Scott Prather, 55, was shot by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies after he reportedly aimed a shotgun at a deputy during an incident in the 400 block of Millburn Drive in Blue Jay. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Bluer Jay, CA – A 55-year-old Blue Jay man was wounded by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies after he reportedly aimed a shotgun at a deputy in the 400 block of Millburn Drive. The officer involved shooting of the man–identified by deputies as Scott Prather — occurred shortly after midnight on Thursday, January 22.

THE INCIDENT

A media release from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department states that deputies responded to a welfare check at the Blue Jay residence at 12:07 a.m. San Bernardino County Fire also responded by staged out of the area until the situation was stable.

Dispatchers were told by the reporting party that they were concerned about the resident and asked for assistance. The caller indicated Prather may be a danger to himself and was in possession of firearms.

Deputies arrived at the Blue Jay address and attempted to make contact with Prather by telephone. Officers also made public address announcements but Prather failed to respond.

TWO SHOTGUNS

The press release indicates that a short time later,  Prather exited the residence holding two shotguns.

The man then allegedly raised and pointed one of the shotguns towards a deputy and deputies were forced to shoot Prather.

Prather was transported to a local hospital where he underwent surgery and is expected to survive, according to the news release.

THE INVESTIGATION

The investigation of the officer involved shooting is being handled by the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigators from the Homicide Detail.

Persons with information about the incident are encouraged to contact Detective Ed DeLaTorre at (909) 387-3589.

Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or may leaver information online at WE-TIP HOTLINE. (301)

The rising number of cardboard thefts in San Bernardino County is being address by the District Attorney’s office with increased enforcement and prosecutuion efforts. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Mountain Communities – For most mountain residents, cardboard is… just there. However, that seemingly useless agglomeration of wood pulp is worth something to somebody.

So it turns out that stealing cardboard is a relatively easy — and surprisingly profitable — crime that’s caught the attention of the San Bernardino County District Attorney.

CARDBOARD THEFT

Over the course of last year,  investigators assigned to the Consumer and Environmental Protection Unit of the District Attorney’s office have noticed a trend of commodity theft in the form of recyclable materials, specifically cardboard.

Supervising investigator Jerry Villanueva, explained in a media release that this recyclable commodity is stolen by various persons throughout the county by entering locked or unlocked recycling bins resulting in an estimated minimum loss to the refuse/recycle industry of approximately $1.3 million annually.

Though they are typically committed during daylight hours, these commodity thefts largely go unreported to law enforcement because the product being stolen is perceived to be trash.

“Unfortunately,” Villanueva stated, “these thefts are committed on a daily basis by the various violators throughout the county who remove the cardboard from clearly marked recycle bins and ultimately transport the cardboard to a local recycling company.

“They can receive anywhere between $200 and $400 per truck load,” he explained.

CONSUMER’S IMPACTED

The million dollar-plus cost to the industry of these thefts is then passed on to the consumer, by way of increased monthly refuse collection fees.

“It is the intention of the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, Consumer and Environmental Protection Unit, to investigate and prosecute any persons involved in cardboard theft,” Villanueva’s release added.

“It is the goal of the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office to safeguard the consumer by reducing the number of cardboard theft incidents,” Villanueva concluded, “thereby reducing the monetary loss to the industry, a loss which ultimately is suffered by the consumers who pay increased fees as a result of these crimes.”

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Persons with information about cardboard theft are urged to contact Villanueva at (909) 891-3625. (127)

Ronald Michael Hitchcock, accused of the 2012 murder of Deborah Ann Crouch, has a disposition/reset hearing set for Tuesday, January 27. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San Bernardino, CA – Big Bear murder suspect Ronald Michael Hitchcock, 58,  returns to court Tuesday, January 27. Hitchcock, who is charged with the murder of Erwin Lake resident, Deborah Ann Crouch, 53, will be have a disposition/reset hearing at 8:30 a.m. in San Bernardino County Superior Court, Department S-16.

Hitchcock has already entered a not guilty plea to murder and cruelty to another’s animal. He is currently in custody at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga with bail set at $1 million.

During a brief appearance before Judge J. David Mazurek on December 4, Hitchcock’s hearing was continued by stipulation. A scheduled trial date was also vacated.

THE CASE FOR MURDER

Hitchcock is facing the 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.

Deborah Ann Crouch (Contributed Photo)

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 media advisory issued at the time by the Big Bear Station.

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.

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. (177)

An Arizona man — Keith Michael Venrick — is a real prisoner after falsely identifying himself as a San Diego Police officer. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Twin Peaks, CA – A 42-year-old “fake cop” is now a real prisoner after being arrested for impersonating a peace officer and being in possession of a stolen vehicle.  The man–identified by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Detective Justin Long as Keith Michael Venrick — is a resident of Phoenix, Arizona.

A media release from the Twin Peaks Station lists the victims as the people of California and the Hertz Corporation.

