Tag Archives: San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department

SB Sheriff Looking For Additional Underage Sex Victims

Man arrested for lewd and lascivious acts with a child 

DATE/TIME: November 7, 2018 / 07:00 p.m.

INCIDENT: PC 288(a), Lewd and Lascivious Acts With A Child
PC 261.5 (d), Unlawful Sex with a Minor

LOCATION: 2200 Block of Ogden St., San Bernardino
11000 Block of Primrose Ave., Hesperia

SUSPECT: Jose Alfredo Ortiz-Hernandez, 33 years old, Hesperia

VICTIM(S): Confidential females  

SUMMARY: Central Station has a dedicated Child and Adult Protective Services Deputy who investigates allegations of child and elder abuse. In October 2018, the deputy began an investigation on a referral from Children and Family Services. It was reported that two sisters who were 14 and 15 years of age were sexually abused by an adult.  

On November 6, 2018, a victim disclosed to the investigator she was sexually abused by Jose Alfredo Ortiz-Hernandez multiple times and they began communicating through social medi a. Through the investigation, Ortiz-Hernandez had sexual intercourse with the victims numerous times in the county area of San Bernardino, Colton and Hesperia. Ortiz-Hernandez provided drugs to the victims and sexually assaulted them. Hesperia and Central Station investigators worked together on the investigation.  

On November 7, 2018, Ortiz-Hernandez was arrested. He was booked at the High Desert Detention Center and charged with multiple felony sexual abuse crimes. Ortiz-Hernandez’s case has been adjudicated, he plead guilty to the charges and was sentenced to state prison which will require him to register as PC 290 Sex Registrant.

Ortiz-Hernandez is believed to have friended adolescents/teenagers and provided them with alcohol and drugs. Investigators believe there may be additional victims and urge the public to come forward if they have additional information on this case.

We urge the public to call or text law enforcement when they see suspicious activity. Witnessed and victims of crime can call Central Station at (909) 387-3545. Callers who want to remain anonymous can call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME(27463), or they can use www.wetip.com.  

Refer: Deputy B. Ortiz, Detective J. McDaniel

Station: Central Station, Hesperia Station

Phone No.909-387-3545

Case No.011803015, 11808788

Homeowner Shoots Burglar

By SB Sheriff’s Dept.

 

Rancho Cucamonga- On Saturday, July 15, 2017 at 6:16 a.m. deputies responded to 911 calls reporting shots heard in the neighborhood. Deputies arrived and contacted a homeowner who told them he heard noises in his garage and went to investigate the sounds. Upon entering his garage, he was confronted by an unknown subject burglarizing his vehicle. The subject got out of the homeowner’s vehicle yielding a knife and advanced toward him. The homeowner was armed and immediately drew his handgun and fired at the subject. The subject ran from the garage, and then a vehicle fled from the area at a high rate of speed.

Shortly after arriving at the Carriage Pl. residence, dispatch was advised that a woman was calling from a Fontana residence reporting her adult son had been shot. That subject was transported to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center with multiple gunshot wounds. Deputies responded to the Fontana home to process the suspect vehicle, and to the hospital to collect evidence. Deputies identified the subject as Eric Hartwick and have determined he was the subject was involved in the Carriage Pl. burglary and shooting.

Hartwick was found to be on Post Community Release Supervision(PRCS) and was also in possession of narcotics. He will be booked upon release from the hospital.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Rancho Cucamonga Detective Division at (909)477-2800.
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 http://www.wetip.com.

 

Crime Recap

Courtesy of the SBCSD and RCSD

Iowa Fugitive, Frank French, Arrested in Fontana

DATE/Time: Friday May 19, 2017 / 2:00 PM
LOCATION: Sierra Way/Baseline Road, Fontana
SUSPECT: Frank French, Caucasian male, 72 years old, of Council Bluffs Iowa
VICTIM: Confidential

SUMMARY:

On May 19, 2017, Specialized Enforcement Division personnel assigned to the United States Marshals Pacific Southwest Regional Fugitive Task Force, located and arrested Frank French near Sierra Way and Baseline Road in Fontana. French is a fugitive wanted out of Council Bluffs, Iowa for false imprisonment, four counts of child endangerment with bodily injury, and two counts of child endangerment.
The preliminary information released regarding the victim’s duration of false imprisonment was factually inaccurate. While French is facing several charges related to child abuse, the victim was locked in her room for a period of four days, not several years. The warrant for French’s arrest was issued in late January.
Upon learning o f the warrants for his arrest, French fled the Council Bluffs area and evaded authorities for several months. After an extensive investigation by the US Marshal’s Southern District of Iowa Office and the Fugitive Task Force, French was located and arrested without incident.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to contact Public Affairs Division at (909) 387-3700. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME (27463), or you may leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department

