Tag Archives: crime

Man Arrested with Firearm

Staff Reports

San Bernardino County – Reports of shots fired were announced Sunday, September 18, 2016 on the 1900 block of Adams Street at approximately 3:17 p.m.

Witnesses recalled that a man, later identified as Jose Diaz, was driving around in a sedan and shot at the victim’s foot. When police spotted Diaz’ vehicle in the 2500 block of Ogden, a brief foot pursuit occurred. After Diaz was taken into custody, he was positively identified by witnesses as the suspect responsible for the assault.

Deputies found a semi-automatic handgun in Diaz’ vehicle that was linked to the shooting. At Diaz’ home, police also found approximately one pound of marijuana and a sawed-off rifle. Diaz was later arrested for PC 245 Assault with a Deadly Weapon (Firearm) and booked into the Central Detention Center.

If you have any more information regarding this incident, you are urged to contact Central Station at (909) 387 – 3545. If you wish to remain anonymous, feel free to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME or leave information on the website at http://www.wetip.com

Woman Murdered Alive

Staff Reports

Pomona – Alexander Anthony Clever was sentenced to life in prison without parole after the murder of his girlfriend, Yvette Silva, in 2014.

On Nov. 29, 2014, Clever and Silva were heard arguing in their motel bathroom, according to Michael Matoba, the Deputy District Attorney who prosecuted the case.

Two of the victim’s friends, who were also inside the motel, tried to intervene as soon as they heard muffle screaming coming from the bathroom. Inside, Clever held Silva in a chokehold as she lay unconscious, Matoba said. Unable to free Silva from Clever, the two witnesses went to find help.

When Pomona deputies arrived, they found Silva in the shower with her right lung and heart removed. Police determined that Silva was alive when her lung was cut out of her body.

Two days after the event, Clever was arrested outside his home where police found the knife that was linked to Silva’s murder inside.

Clever admitted to torturing Silva before ultimately killing her and pleaded to one count of first-degree murder, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

Senior Citizen Attacked by SB Resident

Staff Reports

San Bernardino- On September 3, at 24600 block of Sixth Street in San Bernardino, the victim, who is a senior citizen, called 911 for help after he was attacked by Antonio Tellez, who tried to stab him in the face.

The victim first ran into his bedroom because he was overwhelmed by Tellez. Tellez chased after him and tried to stab the victim in the face again. The victim was able to call 911 on his cell phone while Tellez ran from his house. Deputies from the Central Station responded to the call to help the victim. The victim provided information to identify the suspect.

In a resident’s front yard, Tellez was located approximately one block away. He was then taken into custody without incident. He was booked at the Central Detention Center and he violated his parole. Tellez is an active gang member with an ample violent criminal history who recently had been released from prison on parole for assault with a deadly weapon.

It is encouraged that residents are aware of their surroundings in their neighborhood. They should keep their doors and windows secure at all times and they should call the police when suspicious subjects are near their home.

If you have any information regarding this investigation and wanting to remain anonymous should call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave your information on the We-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com.

 

 

 

 

 

Speed Contest Results In A Collision

Staff Reports

Chino Hills- On June 25, two suspects were arrested after a speed contest that resulted into a collision on Soquel Canyon Parkway and Pipeline Avenue in Chino Hills.

The two suspects were identified as 18-year-old resident of Chino, Juan Nungaray, and a male juvenile resident of Chino who is 17 years-old.

According to the Chino Hills Police Department, the suspects were driving at speeds that doubled the speed limit, about more than 80 mph. The juvenile of the vehicle lost control and collided with several trees before the vehicle came to rest on the sidewalk of Soquel Canyon Parkway. There was also a passenger with the juvenile, who suffered minor injuries from the collision.

Both suspects were arrested for participating in a speed contest, and both vehicles were impounded.

If you have any additional information, please contact Deputy J. Arden of the Chino Hills Police/Sheriff’s Department at (909) 364-2000.

Three Arrested For Loaded Firearm

Staff ReportsArrest-WEB

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

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

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

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

Gang Homicide In Santa Ana

Staff Reports

 

Santa Ana – On Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, at midnight, patrol officers were dispatched to a call of shots fired in the area of Sullivan Street. Witnesses informed officers they had heard approximately 4 to 5 shots fired. While at the call, officers learned that a 17-year old male – later identified as Angel Arellano – arrived with multiple gunshot wounds at Coastal Community Hospital. Arellano was immediately transported to Western Medical Center in critical condition, where he died from his injuries. Officers located the crime scene in the 500 block of S. Sullivan Street.

