Katherine Diaz, 22, is the suspect in two Big Bear City residential burglary cases after fingerprints identified her to authorities. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear City, CA – Latent fingerprints collected during the burglary investigation of two residences in Big Bear City led to the arrest of a 22-year-old suspect identified as Kathleen Diaz.

Diaz was arrested on February 4, by deputies of the Multi-Enforcement Team from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station. The suspect was wanted in connection with ongoing investigations in two separate burglary cases that were committed at residences in Big Bear City.

THE INVESTIGATION

During the investigation, evidence was collected from both crime scenes and processed. Analysis of latent fingerprints positively identified Diaz — a resident of Big Bear City — as a suspect, according to a media release issued by the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station.

The MET deputies made contact with Diaz at her residence in the 700 block of West Country Club and arrested her without incident.

In addition to the burglary charges Diaz faces, she was found to be in possession of methamphetamine.

A records check confirmed that Diaz also had an active warrant issued against her for failure to appear in court on a prior misdemeanor charge of being under the influence of a controlled substance.

THE BOOKING

The press release indicated that Diaz was originally booked into the Big Bear Jail on felony charges of burglary, a misdemeanor charge of possession of a controlled substance, and the outstanding misdemeanor warrant.

Diaz is currently in custody at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga in lieu of $100,000 bail, pending an arraignment hearing set for Monday, February 8, in San Bernardino County Superior Court.

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William James Blackburn has entered a not guilty plea following his arrest on suspicion of a series of burglaries in the Lake Arrowhead area. (File Photo)

By G.T. Houts

Lake Arrowhead, CA – A 49-year-old man charged with a series of Lake Arrowhead residential burglaries — William James Blackburn — has entered a not guilty plea and remains in custody on $100,000 bail at the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino.

THE CASE

William James Blackburn (Sheriff’s Department Photo)

On February 7, deputies and detectives from the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station executed a search warrant in the 900 Block of North Drive in Lake Arrowhead.

Officers were were led to the residence after a vehicle was found near the scene of two residential burglaries. The vehicle was stuck in the mud and deputies believed the registered owner, identified in a press release as Blackburn, was responsible for the burglaries.

During the search, deputies recovered two stolen firearms as well as miscellaneous power tools and other items identified as stolen.

The items recovered at Blackburns residence were linked to burglaries in the Lake Arrowhead area over the past year.

THE ARREST

Blackburn, was found at the residence after attempting to hide in a storage container on the property. He was taken into custody for burglary as well as weapons violations.

Blackburn was transported the Central Detention Center and booked for PC 459, Burglary, PC 25850(2), Possession of a stolen firearm, and PC 496(a), Possession of stolen property.

THE ARRAIGNMENT

On February 9, Blackburn entered the not guilty plea to all charges during a video arraignment.

Court Commissioner Ronald J. Gilbert set a pre-preliminary hearing for 8:30 a.m. on Friday, February 19, in Department S-17.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The media release indicates that Blackburn is believed to be linked to burglaries in the Lake Arrowhead area.

Individuals having further information regarding this case or additional burglaries connected to Blackburn, are encouraged to contact the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0687 or We Tip 1-800-78-CRIME.

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Jorge Luis Ocampo, 20, was arrested after an attempted robbery of Nick’s Auto Care in Big Bear Lake according to authorities. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – A 20-year-old Los Angeles man — Jorge Luis Ocampo — has been arrested after he allegedly tried to rob Nick’s Car Care in Big Bear Lake Friday just before 3 p.m.

THE INCIDENT

Nick’s Auto Care is located in the 40000 block of Big Bear Boulevard. (Contributed Photo)

The Big Bear Sheriff’s Station media release reported that, when officers responded to the business in the 40000 block of Big Bear Boulevard, they were informed a male subject — later identified as Ocampo — showed an imitation firearm to the clerk working at the front counter and demanded money.

The suspect then fled west on Big Bear Boulevard without receiving any money.

The business staff was able to provide deputies with a vehicle description and license plate obtained before the vehicle sped from the scene.

THE ARREST

Big Bear deputies — assisted by Sheriff’s Aviation and deputies from the Twin Peaks Station — searched for the vehicle.

The suspect and vehicle were located near Deep Creek Drive and Cougar Lane in Arrowbear.

Ocampo was placed under arrest and booked into the Big Bear Jail on February 26 for attempted robbery. Bail was set at $59,000.

Ocampo posted bail Saturday, February 27, and was released at 1:52 a.m.