Lewd Acts w/Minor Under 10, Production of Child Pornography

DATE/TIME: May 23, 2017
LOCATION: Residence in Adelanto
SUSPECT: Jonathan Robert Jones, 30 years old, resident of Adelanto
VICTIM: Confidential – 5 year old male
SUMMARY:
On April 28, 2017, Deputy Wendy Perea from the Victor Valley Sheriff’s station was assigned to investigate a Cybertip that was sent to the National Center for Missing and Exploided Children (NCMEC) by an online digital file storage company. The Cybertip contained images and videos of confirmed child pornography. Perea authored a search warrant to obtain the subscriber information for the Internet Service Provider (ISP.)
On May 18, 2017, Deputy Perea received the results from the ISP and identified the account holder. She used various law enforcement databases and search techniques to positively identify the suspect, whose image was captured in the vide os. Through the investigation, Deputy Perea identified the suspect as Jonathan Robert Jones, and determined the 5 year old victim was related to the suspect.
Detectives from Specialized Investigations Divisiton – Crimes Against Children Detail responded to the Victor Valley station to assist. Perea authored a search warrant for the suspect’s residence and seized evidence to help corroborate the various crimes Jones committed.
Jonathan Jones was arrested on May 18, 2017 and is being held at High Desert Detention Center with bail set at $300,000.
Through this investigation, Perea learned that Jones used to live with his family in the Colton area. There is evidence that indicates there may be additional victims in the Colton and/or Victor Valley area. Anyone with information is asked to contact either the Victor Valley Station at (760)552-6800 or the Crimes Against Children Detail at (909)387-3615.

San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department

Residential Burglary Arrest

Incident Date: May 19, 2017 Time: 2 p.m.

Incident Location: 14000 block of Saline Drive, Eastvale

SUMMARY:

On My 19, 2017, Officers from the Eastvale Police Department responded to the 14000 block of Saline Drive, Eastvale, reference a residential burglary that just occurred. Officers arrived within minutes and obtained information that a Hispanic male adult had just broken into the residence and stole several items including a firearm. The suspect fled the area in a dark colored BMW. Investigators with the Jurupa Valley Station assumed the investigation.

After a extensive investigation, the suspect was identified as Richard Quilliam a 33 year-old resident of the city of Fontana. On May 21, 2017, Quilliam was arrested by the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department for unrelated charges. On May 22, 2017, Jurupa Valley Investigators took custody of Mr. Quilliam upon his release from the West Valley Detention Center, in Rancho Cucamonga. Mr. Quilliam was subsequently arrested for the burglary and booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center, in Riverside.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Investigator Barros of the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station at (951) 955-2600.

Citizens may also submit a tip using the Sheriff’s CrimeTips online form.

 Missing 16 Year Old Female Located

– UPDATE –
Missing 16 year old female has been located and subsequently released to the custody of LA County Social Workers.

– ORIGINAL MESSAGE –
Missing Person: Kimberly Molina (16)
Description: Female, Hispanic, 5’01”, 110 lbs., blonde hair, brown eyes, last seen wearing brown sweater, unknown color leggings and blue hospital socks.
Tattoos: Star on each shoulder and “KIKO” on left chest.
(Photo taken about one year ago)
Location last seen: 500 N. Main Street, Santa Ana

Synopsis:
On 5/23/17, a social worker was transporting Molina to LA County. Molina jumped out of the car at 500 N. Main Street in Santa Ana and fled northbound.
Molina has priors for prostitution and has been a victim of human trafficking. She may be in the company of her pimp known only as “FEDERICO.”
If located contact LA Co. Social Worker Mayra Gallo assigned to Commercially Sexually Exploited Children at cell (626) 460-9620 or Santa Ana Police Department Detective Gus Moroyoqui at desk (714) 245-8731.