Victim Arellano – a documented Townsend Street gang member – was one of the individuals the Orange County District Attorney’s Office was seeking to enjoin the current Townsend Street Injunction.

According to an article written on the VoiceofOC.org (Aug. 20), the Injunction is essentially a restraining order that would restrict the activities of a gang’s members in a .39-square mile safety zone bordered by McFadden Avenue, and Raitt, Sullivan and First streets. Those enjoined would be prohibited from associating with gang members in public spaces within the safety zone, with the exception of certain spaces such as schools or churches. The order also prohibits gang members from acting as lookouts, trespassing, fighting, blocking free passage, or intimidating anyone in public. This shooting occurred within the gang injunction safety zone.

It is reported that residents in Santa Ana are frustrated with what they call police mistreatment and abuse of authority in the Townsend Street neighborhood. In fact, victim Arellano was contesting the injunction. A pretrial hearing is currently set for Jan. 13, 2015 on the case.

Anyone with information on the case is asked to call SAPD Homicide detectives at (714) 245-8390 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS. The Santa Ana Police Department is offering a monetary reward for information leading to the arrest of gang homicide or felony gang assault suspects.

Ontario: Man Arrested For Minor Sex Crimes

Staff Reports

 

Cesar Garcia

Suspect Cesar Garcia, 39 (Photo Courtesy: Chino Hills Police)

Chino Hills – Deputies from the Sheriff’s Special Enforcement Division assisted Chino Hills’ Detectives in the arrest of a 39-year old man who had a year-long sexual relationship with a teen girl, and continued to stalk her through social media after the termination of the relationship.

According to the Chino Hills Police Department, Cesar Garcia, 39, of Ontario, began a relationship with a 15-year old girl he met through his teenage sister.  Garcia used the deception of inviting the girl to babysit his children in order to get her into his house on a repeated basis.

Garcia reportedly had profiles on multiple social media sites, and was in contact with the victim and several of her friends.  He is also said to have used social media to request and receive child pornography.  Witnesses have seen Garcia parked near the victim’s home on several occasions.

A year into the relationship, the victim attempted to end the relationship, but Garcia would not allow it.  On Aug. 22, Garcia followed the victim and her friends, confronted the group and ripped her phone from her hands.  The confrontation prompted the victim to notify law enforcement.

When Garcia learned law enforcement was involved, he reportedly abandoned his five minor children and fled from his Ontario apartment.

Garcia continued to stalk the victim, including the hacking of her social media sites. He posted inappropriate, sexual content on her sites and used her profiles to have communication with other teen girls (the Chino Hills Police Department notes that some popular social applications used by teens are administered by companies outside of the U.S. that do not comply with law enforcement requests for criminal content).  Despite an active warrant for his arrest, Garcia evaded law enforcement for three months, all the while continuing to stalk and harass the victim.

On Mon., Dec. 15, Garcia was arrested in Garden Grove by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Special Enforcement Division.  Garcia’s daughter, Britnie Garcia, 19, was also arrested for playing an active role in helping her father evade apprehension.  Both were booked at the West Valley Detention Center.  Cesar Garcia is being held in lieu of $1 million bail.

Police Detectives are concerned there may be additional victims in this case considering the suspect’s methods and his presence on social media.  Anyone who might be a victim or has knowledge regarding this situation is encouraged to contact Detective Harper at the Chino Hills Police Station, at (909) 364-2000.  Confidentiality will be maintained throughout the process.

Inland Empire: Attempted Kidnapping Near Perris School

Staff Reports

Perris – On Dec. 9, the Perris Police Department was notified of an attempted kidnapping in the area of Lakeside Middle School in the city of Perris. The incident was reported to have occurred the day before, on Dec. 8 at approximately 4:20 PM. The victim was a 12-year old female who reported the incident to school officials the following morning.

According to the victim, she was walking on Sherman Avenue, north of Walnut Street, when she was approached by a red vehicle. From inside the vehicle, the suspect yelled out to her to get into his car. The child said she ignored him and continued to walk on the sidewalk. She said the suspect pulled forward, parked his car and walked toward her telling her to get in his car. When she refused, the suspect grabbed her and attempted to pull her toward his car. The victim said she kicked the suspect, broke free and ran to her father who was waiting around the corner to pick her up after a school activity. The victim and her father searched the area for the suspect; however, they were unable to locate him.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic male in his 30s, with a muscular build, approximately six feet tall, 240 lbs. The victim described a “curvy” tattoo on the suspect’s right shoulder, believed to be a dragon. The suspect was wearing a black “beanie” style winter hat, black T-shirt with an eagle print on the front and the word “what” printed on the back of the shirt. The suspect had faded blue jeans and fled in a red, four-door sedan type vehicle.