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As part of the follow-up investigation of the so-called mannequin case threatening deputies and a probation officer, the Twin Peaks Station has arrested 27 individuals. (Photo By Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station)

By G. T. Houts

UPDATE: Thursday, March 3 – 10:50 a.m.

Twin Peaks, Ca – A follow-up investigation to the recent mannequin case involving threats against local deputies was conducted on Wednesday, March 2 by patrol deputies and detectives from the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station.

Twenty-seven persons were arrested during a follow-up investigation to the mannequin case in the mountain communities by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station on March 2. (Photo by ROTWNEWS.com)

A total of 27 people were taken into custody related to the ongoing investigation.

THE MANNEQUIN CASE

On Thursday, February 18, the Twin Peaks Station responded to calls of 7 mannequins hanging in various locations in the Crestline and Cedarpines Park communities.

The mannequins had “bull’s eye” targets and names of current and former deputies as well as a San Bernardino County Probation Officer painted on them.

The follow up investigation primarily focused on residences in the communities of Crestline and Valley of Enchantment which were believed to be associated with the mannequin case.

THE INVESTIGATION

During the investigation, Twin Peaks deputies arrested anyone with active warrants or who were involved in new criminal activity.

Patrol deputies and Twin Peaks detectives continue to investigate the so-called mannequin case. (Photo by ROTWNEWS.com)

Some of the new criminal charges on individuals ranged from various drug related crimes to assault on a peace officer.

The West Valley Detention Center transportation division assisted the Twin Peaks Station by providing vans for the subjects taken into custody.

The subjects arrested were transported and booked into the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Twin Peaks Station will continue to pursue the investigation until all parties involved are held accountable, according to a media release issued by the Sheriff’s Department.

Individuals with information regarding the so-called mannequin case are encouraged to contact the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0687 or We Tip 1-800-78-CRIME.

West Valley Detention Center vans were used to transport the 27 persons arrested in connection with the mannequin case involving threats to Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies. (Photo by ROTWNEWS.com)

ORIGINAL STORY

Twin Peaks, CA – The Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station conducted a follow-up investigation to the mannequin case Wednesday that resulted in the arrest of 27 individuals.

Armed with warrants, deputies fanned out across mountain communities from Crestline to Running Springs to take the subjects into custody.

Additional details will be posted as they become available.

Deputies assist those arrested during the follow-up investigation as they were placed in the transport vehicle. (Photo by ROTWNEWS.com)

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A delayed report of a possible attempted abduction of a 9-year-old girl near an Arrowbear school bus stop has Twin Peaks deputies reaching out to the public to help with the investigation. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Arrowbear, CA – Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies are searching for a white male who attempted to grab a 9-year-old girl while she was walking to a bus stop in Arrowbear with her brother. Unfortunately, the incident was not reported immediately and officers are seeking the public’s help to hopefully apprehend the man.

THE INCIDENT

On Friday, March 4, an unidentified 9-year-old female and her 7-year-old brother were walking to their bus stop in Arrowbear when a black car pulled into a driveway.

The driver of the vehicle exited and told the juvenile her parents told him to pick her up and take her to school. The juvenile did not recognize the male and continued walking, according to a media advisory.

The male called out to the young girl again, this time reaching for her, but the juvenile ran away telling her brother to run as well. When they reached the bus stop, the juvenile told her friends what occurred.

Out of fear, she did not tell any adults until she returned home later in the evening.

The man is described as having short brown or dirty blonde hair, yellowing teeth, and dirty torn jeans, according to the release.

ONGOING INVESTIGATION

Deputies report that no leads have been generated, but the investigation is ongoing.

Follow-up investigatons and extra patrols are being conducted in the area.

CALL TWIN PEAKS STATION

The public is asked to call the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0600 with any information about the incident or to report suspicious activity.

Parents are also being encouraged to take this opportunity to speak with their children about what to do if approached by a stranger as well as the importance of telling an adult as soon as possible following an incident.

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By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – Deputies of the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station’s Multi-Enforcement Team (MET) conducted a home visit shortly before 9 a.m. on Tuesday, March 8, on probationer Gary Michael Simrak at a residence in the 42000 block of Switzerland Drive in Big Bear Lake.

THE HOME VISIT

The 50-year-old Simrak was known to deputies to have an active misdemeanor warrant issued against him in connection with a case for possession of illegal substances, and is currently out of custody on bail in a separate narcotics case for possession and transportation of methamphetamine and heroin for sale.

