The Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station has arrested 51-year-old Kenneth Roland Gallant on suspicion of sales of marijuana and maintaining a drug house. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Twin Peaks, CA – A 51-year-old Twin Peaks man — identified as Kenneth Roland Gallant — is in custody at the West Valley Detention Center charged with sales of marijuana and maintaining a drug house. He was arrested in the 800 block of Sierra Vista Drive in Twin Peaks

Some of the marijuana plants seized in Twin Peaks. (Photo by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station)

On July 27, Gallant entered a not guilty plea via video before Commissioner Ronald J. Gilbert. His next court appearance is for a pre-preliminary hearing at 8:30 a.m. on August 4 in Department S-12.

THE CASE

On Thursday, July 23, a probation officer requested assistance from Twin Peaks MET deputies to conduct a home verification check on Gallant who is on felony probation out of Riverside County.

Deputies arrived at Gallant’s Sierra Vista Drive home and were met at the front door by Gallant.

Officers noted that inside the residence were three young males, the youngest being 15 years of age. The log indicated that the 15-year-old was sitting by a table with unsecured, easily ingestible marijuana on it. Deputies reported that the teenager appeared to be under the influence of marijuana.

Deputies located a scale and approximately 42 marijuana plants on the property.

THE ARREST

Gallant was placed under arrest about 4 p.m. and transported to West Valley where he is being held on $100,000 bail.

The District Attorney filed charges of sales of marijuana and maintaining a drug house. (298)

A 16-year-old Sugarloaf girl is the apparent victim of a 20-year-old Riverside man who is charged with utilizing social media for unlawful sex and child pornography. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – Bail has been established at $250,000 for a 20-year-old Riverside man — Robert Louis Becker aka Lex Adams — who is charged with using social media for unlawful sex and child pornography, according to a press release issued by the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station.

Robert Louis Becker (Contributed Photo)

Deputies and detectives of the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station served a search warrant at a residence in Riverside Thursday and as a result of an ongoing investigation arrested Becker on the felony sex charges.

When the search warrant was executed, he was found to be in possession of child pornography.

THE INVESTIGATION

The investigation began on July 8 when a Sugarloaf mother reported that her minor daughter had received a solicitation for nude photographs through Facebook.

The investigation revealed that the solicitation came from the social media account of a 16-year-old white female juvenile who is a resident of Sugarloaf. Deputies made contact with the female and her parents, and identified the juvenile as an alleged victim of suspect Becker.

INITIAL CONTACT 

The Big Bear Sheriff’s Department reports Becker met the female victim online approximately two months prior using the alias of Lex Adams and a generic picture of a male model from the Internet on his profile.

Becker developed an online “dating” relationship with the victim, knowing from the beginning that she was a minor, according to a media release.

During that period of time, Becker coerced the victim into sending him sexually explicit pictures of herself. He also sent photos to the victim exposing himself in a sexual manner.

Becker groomed the victim and eventually persuaded her to meet in person and have sex with him.

LOGIN INFORMATION

Investigators allege that suspect Becker also convinced the victim to divulge her social media account login and password information, telling her that was the only way he could trust her.

Becker then reportedly used the login information and posed as the victim without her knowledge to send requests to her friends for sexually explicit videos and photographs in exchange for payment of $1,000-$3,500 by an adult female friend.

THE ARREST

Becker was taken into custody without incident and booked into Central Detention Center. He was later transferred to the West Valley Detention Center.

A video arraignment hearing in this matter is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on August 3, in San Bernardino County Superior Court.

OTHER POTENTIAL VICTIMS

Investigators believe Becker has tried to contact other children under the age of 18 for the purpose of unlawful sexual intercourse and other illicit sex acts.

Becker is a white male, 6’0” tall, 180 pounds, with hazel eyes and brown hair.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Anyone who believes they or their children are unreported victims of Becker is urged to contact the Detective Bureau 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 WETIP online.