Venrick is scheduled to be arraigned via video from the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 27.

THE CASE

Detective Long and deputy Ron Miller’s release shows the incident began on Sunday, January 25, at about 1:05 p.m. Deputies responded to a business in the 27900 block of Lakes Edge Road in Lake Arrowhead after the firm notified authorities that a subject at the location was impersonating a San Diego Police officer.

The reporting party — according to the information released to the press –stated the suspect (Venrick) was at the location identifying himself as a government official. When asked to provide identification, Venrick reportedly displayed a San Diego Police Department badge.

The San Diego Police Department was contacted by the business in an attempt to verify Venrick’s employment only to be informed he was not a police officer and was not employed by the department.

Venrick and 43-year-old Kelly Lynn Hardy, also from Arizona, had left the Lake Arrowhead business before deputies arrives at the location.

SUSPECT LOCATED

At about 4:20 p.m. on January 25, Venrick and Hardy were located near the intersection of Lake Drive and Pioneer Camp Road in Crestline.

Deputies determined the two were in possession of a stolen silver 2013 Nissan Altima with Maryland plates. Officers also allegedly observed that Venrick and Hardy had multiple items in the vehicle consistent with identity theft.

Deputies are currently seeking possible additional victims to support identity theft related charges.

The San Diego Police Department badge was not recovered during the investigation.

CONTACT SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

The Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station is urging anyone with information about the case to call (909) 226-0600.

Callers wishing to remain anonymous can contact the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME (27463) or leave information online at WE-TIP. (145)

A search warrant at a Big Bear City residence turned up stolen property and drugs resulting in the arrest of three individuals. (Photo by Big Bear Sheriff’s Station)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear City, CA – Three people are in custody after Big Bear Sheriff’s deputies served a search warrant at a Big Bear City residence and found stolen property, drugs, drug paraphernalia, cash and more.

Deputies served the search warrant at about 8:15 a.m. Wednesday, January 28, in the 900 block of Anita Avenue in Big Bear City. The warrant was granted to recover stolen property.

A media release issued by Sheriff’s Department spokesperson Tiffany Swantek indicated that, during the search, deputies located stolen property, including two flat screen televisions, a computer router, and tools. Swantek’s release also reported that deputies also seized a large amount of methamphetamine, cash, paraphernalia and packaging consistent with sales of narcotics.

THE ARRESTS

The three individuals in the house at the time the search warrant was served were taken into custody without incident. Toth was released with a court hearing scheduled for March 31.

CINDY CANNON TOTH, 55, was issued a citation for misdemeanor possession of stolen property and maintaining a drug house.

BAILEY ALEXANDRA  LIMBOURNE, 23, was booked on a felony charge of being in possession of a controlled substance for sale and a misdemeanor charge of possession of stolen property, with bail set at $60,000.

MAXX LIMBOURNE, 25, was placed under arrest on a felony charge of being a felon in possession of ammunition, and a misdemeanor charge of being in possession of stolen property. Bail was set at $45,000. He is currently on 36 months probation for possession of a controlled substance dating back to April, 11, 2014.

Both Bailey and Maxx Limbourne are scheduled to appear for arraignment on Friday, January 30, in San Bernardino County Superior Court. (298)

A 23-year-old man is in custody after deputies served a search warrant at a Crestline residence and reportedly found items consistent with the sales of narcotics. (File Photo)

By G.T. Houts

Crestline, CA – Nicholas James Reid, 23, is scheduled for a video arraignment Friday, January 30, on drug-related charges after Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies served a search warrant at a residence in the 600 block of Cedar Lane in Crestline. His court appearance is set for 12:30 p.m.

The search warrant was served on Wednesday, January 28, at 9:15 a.m., according to a media advisory issued by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station. During the search, deputies contacted Reid, who is on active parole, and an unidentified adult female.

Both were found to be in possession of items consistent with the sales of narcotics.

THE ARREST

Reid was arrested and is in custody at the Center Detention Center in San Bernardino. He is on a no bail hold due to his possible violation of probation.

The arrest report has been forwarded to the District Attorney’s office for review and possible charges being filed against the adult female.

  (86)

Fake IRS phone calls are once again being received by mountain residents who should be aware of the fact the IRS does not try to collect taxes over the phone. Report the scam to authorities. (File Photo)

By Michael P. Neufeld

Mountain Communities – Residents in the mountain and neighboring communities have once again been targeted by a series of scam phone calls from people posing as agents from the Internal Revenue Service.

The fake agents are reportedly informing residents and seniors that they owe delinquent taxes, according to information obtained from the San Bernardino County Department of Aging and Adult Services and San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.  They then attempt to pressure the individuals to pay the alleged debt.

“It sounded so real, ” one resident told ROTWNEWS.com,  ”and when I called a second number provided by the male caller they answered Internal Revenue Service. Only a call to a legitimate IRS office cleared up the matter. In fact, the IRS agent told me they never try to collect money over the phone.