During the home visit, Simrak was found to be in possession of a large quantity of methamphetamine, according to a media advisory issued by the Big Ber Sgheriff’s Station.

THE ARREST

Simrak was taken into custody without incident and booked at the Big Bear Jail on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine for sale and committing a felony while out on bail.

The media release reported that Simrak remains in custody in lieu of $175,000, with a video arraignment hearing scheduled for March 10 in San Bernardino County Superior Court.

MULTI-ENFORCEMENT TEAM

The Multi-Enforcement Team of the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station works proactively with Big Bear patrol deputies, county probation officers, and state parole officers to routinely conduct home visits and searches on local parolees and probationers pursuant to the terms and conditions of their release.

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William Paul Hernandez, 51, a resident of Big Bear has been arrested on suspicion of impersonating a police officer and sexually assaulting three women. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear, CA – A 51-year-old Big Bear man — William Paul Hernandez — has been arrested and is accused of impersonating a police officer in order to rape at least three women, and authorities believe he may have more victims.

William Paul Hernandez (Booking Photo)

Hernandez was arrested Monday during a traffic stop in Big Bear and his residence was searched by detectives, who reportedly located evidence linking him to sexual assaults in Rancho Cucamonga and Victorville, according to a media release issued by the Sheriff’s Department.

THE ASSAULTS

The first sexual assault was reported to police on February 18 at the New Kansan Motel in the 9300 block of East Football Boulevard in Rancho Cucamonga.

A Rancho Cucamonga press advisory states that Hernandez allegedly identified himself as a police officer and threatened a woman with a handgun before raping her for several hours.

One of the sexual assaults allegedly took place in the New Kansan motel in Rancho Cucamonga. (Contributed Photo)

During the investigation of the sexual assault in Rancho Cucamonga, Victorville police received a similar report of sexual assault in which the suspect was identified as Hernandez.

Victorville authorities reported that as in the Rancho Cucamonga crime, Hernandez allegedly identified himself as a police officer and threatened a woman with a handgun before raping her.

Hernandez then reportedly ordered the unidentified woman to call a third woman to come to their location. When she arrived, Hernandez allegedly threatened and raped her as well.

THE ARREST

The alleged police impersonator was arrested on March 7 at 7:40 p.m. in Big Bear during a traffic stop. according to booking information.

Hernandez is being held on $1 million bail at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga. His first court appearance was scheduled for the Rancho Superior Court on Wednesday.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SOUGHT

Anyone with information about these crimes or who have had similar contact with Hernandez should call the Rancho Cucamonga Police Department at (909) 477-2800 or the Victorville Police Department at (760) 241-2275.

Information may also be left on the WE-TIP website.

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Chan Kim, 20, has been charged with attempted murder after an altercation at Serrano Campground in Big Bear City. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear City, CA – Twenty-year-old Chan Kim has been placed under arrest for attempted murder after an altercation at Serrano Campground in the 40600 block of North Shore Drive in Big Bear City Wednesday morning.

THE INCIDENT

Serrano Campground is located in the 40600 block of North Shore Drive (Highway 38) in Big Bear City. (Photo by U.S. Forest Service)

Shortly after 10 a.m., March 9, Big Bear Sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported fight at Serrano Campground in Big Bear City.

Upon arrival, deputies made contact with the involved parties and determined that five male adults who had been camping together when they allegedly got into a verbal argument at the campsite, according to a media release.

The argument reportedly escalated and turned physical when one of the males — identified as Kim — picked up a shovel and hit the 19-year-old victim, Shervin Mostashari, in the ear.
Deputies determined Chan then made threatening statements and allegedly stabbed the victim multiple times in the torso with a pocketknife.

As a result of the altercation, Mostashari sustained a moderate cut to his ear and superficial lacerations to his torso through the several layers of heavy clothing he was wearing.

The victim refused medical attention at the scene, and later drove himself to Bear Valley Community Hospital for treatment.

THE ARREST

At 10:57 a.m., Kim was detained without incident and booked into the Big Bear Jail on a felony charge of attempted murder.

Kim remains in custody in lieu of $1 million bail.

COURT APPEARANCE

Kim’s first court appearance — a video arraignment — is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on March 11 in San Bernardino County Superior Court.