Homicide Investigation

DATE/TIME: Tuesday, May 23, 2017, at 7:45 a.m.
LOCATION: 10600 block of Dumond Avenue in Bloomington
VICTIM: Michael Garcia, age 37 of Riverside
SUSPECT(s): Unknown

SUMMARY:
On Tuesday, May 23, 2017, at approximately 7:45 a.m., deputies from the Fontana Sheriff’s Station responded to the 10600 block of Dumond Avenue following the report of shots heard. Upon arrival, deputies located an adult male outside of the residence suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Emergency fire personnel responded and the victim, later identified as Michael Garcia, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Investigators from the Specialized Investigations Division, Homicide Detail, responded to the location and are currently conducting the investigation.
Updates will be released as they become available.
Anyone with information re garding this incident is urged to contact Detective Walt Peraza or Sergeant Robert Warrick at (909)387-3589. 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 website at www.wetip.com.
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department

 

 

Homicide Investigation

DATE/TIME: ​Wednesday, May 24, 2017, at 6:05 a.m.
LOCATION: ​Homeless encampment behind 14950 Bear Valley Road, Victorville
VICTIM:​Prentice Dean, age 24 transient of Victorville
SUSPECT(s):​Unknown ​

SUMMARY:
On Wednesday, May 24, 2017, at approximately 6:05 a.m., deputies from the Victorville Police Department responded to a homeless encampment behind the El Super Market following the report of a man down. Upon arrival, deputies located an adult male unresponsive behind the business. Emergency fire personnel responded and the victim, later identified as Prentice Dean, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Investigators from the Specialized Investigations Division, Homicide Detail, responded to the location and are currently conducting the investigation.
Updates will be released as they become available.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact Detective Walt Peraza or Sergeant Robert Warrick at (909)387-3589. 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 website at www.wetip.com.
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department

Woman Charged With Murder In DUI Crash That Killed Child

By SBSD

 

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.  – A 34-year-old Redlands woman has been charged with murder and multiple counts in connection with a DUI crash in San Bernardino that killed 3-year-old Michael Flores.

Crystal Fuentes was arrested Thursday after striking and killing the child who was crossing Base Line Street in a crosswalk with his family.

“This is every parent’s worst nightmare, to lose a child,” District Attorney Mike Ramos said. “When I heard about the deadly crash that took the life of 3-year-old Michael Flores, my heart broke for him and his family.”

Fuentes is charged with one count of Murder, one count of Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated, one count of Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol – Prior Convictions, one count of Driving with a .08% Blood Alcohol Content – Prior Convictions, and one count of Driving When Privilege Suspended for Prior DUI Conviction.

Arraignment details are still pending (Case # FSB17001651). When arraignment information becomes available, it will be posted on the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Twitter account (@sbcountyda). No further information will be released at this time.

8 Warrants End In Marijuana Bust

Staff Reports

San Bernardino – The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Marijuana Enforcement Team worked with the California National Guard Counterdrug Task Force and the San Bernardino County Land Use Services Department to conduct an investigation regarding illegal marijuana cultivations or commercial marijuana activity. Eight warrants were put out as well as one follow up in the communities of Newberry Springs and Daggett.

On January 1, 2016, the Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act, or MMRSA, went into effect which in turn caused a sort of domino effect as San Bernardino County reacted by releasing a new marijuana ordinance to coincide with the Act. All marijuana cultivations found by investigators were in fact illegal and did not fall into the California medical marijuana laws or the County’s ordinance banning commercial cannabis.

In total, over 3,700 cannabis plants were seized as well as over 50 pounds of processed marijuana. Out of the eight locations, only one suspect, Thanh The Dies, was apprehended and released on citation. Investigators are currently in the process of identifying the other suspects so that they may be charged accordingly.

Law enforcement agencies and community based organizations are constantly backed by the support of the California National Guard Counterdrug Task Force. In order to battle the illegal cannabis cultivations, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department uses the resources of the National Guard Counterdrug Task Force.

San Bernardino County will continue its efforts in ensuring that the city wide prohibition of commercial marijuana and all of its activities will be sustained to guarantee the health, safety and well-being for the residents of San Bernardino. Persons found in violation of state marijuana laws and county ordinances will be fined, prosecuted or seized of property.

Anyone with additional information regarding this investigation or any other illegal cultivation areas are encouraged to call the Sheriff’s narcotics Division at 909-890-4840. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-782-7463 or can go online at http://www.wetip.com.