According to the Perris Police Department, further investigation has revealed that two other attempted kidnappings may have occurred involving this same suspect and vehicle – one on Oct. 16, and the other on Dec. 1 – each occurring around Lakeside Middle School. The Perris Police Department is working closely with administrators from the Val Verde School District to ensure the safety of the students.

Parents are encouraged to talk to their children about the dangers of getting into a stranger’s car and discussing a safety plan in the event they are approached by a stranger. Although more officers have been assigned to these areas, the Perris Police Department is encouraging children walking to and from school to walk with an adult or in a group.

Officers and Detectives from the Perris Police Department are aggressively investigating these incidents and are asking anyone with information regarding this investigation to contact Investigator Parker at the Perris Police Department by calling (951) 210-1048, via email at PerrisStation@RiversideSheriff.org, or contact WeTip at 1-800-78-Crime. Citizens may also submit an anonymous tip using the Sheriff’s CrimeTips online form.

Pomona Crime Report

Staff Reports

pomona-policePomona – Following is a recent crime report for the area of Pomona. This information is communicated from the Pomona Police Department, and anyone with information regarding these incidents is urged to call the Department’s Detective Bureau at (909) 620-2085. For anyone willing to provide information who wishes to remain anonymous, contact “Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 or “We-Tip” 1-800-782-7463.

 

Armed Robbery: On Tues., Dec. 9 at 12:21 a.m., Pomona Police Dispatch received emergency 911 calls reporting the Denny’s restaurant, located at 1504 Gillette Road, had been robbed by three armed individuals. Three suspects entered the restaurant wearing bandanas covering their faces and brandishing firearms. The suspects then forced the employees and customers to give them their personal property and cash from the register. The suspects ran from the restaurant to a waiting vehicle, which was described as a teal or blue passenger vehicle. The suspects drove off in an unknown direction.

Marijuana Cultivation: On Mon., Dec. 8 at approximately 8:17 p.m., Officers were dispatched to #10 Tanglewood Drive in the Phillips Ranch area of Pomona regarding a strong odor of marijuana emitting from the residence. When officers arrived, they confirmed the strong odor and observed suspect Ou Longsheng, 33, from Alhambra, exiting the residence. Upon further investigation it was revealed that suspect Longsheng was utilizing the entire residence to cultivate marijuana. Officers recovered approximately 800 marijuana plants totaling in excess of 280 pounds. In addition, officers recovered sophisticated electrical and lighting equipment used in the cultivation process. Suspect Longsheng was taken into custody and booked at the Pomona Jail for Marijuana Cultivation.

Shooting Incident: On Sat., Dec. 6 at approximately 1:57 a.m., the Pomona Police Department received several calls regarding numerous gunshots from Club La Luna, located at 3220 Temple Blvd. Upon arrival, Officers located a shooting victim outside the establishment, and were advised the suspect vehicle had just left the location. The victim’s injuries were serious, but non-life threatening. A short time later, officers received information that a similar vehicle was involved in a rollover traffic collision at the off-ramp at the 10 Freeway and Fairplex Drive. The suspects caused major injury to an innocent victim – including the death of the victim’s dog as a result of the collision – and fled the scene on foot. Officers conducted a search of the area the located two subjects who were identified as the suspects. Officers also located a handgun in the suspect vehicle. Both suspects were arrested and booked into the Pomona City Jail for Attempted Murder and Felony Hit-and-Run.

Shooting Incidents: On Sat., Dec. 6 at approximately 8:15 p.m., Officers were on the scene of two separate shootings, one in the 1300 block of Scoville Avenue, the other in the area of Lombard Street and Barjud Avenue. Both victims were adult males and each suffered non-life threatening wounds. At this time, there is no suspect information or motive in either shooting, but the two incidents do not appear to be related.

 

 

 

 

Murder At Motel 6 Pomona

Staff Reports

motel6pomona

The Pomona Motel 6, located on South Garey Avenue. (Photo Courtesy: Motel6.com

Pomona – On Sat., Nov. 29 at approximately 8:40 p.m., Pomona Police Officers responded to a disturbance at the Motel 6 on the 2400 block of South Garey Avenue. At the scene they discovered an adult female, deceased in one of the rooms.            According to the Pomona Police Department, Yvette Silva was found to be stabbed to death. The motive for the murder is still unknown at this time. Silva was the mother of a 12-year old son.Pomona Homicide Detectives have investigated every lead in an attempt to find the suspect in this murder, and they have identified Alex Clever, 26, from Pomona. Clever – an acquaintance of Silva – was recently released from prison and was currently on Post Release Community Supervision. The San Gabriel Valley East AB-109 Task Force arrested Clever as he rode a bicycle away from his parents’ home in the Phillips Ranch community in Pomona. He was taken to the Pomona City Jail and booked for murder.