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Quick work by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies and Hook Private Security Service led to the arrest of a Crestline women and the recovery of stolen items from four Lake Arrowhead Village merchants. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Lake Arrowhead, CA – Black boots allegedly stolen from Famous Footwear in Lake Arrowhead Village not only led to the arrest of a 25-year-old Crestline woman but quick work by Hook Private Security Service and Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies facilitated the recovery of merchandise from three other merchants in the shopping complex.

THE INCIDENT

Boots allegedly stolen from Famous Footwear in Lake Arrowhead Village helped Twin Peaks deputies and Hook Private Security Service apprehend a female suspect. (Contributed Photo)

Famous Footwear notified Hook Security that a theft of the boots had occurred Wednesday afternoon and as Mountain Division Manager Brennon Thompson was responding to the call he spotted a white female adult matching the description of the suspect walking in the direction of Blue Jay on Highway 189.

Twin Peaks deputies were notified that Thompson had a visual on the suspect still wearing the boots and needed assistance.

THE RESPONSE

While awaiting deputies to respond, Thompson — in a marked Hook Security unit —  observed the suspect enter Jensen’s Market in Blue Jay.

Hook Private Security Service Mountain Division Manager Brennon Thompson (Contributed Photo)

“I was able to pull up camera footage from the Lake Arrowhead Village surveillance system,” Thompson told ROTWNEWS.com, “and confirmed via video that this was the correct suspect.”

When Deputy F. Perez arrived in Blue Jay, Thompson explained, a search of the market for the female suspect was initiated.

“The suspect was located hiding in the women’s restroom,” Thompson noted, “and was wearing the boots taken earlier from Famous Footwear.”

ADDITIONAL INVESTIGATION

“When we arrived back at Famous Footwear,” Thompson added, “staff determined that the boots the suspect was wearing were in fact the stolen merchandise.”

Security also reviewed the video and determined that Wesser was wearing a different pair of shoes when she entered the store,  according to information provided by Hook Security.

The Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station’s crystal report states that Wesser was found in possession of the stolen merchandise and items from different retail businesses in Lake Arrowhead Village.

Those businesses were later identified as Famous Footwear, G. H. Bass, Coach, and Lake Arrowhead Fossils. All items were returned to the various merchants.

THE ARREST

Wesser was arrested for being in possession of stolen property and booked at the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino Wednesday.

She was cited and released at 2 a.m. on Thursday, March 10.

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By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – The latest addition to the list of the Mountain’s MOST WANTED is 21-year-old Kyle Dennet who is being sought by the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station.

Dennett, a probationer, is wanted on a no bail warrant for violation of probation terms stemming from a weapons conviction.

FREQUENT BIG BEAR VALLEY VISITOR

The media advisory from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station indicates that while Dennett is reported to be a transient from the Yucaipa area he is known to frequent the Big Bear Valley.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Dennett is described as a white male and 5-foot, 6-inches tall and weighing about 145 pounds.

The MOST WANTED fugitive has brown hair and eyes.

CONTACT AUTHORITIES

Persons with information about Dennett’s whereabouts are encouraged to call the Detective Division of the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station at (909) 866-0100.

Information can also be reported anonymously by calling WE TIP at (800) 78-CRIME or WE TIP online.

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Michael Ernest Taylor, 34, is in custody at the West Valley Detention Center following his arrest on felony charges of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a short-barreled shotgun, and carrying a loaded firearm in public with a felony conviction. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – Deputies from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station Multi Enforcement Team conducted a vehicle check in the CVS Pharmacy parking lot in the 42000 Block of Big Bear Boulevard in Big Bear Lake Tuesday at about 5 p.m.

Deputies made contact with Michael Ernest Taylor, 34, who was identified as being on Post Community Supervised Release Probation (AB 109) and having a active felony arrest warrant for possession of a stolen vehicle.

During a search of Taylor’s vehicle, deputies found a loaded sawed off shotgun and drug paraphernalia.

THE ARREST

Taylor, who is not a resident of the Big Bear area, was taken into custody without incident.

The suspect was booked at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga on felony charges of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a short-barreled shotgun, and carrying a loaded firearm in public with a felony conviction.

Taylor remains in custody in lieu of $50,000 bail. A video arraignment hearing in the case is set for 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 21.

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By G. T. Houts

Crestline, CA – Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies served a search warrant at a residence in Valley of Enchantment (Crestline) and discovered items related to identity theft, evidence from several recent mountain burglaries, drugs and drug paraphernalia.

SEARCH WARRANT

Deputies and detectives executed the search warrant on Thursday, April 21, in the 300 block of Tetley Drive.

