Tag Archives: City of Chino

Measure H On July 11 Ballot

Photo courtesy: City of Chino
The map above shows the area that will be rezoned if Measure H is approved
by voters on July 11th.

By Marissa Mitchell and Michael Armijo

Chino – This coming Tuesday, July 11, a special election will be held for the city of Chino registered voters to vote on Measure H, which will amend the general plan the Chino Municipal Code.

The Special Election will be held to submit Measure H to voters within the City of Chino. Voters will decide whether to amend the Chino General Plan and the Chino Municipal Code. The Registrar of Voters of the County of San Bernardino will conduct the special election and canvass the returns for Measure H. Below is the ballot question; key dates and deadlines; documents and general information.

The Ballot Question: Shall Ordinance No. 2017-004, entitled “Shall Ordinance No. 2017-004, entitled “An Ordinance of the People of the City of Chino, California, to Enact Section No. 20.15.160 of the Chino Municipal Code Converting 29.7 Acres From the General Plan Designation of RD 1 to RD 4.5, RD 8, and RD 12 Generally Located Between Vernon Avenue and Benson Avenue, South of Adams Street, and North of the Chino Promenade Shopping Center and rezoning the same from an RD 1 designation to RD 4.5, RD 8, RD 12 designations” be adopted?

So what does that mean in layman’s terms? A large housing development that will be built if passed on special ballot July 11. Developer D.R. Horton plans to build 180 homes in north Chino if the special election ballot passes.

There is both an opposition and a proposition to this ballot in and around the surrounding neighborhoods. If approved, the measure stipulates that 20 acres of rural land south of Francis Avenue would be rezoned. In place of rural space will be 12 single-family homes, 87 detached single-family homes, and 73 condos.

The two groups, those opposing Measure H and an organized a committee called “Support Chino Jobs and Schools, Yes, on Measure H,” have been dueling for the ballot measure.

Currently, 30 acres of parceled land north of Cinemark Movies in Chino is zoned for one house per acre, possessing the grazing land and 8 single-family houses. In a Chino City Council meeting in April, the council voted 4-1 to place Measure H on the ballot for citywide election.

Chairman of “No on H” Ed Layaye stated, “The neighborhood is very concerned about this project, “We’re meeting weekly and figuring out how to compete with a multi-billion dollar corporation like D.R. Horton.”

Former mayor Larry Walker is the group treasurer and wrote the argument opposing Measure H, stating, “I’ve become aware of a dramatic number of developments cooking in Chino and it seems like every one is a violation of the general plan,” he said. “I told the people 40 years ago the general plan should be the guide for the development of Chino.”

The property owners of the rural land are long-time Chino residents, and state that this development is a benefit for the city. Matt Evans and father-in-law Ron Brewer, stated that more than 600 Chino residents have expressed support for the project.

Evans declared, “Ron Brewer and I believe that Measure H will be a positive step forward for our entire community. It will enable young Chino residents the opportunity to raise their families here and offers new home ownership in an affordable part of the city.”

Other owners echo this sentiment, saying that this development will lure more potential residents to Chino, thus bringing in more economical revenue to be used municipally.

For or against, this Tuesday July 11, cast your vote for your voice to be heard.

Local Bank Robbery Suspect Caught

IMG_4584

Staff Reports

Chino – The “AK-47” bank robber who shot and wounded a local police officer back in 2012 was caught this week in another state. He is also accused of a string of bank robberies throughout the country. He was dubbed the “AK-47 Bandit” by FBI agents because in each robbery, the suspect brandishes an AK-47 –style assault rifle with a drum magazine. 

Richrd Gathercole, 39, was arrested in Helena, Montana for shooting at a Kansas State Trooper. While in jail, Gathercole himself tipped police off during a recorded phone conversation. According to a transcript, he apparently called his mother, whom he lived with, and instructed her to “get all the guns out of the house”. His mother, who was unnamed, agreed and then said “um, this is recorded. You know that.” Apparently he did not.

On Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012, the California Bank & Trust on 5455 Riverside Drive in Chino, California, was robbed by a white male, described as 25-40 years old, with a stocky build.  The suspect was armed with an assault rifle, similar to an AK-47, with a sling and drum magazine.  Following the robbery, a police officer patrolling the area came upon the bank robbery suspect who was fleeing the bank.  The suspect fired upon the officer and seriously wounded him.  During and following the robbery, the suspect wore body armor over a dark-colored collared short-sleeved shirt and blue pants, as well as a ski mask covering his face. 