The San Gabriel Valley East AB109 Task Force is a multi-agency team comprised of officers from nine agencies and includes representatives from the LA County Probation Department and the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office. Their primary responsibility is to conduct compliance checks on those individuals who have been released from prison under AB109 to ensure that they are in compliance with their terms of release. The Task Force is responsible for enforcement in the cities of Azusa, Baldwin Park, Claremont, Covina, Glendora, Irwindale, Pomona, La Verne, West Covina and Whittier.

Anyone with information regarding this homicide is urged to call the Pomona Police Department’s Detective Bureau at (909) 620-2085. Anyone willing to provide information, who wishes to remain anonymous, is urged to contact “Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477, or “We-Tip” at 1-800-782-7463.

 

 

Eastvale Crime: A 2014 Recap

By Jennifer Madrigal

Eastvale – According to Eastvale’s Police Department Co-Chief, Lt. Joseph Pemberton, crime in Eastvale is down 6.4% overall from last year. Part 1 Crimes – also known as Index or Summary-based crimes – are as follows:

  • Assaults: 112
  • Robberies: 13
  • Rapes: 6
  • Burglary: 191 (Up 5% from 2013)
  • Auto Theft: 92 (Down 22% from 2013)
  • Larceny: 567 (Down 9.7% from 2013)
  • Total Property Crimes: 850

 

Indoor Marijuana Grow houses have seen a decrease in 2014. According to Pemberton, in 2013 there were approximately 31 indoor grow operations in the City of Eastvale that were shut down by the Eastvale Special Enforcement Team (SET), with 13 arrests made. Some of these incidents are still being addressed in the court system. These arrests are often hard to bring to conviction as the actual perpetrators are difficult to catch and the operations are vast and far-reaching into many parts of California and even the United States.

This year, citizens have been more aware of this phenomenon and have actively reported suspicious activity. This has helped create a deterrent to individuals looking to grow marijuana indoors within the City of Eastvale.

“Our Special Enforcement Team aggressively investigates all reports of indoor cultivation, and they are widely known around Riverside County,” says Pemberton regarding the success in this area.

In 2014, the Eastvale SET conducted nine investigations into indoor grows in the City and served four search warrants. Two people have been arrested and their cases are pending.

Traffic Safety is a hot topic in Eastvale, and Lt. Pemberton has been asked repeatedly what citations are most frequently written by Police Officers around schools. They are as follows:

  • CVC 22352(b)(2) – Driving in excess of 25 mph in a school zone during restricted hours (when children are active).
  • CVC 21212(a) – Person under 18 operating or riding as a passenger on a bicycle without wearing an approved helmet.
  • CVC 21950(a) – Failure to yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk.
  • CVC 21461(a) – Disobeying Official Traffic Control Signs.
  • CVC 22400(a) – Driving on a highway at such a slow speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic unless the reduced speed is necessary for safe operation.

 

The Eastvale traffic team will be conducting holiday safety programs and DUI Checkpoints routinely to maintain a steady presence and to serve as a reminder around the City of Eastvale to drive safely and be aware of surroundings. The Eastvale Police Department will also continue to conduct enforcements around our schools to keep children safe and help ease traffic congestion.

The Hit-and-Run death of Troy Davids that happened in April 2014 resulted in the arrest of Riverside County resident, Casey Coltrain. Coltrain, who had already been in jail on a prior arrest, was initially charged with 2nd degree murder and hit-and-run.

As of press time, Coltrain is awaiting his preliminary hearing, which is expected to take place around the second week of December. Lt. Michael Yates was one of the lead investigators on this incident, and he has continued to follow the case.

“No family should ever have to go through what the Davids’ have been through, I’m just glad that with the community’s help, we were able to ensure that Coltrain won’t ever hurt anyone again,” said Yates.

 

 

LA County: Operation Safe Halloween Rescues Pomona Child

STAFF REPORTS

County of Los Angeles – When the Special Enforcement Officers (SEO) set out in the pre-dawn hours of Halloween, they were looking to see if 66 of the Department’s highest risk child predators were in compliance with their court orders ranging from no child pornography on their phones or computers, to no candy or costumes in their homes used to entice children on a day famous for temptation. Deputy Probation Officers (DPOs) found much more than that on Halloween morning.