Deputies were led to the Valley of Enchantment residence after observing 45-year-old Karl Richard Eimers on surveillance video using credit cards belonging to victims of recent burglaries, according to a media release from the Sheriff’s Department.

The video footage was taken from several retail stores in the San Bernardino area, the release explained.

SUSPECTS CONTACTED

Once inside the residence, deputies contacted Eimers, Travis Gregory Ward, 32, from San Diego, and Kathleen Kelly, 33, from San Diego.

During the actual search, deputies recovered numerous items believed to be stolen. The items included several identification cards, paperwork, credit cards, checks and power tools which were reported stolen from recent burglaries.

Also recovered in the residence was a large amount of drug paraphernalia as well as methamphetamine, heroin and items consistent with drug sales.

THE ARRESTS

All three subjects were arrested for PC 496(a), Possession of Stolen Property and PC 530.5 Identity Theft. Eimers was charged with H&S 11366 for keeping a place to sell controlled substances. His bail is $50,000.

Ward’s bail was also $50,000. However, there is also a $145,000 hold from San Diego County.

They were booked into West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

Deputies believe Eimers is linked to residential and vehicular burglaries throughout the mountain communities.

CONTACT INFORMATION

If you have further information regarding this case or additional burglaries connected to Eimers, Ward and Kelly, please contact the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0687 or We-Tip 1-800-78-CRIME.

Deputies and detectives serve a search warrant at a Valley of Enchantment residence leading to 3 arrests. (Photo by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station)

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A 59-year-old man — Dennis Griffin Pease — has been found guilty of the 2005 cold case murder of a Fresno man and dumping his body in the Cajon Pass. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Dennis Pease (Booking Photo)

San Bernardino, CA – Dennis Griffin Pease, 59, has been found guilty of murdering a Fresno man and dumping his body in the Cajon Pass in 2005.

The cold case was prosecuted in San Bernardino County Superior Court by Deputy District Attorney Denise Yoakum.

Pease is being held at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga awaiting sentencing on June 10 at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-12.

THE COLD CASE

Willard Eichler (Contributed Photo)

Pease was accused of killing Willard Eichler, 54, and dumping his body on Swarthout Canyon Road in the Cajon Pass, on November 11, 2005.

Swarthout Canyon Road is located east of the I-15 freeway and south of Highway 138.

In 2005, Pease was located driving Eichler’s missing Ford LTD. Pease was arrested for felon in possession of a firearm and sentenced to state prison for one year. At the time of that arrest, authorities didn’t have sufficient evidence to link Pease to the killing.

After his release from prison, Pease was a transient, according to a media release issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

In 2011, the Sheriff’s Homicide Cold Case Team took charge of the investigation and completed additional interviews. Evidence from the scene and Eichler’s car was analyzed and linked Pease to the murder.

THE ARREST

A warrant for Pease’s arrest was issued on January 12, 2012, charging him with Eichler’s murder.

On July 18, 2012, Eichler was located by a U. S. Marshal’s Service Fugitive Task Force, he was residing in a transient camp behind a gas station in Orlando, Florida. He was eventually extradited to San Bernardino County where he stood trial for Eichler’s murder.

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Big Bear Lake murder suspect Ronald Michael Hitchcock, charged with the 2012 death of his girlfriend, Deborah Ann Crouch, returns to Superior Court on Wednesday, April 27, 21 for yet another disposition/reset hearing. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San Bernardino, CA – Murder suspect Ronald Michael Hitchcock, now 60, returns to court once again on Wednesday, April 27. Hitchcock, who is charged with the murder of Erwin Lake resident, Deborah Ann Crouch, 53, will have a disposition/reset hearing at 8:30 a.m. in San Bernardino County Superior Court, Department S-16.

The report of a submerged car at Swim Beach in Big Bear Lake was received about 6 a.m. Saturday, September 15, 2002. (Contributed Photo)

Hitchcock and his attorneys have been granted numerous delays in the legal process that began shortly after Crouch and her dog were found in Big Bear Lake on September 15, 2012.

Hitchcock — a resident of Big Bear — entered a not guilty plea to murder and cruelty to another’s animal on September 18, 2012. He is currently in custody at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga with bail set at $1 million.

THE INCIDENT

Deborah Ann Crouch (Contributed Photo)

Hitchcock is charged with two felony charges after Crouch’s body and that of a dog were retrieved from a submerged car in Big Bear Lake on September 15, 2012.