25 Year-old Cold Case Solved

Staff Reports

San Bernardino – On May 27, 1991, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department (SBCSD) responded to the report of a death in the 1800 Block of Santa Fe Avenue. When deputies arrived, they found the victim, Cynthia White, dead from strangulation. Homicide detectives interviewed numerous possible suspects until the case went cold in 1993.

In 2012, the SBCSD’s homicide cold case team re-opened the case and submitted new evidence for DNA analysis. The following year in June, Dean Eric Dunlap was identified as the primary suspect for White’s murder and began to be investigated. Unbeknownst to detectives, Dunlap was already in prison, on death row, for the kidnapping, murder, and rape of a 9-year-old girl.

At the end of the investigation, Deputy District Attorney Denise Yoakum reviewed the case and charged Dunlap with murder on October 4, 2016. Dunlap’s bail was set at $1,000,000. He is currently serving on death row at San Quentin State Prison and will be transferred to San Bernardino County to face his charges.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call Detective Patty Ruiz, Detective Ed DeLaTorre, or Sergeant Greg Myler at 909-387-3589. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-782-7463 or can go online at http://www.wetip.com.

Man Arrested For Attempted Murder

Staff Reports

Rancho Cucamonga- On September 13, the Rancho Cucamonga Police Department responded to an incident in the 10900 block of Terra Vista Parkway in Rancho Cucamonga. As the deputies approached the residence, they heard several gunshots coming from inside of the home.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, “Deputies believed the series of gunfire involved a domestic violence active shooter. Rancho Cucamonga deputies have extensive training on responding to these types of situations and quickly coordinated a tactical plan and approached the residence.”

The suspect was identified as 36 year-old Marcus Chavez. The deputies made their approach, they located Chavez who was no longer armed and was taken into custody without further incident. As deputies did further investigation in the residence, they were able to located a mini-14 rifle with a high capacity magazine along with numerous fired cartridge casings. The SBCSD also states, “Several bullet holes were located throughout the residence. It appears Chavez was also firing at the first responding deputies. No one was injured during this situation.”

Deputies also learned in their investigation that Chavez’s wife and children had been inside the residence when he started to load his firearm. The wife and kids were able to leave the residence before actual shots had been fired. Chavez was booked into the West Valley Detention Center, a bail set at $1,000,000 for attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, child endangerment, and felon in possession of a firearm.

If you have any additional information regarding this incident, you are urged to contact the Rancho Cucamonga Police Department at (909) 477-2800. If you wish to remain anonymous, you may contact the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463), or you may leave information on the We-Tip website at http://www.wetip.com

Arrests At Nocturnal Wonderland Festival

Staff Reports

San Bernardino- The Nocturnal Wonderland Festival was held at the San Manuel Amphitheater in San Bernardino, about 22,844 people attended and 176 arrests were made after day 4 on September 4.

The gates opened up around 4 p.m., as the festival goers entered the grounds, they were searched, and their ages were confirmed by a valid form of identification. The California Highway Patrol, San Bernardino County Probation, and Sheriff’s Department organized to have uniformed and undercover law enforcement on patrol to monitor alcohol and beverage control with the help of K-9’s.

Of the 176 arrested that were made, most of them were drug and alcohol related as well as trespassing. There were 2 attendees transported to the hospital for various medical reasons.

According to San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, “One music complaint was received from the neighborhood near the Amphitheater. Deputies and sound engineers responded to the complaint to take a decibel reading. The purpose was to ensure the reading did not exceed the County Code for loud music. The music was found to be within the acceptable limits.”

SCAM ALERT

SBSD  scam-alert-pic-web

There is currently a plethora of scams out there aimed at getting your money. Criminals will continue coming up with different scams to get your money by either tugging at your heart strings or putting fear in you through a threat, often perceived to come from a government agency such as the IRS or law enforcement. Please note the following information to help you not fall victim to these scammers and share with friends and loved ones to keep them safe as well.

One of the common denominators is that the criminal will ask you to make payment through the following methods: Green Dot Cards, I-tunes Cards, Western Union, Money Gram or other wire transfers. Anyone asking for those forms of payment is scamming you.

Legitimate government or bill collecting agencies will not use the above mentioned tactics to collect from you. Members of law enforcement agencies do not accept payment for outstanding warrants and do not enforce delinquencies for other government agencies, such as the IRS. If you receive one of these calls please do not give out any personal information and do not wire any money.