In a Pomona home, the SEO team entered to find a 32-year old sex offender in bed with a 10-year old girl.  According to the County of L.A. Probation Department, the probationer and another adult male were arrested at the scene, as was the mother of the girl.  The child was taken into protective custody by the Department of Children and Family Services. The SEO team also confiscated a methamphetamine pipe and marijuana. The contraband was taken to the Pomona Police Department for processing.

Another team – this time in Santa Clarita – arrested a 22-year old sex offender who was residing with his mother. The SEO team learned that the mother runs what appeared to be a child daycare service out of her home. A female tenant who also lived in the residence with her infant son and 9-year old daughter told SEO she had no idea the man was a convicted sex offender.

“Operation Safe Halloween is about ensuring probationers are in compliance with the law, but at its core, the Operation is about protecting children and we were able to accomplish that mission today,” said Assistant Chief Margarita Perez.

60 L.A. County SEOs deployed at 5 a.m. from eight staging areas Countywide, with a pre-dawn strategy to check on child sex offenders at a time when offenders least expect to be visited by law enforcement.

In total, five sex offenders were arrested and taken into custody, along with five computers, 13 USB sticks and memory cards, three computer towers, and drugs/drug paraphernalia were confiscated. The Department of Children and Family Services took one 10-year old girl into protective custody and is investigating the status of two other children involved in a home where a sex offender resided.

“Today is a perfect example of the value of going into the communities, into the homes of probationers to see who they are living with, what is their environment, and what is the real story of their compliance with the orders of the court,” says Special Enforcement Director, Eric Newby.

This is the third year L.A. County Probation has conducted Operation Safe Halloween.

 

 

 

 

 

 

San Gabriel Valley: Local Crime Reports

STAFF REPORTS

SGV – On Tues., Aug. 12, LASD Temple Station Deputies advised that a pregnant woman was shot in the 1900 block of Merced Avenue in South El Monte at approximately 10 p.m. The victim, who was seven months pregnant, was in the driveway of the location when an unknown suspect(s) approached and fired several rounds at the victim; she was struck multiple times. The suspect(s) fled the scene in a dark colored sedan. The victim was transported to a local hospital where her baby was safely delivered and is in fair condition. The mother’s condition is unknown at this time.

On Tues., Aug. 12, at approximately 3:30 p.m., Central Sheriff’s Station Deputies responded to Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) regarding a theft report. Witnesses told Deputies that two Hispanic male adults entered the hospital dressed as maintenance workers. The subjects were confronted by hospital staff and they left the location. Property belonging to LLUMC was found to be missing. The investigation by Deputies revealed that Richard Zavala, 32, of Chino Hills, and Brandon Reyes, 35, of Pomona were the suspects. Both were arrested by the Central Station and Chino Hills Deputies. A total of 21 microscope lenses with an approximate value of more than $31,000 were recovered and returned to the hospital. Zavala and Reyes were booked into the West Valley Detention Center.

On Fri., Aug. 8, a Diamond Bar homeowner received an unwelcome surprise when an intruder crashed in through his front door in the 400 block of N. Del Sol Lane at approximately 1:30 p.m. The homeowner, who authorities say felt that his life was in danger, grabbed his gun and fired a shot at the burglar. L.A. County Sheriff’s deputies stated that the burglar fled the scene in a burgundy Toyota Camry that had tinted windows, with another suspect waiting behind the wheel. It is not known if the intruder was struck by the bullet, and officials are still investigating this incident.

On Wed., Aug. 6, the Pomona Police Department reported that members of the Gang Violence Suppression Unit served a search warrant at 1041 N. Dudley Avenue. Located during the search was a marijuana grow operation, which officers subsequently dismantled.

A total of 66 pounds of marijuana was seized. The primary suspect was not at the location at the time of the warrant service; however, a criminal report is being filed with the L. A. County District Attorney’s Office and a felony filing is anticipated.

On Mon., Aug. 4, at approximately 9:40 p.m., L.A. County Sheriff’s Parks Bureau Deputies responded to Legg Lake at Whittier Narrows Regional Park in South El Monte, regarding a found child.

The deputies contacted a person who found a six-year old boy crying and looking for his father. They attempted to locate the father with the limited information that the young child provided. The child, who was cold and hungry, was placed in the deputy’s patrol car and fed while the Parks Bureau personnel continued to search.

A vehicle believed to be driven by suspect Garcia was located nearby with a flat tire. The suspect was nowhere to be found.             The child was placed into protective custody after all attempts to locate the father had been exhausted. The child’s mother was later located and took custody of her son.