The suspect was seen leaving the scene in a vehicle described as a dark gray Nissan Maxima with four doors and tinted windows.  A witness described seeing Arizona license plates on the vehicle. The suspect was seen in bank surveillance video and photographs dressed in tactical gear over a dark-colored, short-sleeve collared shirt and blue pants. He also wore a black full-face ski mask, a blue ballistic vest and/or a green mesh vest marked “Sheriff.”  

“I was on my way to the post office and parked across from the Chino Valley Medical Center Emergency entrance as I usually do,” said Michael Armijo, a passerby. “Then comes a police car screeching down the street as though he didn’t have control of the vehicle.” He drove erratically because the officer had a bullet in his leg, the police department confirmed.

“The officer flipped the door open and yelled ‘I’ve been shot’ and I ran up to the car with another passerby. I instructed him to get help at the ER and I tried to help him get out of the car,” Armijo said. “He then proceeded to give me details about the incident and the suspect to tell the detectives when they got there, so I did.” Armijo also said the officer told him he just happened to pull up when the robber was walking out. It was just timing, the officer had no warning there was a robbery going on. The robber saw the policeman and just began to open fire on the police car, striking the car in the fender, the door and the rear panel. The officer was hit through the door and the bullet entered and exited his leg, while the gas tank was punctured but did not ignite, Armijo said.

FBI officials have been looking for years for the suspect in Vacaville, Rexburg and others in California, Washington state and Nebraska dating back to 2012.

FBI agents, along with officers from Chino; Rexburg, Idaho; and Montana’s Musselshell County searched Gathercole’s home in the town of Roundup, about 50 miles north of Billings, on Saturday, according to officials with the Musselshell County Sheriff’s Office. Inside, they found “numerous” improvised explosive devices that were removed by a bomb squad, the officials said in a statement. His arrest was for the attempted shooting of the trooper who was trying to pull him over on interstate 70, and the trooper wasn’t injured.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Chino Police Department at 909 628-1234, their nearest FBI office or dial 911. For more information you can sign onto http://www.chinopd.org/.  The FBI’s wanted flyer announcing the reward can be found at http://www.fbi.gov/wanted/unknown/unknown-suspect-17/view.  Information can be provided confidentially.

Chino Valley Officials’ Texts and Emails Must Be Disclosed On All Public Matters

By Marissa Mitchell

Chino Valley, CA – In early March, the California Supreme Court ruled in a unanimous decision to disclose all public-related information regardless of source, a cause supported by open-government advocates.  Cities in and around Chino Valley are looking to comply with said ruling, which generally forces public employees, including politicians, to share texts and emails to public record, even when they come from personal devices.

This ruling came from a long-standing 8-year battle after the city of San Jose refused to release “private” texts and emails to a public records request. These texts and emails, sent by officials, discussed a downtown development project. According to the new ruling, the court stated that communication sent on personal cell phones and computers must be disclosed to the public if they “relate in some substantive way to the conduct of the public’s business.”

In response, the city of Chino Hills has set up email accounts for all public commissions, and is provided a training workshop on Monday May 22 at 7 p.m. in council chambers. Assistant City Attorney Elizabeth Calciano will commence with the training that day.

Now, public officials will be subject to scrutiny on multiple levels. The thought is that they will be disinclined to conduct public business on personal devices or avoid scrutiny.

California Supreme Court Judge Carol A. Corrigan wrote of this recent ruling, “A city employee’s communications related to the conduct of public business do not cease to be public records just because they were sent or received using a personal account.

In the city of Chino, email accounts will be issued to the planning commission, but not to the community services commission because it is not a “decision-making authority,” according to spokeswoman Monica Gutierrez. Even prior to the San Jose court ruling, the city of Chino established a policy encouraging the use of city-issued cell phones and other such devices.

The Chino policy stipulates that all communication on city-issued equipment is subject to perusal at any time, and open to monitoring and public record requests.

The Chino Valley Unified School District spokeswoman Brenda Dunkle stated the district is awaiting recommendations in the middle of May from the CSBA (California School Boards Association) regarding this ruling.  She also stated that the district’s current technology use policy declares that any device accessing the district’s network is not private, whether used on site or off.

Fire Chief Time Shackelford stated he has iterated to his personnel only to use fire district servers and accounts to correspond, create, or store documents and communications related to district business. Training will also be provided for fire station employees.