Big Bear Sheriff’s deputies responded to the Swim Beach area of Meadow Park at about 6 a.m. on that date and made contact with a man (Hitchcock) — who was inside the fencing at Swim Beach and yelling — he explained his vehicle had crashed through the locked front gate and into the lake, according to a Big Bear Sheriff’s Station press release issued at the time.

Sheriff’s Aviation’s 40-King was dispatched about 7 a.m. and, once over the scene, mapped the GPS coordinates of the car’s location.

The car was located about 20 yards out from the beach.

Members of the department’s dive team went into Big Bear Lake and found the vehicle, which contained the female victim (Crouch) and a dog.

They were both pronounced deceased at the scene.

INVESTIGATION AND ARREST

San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department homicide detectives were summoned to the scene and, following their investigation  — which included a search of Crouch’s residence on E Lane in Erwin Lake — arrested Hitchcock on suspicion of murder.

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As part of the follow-up investigation of the so-called mannequin case threatening deputies and a probation officer, the Twin Peaks Station has arrested 27 individuals. (Photo By Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station)

By G. T. Houts

UPDATE: Thursday, March 3 – 10:50 a.m.

Twin Peaks, Ca – A follow-up investigation to the recent mannequin case involving threats against local deputies was conducted on Wednesday, March 2 by patrol deputies and detectives from the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station.

Twenty-seven persons were arrested during a follow-up investigation to the mannequin case in the mountain communities by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station on March 2. (Photo by ROTWNEWS.com)

A total of 27 people were taken into custody related to the ongoing investigation.

THE MANNEQUIN CASE

On Thursday, February 18, the Twin Peaks Station responded to calls of 7 mannequins hanging in various locations in the Crestline and Cedarpines Park communities.

The mannequins had “bull’s eye” targets and names of current and former deputies as well as a San Bernardino County Probation Officer painted on them.

The follow up investigation primarily focused on residences in the communities of Crestline and Valley of Enchantment which were believed to be associated with the mannequin case.

THE INVESTIGATION

During the investigation, Twin Peaks deputies arrested anyone with active warrants or who were involved in new criminal activity.

Patrol deputies and Twin Peaks detectives continue to investigate the so-called mannequin case. (Photo by ROTWNEWS.com)

Some of the new criminal charges on individuals ranged from various drug related crimes to assault on a peace officer.

The West Valley Detention Center transportation division assisted the Twin Peaks Station by providing vans for the subjects taken into custody.

The subjects arrested were transported and booked into the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Twin Peaks Station will continue to pursue the investigation until all parties involved are held accountable, according to a media release issued by the Sheriff’s Department.

Individuals with information regarding the so-called mannequin case are encouraged to contact the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0687 or We Tip 1-800-78-CRIME.

West Valley Detention Center vans were used to transport the 27 persons arrested in connection with the mannequin case involving threats to Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies. (Photo by ROTWNEWS.com)

ORIGINAL STORY

Twin Peaks, CA – The Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station conducted a follow-up investigation to the mannequin case Wednesday that resulted in the arrest of 27 individuals.

Armed with warrants, deputies fanned out across mountain communities from Crestline to Running Springs to take the subjects into custody.

Additional details will be posted as they become available.

Deputies assist those arrested during the follow-up investigation as they were placed in the transport vehicle. (Photo by ROTWNEWS.com)

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Michael Joseph Emmi, Jr., 24, faces four felony counts following a 90-second high speed pursuit Saturday on Big Bear Boulevard. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

UPDATE: Tuesday, June 21 – 7:10 p.m.

Big Bear Lake, CA – Court Commissioner Ronald J. Gilbert conducted a video arraignment for the man accused of leading a Big Bear Sheriff’s deputy on a short, 90-second high speed pursuit on Big Bear Boulevard on Saturday about 6 p.m.

Michael Joseph Emmi, Jr., 24, entered a not guilty plea to four felony counts and bail was set at $175,000. He is currently in custody at the West Valley Detention Center.

The Public Defender has been appointed and a pre-preliminary hearing set for June 29 at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-17.

THE INCIDENT

A Big Bear deputy observed Emmi’s vehicle traveling eastbound on Big Bear Boulevard at a high rate of speed and crossing back and forth into oncoming traffic, according to information provided to ROTWNEWS.com by the Sheriff’s Department.

Public Information Officer Tiffany Swantek explained thatb the deputy attempted to stop the vehicle, but Emmi failed to yield and ignored the patrol unit’s lights and siren.