On Thurs., Aug. 7, Deputies arrested Juan Garcia, 31, of Pomona, for Child Endangerment.

Partner to prevent or report crime by contacting your local Sheriff’s station. Or if you wish to remain Anonymous, call “LA Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.

Eastvale: Crime Recap July 2014

STAFF REPORTS 
Crime ImageThe following is a crime recap for the month of July in the Cities of Eastvale, Corona, Norco, and Jurupa Valley. Information is from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and from our Eastvale Community News Facebook Page.

On Tues., July 15 about 11:45 a.m., deputies assigned to the Jurupa Valley Station, Norco Sheriff’s Office, responded to the 2200 block of Vista Ridge in the city of Norco. This was in reference to a stolen vehicle investigation. Upon arriving, deputies located the stolen vehicle parked in the driveway of a residence. As the deputies continued with their investigation, they were able to locate and identify the suspects, who were found hiding in the residence. Lawrence Piper, 30, was arrested for possession of stolen property, burglary, and two felony warrants for parole violations; Julie Stewart, 28, was arrested for possession of stolen property, burglary, and a felony warrant for possession of controlled substance; and Tayler Jenkins, 23, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and violation of probation.

On July 18, at about 1:30 p.m., members of the Riverside Sheriff’s Special Investigation Bureau, along with deputies assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office, served a search warrant in the 3700 block of California Avenue, in the city of Norco. The search warrant was the result of an investigation into an illegal outdoor marijuana grow operation at the location. During the search warrant service, over 400 marijuana plants were located and seized. The subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of two adult suspects, identified as Israel Martinez, 49, and Wilivaldo Arteaga Martinez, 34, residents from the city of Ontario. They were each booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center (RPDC) for marijuana cultivation and conspiracy charges.

On Sat., July 19, at approximately 8:30 a.m., officers from the Jurupa Valley Police Department responded to an assault with a deadly weapon report in the 3400 block of Skylane Drive. At the scene officers found Simona Mateas, 43, lying in the driveway suffering from gunshot wounds. There was reportedly a second victim at the home as well. Both were transported to a local hospital where Mateas succumbed to her injuries. The San Bernardino Police Department was dispatched later in the day responding to a suicide report, whereby Ayram Mateas, the husband of Simona, was found deceased inside the front door of a residence in the 1600 block of West Lincoln Avenue in San Bernardino. Upon further investigation it was found that the Mateas couple had been going through divorce proceedings, which may have instigated the murder/suicide.

On Sunday, July 20, two women were killed in a fiery crash on the I-15 freeway in the early morning hours. According to the California Highway Patrol, Julio Reyes, 34, of Riverside, was driving a black 2014 Lexus sedan while he was traveling southbound at alleged speeds of over 100 mph near Hidden Valley Parkway in Corona, when he slammed into the back of a silver Toyota. The Toyota burst into flames and both women were pronounced dead at the scene. Reyes was found by officers to be under the influence of alcohol and was he arrested on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and drunken driving causing bodily injury. Reyes and two other passengers in his car sustained minor injuries. The names of the women have not yet been released.

 

San Bernardino: Shootings Rampant

STAFF REPORTS

 

San Bernardino – A multitude of shootings have occurred in the City of San Bernardino in the last week, making local citizens fearful and concerned that they are not safe even in their own homes.

Shootings in San Bernardino

The week started out with a smoke shop that erupted in gunfire on Mon., July 7. In what appeared to be a gang-related drug deal gone badly, Orlando Wayne Hunt, Jr., 24, from Banning, was found dead, along with four others that were injured, at the corner of East Baseline Street and North Waterman Avenue.

 

Police Department new release information states that the shooting occurred at around 11 p.m., possibly inside and outside the shop. Hunt was found in the parking lot, three other injured victims were found inside, and the fourth victim was found in a nearby grocery parking lot. All injured persons are described in stable condition.

 

Police questioned multiple witnesses at the scene; the shooters are described as two African American males.

 

The very next day, on Tues., July 8 at approximately 9:45 p.m., police responded to reports of a shooting at an apartment complex in the 2600 block of South Copper Lane. At the scene officers found Phillip Andre Jacobs, Sr., 45, in his doorway; he was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers also found the victim’s 18-year old daughter, who had also been shot; she was rushed to a local hospital in good condition.

 

It is reported that authorities say it may be a gang-related payback killing, as Jacob’s son, Shazad Mohammad Khan, is a gang member, with the gang allegedly targeting his family for something that he did. Khan is wanted for questioning by police. He is reported as 5’ 10” tall, weighing 140 pounds.