Various news media representatives have called the decision “a resounding victory for the public.” This new ruling sends a strong message that public officials and employees cannot evade public scrutiny by using personal accounts.

Local governments have expressed concerns about invasion of privacy for its workers, so further concrete details are to come from the California Supreme Court on just how to go about this monitoring. Executive director of the First Amendment Coalition David Synder stated, “If employees are conducting written business about the people’s business on email, that ought to be available to the public. It shouldn’t matter if the email is privately owned or owned by the government.”

 

 

“Protect Chino” Launches Prop H Campaign

By Marissa Mitchell

Chino, CA – There is a grass-roots group – “Protect Chino No on H” – campaigning against a large housing development that will be built if passed on special ballot July 11. Developer D.R. Horton plans to build 180 homes in north Chino if the special election ballot passes.

There is vehement opposition to this ballot in and around the surrounding neighborhoods. If approved, the measure stipulates that 20 acres of rural land south of Francis Avenue would be rezoned. In place of rural space will be 12 single-family homes, 87 detached single-family homes, and 73 condos.

May 20 there will be a community meeting scheduled for 4 p.m. at Wolfinbarger landscape store, 5675 Francis Avenue, in Chino, for those opposing Measure H.

In response to this group, property owners of the rural land have organized a committee called “Support Chino Jobs and Schools, Yes, on Measure H.”

Currently, 30 acres of parceled land north of Cinemark Movies in Chino is zoned for one house per acre, possessing the grazing land and 8 single-family houses. In a Chino City Council meeting in April, the council voted 4-1 to place Measure H on the ballot for citywide election.

Chairman of “No on H” Ed Layaye stated, “The neighborhood is very concerned about this project, “We’re meeting weekly and figuring out how to compete with a multi-billion dollar corporation like D.R. Horton.”

Former mayor Larry Walker is the group treasurer and wrote the argument opposing Measure H, stating, “I’ve become aware of a dramatic number of developments cooking in Chino and it seems like every one is a violation of the general plan,” he said. “I told the people 40 years ago the general plan should be the guide for the development of Chino.”

The property owners of the rural land are long-time Chino residents, and state that this development is a benefit for the city. Matt Evans and father-in-law Ron Brewer, stated that more than 600 Chino residents have expressed support for the project.

Evans declared, “   “Ron Brewer and I believe that Measure H will be a positive step forward for our entire community. It will enable young Chino residents the opportunity to raise their families here and offers new home ownership in an affordable part of the city.”

Other owners echo this sentiment, saying that this development will lure more potential residents to Chino, thus bringing in more economical revenue to be used municipally.

Special ballot is to occur on July 11 of this year.

4 Chino Residents, 1 CH Resident Arrested For Attempted Burglary

By Michael Armijo

Chino Hills – Five area residents were arrested this week by Chino Hills Police when they were caught attempting to burglarize a home and apprehended at gunpoint.

Garret Rogers, 19, Ruben Medivil, 19, and Roberto Alonso Salmon, 18, all of Chino, Joaquin Leonardo Salmon Garcia, 20 from Chino Hills, and a 17 year-old male juvenile from Chino were arrested Monday May 1st, around 1 pm in the afternoon, after a homeowner caught them inside his residence. Three suspects were apprehended at the scene while two others ran away but were subsequently caught a short distance away by Chino Hills PD.

On Monday, May 1, 2017 at 1:05 p.m. the Zhang family was inside their home on the 13000 block of Gemstone Court when they heard noises on the upstairs balcony of their home. The suspects then attempted to enter the home through an upstairs door. Home owner Yan Zhang retrieved a handgun and confronted the suspects. Zhang held the suspects at gunpoint while a neighbor called 911, and his wife kept the children safe.
Two of the suspects fled, but were captured nearby when Deputy Eileen Smith arrived on scene. Many of the surrounding neighbors assisted by providing information to the responding deputies. All five suspects were taken into custody. Four of the suspects were booked into the West Valley Detention Center, and the juvenile suspect was cited and released to his parents.
 The family spoke little English. Their neighbor told CBS2’s Crystal Cruz what happened Monday afternoon when the family heard unwanted guests in their back yard.

“They came home from supermarket, and they noticed somebody jump the fence and try to pry in. And he panicked. He had a gun. So he pulled out and do a warning shot,” neighbor Tony Tran said to CBS2 reporter Crystal Cruz.

Neighbors wondered why the burglars picked a home with bars on the windows and described as Fort Knox of the cul-de-sac.