“Emmi lost control of the vehicle and collided on a dirt embankment, causing the vehicle to roll olver numerous times,” Swantek reported.

The incident happened near the intersection of Division Drive and Big Bear Boulevard with the vehicle landing on its side with the driver’s door against the ground.

REFUSAL TO EXIT VEHICLE

The suspect allegedly refused to exit the vehicle and did not comply with demands from the deputies on scene.

After being pepper sprayed, Emmi exited the vehicle.

THE ARREST/CHARGES 

Emmi was taken into custody  at 5:59 p.m., decontaminated , and then transported to the West Valley Detention Center for booking.

Emmi was booked on four felony counts — evading a peace officer with disregard for public safety, evading a peace officer against traffic and two counts on resisting arrest.

ORIGINAL STORY

Big Bear Lake, CA – A 90-second high speed pursuit on Big Bear Boulevard ended with a rollover accident and the eventual arrest of the male driver.

Details are still sketchy but the incident began just before 6 p.m. Saturday night on Big Bear Boulevard near Stanfield Cutoff and ended with the crash slightly west of Division Drive, according to scanner reports.

THE INCIDENT

The incident began as a patrol unit called in a plate while eastbound on Big Bear Boulevard.

The deputy activated lights and siren and the driver failed to yield to the officer and sped away only to crash near the old Riffenburgh Lumber building and Snow Play hill.

Scanner transmissions indicate the driver initially declined to get out of the vehicle and medical aid was dispatched but staged a short distance from the accident.

The subject finally exited the vehicle and was attended to by Big Bear Fire paramedics.

THE ARREST

The subject was arrested by deputies a few minutes after 6 p.m.

ROTWNEWS.com has requested information from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station and will pass along that information when it is received.

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The oft delayed murder trial of Steven Michael Baumgartner, 55, is underway in San Bernardino County Superior Court. He is accused of the June 30, 2014, murder, in the driveway of his Crestline home, of Michael Paul Clark, 38. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San Bernardino, CA – Judge Harold T. Wilson, Jr. is presiding over the murder trial of Steven Michael Baumgartner, 55, in San Bernardino County Superior Court, Department S-15. The former Riverside County Deputy Sheriff is accused of the murder of 38-year-old Michael Paul Clark in Crestline on June 30, 2014.

The trial is being held in the San Bernardino County Justice Center in downtown SAn Bernardino. (Photo by ROTWNEWS.com)

Baumgartner is represented by Conflict Panel Attorney Julian Ducre and is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Nelson Ng.

THE TRIAL

The long delayed trial — which began shortly after 8:30 a.m. on August 24 — has Baumgartner facing  murder, using a firearm and discharging a firearm causing great bodily injury charges.

The trial is scheduled to reconvene on Monday, August 29 at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-15.

Baumgartner entered a not guilty plea on July 2, 2014.

Steven Michael Baumgartner (Contributed Photo)

Baumgartner has also denied special allegations.

THE CASE

Baumgartner reportedly shot Clark — his next door neighbor in the 23000 block of Wildwood Lane in Crestline — in the face with a .357 Magnum after the two men got in an argument outside Clark’s home.

Numerous 9-1-1 callers told San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Dispatchers about the incident that occurred about 5:14 p.m. on June 30.

First responders transported Clark to St. Bernardine Medical Center in San Bernardino where he was pronounced dead at 6:09 p.m.

IN CUSTODY

During the trial, Baumgartner will remain in custody in the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino. The original bail amount was $1.75 million.

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Paul Michael Madison, 30, a former Running Springs resident, has entered a not guilty plea to distributing pornographic material to a 12-year-old Texas girl. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Twin Peaks, CA – A 30-year-old former Running Springs resident — Paul Michael Madison — has been charged with sending harmful material to a 12-year-old girl in Denton, Texas.

Paul Michael Madison (Booking Photo)

Madison was arraigned on the charge August 25 via video from the West Valley Detention Center where he is being held on $26,000 bail. He entered a not guilty plea and Commissioner Ronald J. Gilbert appointed the Public Defender to represent Madison.

THE CASE

On June 29, detectives from the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station received a complaint from the Denton Police Department in Texas, regarding inappropriate communication with a minor.

The complaint alleged Madison of Running Springs sent inappropriate matter, including nude photographs of himself via the internet to the young Denton, Texas resident.

A media advisory from the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station indicates that the two met while playing “Game of War” online.