“I was also told the scams are run on a regional basis,” the woman stated.

THE PHONE CALLS

In addition to stating mountain residents owe the IRS money, the IRS impersonators have threatened arrest, deportation, and/or suspension of their driver’s license unless they provide payment over the telephone through pre-loaded debit cards or wire transfers, according to the press release.

“They may call back numerous times,” the San Bernardino County Department of Aging and Adult Services information emphasizes, “and pretend to be law enforcement or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officials and send you an e-mail claiming to be from the IRS and they need to collect a debit. This is a scam.”

In addition, scammers may tamper with the individual’s telephone Caller ID to make it appear as if the call is being generated by the IRS.

IRS TIPS FOR RESIDENTS

The IRS recommends that residents:

* Politely ask for their call back information and then hang up.

* Do not open any attachments in unexpected e-mails that claim to be from the IRS.

* Never give a caller any personal or financial information.

* Contact the IRS directly if you have concerns about your account.

* Know that the IRS, Law Enforcement, and USCIS do not initiate contact through e-mail, text messages or social media.

* Be aware that the IRS will never ask for your PIN, password,  or confidential access information for your credit or bank accounts.

The first contact between IRS and tax payers regarding a tax issue is likely to occur through the mail.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

If you believe you may be a victim of a scam, contact San Bernardino County Adult Protective Services (APS) at (877) 565-2020, or the local Sheriff’s Station — Big Bear (909) 866-0100 or Twin Peaks (909) 336-0600. (148)

Steve Michael Baumgartner, 53 — who is accused of the murder of Michael Paul Clark in Crestline on June 30 — has been granted another continuance by Judge Harold T, Wilson (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San Bernardino, CA – Crestline murder suspect Steve Michael Baumgartner, 53, returned to court Friday, February 6, for a disposition/reset hearing. However, Judge Harold T. Wilson continued the matter by stipulation until Friday, March 13, at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-15.

Steve Michael Baumgartner (Contributed Photo)

Baumgartner remains in custody in the Central Detention Center in San  Bernardino. Bail remains at $1.75 million.

He is is accused of the murder of Michael Paul Clark in Crestline on June 30, 2014.

THE CASE

Baumgartner, a  former Riverside County Deputy Sheriff, 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.

San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Dispatchers were told by numerous 9-1-1 callers 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.

He has entered a not guilty plea to all charges. (58)

A 27-year-old parolee — Travest Rontae Hill — is facing numerous charges following his arrest in Big Bear City. They include attempted carjacking, assault with a deadly weapon and viloation of his PRCS parole (File Photo).

By G.T. Houts

Big Bear City, CA – Attempted carjacking suspect — Travest Rontae Hill — was arrested in Big Bear City Tuesday morning and faces a host of charges including assault with a deadly weapon and violation of his Post Release Community Supervision (PRCS) parole.

THE INITIAL CARJACKING INCIDENT

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department reports the initial incident began at about 7:20 p.m. on Monday, February 9, in San Bernardino.

Hill, 27, allegedly carjacked the owner of a halfway house for parolees in San Bernardino where he was a resident and on parole for assault with a deadly weapon.

Authorities contend Hill assaulted the victim, hitting the unidentified female repeatedly on her face and head with a rock or brick.

The victim was transported to Loma Linda Medical Center for treatment of her injuries.

SECOND INCIDENT

Following the carjacking, Hill drove the woman’s stolen vehicle towards the Big Bear area on Highway 18 from Lucerne Valley and crashed near Mile Marker 63, close to the Mitsubishi Plant.

At about 9:20 p.m., a second victim saw the crashed vehicle while driving up Highway 18 and stopped to assist Hill.

Hill reportedly struck the victim in the head multiple times in an unsuccessful attempt to take the victim’s car keys. However, the unidentified adult male victim alluded Hill on foot and flagged down an off –duty CHP Officer for assistance.

The victim was transported to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center to receive medical treatment for injuries sustained during the attempted second carjacking.

Suspect Hill fled on foot near the area at Call Box 622 (straightaway near Cactus Flats).

THE SEARCH FOR HILL

Big Bear and Lucerne Valley Sheriff’s Station deputies, as well as deputies from the Sheriff’s Aviation Division, conducted a thorough check of the area on foot and by helicopter throughout the night, but were unable to locate Hill.

The search for Travest Hill resumed this morning. Big Bear deputies located Hill walking near the intersection of North Shore
Drive and Sierra Avenue in Big Bear City shortly before 8 a.m. Tuesday.

THE ARREST

Hill was taken into custody at 7:58 a.m. without incident and booked on felony charges of parole violation, assault with a deadly weapon, and attempted carjacking.