“If that’s what he felt he needed to do, that’s what he needed to do. Because you don’t know. You walk in and someone’s in your house. You don’t know if they’re going to kill you.” neighbor Lapedtra Singleton said to the CBS2 reporter Crystal Cruz.

Last month, at another house nearby, the homeowner was sleeping when he said two people with their faces covered tried unsuccessfully to break into his place through the window and left in a white car, CBS2 Cruz reported.

Anyone with additional information reference this incident is urged to call the Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME. And refer to case #221701495 

Cyclist Found Dead In Chino Hills State Park

Photo by Michael Armijo

By Michael Armijo

Chino Hills – A 42-year old Downey resident was found dead in the Chino Hills State Park last Monday around 2 pm after he was reported missing the night before.

Sokha Pho, 42, of Downey, was reported missing by his family after he failed to return home from his bike ride on Sunday. The initial missing person report was investigated by park rangers, who located Pho’s vehicle parked near the Chino Hills State Park Discovery Center in Brea, 4500 Carbon Canyon Road, but found no sign of Pho, said Lt. Steve Gil of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, which was assisting in the search.

Investigators from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department contacted the Chino Hills Police Station and requested mutual aid in locating a missing mountain biker in the Chino Hills State Park, local reports said.

A San Bernardino County sheriff’s helicopter ultimately found the body in the park, which straddles both counties; the body appeared to have suffered trauma injuries, which may indicate he fell or was ejected from his mountain bike. It was unclear if that agency has initiated a criminal investigation.

Members of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department searched the west portion of the park, while the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department – West Valley Search and Rescue, along with the Department’s air ship (40 King), searched the east portion of the park. At approximately 2:05 p.m, 40 King crew members located Pho’s body near Raptor Ridge on the Telegraph Canyon trail. Pho was pronounced deceased. The San Bernardino County Coroner’s Division responded to the location. The cause of death is currently unknown and will be determined after an autopsy is completed, a press release said.
Anyone with additional information reference this incident is urged to call the Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at
(800) 78-CRIME (27463)., referring to case #031701165.

Accident Sends Two to Hospital

Photo by Michael Armijo

By Michael Armijo

Chino – An accident on Pipeline and Schafer Wednesday morning sent two people to the hospital when a car hit a box truck pushing it on its side and into a light pole.

At about 6:05 am Wednesday morning Maria Hernandez, 30, of Ontario was traveling west bound on Shafer Avenue in her 2012 grey Honda Civic when she collided with a 2004 box truck driven by Francisco Sodo-Mejia, 27, also of Ontario, according to Tamrin Olden, Crime Prevention Officer for Chino PD.

“The intersection was closed to oncoming traffic in each way for several hours during the investigation,” said Officer Olden, “the investigation is ongoing so no other details are available.”

Mejia, the driver of the box truck which was struck by the Honda, was apparently ejected. It was not yet determined if he was wearing a seatbelt or not. Hernandez struck the truck and then collided with the tree, Olden confirmed.

“They were both taken to local hospitals via ground ambulance without life threatening injuries,” she added. Mejia remains in the hospital as of Friday April 21, with extensive injuries and was downgraded to having no life threatening.  Hernandez was released the same day. No updates were available except there were no life threatening injuries.

If anyone has any information or witnessed the accident Officer Olden encourages them to call the Chino Police Department at 909.628.1234.

Photo by Michael Armijo

Heart 2 Serve: Offering Hope to the Hopeless

Combining Community Outreach with Business Services

By Marissa Mitchell

Chino Hills – For four years now, an organization has existed somewhat under the radar providing services to both individuals and the community at large.

Heart 2 Serve, a privately owned and operated 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, currently assists adult individuals in substance abuse recovery and reintegration as productive members of society through community service and construction businesses offered to the San Bernardino and Los Angeles County areas.

This faith-based (Christian) organization was founded by Brian and Cindy Baughman, with the help of fellow faith members, in 2013. It initially began as a construction company, followed by what was termed an “RV ministry” for transitional living. In 2015, Heart 2 Serve, Inc. became a 501(c)(3) entity, focused entirely on individuals who truly wanted help.

Heart 2 Serve provides all that is necessary to rebuild individual lives that have fallen into hopelessness due to substance addiction through the business built from these humble beginnings. Currently, the organization assists often-stigmatized individuals, including parolees and homeless persons, in their recovery through provision of work, shelter, food, and clothing, so as to reintegrate them as productive members of society.