 

And just one day after Jacob’s shooting death, another shooting took place in a San Bernardino strip mall, leaving 27-year old Juan Carlos Villapudua dead.

 

On Wed., July 9, in the 2800 block of West Rialto Avenue, Villapudua made contact with an unknown person in a white car (possibly a newer model Nissan, according to reports). Someone in the vehicle fired at the victim and drove off heading east on Rialto Avenue. Villapudua was pronounced dead at the scene, and leaves behind five small children.

 

These three recent shooting deaths push the total of homicides in San Bernardino to nearly 30 this year, as reported by The Sun. Police are searching for all suspects involved and anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt. Gary Robertson at (909) 841-5361.

 

EASTVALE: Suspect Arrested for Indecent Exposure, Lewd Conduct , etc.

Eneas Palacios

Eneas Palacios

INFO. Courtesy of RIVERSIDE SHERIFF’S DEPT>On June 26, 2014, at 10:56 A.M., deputies assigned to the Eastvale Police Department responded to a report of indecent exposure that occurred on a walking trail near the area of Dearborn Street and Tisdale Street, city of Eastvale. Deputies quickly arrived in the area and met with the victim who provided a detailed description of the subject. After an extensive search by several deputies, a subject matching the description was located on the walking trail. The victim was able to positively identify the subject as the individual who exposed himself.

The suspect was identified as Eneas Palacios, a 23-year-old resident of Eastvale. Palacios was arrested for indecent exposure, lewd conduct, and a violation of probation. Palacios was later booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center for the above-mentioned charges.

The investigation revealed Palacios may have been involved in previous incidents of this nature. The Eastvale Police Department is asking the citizens of Eastvale to contact the Eastvale Police Department if they have any information on previous incidents which may have occurred in that area.

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

Diamond Bar Council Courner June 17th Recap

BY ARIEL CARMONA, JR. 

Diamond-bar-city-council

Diamond Bar City Hall (Photo Courtesy: City of Diamond Bar)

Diamond Bar – In a mid-year report to the City Council during their June 17 meeting, Captain Jeffrey Scroggin and members of his staff at the Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station reported that overall, crime is down substantially in the City; and down 30 percent thus far in 2014, with theft-related crimes down more than 35 percent. Scroggin attributed the reduction in crime statistics to newly implemented programs, including a Special Problems Team consisting of deputies dedicated to address crime trends, ongoing neighborhood and business watch programs, and the City’s recently implemented rewards programs where residents are paid for providing tips leading to arrests of criminals in the area.

Scroggin said crimes reported to the FBI Uniform Crime Index in Diamond Bar include criminal homicide, forcible rape, burglary and arson. He added that crimes against persons are slightly up this year, but the numbers are still comparatively very low. There were 21 assaults in 2014 as opposed to 17 in 2013.

According to Scroggin, 12 of the assaults involved domestic violence. “Those are really situations we can’t control as a policing agency; that is in the home, but you can see that over half of our assaults involve some type of domestic violence,” he said.

There were three victims of rape in 2014, only one more than in 2013. “The rapes are very important crimes to us because that is such a violent act. I can report that we’ve had no stranger rapes, where someone’s been kidnapped off the street. All of our rapes have some type of association between the victims and the suspect,” said Scroggin. He added, “We are concerned with all rapes, obviously, because they’re a very bad crime, but we have had nothing where someone’s been walking in the park and assaulted in that manner, so we are very proud of that.”

Scroggin said the number one crime the department fights on a daily basis are crimes against property, such as robberies, burglaries and theft. There were six robberies this year, down from 16 last year. The department reports that residential burglaries are down more than 50 percent, with 50 fewer burglaries than last year. The Sheriff’s Department attributes the reduction to more arrests with more units patrolling the day shift.

Even though commercial burglaries are up slightly, 1.79 percent, theft-related crimes are down more than 35 percent. They are the single biggest contributor to the overall crime rate, including vehicle burglaries, petty and grand theft auto. Grand theft auto is down more than 50 percent, with only 19 cars reported stolen this year. There was also only one reported incident of arson.

“We’re a bedroom community, we don’t have a lot of violent crime, we don’t have a lot of gang crime, we don’t really have a lot of crimes that shock the conscience, but we do have those residential burglaries and thefts from the vehicles. In order to keep this downward trend we really need the entire community to take action, be mindful of their homes and their vehicles,” said Scroggin.

In other matters, the Council approved a packed consent calendar which included the approval of a contract with the Regional Chamber of Commerce, contract extensions for the Community Services Department, and the approval of an amendment to the vendor services contract with a consultant to extend the janitorial and building maintenance services for the Library, City Hall, the Diamond Bar Center, and the Heritage Park Community Center.