The suspect remains in custody in lieu of $125,000 bail, with an arraignment hearing set for Friday, February 13, at 12:30 p.m. in San Bernardino County Superior Court. A PRCS parole violation hearing has also been scheduled for Thursday, February 19, at 1:30 p.m. He is being held without bail on the parole violation.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Hill may also be facing additional charges from the San Bernardino City Police Department, the jurisdiction where the initial carjacking and assault occurred.

The arrest of Travest Hill is a direct result of multi-agency cooperation between the San Bernardino City Police Department and various divisions of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. (60)

A police pursuit closed Highway 330 for a short period Wednesday afternoon and led to the arrest of Michael Richard Gillespie, 25. He is being held on $100,000 bail. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

UPDATE: Thursday, January 15 – 4:56 a.m.

Mountain Communities – Michael Richard Gillespie, 25, is being held on $100,000 bail following a police pursuit from Big Bear Lake to Highway 330 near Highland Wednesday afternoon. A spike strip placed by Highland Sheriff’s deputies brought Gillespie’s red Nissan Pathfinder to a halt near the lower passing lanes. He was arrested at 2:04 p.m. without incident.

Gillespie is charged with felony evading a peace officer and disturbing the peace. He remains in custody at the West Valley Detention Center in  Rancho Cucamonga.

He is scheduled to arraigned on the charges at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, January 16, according to court documents.

UPDATE: Wednesday, January 14 – 4:06 p.m.

Mountain Communities – A 25-year-old man — identified as Michael Gillespie — is in custody following a vehicle pursuit that started in the 41000 block of Big Bear Boulevard in Big Bear Lake about 1 p.m., Wednesday. It ended without incident at the U.S. Forest Service Ranger Station when a spike strip was utilized at the lower passing lanes to halt Gillespie’s red Nissan Pathfinder.

THE INCIDENT

Big Bear Sheriff’s deputies responded to a disturbance at Big Bear Resort Management at the aforementioned address. Deputies learned Gillespie had reportedly become agitated when he was asked to vacate a rental property. Arriving officers observed Gillespie speeding away from the business in a red Nissan Pathfinder.

A media release from  the Sheriff’s Department indicates officers recognized Gillespie from prior law enforcement contact.

THE PURSUIT

A traffic stop was initiated, according to deputies, and Gillespie refused to yield. The red Nissan was pursued into a nearby parking lot where it became unsafe due to the amount of pedestrians in the area.

Visual contact was lost,  but deputies believed Gillespie would attempt to make his way down the hill.

With the assistance of the Sheriff’s Aviation Division and deputies from the Twin Peaks and Highland Sheriff’s Station, Gillespie was located on Highway 330 in the Running Springs area.

Gillespie’s red Nissan was reported to be heading down the mountain erratically at speeds up to 50 miles per hour.

Deputies successfully engaged the use of a spike strip on Gillespie’s vehicle near the Ranger Station on Highway 330, puncturing three tires on the vehicle and causing it to stop. Gillespie was taken into custody without further incident and was to be booked at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

Bail has been established at $100,000.

ORIGINAL STORY

Mountain Communities – A police pursuit Wednesday afternoon closed Highway 330 between  Running Springs and Highland for a short period. A spike strip was utilized near the U.S. Forest Service Ranger Station at the lower passing lanes to end the pursuit of a red Nissan Pathfinder.

The incident began in Big Bear Lake at about 1 p.m. and involved Sheriff’s Aviation, and deputies from the Big Bear, Twin Peaks and Highland Sheriff;’s Stations.

Additional details will be released shortly.

  (730)

A Sheriff’s Department helicopter was utilized to help locate a 32-year-old man wanted for attempted murder of his girlfriend, according to a media release issued by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station. (File Photo)

By G.T. Houts

Crestline, CA – A 32-year-old Crestline attempted murder suspect is being held on $1 million bail after he was spotted by a Sheriff’s Department helicopter near the corner of Big Oak Drive and Crest Forest Drive and arrested after a short pursuit by deputies.

DOMESTIC DISTURBANCE CALL

On Tuesday, February 17, Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a report of a domestic disturbance in the 700 block of Deer Trail in Crestline.

An unidentified female victim reportedly told 9-1-1 dispatchers her boyfriend — Kyle Allen Thompson — was refusing to leave and was trying to prevent her from calling authorities. Thompson had left the residence by the time deputies arrtived at the residence.

The victim told deputies while she was being interviewed that she had been attacked with a wooden, baton style weapon. The victim also told deputies Thompson attempted to strangle her, according to a media release issued by the Twin Peaks Station.

AREA CHECK

During an area check, deputies spotted Thompson and he fled on foot. Deputies began a pursuit and Thompson managed to elude capture that night. However, deputies kept the residence under observation for most of the day on Wednesday, February 18, anticipating Thompson’s possible return.

On Thursday, February 19, Thompson was spotted by deputies at about 1:23 a.m. outside a residence in the 700 block of Big Oak Drive. Thompson again led deputies on another foot pursuit through the backyards of several nearby residences. Thompson hid under the cover of darkness near the area of Crest Forest Drive and Big Oak Drive.