If you have questions or believe you are a victim of such a scam, please contact your local Sheriff’s Station.

Woman rescued at CH State Park

Staff Reports rescue-print

Chino Hills- On September 3 at Chino Hills State Park, 56 year-old resident of Yorba Linda, Mary Glaser was hiking a trail at the Chino Hills State Park where she had slipped and fell.

The California State Park Rangers responded to the incident and requested the assistance of the Sheriff’s Aviation Unit. Glaser slipped and fell, with non-life threatening injuries; however she was not able to hike back out of the area on her own.

The Sheriff’s Air Rescue 06 performed a hoist rescue after the Sheriff’s 40King1 was the first one to respond and finding Glaser in a steep narrow ravine. Deputy Dave Cruz was able to hike down to her after the crew landed on a ridge above her location.

Also on the crew, Chief Corporal Mike Ellis helped in lowering Air Medic Bernie Horak down to the ground about 80 feet down. According to the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, “Glaser was flown to Chino Hills Dog Park and transferred to a ground ambulance for treatment of her injuries.”

Thanks to the following crew and rescue members:

40King1 crew:

Pilot: Deputy John Roberg

Flight Officer: Deputy Dave Cruz

Air Rescue 06 crew:

Pilot: Corporal Jon Anderson

Crew Chief: Corporal Mike Ells

Air Medic: Bernie Horak

Air Medic: Jim Fagelson

SB Man attempts to flee

Staff Reports

San Bernardino- On August 31, a suspect was arrested for felony evading in the area of 1st Avenue and Vermont Street in San Bernardino.

The suspect was identified as 44 year-old Patrick Hughes who is a resident of Apple Valley.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, “Deputy Kostiuk was on patrol in Muscoy. Kostiuk saw a vehicle make a left hand turn without using the turn signal. He attempted to conduct a traffic stop and the driver failed to yield and fled from Kostiuk at speeds that reach 60 mph. The driver failed to yield at two separate stop signs and then hit a parked vehicle. The vehicle lost control and crashed into a wall in front of a resident on Kern Street.”

Hughes was fled on foot but was later taken into custody. Hughes also had a felony “No Bail” warrant for his arrest for burglary charges, and he was found with a small quantity of of suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. He was booked into the Central Detention Center following his arrest.

If you have any information regarding this incident, you are urged to contact Central Station at (909) 387-3545. If you are wishing to remain anonymous, you can call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME(27463) or you can also leave information on the website at http://www.wetip.com

 

 

Kidnapping Victim Able To Escape

Staff Reports

San Bernardino County- On August 24, four suspects were identified for kidnapping, assaulting with great bodily injury, conspiracy and false imprisonment on a victim.

The victim was only identified as a male, who was near the Indian Springs High School, severely beaten with multiple injuries to the face and upper body covered in blood, and was able to able to flag down a marked school police officer.

The suspects were identified as Ruben Hernandez of Redlands, Bernardino Calderon of Muscoy, Felix Velasquez of Redlands and Brandy Trujillo of Highland. The victim was able to escape where he was held against his will and beaten from two different locations.

According to the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, “Deputies from the SBSD Central Station responde3d to the location of the victim and took over the investigation. The victim was able to provide sufficient information regarding two locations and subjects involved. The first location was a house where he had just escaped from and held against his will by Trujillo and Velasquez in the 7700 block of Del Rosa Ave in the City of Highland. The second location was an abandoned house where he was initially beaten and kidnapped by Hernandez and Calderon.”

After a thorough investigation was done, the suspects were located and booked in for kidnapping, assaulting with great bodily injury, conspiracy and false imprisonment. The suspects also had previous criminal records as follows; Hernandez is on active felony probation for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, Calderon is on Post Release Community Supervision for evading law enforcement, and Velasquez is on active parole for Burglary.

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

Chino Resident at Illegal Marijuana Site

Staff Reports  marijuana-illegal-WEB

San Bernardino- On August 23, Chino resident, Derek Michael Katata was arrested while a search warrant was served by the Investigators from the Sheriff’s Marijuana Enforcement Team by deputies from the Highland Police Station in the 25470 E. Baseline Street area.