Heart 2 serve offers a 2-year program that begins with establishing a life-plan of achievable goals designed to measure a client’s progress, rebuild his confidence, and discover newfound hope.

According to its mission statement, Heart 2 Serve Inc. is “the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things unseen.” From the ashes of all the ruins of lives destroyed by addiction, there is birthed a new life amidst despair in the act of serving others. Thus, the name was chosen: Heart 2 Serve.

Among the services required and/or available for a client of the transitional living and reintegration program is participation in the following: substance abuse recovery programs (12 Step meetings), spiritual counseling, safe shelter, employment and skill training (through the construction and moving services training), health and care, food and clothing, legal assistance, education and transportation, and, finally, gainful employment.

The professional contracting and moving services that Heart 2 Serve provides through its nonprofit not only helps fun their ministry, but it also offers an opportunity for individuals in the program to learn new skills and earn an income.

To that end, Heart 2 Serve is a licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor, able to meet every commercial and residential construction and moving needs.

What attracts individuals and businesses to hire Heart 2 Serve over other companies is not just the low pricing, but, as a non-profit, there is also a substantial tax savings provided in using the service, as it is considered a “charitable contribution” on tax forms.
Good cause. Good savings. Rebuilding society from the ground up – literally. Not much else one could desire from a nonprofit, really.
For more information, visit www.h2si.org.

 

Historic Planes of Fame Airshow Being Sued for “Obstruction” of Businesses

By Marissa Mitchell

 

Chino – A lawsuit recently filed is seeking to stop the historic airshow held annually at the Planes of Fame Air Museum. The air show is scheduled to take place on May 6 and 7 at Chino Airport.

The suit alleges that the event “obstructs and impedes” other tenants’ business operations, thus violating the licensing conditions of the event itself. The lawsuit is seeking unspecified damages and the hearing is scheduled April 20 in San Bernardino County Superior Court.

Harry T. Geier, director of marketing and development at Planes of Fame, remarked, “As we await the judge’s decision on April 20th, we are going forward with preparations and looking forward to the show.”

Planes of Fame is a nonprofit organization led by Steve Hinton, a warbird devotee and former champion air-racer. The organization has submitted an online appeal for supporters to help save the 25th annual air show of this historic landmark.

The online petition had gathered 14,670 voters by April 12 out of a desired 15,000, exhibiting a strong desire for the continuation of the show. On the petition website, the organization stated that the air show, “serves as the primary fundraising effort for the Planes of Fame Air Museum…[It] helps us to carry on our mission to preserve aviation history, inspire an interest in aviation, education of the public, and honor aviation pioneers and veterans.”

On April 2, the law firm Borchard & Callahan announced the lawsuit on behalf of several airport tenants, including Zangeneh Aeronautics, Socal MRO, Flying Tigers Aviation, Yanks Air Museum, and AFT Center. All businesses allege that the losses over the 9-day period of set-up, event, and take down for the airshow are significant.

Nonetheless, Geier noted, the museum is still selling tickets online, but, he stated, “if the airshow is cancelled due to decision, we will refund all of the tickets bought in advance on our website.”

Up to this point, all of the acts for the historic airshow have already been scheduled.

“The volunteers and workers are committed and the airshow performers are looking forward to participating and supporting the air show on May 6 and 7,” declared director Geier optimistically. With much public support rallying behind them, Planes of Fame staff and community family hope to celebrate the sixtieth anniversary of the museum with another successful airshow.

2 Die and 4 Injured in Church Parking Lot Accident

By Marissa Mitchell

 

Chino – A man driving a sports utility vehicle (SUV) struck six people in a church parking lot on Sunday, April 9, killing two and injuring four. Police say it was not terrorist-related.

The crash occurred at 7 p.m. in the parking lot of East Sarang Community Church, locate at 5540 Schaefer Avenue in Chino, CA. After an event held at the church, the senior male driver of the charcoal gray SUV reversed too forcibly when backing out, going over a curb and striking six pedestrians.

All six victims were women, and two were killed immediately upon impact. The other four were seriously injured, but with non-life threatening injuries. The driver and his passenger also sustained non-serious injuries, per the police, and were transported to the hospital as well.

“We do not believe that any alcohol or drugs played a part in this collision,” stated Lt. Kevin Mensen of Chino PD. The investigation is ongoing.

All six female victims were attending the event at the church, but were not members.