Sheriff’s Aviation (40-King) assisted with the pursuit and directed deputies to where Thompson was hiding. The suspect was taken into custody at 1:48 a.m. without further incident.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Thompson was transported and booked into the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga for attempted murder, due to the nature of the attack on the victim. Bail was set at $1 million.

The suspect’s first court appearance on the charge is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on Monday, February 23.

  (300)

Kyle Allan Thompson, 32, will have a video arraignment on an attempted murder charge stemming from an incident at a Crestline residence. The arraignment is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on February 23. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San  Bernardino,  CA – A video arraignment for a 32-year-old Crestline attempted murder suspect — who is being held on $1 million bail — is set for 12:30 p.m. on Monday, February 23.

Kyle Allen Thompson has been incarcerated at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga since February 19 for attempted murder, due to the nature of an alleged attack on a female victim. Bail has been set at $1 million.

THE INCIDENT

On Tuesday, February 17,  deputies from the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station were dispatched to a report of a domestic disturbance in the 700 block of Deer Trail in Crestline.

Emergency dispatchers were told by an unidentified female victim that her boyfriend was refusing to leave and was trying to prevent her from calling authorities. Thompson had left the residence by the time deputies arrived at the residence.

During an interview with deputies, the victim said she had been attacked with a wooden, baton style weapon. The victim also told deputies Thompson attempted to strangle her, according to a media release issued by the Twin Peaks Station.

EVENTUAL ARREST

During an area check, deputies spotted Thompson as he fled on foot. Deputies began a pursuit and Thompson managed to elude capture that night. However, deputies kept the residence under observation for most of the day on Wednesday, February 18, anticipating Thompson’s possible return.

On Thursday, February 19, Thompson was spotted by deputies at about 1:23 a.m. outside a residence in the 700 block of Big Oak Drive. Thompson again led deputies on another foot pursuit through the backyards of several nearby residences. Thompson hid under the cover of darkness near the area of Crest Forest Drive and Big Oak Drive.

Sheriff’s Aviation (40-King) assisted with the pursuit and directed deputies to where Thompson was hiding. The suspect was taken into custody at 1:48 a.m. without further incident. (146)

Geoffry Randall Brister, 33, is being held on $60,000 bail for allegedly burglarizing the Holcomb Valley Boy Scout Camp. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Holcomb Valley,  CA -A 33-year-old man  – Geoffry Randall Brister — is in custody after he was found near several buildings that had been burglarized at the Holcomb Valley Boys Scout Camp.

Deputies from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station responded to the camp in the 34000 block of Holcomb Valley Road at 11:15 a.m. on Monday, February 23, to a report of a burglary in progress.

THE INCIDENT

The deputies arrived at the camp complex and contacted a male subject — later identified as Brister — who did not have permission to be on the campground, according to a media release issued by the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station.

Brister was armed with a .32-caliber rifle at the time he was contacted by officers.

THE INVESTIGATION

During the investigation, deputies determined the suspect had broken into several buildings on the property and was in the process of stealing numerous items belonging to the Boy Scouts of America (San Gabriel Valley Council).

The items included firearms used by the campers at Holcomb Valley Camp for target practice.

Deputies also found Brister to be on felony probation for carrying a loaded firearm in public during a wants and warrants check.

THE ARREST

Brister was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Big Bear jail at 12:11 p.m. on felony charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, burglary, and vandalism, as well as misdemeanor charges of being in possession of methamphetamine.

The suspect is being held in lieu of $60,000 bail with an arraignment hearing set for Wednesday, February 25, at 12:30 p.m. at San Bernardino County Superior Court.

  (11)

By G. T. Houts

Twin Peaks, CA – Several residential burglaries in the Green Valley Lake area, over the past several weeks, have been cleared due to what Twin Peaks Lt. Donny Mahoney calls “great police work” that led to the arrest of two suspects.

David Allan Munoz (Booking Photo)

The two suspects — David Allen  Munoz, 42, and Shannon Kay Kite. 46 — are charged with residential burglary and possession of stolen property, according to information provided by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

THE INCIDENTS

Twin Peaks deputies had been responding to several reports of residential burglaries and got their first break on Thursday, February 19, at 11:35 p.m. Deputies recovered a stolen vehicle in the area of Holcomb Creek Road and a Southern California Edison dirt access road

The investigation of the black, 2002 Hyundai Elantra, reported stolen out of Banning, appeared as if the suspects were residing in the vehicle, due to the items scattered around and within the Hyundai.

EXTRA PATROLS

Shannon Kay Kite (Booking Photo)

A media release indicated that, due to the rash of recent burglaries and the recovery of the stolen vehicle, extra patrols were conducted in the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station Citizens On Patrol (COP’s).

On Friday,  February 20, two COP’s patrolling the area about 11:20 a.m. observed two subjects removing items from  a home in the 33000 block of Jupiter Lane in Green Valley Lake. The individuals were departing the residence carrying a large plastic trash bag along with other articles of clothing.