Through investigation, the Enforcement Team found evidence of the location being used to sell, distribute, and produce marijuana and other goods. Katata was present at the location while the warrant was being served and investigators found; over 10 pounds of processed marijuana, Concentrated Cannabis (THC Wax and THC Oil), marijuana edibles, and a large amount of cash was also seized.

The City of Highland’s Code Enforcement Division was present and inspected the property to find several more violations. The tenants/owner(s) of the property may be issued a citation for the violations and ultimately fined if the violations are not corrected. However, they may also face civil and/or criminal charges that would filed at a later date.

According to the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, “The investigation is ongoing. Investigators are in the process of identifying other suspects in this case and are in the process of contacting them. The illegal marijuana dispensary was discovered several weeks ago by investigators. A preliminary check into the business shows there were no licenses or permits issued by the city. Additionally, the evidence gathered during the investigation suggests the suspects in charge or working at the location were not I compliance with California medical marijuana laws and local ordinances. The City of Highland has an ordinance prohibiting medical marijuana dispensaries, mobile marijuana dispensaries, delivery services, and cultivation of marijuana within the city limits.”

Once the investigation is done, all suspects who were involved will be charged with Sales of Marijuana. As well as the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office will be reviewing the case to possibly file any criminal charges against the suspects involved. As a result, Derek Katata had his bail set at $50,000 and was booked at the Central Detention Center for Sales of Marijuana and additional charges may be added at a later time.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation, you are urged to contact the Sheriff’s Gangs/Narcotics Division at (909) 890-4840. If you wish to remain anonymous, you may contact the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or also you may leave information on the We-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com

 

 

Fraud Alert!

Staff Reports

San Bernardino County- Recently, on August 24, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department sent a press release in regards to a man calling and representing himself as someone from CALFIRE. The man has been calling local residents to ask if they would like to participate in sending donations to the people who had been displaced by the Blue Cut Fire.

According to the SBSD, “[SBSD] confirmed with CALFIRE that they are not soliciting for donations and encourage citizens not to give anyone personal or banking information via the telephone regarding donations. CALFIRE will not call citizens and ask for donations.”

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is asking anyone who has been contacted to seek donations on behalf of CALFIRE, to please call your local law enforcement agency to report any fraudulent activity. If you have already made a contribution, you are also asked to please let your local law enforcement agency.

If you have any information regarding this investigation, you are urged to contact Deputy H. Hubbard at the Phelan Sheriff’s Station; his number is (760) 868-1006 between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you can also leave information on the We-Tip Hotline at http://www.wetip.com

3 Die After HARD Event

Staff Reports

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chino Man Sentenced In Human Trafficking Case

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy: San Bernardino County District Attorney

Photo Courtesy: San Bernardino County District Attorney

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Three Arrested In Connection To San Bernardino Terrorist Attack

Three People Connected to Shooter in San Bernardino Terrorist Attack Arrested on Federal Conspiracy, Marriage Fraud and False Statement Charges

By Thom Mrozek, Public Affairs Officer of the United States Attorney’s Office
RIVERSIDE, California – Three people with family connections to Syed Rizwan Farook, one of the perpetrators of the December 2, 2015 terrorist attack at the San Bernardino Inland Regional Center (IRC), were arrested this morning on federal conspiracy, marriage fraud and false statement charges.
A five-count indictment returned yesterday by a federal grand jury charges three defendants in a marriage fraud conspiracy that involved making false statements under oath for the purpose of obtaining immigration benefits for one of the defendants.
The three defendants arrested this morning are:
• Mariya Chernykh, 26, of Ontario, who, according to official records, is married to Enrique Marquez, Jr., who is awaiting trial on charges of conspiring with Syed Rizwan Farook in 2011 and 2012 to provide material support to terrorists;
• Tatiana Farook, 31, of Corona, who is Chernykh’s sister; and
• Syed Raheel Farook, 31, of Corona, who Tatiana Farook’s husband and Syed Rizwan Farook’s brother.
The indictment charges all three defendants in a conspiracy to knowingly make under oath a false statement with respect to a material fact in an application, affidavit, and other document required by the immigration laws and regulations of the United States. This charge carries a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.
The indictment also charges Chernykh with fraud and misuse of visas, permits, and other documents; perjury; and two counts of making material false statements to federal agents. These four charges carry a combined statutory maximum sentence of 25 years in federal prison.
When Marquez was indicted by a federal grand jury at the end of 2015 with conspiring with Syed Rizwan Farook to provide material support to terrorists, he was also charged with entering into a sham marriage with Chernykh in November 2014 and illegally signing an immigration form that falsely declared he was living with her (see: http://go.usa.gov/cuKEm).