Police do not believe the crash to be intentional, but there is no immediate cause for the crash at this time.

Kevin Mensen stated of the driver, “We don’t know what his coherentness was. We don’t know what caused [his sudden acceleration], whether his age or anything else.”

The names of the person involved have yet to be released.

Teen Recovering Well After Heart Transplant

By Marissa Mitchell

 

Chino – Sophomore Alexis Anderson of Chino Hills High is recovering remarkably well since her heart transplant earlier this month.10

At age 15, she suffered an episode of cardiac arrest from a heart condition developed during adolescence. Prior to receiving an appropriate heart donor, she had spent over a month in the ICU, mostly unconscious and entirely immobile. Her cardiac arrest placed her at emergency-level status of need of a heart.

The surgery performed on March 6th lasted 12 hours. According to her father, Todd Anderson, “Alexis has been recovering very well since her transplant.” Her body has not rejected the new heart in any way, and her vitals are stable. He added, “In my opinion she has been improving at a faster rate than expected.”

Earlier in February, her struggle received a good deal of media attention when her classmate LaMelo Ball scored an impressive 92 points in a Chino Hills High basketball game, and he subsequently dedicated the outcome of the game entirely to her.

“Her biggest obstacles now are in the rehabilitation process,” stated Todd Anderson. “She will continue to improve, but it will be a long journey.” Now that Lexi can stand and walk (with assistance), and that her vocal cords are healing with her voice, Lexi is truly demonstrating her resilience.

Since her hospitalization, Christian organization Agape Miracles has set up a GoFundMe account to fundraise for medical costs on the family’s behalf. There were many factors going into “finding” Lexi a heart, but most are as mysterious as (right now) are the details of the organ donor.

The family first found Alexis nonresponsive on February 3 of this year. Her parents then performed CPR until the paramedics could take over the situation. She was successfully revived and transported to the emergency room, and put on a transplant list. She was given priority 1-A status on the heart transplant list: emergency status. While waiting, she was kept alive by a VAD, also known as a ventricular assist device. She had emergency surgery Feb. 7, just prior to LaMelo Ball’s 92-point game. She then received a heart.

Throughout this ordeal, the Andersons sought spiritual assistance through prayer. They actively attribute Lexi’s recovery to God. Even now, Lexi has a wonderful spirit about her. As her father stated, “There will be many challenges ahead, but we are confident that God will continue to provide for Lexi through each and every obstacle.”

 

Murder Suspect in Custody

By City of Chino

Suspect in custody, after fatally shooting two victims following a dispute, late Saturday morning, January 28, 2017.

At approximately 11:38 a.m. officers responded to a report of a shooting that occurred at a mobile home community located at 5925 Riverside Drive. Upon arrival, two male adult victims were discovered with fatal gunshot wounds. The suspect, who was known to the victims, fled in a silver Toyota truck prior to officer’s arrival.

The suspect, identified as Jose Montgomery – age 53 of Chino, was located approximately 45 minutes later by Ontario PD at Jurupa Street and Toyota Way in the City of Ontario. He was taken into custody then transported to Chino PD before being booked at the West Valley Detention Center on 2 counts of murder.

Eastbound Riverside Drive between Oaks Avenue and Ross Avenue remains closed while investigators process the scene.

The victims’ names are being withheld pending identification and next of kin notifications by the San Bernardino County Sheriff Coroners.

The investigation is ongoing; anyone with information is asked to contact Chino PD at (909) 628-1234.

 

Deputies Arrest Four Suspects for Multiple Residential Burglaries in Chino Hills

By Chino Hills Sheriff
On January 10, 2017, deputies from the Chino Hills Station responded to a residential burglary in progress located in the 2400 block of White Dove Lane in Chino Hills. Deputies observed three black males running from the scene. After a short foot pursuit, all three suspects were apprehended and identified as, Armani Young, Daquione Hardy and Max Macias. Deputies also observed the suspect vehicle, being driven by a black male, fleeing from the scene. Deputies conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle in the same area and contacted the driver, later identified as Shawn Hernandez. During the investigation, evidence and stolen property, including a stolen firearm, were located in the vehicle connecting them to three separate residential burglaries in Chino Hills. All four suspects were arrested and booked at the West Valley Detention Center for multiple felony charges.
Suspect(s): Shawn Hernandez, 24 Years old, Resident of Los Angeles
Armani Young, 18 Years old, Resident of Los Angeles
Daquione Hardy, 22 Years Old, Resident of Los Angeles
Max Macias, 21 Years Old, Resident of Fontana
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact Deputy J. Brenes, Deputy J. Vega, or Detective Q. Holiday at (909) 364-2000. 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.

