed or injured in alcohol-related collisions.

The Chino Police Department encourages people to call 911 to report suspected drunk drivers.

Chino: Police Department Issues Warning – Family Emergency Scam

City of Chino

 

Chino – Across the county, people are falling victim to a nationwide scam in which individuals pose as family members and urge victims to wire thousands of dollars due to an emergency. In another scenario, callers claim to be employed by the IRS and are calling to collect a debt.

 

Although the circumstances vary from case to case, typical schemes include using information (usually obtained via the internet, including social media sites and illegally obtained email) to impersonate a family member and/or a legal representative, such as a lawyer. This individual often insists that the victim keep the request confidential and asks that the money be wired immediately. By the time the person realizes they have been victimized, the money is gone and cannot be traced. Most cases lead law enforcement to locations outside of the county, making these crimes very difficult to investigate.

 

If found in this situation, Officers of the Chino Police Department urge residents and members of the business community to protect themselves by utilizing the following prevention tips:

 

  • Resist the urge to act immediately, regardless of the sense of urgency implied by the caller.
  • Verify the identity of the person by asking specific questions a stranger could not answer.
  • Try to contact the alleged family member if possible.
  • Verify the story with someone close to the family member.
  • Report possible fraud to your local law enforcement officials.

 

If you have information related to this type of activity please contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

 

Chino: Police Arrest Three Robbery Suspects

STAFF REPORTS

 

Chino – On July 10, officers of the Chino Police Department arrested three suspects who are believed to have been involved in an armed robbery that took place in the 12800 block of 16th Street.

At approximately 3:24 a.m., a victim told police he was robbed at gunpoint while walking on 16th street, and that his handgun and cash had been taken by three armed suspects described as Hispanic males. The suspects were last seen running from the scene into a nearby residential area.

According to a press release from the City of Chino, officers quickly cordoned off the area of Benson Avenue, 18th Street, Tronkeel and Serene Avenues, and evacuated nearby residents. Members of the Chino SWAT Team arrived on scene and surrounded a house in the 12800 block of 16th Street, which is where the suspects were believed to be hiding.

At approximately 5:52 a.m., officers came into contact with Edgar Campos, 20, of Chino, who was walking in the 12800 block of 18th Street. Officers detained him for questioning and later arrested him for his alleged involvement in the robbery.

At 12:04 p.m., SWAT officers removed the second suspect, Rigoberto Garcia, Jr., 24, of Chino, from the home on 16th Street.

Through the investigative process, officers arrested a third suspect – Carlos Meza, 21, of Chino – at around 12:58 p.m. Meza was arrested near the intersection of Benson and Tronkeel Avenues.

All three suspects were booked at the West Valley Detention Center on robbery with gang enhancements. Details are still emerging and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

 

Chino: Crack Down On Illegal Fireworks

BY K.P. SANDER

Chino – Throughout local area Facebook pages, a multitude of citizens have expressed concern regarding illegal fireworks, and what appears to be the blatant disregard for the law. Many want to know when that law is going to be enforced and citations issued.

It’s not just about breaking the law, or frightening our pets and young children, but in one of the worst droughts in recent history, the potential for starting a fire is extreme. House fires, wild fires, and serious injuries are a legitimate concern. A simple Sparkler can burn at temperatures up to 1800 degrees (F) and ignite clothing without a moment’s notice; firecracker-type M-80 and M-100 sticks can cause the loss of limb and life. And yet we still hear the snap, crackle and pop of danger throughout the 4th of July.

Public safety officials issued notices reminding residents that it is illegal to sell, purchase, transport, store or use fireworks in certain areas with penalties subject to fines, citations, arrests and confiscations (all with zero tolerance). While no fireworks are permitted in Riverside County or the unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County, some cities do have approval. In nearby Chino, yes, you can use fire marshal approved safe-and-sane fireworks. For Chino Hills, the answer is no.

In a news release from the City of Chino, it revealed that the Chino Valley Fire District, in partnership with the Chino and Chino Hills Police departments, issued 74 citations on Fri., July 4, and a total of 81 over the holiday period in the City of Chino. Offenders received a little extra sizzle in the form of either a $1,000 fine for possession or use of illegal fireworks (77 of the 81 citations), or a $500 fine for the inappropriate use of such. 56 personnel were deployed to patrol the streets, and 1,173 fireworks were confiscated. Fire personnel also responded and quickly extinguished one spot fire on the eastbound 60 freeway onramp at Central Avenue caused by a firework. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported this year. No citations were written in Chino Hills.

So, yes, laws are being enforced, and the statistics are even down a bit from last year. And with all the great 4th of July entertainment put on by cities near and far, it really is best to leave the fireworks to the professionals.