Councilmember Lyons asked for clarification for the amendment which added to the janitorial services contract for the Library for an annual amount of $43,325, since the facility is being operated by the County of Los Angeles. City Manager James DeStefano said the maintenance fee is for a three-year term. The fee was negotiated as part of a process in which the City looked at what it would cost to operate a new library which was physically two to three times larger than the existing library.

DeStefano added that the City negotiated that County would pick up all labor costs to support the new library, and the City would pick up the maintenance costs to assure that the facility remained at the standard the City holds for all of their other properties. “This was basically a trade-off of the maintenance costs for the labor costs that they would incur, and it worked well for us,” he said.

In other Council actions, they held public hearings on levying landscaping assessments for three lighting and landscape districts throughout the City. The Council also adopted a resolution approving the 2014 Citywide Speed Zone Survey, and approved a first reading of a an ordinance to amend the Diamond Bar Municipal Code regarding speed limits specified in City streets.

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Diamond Bar City Council is set for July 1, at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, located at 21865 Copley Drive in Diamond

Orange County: $3.3 Million Embezzlement

STAFF REPORTS

Irvine – The former controller of a company that provides supervision services, including electronic monitoring programs to courts and probation departments, plead guilty this week to federal charges of embezzling well over $3 million from the company over the course of two years.

According to the U.S. District Attorney’s Office, Steven A. Hagstrom, 37, of Anaheim, who was an accountant and then controller of the Irvine-based Sentinel Offender Services, LLC, plead guilty on Tues., June 3, to one count of embezzlement before United States District Judge, David O. Carter.

As controller of Sentinel, Hagstrom had access to Sentinel’s bank accounts where fines, court fees and restitution payments from criminal defendants were held in trust. The accounts also held money paid to Sentinel for services provided to state and federal court systems. Beginning in early 2012 and continuing until April 2013, Hagstrom transferred approximately $3,338,197 from Sentinel’s bank accounts to bank accounts he controlled, where they could be used for his own benefit.

Judge Carter is scheduled to sentence Hagstrom on Sept. 29. The embezzlement count carries a statutory maximum sentence of ten years in federal prison. About half of the embezzled money has already been returned to Sentinel, and Hagstrom has agreed to make full restitution to his former employer.

The investigation into Hagstrom was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Division.

Upland: Former Defender Sentenced to One Year

STAFF REPORTS

Upland – An Upland attorney was sentenced this week to one year and one day in federal prison for stealing $129,795 from the Social Security Administration (SSA) after her grandmother died in 2000.

Audrey Owens, 61, was a deputy public defender for Riverside County, retiring just last September. She pled guilty in March to two counts of theft of government property, admitting that she swindled the government for 12 years. On Mon., June 2, Owens was sentenced by United States District Judge, Virginia A. Phillips.

According to court documents, from June 2000 through August 2012, Owens fraudulently obtained Social Security benefits intended for her grandmother, who died in May 2000. After her grandmother’s death, Owens changed the address of a joint account she shared with her grandmother and continued to receive the dead woman’s payments.

Owens “devised and executed a plan to illicitly obtain significant amounts of SSA benefits intended for her deceased grandmother,” prosecutors wrote in a sentencing memo filed with the court. “Indeed, within just one week of her grandmother’s death, [Owens] sprang her plan into action by immediately removing her father’s name off of the [grandmother’s] Kansas City account and changing the address of record to her own address in Upland. This allowed her to continue to receive SSA benefits, undetected, for over 12 years, totaling more than $129,000. She was only stopped when SSA began to suspect fraud – otherwise, the theft would have likely continued indefinitely and resulted in even greater losses.”

The investigation in this case was conducted by the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, Office of Investigations.

Chino: Police Seize 25 Pounds Of Marijuana

City of Chino

Chino – Three subjects were arrested after approximately 25 pounds of unpackaged marijuana was seized from a residence on Mon., June 2.

Chino Police Officers responded to the 5400 block of Mt. Vernon Avenue at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Monday afternoon to follow up on information involving possible marijuana use. Officers located a large amount of marijuana and returned later in the evening to serve a search warrant, which led to the discovery of approximately 25 pounds of marijuana, along with equipment used to grow marijuana.

Marlene Hernandez, 32, Francisco Hernandez, 40, and Eduardo Martinez, 38, all of Chino, were subsequently arrested and booked at the West Valley Detention Center for processing marijuana and possession of marijuana for sales. Martinez was also charged with possession of concentrated cannabis.

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