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT
Chino Hills Police/Sheriff’s Station
14077 Peyton Drive, Chino Hills, Ca. 91709

 

Bank Robbery at Chino Bank

City of Chino PD chino-citizens-business-bank

On December 30, 2016 at 4:00 p.m., Chino Police Officers responded to a panic alarm at the Citizens’ Business Bank located at 12808 Central Avenue.  Responding officers confirmed an armed robbery had taken place and were able to obtain a description of the suspect and his vehicle from bank employees and patrons.

Chino Officers located the suspect vehicle on the eastbound 60 freeway and conducted a high risk traffic stop.  The suspect was taken into custody without incident. Evidence from the robbery was recovered from the vehicle.

The eastbound 60 freeway was closed for approximately twenty minutes during the traffic stop.

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

 

Identity Theft Ring Bust in Chino

By City of Chino PD

CHINO– On December 29, 2016, Chino Police Officers responded to a motel located on the 12000 block of Central Avenue for a report of suspicious subjects, possibly renting a room using a fictitious name.

Officers confirmed the name and credit card used was fictitious and proceeded to attempt to make contact with the subjects.  The subjects were no longer in the room.  Through a swift investigation using witness interviews, the officers were able to locate the two suspects at a motel in Pomona, Ca.  The two suspects had multiple outstanding warrants for their arrest.

Subsequently, search warrants were served to both motels in Chino and Pomona. Officers located over 40 counterfeit driver’s licenses and over 100 counterfeit credit cards along with several computers and printers used to print counterfeit driver’s licenses and credit cards.

Suspect 1: Chad Jensen, 32 years old (DOB 4-16-84) residing in the Orange County area.

Suspect 2: Ashley Villarreal, 27 years old (DOB 9-25-89) residing in the Orange County area

Both suspects are charged with possession of ten or more persons’ identity with the intent to commit identity theft, and possession of an embossing machine with the intent to commit identity theft, along with other identity theft related charges.

The initial investigation has identified fifty separate identity theft victims. Investigators expect to identify more victims as the investigation continues. This identity theft operation was complex and included the use of sophisticated technology.

“Being the victim of identity theft is very frustrating and time consuming. The Chino Police Department is committed to seeking out these types of criminals, shutting down their operation, and making sure they are prosecuted.” – Lieutenant Kevin Mensen

Anyone with information or any potential victims may call Chino Police Investigations at 909.334.3093

 

Love Skywriting Stamp Reveal At Chino Airport

By Tiana Goegebuerus-stamp

On January 7th, 2017, the United States Postal Service will debut their new postage stamp “Love Skywriting” at the Chino Airport. According to USPS.com, the stamp is not just meant for romantic correspondence, but for friends, family members, or anyone else you love. The new stamp’s description is: “The stamp art depicts the word “Love” written in white cursive script against a blue sky studded with wispy clouds. The edges of the letters are just beginning to blur into the surrounding sky. Underlining the word is a decorative swirl of smoke that emphasizes the message. A small, stylized plane, dwarfed by the giant letters, completes the end of the swirl, with smoke trailing from its tail.” The stamp was designed by Louise Fili, illustrated by Jessica Hische, and directed by Derry Noyes.

Open to the public, the reveal will take place at 10 a.m. at the Planes of Fame Museum, followed by a series of events and activities. According to the Chino Airport website, the events will feature the Curtiss P-40N Warhawk, which will be on display and perform a flight demonstration, a speaker panel of aviation experts and historians, followed by a question & answer period.

The stamp celebrates the history of skywriting as a form of art and expression, so the location of the reveal serves to showcase both aspects and provides an opportunity to see them in action.

 

Chino Valley Fire Visits Children’s Hospital

BY CVFDcvfd-schools

Chino Valley Fire District personnel visited children undergoing treatment at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles to deliver toys and other gifts on December 22, 2016.

The second-annual toy delivery was first initiated by CVFD Junior Firefighter Vincent Dominguez, 8, after he successfully fought and beat cancer while being treated at CHLA. Fire personnel returned to CHLA with Junior Firefighter Dominguez to greet patients, offer gifts and words of encouragement.