Deputies were dispatched, but before they could arrive the suspects realized that had been spotted and began running away from the scene.

ARREST/INVESTIGATION

Kite — who was identified as Munoz’ girlfriend — was taken into custody but Munoz was able to leave the area, despite assistance from Sheriff’s Aviation and a bloodhound named “Deja” from the Rancho Cucamonga Station.

Through investigative leads,  deputies suspected Munoz had returned to Banning, where he and Kite had ties.

On Wednesday, February 25, surveillance operations in Banning paid off as Munoz was located in the 500 block of West George Street.

Munoz was booked at the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino and held on $150,000 bail on the burglary charge and a no bail hold for violation of probation.

During the booking process, Munoz was found to be in possession of narcotics and additional charges are now pending.

  (269)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – A Probation Compliance Operation conducted by deputies from the Big Bear Sherkiff’s Station — with the assistance of agents from the San Bernardino County Probation Department — resulted in 10 arrests.

The Friday, February 27, operation was conducted to check on probationers living within the Big Bear Valley to establish whether or not they were in compliance with the terms and conditions of their release.

THE ARRESTS

As a result of the check, 10 adults were arrested for various offenses. The violations included possession of a controlled substance for sales, possession of narcotics, possession of drug paraphernalia, arrest warrants, parole violations and miscellaneous A.B. 109 probation violations.

A media release issued by the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station treports that some of the arrestees were determined to be on Post Release Community Supervision (PRCS) as a result of California Assembly Bill 109.

A.B. 109 COMPLIANCE

As part of Governor Jerry Brown’s 2011 Realignment Plan (A.B. 109), in order to comply with a U.S. Supreme Court decision requiring the State of California to lower its prison population by 30,000 inmates, offenders with non-violent, non-sexual and non-serious convictions serve reduced sentences in county jails and are then placed on local supervision through the County’s Probation Department after being released.

The Big Bear Sheriff’s Station routinely works in conjunction with County Probation to monitor the whereabouts and activities of probationers who have been granted PRCS status under A.B. 109 to ensure that they remain in compliance with the terms and conditions of their release from custody. (165)

By G. T. Houts

Twin Peaks, CA – Details of the arrest of 21-year-old Jason Steven Willis by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies have yet to be released, however, ROTWNEWS.com has confirmed he was taken into custody at 2 p.m. February 27.

“Willis has been wanted for quite some time,” Lt. Donny Mahoney from the Twin Peaks Station told ROTWNEWS.com, “and has always found a way to slip by us…but not today.”

Bail has been set at over $1 million and Willis remains in custody at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

WANTED ON WARRANTS

The warrants for Willis’ arrest include:

Penal Code 245 – Assault with a deadly weapon on a police officer BAIL: $501,000

Penal Code 69 – Obstruct a peace officer by use of force or violence BAIL: $501,000

Health & Safety Code 11550 – Under the influence of a controlled substance

Health & Safety Code 11364 – Possession of drug paraphernalia

COURT APPEARANCE

A video arraignment is set for Monday, March 2, at 12:31 p.m.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Additional details will be reported as they become available.

  (225)

The rising number of cardboard thefts in San Bernardino County is being address by the District Attorney’s office with increased enforcement and prosecutuion efforts. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Mountain Communities – For most mountain residents, cardboard is… just there. However, that seemingly useless agglomeration of wood pulp is worth something to somebody.

So it turns out that stealing cardboard is a relatively easy — and surprisingly profitable — crime that’s caught the attention of the San Bernardino County District Attorney.

CARDBOARD THEFT

Over the course of last year,  investigators assigned to the Consumer and Environmental Protection Unit of the District Attorney’s office have noticed a trend of commodity theft in the form of recyclable materials, specifically cardboard.

Supervising investigator Jerry Villanueva, explained in a media release that this recyclable commodity is stolen by various persons throughout the county by entering locked or unlocked recycling bins resulting in an estimated minimum loss to the refuse/recycle industry of approximately $1.3 million annually.

Though they are typically committed during daylight hours, these commodity thefts largely go unreported to law enforcement because the product being stolen is perceived to be trash.

“Unfortunately,” Villanueva stated, “these thefts are committed on a daily basis by the various violators throughout the county who remove the cardboard from clearly marked recycle bins and ultimately transport the cardboard to a local recycling company.

“They can receive anywhere between $200 and $400 per truck load,” he explained.

CONSUMER’S IMPACTED

The million dollar-plus cost to the industry of these thefts is then passed on to the consumer, by way of increased monthly refuse collection fees.

“It is the intention of the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, Consumer and Environmental Protection Unit, to investigate and prosecute any persons involved in cardboard theft,” Villanueva’s release added.