 

 

 

 

City of Chino: In The News

STAFF REPORTS

Chino – The City of Chino has issued the following important public service announcements:

 

Chino Police Department Announces New Lieutenant

Chino-police-department-lieutenant-Andrew-Bjelland

New CPD Lieutenant, Andrew Bjelland (Photo Courtesy: City of Chino)

Chief Miles Pruitt named Andrew Bjelland the Chino Police Department’s newest Lieutenant, effective Monday, June 9. Bjelland has been serving the Chino community since 2000, after leaving the Los Angeles Police Department and joining the Chino Police Department. Bjelland is a Chino native and graduated from Don Lugo High School; he holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. Bjelland has risen through the ranks serving in the Patrol Division and Detective Bureau; he has worked as a patrol supervisor and a member and supervisor of the Crisis Negotiations Team and the Mobile Field Force Team. Bjelland was in Professional Standards until 2011 before returning to Patrol as a Field Sergeant. In 2012, he became the Detective Bureau Sergeant where he served until he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Bjelland was named Officer of the Year in 2007 and received the Chief’s Award of Distinction in 2014. Bjelland will serve as the Patrol Division Watch Commander effective June 23. Bjelland will fill the position soon vacated by Lieutenant Chris Van Arsdell, who recently submitted his intent to retire effective September 17, 2014.

Chino Police Shut Down Indoor Marijuana Grow House

The Chino Police Department’s Special Enforcement Team seized over 500 marijuana plants on Thurs., June 12, when they discovered a marijuana grow house in the 6800 block of Isaac Court. The plants were seized and the investigation is on-going; no arrests have been made. The owner of the property discovered the growing operation when they arrived to take possession of the residence after the tenants were formally evicted. Anyone with information regarding this incident should call the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

DUI Checkpoint Yields Five Arrests

The Chino Police Department successfully concluded a DUI/driver’s license checkpoint during the early hours of Sun., June 15, resulting in five arrests. Four subjects were arrested for DUI and another was arrested for an outstanding warrant. Twelve citations were also issued for various offenses including ten citations for unlicensed/suspended drivers. A total of five vehicles were towed.

 

The checkpoint was funded by the State of California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and took place from approximately 8:00 p.m. Saturday and continued into the early hours of Sunday morning in the 11900 block of Central Avenue.

 

The purpose of this type of checkpoint is to educate the public, arrest impaired drivers who are operating vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, cite unlicensed drivers and to reduce the number of victims killed or injured in alcohol-related collisions. The Chino Police Department encourages people to call 911 to report suspected drunk drivers.

Lottery Scam Warning – Don’t Be A Victim

The Chino Police Department is warning residents about a Lottery Scam that recently affected a Chino resident. An elderly male and female recently approached and engaged the Chino victim in a conversation, stating they had won the lottery and were expecting a large payout. The trio entered into an agreement to share the proceeds and drove the victim to a bank, where the victim withdrew a large amount of money and gave it to the suspects. The suspects then dropped the victim off in another city and fled.

 

The female suspect was described as Hispanic, 65-70 years old, approximately 4’11, 120 pounds, black hair, with brown eyes. She was wearing a tan colored full-rounded brimmed hat, a pink short-sleeve blouse, blue jeans, and was carrying a large beige cloth shopping bag. The male suspect was described as Hispanic, 65-70 years old, approximately 5’05, 160 pounds. He was wearing a gray button up shirt and khaki pants. The suspect vehicle was a 2008-2010, tan or gold, 4-door sedan.

 

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

Chino Liberty Courtyard – Buy a Brick!

The Chino Liberty Courtyard is a community monument that will pay tribute to the brave men and women who are serving or have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, which includes the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. The project will be located at the Community Building, 5443 B Street, and will include pillars representing each branch of the military, a reflection area, and a seating area around the existing flag pole located near the north entrance of the building.

 

Be a part of Chino history and the Liberty Courtyard by supporting Chino’s men and women in uniform! The Chino Community Services Commission and the Chino Liberty Courtyard Sub-Committee invite the public to support the construction of Chino Liberty Courtyard with the purchase of a commemorative brick.

 

To raise funds for the construction of the project, the Sub-Committee is offering bricks and pavers that will be permanently on display within the courtyard. Bricks cost $75 for a 4”x8” brick and $250 for an 8”x8” paver brick. Each brick is allowed a maximum of two lines and should pay tribute to a specific member of the Armed Forces or show support for the troops in general. The first 100 (4”x8”) bricks will be sold for $50 (limit 4 per household). Some restrictions apply and the City of Chino reserves the right to approve all brick content.

 

Content Examples:

  1. Sgt. John Smith, U.S. Army
  2. Sgt. Amy Adams, U.S. Coast Guard
  3. Chino Business, supports our troops
  4. Garcia Family, supports our troops

 

Headed by the Community Services Commission, the Chino Liberty Courtyard Sub-Committee is comprised of members of the Chino community who have volunteered their time to plan, develop, and raise the necessary funds to construct the project. The construction of Chino Liberty Courtyard will be paid for through the generous donations of community members and the brick fundraiser. Individuals, businesses or organizations interested in joining the Sub-Committee or sponsoring the project, may contact the Community Services Department at (909) 334-3256.