The Chino Valley Fire Foundation provided $1,500 for firefighters to purchase several toys, art supplies, sports equipment, electronic devices and gift cards that were distributed throughout the morning.cx

The Chino Valley Fire Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting life, safety, and welfare of the public through educational programs, direct assistance, and financial support of charitable organizations, victims of tragic events, and injured firefighters.

 

 

4 Arrested after DUI Checkpoint

By City of Chinodui-police-checkpoint-sign

Chino Police Department Traffic Unit conducted a DUI/Drivers License Checkpoint on Friday, December 16, 2016 between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m.

The deterrent effect of High Visibility Enforcement using both DUI checkpoints and DUI Saturation Patrols has proven to lower the number of persons killed and injured in alcohol or drug impaired crashes.  Research shows that crashes involving an impaired driver can be reduced by up to 20 percent when well-publicized proactive DUI operations are conducted routinely.

DUI Checkpoints like this one are placed in locations based on collision statistics and frequency of DUI arrests, affording the greatest opportunity for achieving drunk and drugged driving deterrence. Locations are chosen with safety considerations for the officers and the public.

In California, this deadly crime led to 1,155 deaths and over 24,000 serious injuries in 2014 because someone failed to designate a sober driver. Over the course of the past three years officers have investigated 60 DUI collisions which have claimed 0 lives, but resulted in 79 injuries.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), checkpoints have provided the most effective documented results of any of the DUI enforcement strategies, while also yielding considerable cost savings of $6 for every $1 spent.  Ninety Percent of California drivers approve of checkpoints.

The checkpoint resulted in the following:

  • 1,092 vehicles screened
  • 4 DUI suspects arrested
  • 14 drivers cited/arrested for operating a vehicle unlicensed or while suspended/revoked
  • 9 other citations issued
  • 7 vehicles impounded/stored

Studies of California drivers have shown that 30 percent of drivers in fatal crashes had one or more drugs in their systems.  A study of active drivers showed more tested positive for drugs that may impair driving (14 percent) than did for alcohol (7.3 percent).  Of the drugs, marijuana was most prevalent, at 7.4 percent, slightly more than alcohol. Everyone should be mindful that if you’re taking medication – whether prescription or over-the-counter – drinking even small amounts of alcohol can greatly intensify the impairment affects.

Drivers are encouraged to download the Designated Driver VIP, or “DDVIP,” free mobile app for Android or iPhone.  The DDVIP app helps find nearby bars and restaurants that feature free incentives for the designated sober driver, from free non-alcoholic drinks to free appetizers and more.  The feature-packed app even has social media tie-ins and even a tab for the non-DD to call Uber, Lyft or Curb.

Drivers caught driving impaired can expect the impact of a DUI arrest to include jail time, fines, fees, DUI classes, license suspensions and other expenses that can exceed $10,000 not to mention the embarrassment when friends and family find out.

Funding for this checkpoint is provided to Chino Police Department by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reminding everyone to ‘Report Drunk Driver – Call 9-1-1’.

Boy dies 6 days after 5th Birthday

Staff Reports

CHINO- On December 11,  the Chino Police Department Officers responded to a report of a traffic collision between a vehicle and a child in the 12700 block of Oaks Avenue.  Once they arrived, officers and paramedics found a 5 year old boy suffering from severe trauma.  Paramedics transported the boy to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.  The boy resided on Oaks Avenue, the street where the collision occurred.

The Chino PD stated, “The driver of the vehicle is an 18 year old male from Chino, California.  He remained at the scene and has cooperated with the investigation. It is not believed that alcohol or drugs played a part in the collision.”

fold-image-web The roadway remained closed while members of the Traffic Unit conducted their investigation.

The collision is still under investigation and anyone with information, especially anyone who witnessed the collision, is asked to call the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

A go fund me account has been set up and if you wish to donate to the family, you may visit https://www.gofundme.com/33mu1rs

The following is the message has been posted on go fund me account from the family: On December 5th we celebrated our son Stevens 5th birthday. It was a day filled with laughter, joy and love surrounded by family. Six short days later, tragedy has fallen upon our home, and in an unexpected lost we must say goodbye to our beautiful child.
This account is being set up to help ease the financial burden of this sudden unexpected loss. The date and time of the services will be posted as soon as they are finalized. Thank you in advance for your donations and outpouring of love and support. Your continuance prayers and support are much appreciated. God Bless.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 12.17.16

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The Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: 2016-dec-17-weekly-full2016-dec-17-weekly-cover