“This is the latest step in the comprehensive investigation into the horrific attacks in San Bernardino last year that took the lives of 14 innocent Americans and deeply affected so many more,” said United States Attorney Eileen M. Decker. “As I have said previously, we owe the victims, and the entire community of San Bernardino, a thorough investigation that uncovers all criminal activity surrounding these events. Today’s arrests open a new phase in the process of bringing to justice all individuals who allegedly committed crimes that were uncovered during our exhaustive investigation. The charges also reflect the importance we place on statements made to law enforcement officials during a terrorism investigation. Those who lie to or conceal material information from law enforcement officers investigating terrorist acts will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Acting Assistant Director of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, James Struyk, said, “Members of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force worked around the clock in an attempt to find immediate answers in the days and weeks following the December murders in San Bernardino to ensure no additional threats to the community were present. As proof of our enduring commitment to the victims and their families, the FBI and our partners will continue to pursue all leads developed in this matter to build cases when evidence of a crime is revealed.”
Joseph Macias, Special Agent in Charge U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Los Angeles, stated: “Last year’s tragedy in San Bernardino showed yet again how our nation’s legal immigration system can be subverted and exploited by those intent on doing this country harm. As the second largest presence on the nation’s Joint Terrorism Task Forces, HSI special agents, in collaboration with their JTTF partners, are using their unique skills and authorities, including their immigration expertise, to pursue individuals and organizations that pose a threat to domestic security. As this case underscores, that vigilance extends to those whose actions directly or indirectly put our communities and our country at risk.”
The case against Chernykh and the Farooks stems from the overall investigation into the IRC terrorist attack. While investigating the terrorist attack, federal agents obtained official records showing that Marquez, a former neighbor of Syed Rizwan Farook’s, is married to Chernykh. The investigation determined that Marquez agreed to marry Chernykh so she could obtain immigration benefits that were not available to her because she is a Russian citizen and did not have legal status in the United States. The indictment alleges that Marquez received money from Chernykh to enter into the sham marriage.
In furtherance of this conspiracy, both Marquez and Chernykh signed immigration documents, under penalty of perjury, that included information that they lived at the same address, when they did not.
Syed Raheel Farook and Tatiana Farook participated in the conspiracy by, among other things, witnessing Marquez and Chernykh’s wedding, taking staged family pictures of Marquez and Chernykh, establishing a joint checking account for Marquez and Chernykh, and creating a back-dated lease for Marquez and Chernykh to create the illusion that they shared a marital residence with Syed Raheel Farook and Tatiana Farook.
FBI agents interviewed Chernykh as part of the investigation into the IRC terrorist attacks, and she allegedly made false statements that she lived with Marquez at Syed Raheel Farook and Tatiana Farook’s residence in Corona.
All three defendants are expected to be arraigned on the indictment this afternoon in United States District Court in Riverside.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in court.
Today’s operation is the result of an ongoing investigation by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes partners with HSI, the San Bernardino Police Department, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the Ontario Police Department, the Riverside Police Department, the Corona Police Department and the Chino Police Department.