 

All proceeds raised through donations and/or brick purchases will go toward the development and construction of Chino Liberty Courtyard. For more information or to download a brick order form, please visit www.cityofchino.org/libertycourtyard or contact the Community Services Department at (909) 334-3256 or via email at communityservices@cityofchino.org.

 

 

Chino/Chino Hills: Don’t be the Victim of False Fire Inspectors

Chino Valley Independent Fire District

City of Chino

 

Chino/Chino Hills – The Chino Valley Fire District and the Chino Police Department are alerting members of the business community about individuals and organizations suggesting they represent the fire department in order to perform expensive fire inspections. Both Departments have received information that several individuals and organizations are claiming “quarterly fire inspections” are necessary for businesses in Chino and Chino Hills, then charging high prices for the inspections. This has been followed by aggressive and professional collection efforts for services allegedly performed.

 

The Chino Valley Fire District conducts fire inspections in all businesses located within the cities of Chino and Chino Hills. All Chino Valley Fire District Inspectors are uniformed personnel and have a badge clearly displayed over the left front pocket of their uniform shirts.

 

Local businesses are encouraged to request a business card from an inspector and call the Fire District at (909) 902-5260 to verify an inspection is being performed by a Chino Valley Fire District inspector. Business owners should ask for proof of a proper license before anyone services their fire extinguishers, sprinkler system or alarm system. Below are some basic guidelines:

 

  • Always ask an inspector to provide the name of the company for which they work, why they are in your business, and have them produce a business card.
  • Have an inspector tell you what they intend to do and what the estimated costs are before any work is done. Do not pay upfront and do not pay with cash, as invoicing records are important for your business and legal avenues.
  • Do not sign any agreements or forms until confirming the inspection is valid.
  • Always read and understand what you are signing.
  • Have the inspector leave any parts that have been replaced. Make sure you have a signed invoice. Know what you are signing with any invoice.

If you are in doubt, contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234, or the Chino Valley Fire District at (909) 902-5260.

 

 

Chino: Police Arrest Multiple Thieves

BY K.P. SANDER

 

Chino – The Chino Police Department has issued news releases regarding the arrest of a Copper Wire Thief, as well as the arrest of four individuals who misused an EBT card.

 

On Thurs., June 5, Chino Police officers arrested a suspect at approximately 4:52 a.m. after receiving a call regarding a suspicious person in the area. Officers responded to a vacant residence in the 5100 block of Washington Avenue at approximately 1 a.m. regarding a possible burglary. During the initial investigation officers were unable to locate any suspects. After several hours of proactively patrolling the area, they came into contact with Allen Dane, 40, of Pomona, who is currently on parole. Dane was located about a half mile from the property on Washington Avenue.

 

Through investigation, Dane was linked to the residence, where it was confirmed that he had entered the house and stolen copper wiring. He was subsequently arrested and booked into the West Valley Detention Center for burglary and possession of drug paraphernalia.

 

According to FBI.gov, the demand for copper from developing nations such as China and India is creating a significant international copper trade. Thieves are exploiting this demand by stealing and selling the metal for high profits to recyclers across the U.S. As the market expands, the need for copper will continue to encourage theft. Metal thieves are targeting vacant homes and construction sites, and cutting copper wiring from air conditioning/heating units, plumbing, telephone lines, cell towers and other means, the tampering of which presents a serious public threat by disrupting the flow of electricity and creating fire risks.

 

According to the Chino Police Department, copper wire theft continues to be an ongoing crime trend, causing victims thousands of dollars in repairs. Residents are asked to be vigilant in recognizing and reporting suspicious activity related to subjects who are in possession of copper wire, wire cutting tools, or appear to be tampering with objects or locations containing copper wire.

 

In another arrest, Chino Police officers arrested four suspects on Wed., June 4, at approximately 1 p.m. while conducting an undercover operation on the 5200 block of Philadelphia Street. According to a CPD news release, officers encountered three subjects who were sharing cash proceeds after one of them used a California Advantage EBT card (public assistance funds) to withdraw cash from a local market. The investigation reveled that the cardholder was not entitled to receive these cash benefits, but through a relationship with a store employee, funds were withdrawn from the account through the merchant’s register. The store employee received cash compensation for his involvement.

 

Chino residents Derek Greenshields, 24, and Ann VanWinkle, 23, were arrested for conspiracy, burglary, and unlawful transfer of public assistance funds.  Scott Sanchez, 28, from Pomona, and Nabil Dib, 54, from Placentia, were arrested for conspiracy and unlawful transfer of public assistance funds.  All suspects were booked into the West Valley Detention Center.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information regarding this type of crime should call the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.