“It is the goal of the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office to safeguard the consumer by reducing the number of cardboard theft incidents,” Villanueva concluded, “thereby reducing the monetary loss to the industry, a loss which ultimately is suffered by the consumers who pay increased fees as a result of these crimes.”

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Persons with information about cardboard theft are urged to contact Villanueva at (909) 891-3625. (271)

Attempted murder suspect Kyle Allan Thompson, 32, will be screened for Mental Health Court prior to his next court appearance. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San Bernardino, CA - 32-year-old Crestline attempted murder suspect — Kyle Allen Thompson – who is being held on $1 million bail will be screened for mental health court following a disposition/reset hearing in Superior Court.

The hearing — before Judge R. Glenn Yabuno — was held Wednesday morning, March 4, in  Department S-17. It has been rescheduled until March 11 at 8:30 a.m. in  Department S-8.

Thompson remains in custody on $50,000 bail at the Glen Helen Detention Center in Devore.

THE ORIGINAL INCIDENT

On Tuesday, February 17,  deputies from the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station were dispatched to a report of a domestic disturbance in the 700 block of Deer Trail in Crestline.

Emergency dispatchers were told by an unidentified female victim that her boyfriend was refusing to leave and was trying to prevent her from calling authorities. Thompson had left the residence by the time deputies arrived at the residence.

During an interview with deputies, the victim said she had been attacked with a wooden, baton style weapon. The victim also told deputies Thompson attempted to strangle her, according to a media release issued by the Twin Peaks Station.

SUSPECT’S EVENTUAL ARREST

During an area check, deputies spotted Thompson as he fled on foot. Deputies began a pursuit and Thompson managed to elude capture that night. However, deputies kept the residence under observation for most of the day on Wednesday, February 18, anticipating Thompson’s possible return.

On Thursday, February 19, Thompson was spotted by deputies at about 1:23 a.m. outside a residence in the 700 block of Big Oak Drive. Thompson again led deputies on another foot pursuit through the backyards of several nearby residences. Thompson hid under the cover of darkness near the area of Crest Forest Drive and Big Oak Drive.

Sheriff’s Aviation (40-King) assisted with the pursuit and directed deputies to where Thompson was hiding. The suspect was taken into custody at 1:48 a.m. without further incident. (53)

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has arrested and charged a 27-year-old Lancaster woman with killing 15-year-old Brenda Sierra in 2002. Sierra’s body was found in Crestline. (Photo Courtesy Nicole Nishida/Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department)

By G. T. Houts

UPDATE: Thursday, March 5 – 3:25 a.m.

Monterey Park, CA – The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department indicates that the 27-year-old Lancaster woman — Rosemary Chavira — arraigned on a single count of murder in the death Brenda Sierra was a onetime friend.

Rosemary Chavira (Photo by Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department)

Homicide Detective Dave Coleman told Tuesday’s press conference, “She actually was a friend of Brenda at the time, and coordinated the kidnap herself, and evidence indicates to us that she was present during the rapes and during the murder.”

RETALIATION KILLING

Coleman went on to tell media representatives that the case can best be described as a gang-related retaliation killing.

“Her brother,” Coleman explained, “had testified in a drive-by shooting approximately 10 days before her kidnapping, rape and murder.”

ADDITIONAL SUSPECTS

Coleman reported that homicide detectives are close to bringing murder charges against three additional suspects. Most likely the Los Angeles District Attorney will file the charges within the next 30 days or so.

George Barraza (Photo by Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department)

The homicide detective revealed two of the people he expects charges to be filed against are already incarcerated. He did not name the two male suspects.

In addition, Coleman said charges would also be filed against a third man who authorities believe may be in Mexico. Previous media releases identified him George Barraza as a “person of interest.”

Investigators report they have been able to identify three specific locations relating to Sierra’s kidnap, rape and murder. She was kidnapped in the area of Whittier Boulevard and Leonard Avenue in East Los Angeles. Sierra was then taken to a residence in the 600 block of Williamson Avenue in East Los Angeles, where she was sexually assaulted.

Authorities believe she was then bludgeoned to death in the 900 block of Miller Avenue in Los Angeles before being dumped in Valley of Enchantment.

INITIAL INVESTIGATION

The initial investigation was conducted by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department after Sierra’s body was found in Valley of Enchantment.

In April 2008, the case was transferred to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

ASSISTANCE REQUESTED

Homicide detectives continue to work the case and have requested that anyone with knowledge of the 2002 event, or activities, contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.

UPDATE: Tuesday, March 3 – 5:07 p.m.

Monterey Park, CA – A 27-year-old Lancaster woman — Rosemary Chavira — has been charged with killing 15-year-old  Brenda Sierra on October 18, 2002, according to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department. Sierra was walking to school in Montebello at the time of her abduction.

A press conference announcing the arrest was held in Monterey Park. (Photo Courtesy Nicole Nishida/Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department)

Chavira, who was also 15 at the time of Sierra’s death, entered a plea of not guilty to murder with gang allegations and special circumstances during a court appearance on March 3. Chavira is being held without bail and, if convicted of the cold case murder, faces life in prison without parole.