Denton Police were told by the underwage victim that text communications outside the game app began, and the two started an online relationship. The victim’s mother discovered the pictures and text messages and reported them to the Denton Police Department.

THE INVESTIGATION/ARREST

During the course of the investigation, detectives discovered Madison no longer lived in Running Springs and moved to San Bernardino.

On Tuesday,  August 23, Detectives Michelle Brand and Michael Salazar from the Twin Peaks Station executed a search warrant at Madison’s new residence in the 100 block of North Sierra Way in San Bernardino.

Madison was detained by the two detectives and transported to the Central Sheriff’s Station. The officers Detectives seized Madison’s computers and cell phones.

Through their investigation, Detectives believed Madison was in violation of Penal Code 288.2 (a) Harmful Matter to a minor. He was transported to the West Valley Detention Center where he was booked for Penal Code 288.2(a) and is being held on $25,000 bail.

POSSIBLE ADDITIONAL VICTIMS

Detectives believe there may be other victims who have experienced similar situations with Madison.

Persons who may have been victimized by Madison, or have any information about this case, are encouraged to contact Detective Michelle Brand at the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station at (909) 336-0600 to report it.

UPCOMING COURT HEARINGS

Madison will next appear in court on Friday, September 2, at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-4 for a pre-preliminary hearing.

Commissioner Gilbert also scheduled a preliminary hearing for Wednesday, September 7, at 8:30 a.m. in the same courtroom.

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By G. T. Houts

Cajon Pass – A Union Pacific Railroad Police officer patrolling in the Cajon Pass area contacted a man sitting inside a parked vehicle that was trespassing on railroad property.

The car’s occupant was a 51-year-old Ontario arson registrant — identified as Larry Paul Missirlian — and the railroad officer determined he was also on active parole.

Missirlian was reportedly parked about 10-feet from a large dry unburned area where the Blue Cut Fire had not burned.

DEPUTIES RESPOND

San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputies from the Central Station responded to the location on North Cajon Boulevard and Cleghorn Road at about 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 3.

Deputies conducted a vehicle search and discovered Missirlian had a 5-gallon can of gasoline, large butane torches and lighter fluid. In addition, new cigarette lighters were found under the driver’s seat.

“The items appeared to be set ready for immediate use,” a media advisory from the Sheriff’s Department stated.

THE ARREST

Missirlian was arrested for arson and for violating his arson/parole terms.

He was booked at the West Valley Detention Center in rancho Cucamonga without incident and is being held on $50,000 bail. In addition, he is being held without bail on the violationn of parole charge.

COURT APPEARANCES

Larry Paul Missirlian (Facebook)

Missirlian is scheduled for a video arraignment at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 7.

A court appearance on the violation of parole count is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Monday, September 12.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Individuals with information regarding the ongoing investigation are encouraged to call Deputy L. Sandoval at (909) 387-3545.

Anonymous information may also be left by calling the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information online at WE-TIP.

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William Ralph Marsh, 43, has been arrested in Big Bear City following the service of a no bail felony warrant during which a large quality of counterfeit money was located. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear City, CA – A 43-year-old Big Bear City man — William Ralph Marsh — has been arrested by Big Bear Sheriff’s deputies following the service of a no bail felony warrant during which a large quality of counterfeit money was located.

THE INCIDENT

The Big Bear Sheriff’s Station was contacted on September 15 by the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Parole Apprehension Team and advised that Marsh was possibly living in the Big Bear area.

Deputies were told Marsh was wanted for Assembly Bill 109 State Parole violations and had a No Bail Warrant for his arrest from the Probation Department and was in violation of his conditions of release by failing to report since December 2015.

SUSPECT CONTACTED

Marsh was contacted at his family’s residence in the 700 block of Elysian Boulevard in Big Bear City and arrested.

During a search of Marsh’s home, deputies located a large quantity of counterfeit money along with equipment used for the counterfeit manufacturing, according to a media advisory issued by the Sheriff’s Department.

THE ARREST

Officers arrested Marsh for possession of counterfeit money (California Penal Code 475) and on the felony fugitive warrant out of Los Angeles County and remains in custody in lieu of bail at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

A San Bernardino County Superior Court video arraignment is scheduled for Monday, September 19, at 12:30 p.m.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Investigators are seeking information from anyone who may have had financial transactions with Marsh.

Anyone having further information on this matter is requested to contact the Detectives Bureau of the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station at (909) 866-0100. Information can also be reported anonymously by calling WE-TIP at 1 (800) 78-CRIME or online at WETIP.

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