Sex Offender Compliance Check

Courtesy of San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department

SAN BERNARDINO– For the past 45 days, detectives from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Crimes Against Children detail have continued to verify the residency status of sex offenders within the county of San Bernardino. San Bernardino County currently has over 5,000 registered sex offenders residing throughout the various cities in San Bernardino County. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has a 98 % compliance rate of all sex offenders registered with the Sheriff’s Department.
As of February 2016, there are 192 active Failure to Register warrants for subjects who have not registered, and are out of compliance with their Sex Offender registration requirements. 133 of these warrants are Felony warrants; 59 of these are misdemeanor warrants. Detectives are currently working with the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office to ensure that all of the felony warrants in the system are approved for nationwide extradition. At this time, over 40 warrants have been approved for nationwide extradition, and additional approvals are pending.
Through investigation, detectives learned that 7 of those wanted subjects were deceased. An additional 9 were found to be living in other States.
In the past 45 days, Detectives from the Crimes Against Children Detail also conducted over 30 investigations into the compliance status of various sex offenders within the Inland Empire. As a result of those investigations, 13 sex offenders were arrested for various charges to include; possession of drugs, forgery, failing to register as a sex offender, and for violating the terms of their parole & probation.
Charlie Sanders (44) and John Mason (42) both of San Bernardino, were arrested for possession of a controlled substance and parole violation.
Anthony Jefferson (30) of San Bernardino, was arrested for Forgery, Possession of a fake CA driver’s license, and parole violation.
With the assistance of Deputies from the Sheriff’s Central Station, Travis Wright (64) of Devore, was arrested for a Felony Indecent Exposure Warrant; stemming from a case that occurred in Orange County.
John Arrey (59) of Yucaipa, Benny Goodman (46) and Robert White (53), both of Highland, Michael Murillo (27) and Ronnie Fernandez (42), both of Redlands, Edward Brodie (58) of Rialto, William Hoover (51) of Rancho Cucamonga, and Antonio Higareda (20) and Justin Lutton (28), both of San Bernardino, were all arrested for failing to register as sex offenders.
Additional investigations are in the process and more arrests are imminent. Detectives are also collaborating with officers from the San Bernardino County Probation Department and agents from the California Department of Corrections to ensure the subjects on parole & probation are following their sex offender registration requirements. Detectives will continue to monitor the registered sex offenders within the County of San Bernardino to ensure their compliance.
Anyone with information about sex offenders who may be out of compliance is urged to contact the Specialized Investigations – Crimes Against Children Detail at (909) 387-3615. If you choose to remain anonymous, call WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME.

Text To 9-1-1 Service Now Available

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Courtesy of San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Dept.

Chino Hills – Hearing- and speech-impaired members of the community or those in a situation where it is too dangerous to dial 9-1-1 now have another option to call for help in an emergency – Text to 9-1-1. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the California Highway Patrol (CHP), and State Emergency Communications 9-1-1 officials announced in December that local San Bernardino County law enforcement and fire agencies and Public Safety 9-1-1 Call Centers (dispatch) are now equipped to receive and respond to mobile phone SMS Text to 9-1-1 messages. Officials stress that you should always “Call if you can – text if you can’t” in an emergency situation.

The benefits to consumers are significant, especially in cases when the caller cannot communicate verbally. In situations where a crime is in process, the caller is in hiding, the caller is facing domestic abuse, or the caller is injured and cannot speak – Text to 9-1-1 can save a life. Any phones or devices that include a text or data plan can send a text to 9-1-1. Residents and visitors in Chino Hills and Chino can use the Text to 9-1-1 option. If a person sends a text to 9-1-1 and the service is not available in the area, they will receive a bounce-back message stating “text is not available, please make a voice call to 9-1-1.”

FCC Guidelines for Text to 9-1-1 are as follows: If you are deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech disabled, use a TTY or telecommunications relay service if Text to 9-1-1 is unavailable; Be prepared to give your location; Text to 9-1-1 is not available if you are roaming or if the device cannot be located; A text or data plan is required; Do not send photos or videos; Send text messages in plain language, no abbreviations or emojis; Do not send your text to more than one person – send your emergency text to 9-1-1; and Text must be in English only.

The following law enforcement and fire agencies are currently equipped to receive Text to 9-1-1 messages in San Bernardino County: Barstow, Chino, Colton, Cal State University San Bernardino, Fontana, Montclair, Ontario, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino and Upland.

Deputies Reassigned to Unincorporated Areas

Courtesy of the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department

The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors approved the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department’s request for one detective and six deputies to be reassigned to the Chino Hills Station to improve law enforcement services for the Mission Corridor. The area includes an estimated four square miles of unincorporated area adjacent to the cities of Montclair, Ontario, Chino, and Chino Hills. The reassignment began on Saturday, January 23, 2016.

This reorganization will give the community a higher law enforcement presence. “The deputies dedicated to the Mission Corridor will be able to respond to our citizens faster and will be able to increase pro-active patrol for our community,” Sheriff John McMahon said.

Prior to the shift in personnel, deputies from the Fontana Station were responsible for providing law enforcement services for the Mission Corridor. The once 40-minute drive from the Fontana Station will drop to a six-minute drive from the Chino Hills Station. The area will now have dedicated deputies who will be responsible for responding to calls for service and conducting investigations. Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman stated, “This change will allow the public to be served quicker and more efficiently. It is proof the County is putting public safety first.”