Sierra’s body was located by a local resident on October 19, 2002, after it had been dumped in the 22500 block of Skyview Lane in Valley of Enchantment.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Chavira was placed under arrest near her Lancaster home on Friday, February 27,  for her alleged role in Sierra’s kidnap, rape and murder.

Investigators anticipate filing similar charges on at least three additional suspects within the next month.

ORIGINAL STORY

The public’s help is sought in locating three “persons of interest” in the October 2002 murder of 15-year-old Brenda Sierra. Her body was found by a resident in the 22600 block of Skyview Lane in Valley of Enchantment (Photo Courtesy Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department)

Montebello, CA – The location of three “persons of interest” related to the 2002 kidnap, rape and murder of Brenda Sierra, 15, may help detectives solve the cold case. The assistance of the public is requested.

Brenda Sierra (Contributed Photo)

Sierra’s body was found on October 19, 2002, after it had been dumped in the 22500 block of Skyview Lane in Valley of Enchantment.

PERSONS OF INTEREST

Los Angeles Sheriff’s Homicide Investigators have been persistent in their pursuit of those responsible for the murder of the 15-year-old high school student from East Los Angeles. Detectives have developed information that the two individuals depicted in the composite drawings are “persons-of-interest” in the kidnap and murder of Sierra.

Officials are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the two individuals, their current whereabouts and any other information which may assist detectives in locating them.

At the time of Sierra’s murder, the two men were known street gang members who frequented the area where Sierra was abducted. The abduction is believed to have occurred in the area of Leonard Avenue and Whittier Boulevard in East Los Angeles.

Authorities report that witnesses have come forth and provided vital information relating to Sierra’s cold case, but detectives still need more to come forward.

The third “person-of-interest,” is identified by investigators as George Barraza (pictured in photo). Barraza is believed to be in Mexico, but may travel back and forth across the border. Currently, he is wanted for questioning in Sierra’s murder; however he is also wanted on a “no-bail” arrest warrant for a prior narcotics conviction.

VOE WITNESSES SOUGHT

Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department detectives are asking the public to contact them if they have any information or recollection of this 2002 incident.

In addition, detectives are seeking any information from the residents in the Crestline/Valley of Enchantment area who may have seen the individuals depicted above on or around October 18 or 19, 2002. VOE witnesses in the area have previously noted a “suspicious, dark, SUV” in the area, prior to the discovery of Brenda’s body.

 ”Certainly, we hope that anyone with knowledge of this horrific incident will overcome any fear of coercion or retaliation and come forward and bring justice to Brenda and her family,” Homicide Lieutenant Dave Colman stated in a media release.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.

Information may also be provided anonymously. Call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or online at L.A. CRIMESTOPPERS.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department — the investigating agency in Valley of Enchantment — issued cold case playing cards to county jail inmates depicting Brenda Sierra’s picture in hopes of getting leads in the case. (Contributed Photo).

Riverside Police are seeking assistance from the public in helping identify possible victims of a church volunteer accused of alleged child molestation. At one time he volunteered at a church in Running Springs, according to the Diocese of San Bernardino. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Running Springs, CA -Authorities are seeking possible molestation victims of a 47-year-old church volunteer who had been volunteering at St. Anne in the Mountains Catholic Church in Running Springs and St. Andrew’s Newman Center in Riverside, according to a media advisory issued by the Riverside Police Department.

Rudolph Michael Hernandez (Photo by Riverside Police Department)

The Diocese of San Bernardino has confirmed that Rudolph Michael Hernandez, 47, had volunteered at both churches before his arrest after he allegedly was caught alone with a child in a rest room.

RIVERSIDE POLICE

Detective Everth Bercian from the Riverside Police Department  issued a call to possible victims to come forward as authorities continue to build their case against Hernandez.

Individuals with information about Hernandez and the case are encouraged to contact Detective Bercian at (951) 353-7950.

The charges pending against Hernandez include kidnapping to commit sexual offenses and lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14, according to Riverside Police.

CATHOLIC DIOCESE

The Catholic Diocese in San Bernardino issued a letter to be read at the churches where Hernandez volunteered. It requests any potential victims to notify police or the diocese,

A statement issued by spokesperson John Andrews reveals that the churches in the diocese were aware of Hernandez’ background and that he was a Registered Sex Offender.  The statement indicated that Hernandez was required to sign a “very specific agreement” that he would not volunteer for any ministries involving children, nor could he attend events such as Mass that included a children’s choir.

COURT APPEARANCE

Hernandez posted the $150,000 bail was released from the Robert Presley Detention Center in Riverside. He was detained at a residence in Riverside last month near Coolidge Street and Mary Avenue.

His next court appearance is Tuesday, March 10,  at the Riverside Hall of Justice at 7:30 a.m., according to court documents.

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