Parents are encouraged to monitor their children’s online and electronic activities and talk with their kids about personal safety issues in a manner that is age appropriate for the child.

Internet safety information and activity books are available free of charge at the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station. (199)

A cannabis extraction lab at a Running Springs residence was disassembled this week after an anonymous person reported the possibility of utility theft and the strong smell of marijuana.  to WeTip. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Running Springs, CA – Deputies visited a Running Springs residence in the 31000 block of Old City Creek Road this week after an anonymous caller alerted WeTip that the home may be stealing electricity and that there was a strong smell of marijuana.

Twin Peaks deputies arrived at the residence June 28 and knocked on an open door. Deputy Dyberg looked inside and reportedly saw multiple butane and propane cans. These items are consistent with the manufacturing of concentrated cannabis.

POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS

Law enforcement personnel observed a strong odor of butane and the San Bernardino County Fire Department was dispatched to ensure there was no threat of fire.

Firefighters ventilated the home and then indicated that it was safe to enter.

“The process involved in cannabis extraction is highly flammable, ” Twin Peaks spokesperson Gilbert Flores told ROTWNEWS.com.  “These labs are a major threat to the community and can cause fires and explosions.”

SEARCH WARRANT

Deputy Chavez authored a search warrant for the Running Springs residence and the Marijuana Enforcement Team was called out.

Once the warrant arrived at the home, a search of the residence was conducted yielding multiple cannabis extraction tools, marijuana plant material and multiple used butane cans, according to a media release issued by the Sheriff’s Department.

Members of the Marijuana Enforcement Team conducted the investigation — which is still ongoing.

No arrests were reported at deadline.

DEPARTMENT APPRECIATION

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department news release thanked the community member who called WeTip and the commuity for helping identify a hazardous drug lab.

“Anyone with further information on this, or any other similar situations,” Flores added, “should call the Sheriff’s Department or the WeTip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME.”

  (329)

Lake Arrowhead resident Joshua Adam Navarro, 25, has a pre-preliminary hearing August 3, at 8:30 a.m. He faces murder charges related to a Highway 138 head-on crash on May 17 near Phelan. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San Bernardino, CA – Joshua Adam Navarro  from Lake Arrowhead has a pre-preliminary hearing in San Bernardino County Superior Court on Monday, August 3, related to the fatal head-on collision on Highway 138 near Phelan that killed his 18-year-old passenger.

The crash — which killed Eliza Santibanez, of Highland, when she was ejected from Navarro’s black 1997 Honda Civic — on Sunday, May 17, sent Navarro and three others to area hospitals with critical injuries.

THE MURDER CHARGE

Navarro, who had a previous conviction for driving under the influence (2008), is now facing the murder charge, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and two counts of DUI alcohol/drugs causing bodily injury.

He has entered a plea of not guilty to all counts and has denied special allegations.

Bail has been set at $250,000 and Navarro is in custody at the West Valley Detention Center.

A preliminary hearing is set for Wednesday, August 5, at 8:30 a.m. in Department S-17P. (105)

On Wednesday, August 5, a disposition/reset hearing will be held for Gwendolyn Marie Greive who is charged with embezzlement during her tenure with the Alpine Water Users Association in Twin Peaks. (File Photo)

By G.T. Houts

Twin Peaks, CA – The former manager of the Alpine Water Users Association in Twin Peaks —  Gwendolyn Marie Greive — who is facing embezzlement charges – returns to court on August 5 for a disposition/reset hearing. The hearing will be at 8:35 a.m. in Department S-12.

Greive was taken into custody on March 5 at 2:24 p.m. in the 400 block of Cedarbrook Drive in Twin Peaks and was released at 11:32 p.m. the same day after posting $50,000 bond.

She is charged with violating California Penal Code 504, a felony for embezzling property by a public or private officer (over $400).

DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S ALLEGATIONS

Here is the text of the District Attorney’s allegations against Greive:

On or about February 12, 2014, in the above named judicial district, the crime of EMBEZZLEMENT BY PUBLIC OR PRIVATE OFFICER, in violation of PENAL CODE SECTION 504, a felony, was committed by Gwendolyn Marie Greive, who on and between January 22, 2013 and December 31, 2013, and while said defendant(s) was a Manager of Accounts for Alpine Waters User Association, did unlawfully, and fraudulently appropriate to a use and purpose not in the due and lawful execution of his/her trust, property which he/she had in his/her possession and under his/her control by virtue of his/her trust and did unlawfully secrete said property with a fraudulent intent to appropriate it to such a use and purpose contrary to Penal Code section 487(a), said property being of a value exceeding Four Hundred Dollars ($400).

PREVIOUS COURT APPEARANCES

On July 15, Greive appeared before Judge Steve C. Malone who scheduled the August 3 hearing. Judge Malone ordered the defendant to appear on the hearing date.

On May 7, Greeve was arraigned and entered a not guilty plea to all charges. (69)

The newest MOST WANTED suspect is identified by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station as Bacilio Lopez Hernandez. (Contributed Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Twin Peaks, CA - The Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Bacilio “Chilio” Lopez Hernandez. Hernandez is wanted for defrauding local homeowners (embezzlement).

Hernandez, often with the help of his juvenile daughter, is soliciting handyman work around the mountain. After receiving funds, he either never returns at all or completes half of the job and then doesn’t come back.

KNOWN VICTIMS

On August 4, 2015, three victims came forward and gave their individual statements to deputies. The department is concerned there may be more victims.

Also on August 4, 2015, Hernandez failed to appear in court for a pre-preliminary hearing on similar charges pending from late 2014. Judge Steve C. Malone declared Hernandez a fugitive and the $50,000 bail bond was forfeited.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

If Hernandez comes to your home, please immediately call 9-1-1.

If you are a victim of Hernandez or have any information as to his whereabouts, please contact Detective Camacho at the Twin Peaks Sheriff Station at (909) 336-0600.

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Various agencies conducted a joint marijuana eradication effort near Sky Forest on Thursday seizing 4,389 plants with a street value in excess of $3.5 million. (File Photo by San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department)

By G. T. Houts

Sky Forest, CA – A joint marijuana eradication operation in Gilly Canyon near Sky Forest resulted in the seizure of 4,389 marijuana plants, according to a press release issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

The Sheriff’s Marijuana Enforcement Team conducted a joint operation with CAMP (Campaign Against Marijuana Planting), members of the U. S. Forest Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration and began the eradication effort at 8 a.m. on Thursday (August 6).

Marijuana plant (File Photo)

Officials report the site was located in extremely rugged terrain approximately one mile south of State Highway 18 near the community of Skyforest.

The street value of the plants is estimated to be in excess of $3.5 million.

THE GROW

Investigators found the 4,389 marijuana plants in the large grow, camping equipment and an abundance of trash as evidence that several suspects were living within the site and caring for the marijuana plants.

No arrests have been made, according to the media advisory. The investigation of the marijuana grow is ongoing.

DAMAGE TO FOREST

An example of some of the trash left behind by fleeing suspects. (File Photo by U.S. Forest Service)

Officials involved in the eradication effort indicated the suspects cut away and cleared the natural brush along the mountainside so they could plant the marijuana.

This causes irreversible damage to the forest.

Investigators also found the suspects were using a common method of diverting water from the natural resources, such as streams and creeks, into the marijuana gardens.

This is accomplished by using commercial irrigation tubing or pipe to re-route the water out of the streams and creeks into water basins or directly to the marijuana gardens.

Based on the size of the marijuana garden found, it is estimated that thousands of gallons of water each day was being diverted into the grow site.

Investigators removed two large cargo nets filled with supplies and trash from the site.

THE PLANTS

The mature plants were producing bud and ranged in height from 2 to 5 feet tall. The suspects were in the process of harvesting the marijuana.

After harvesting, the marijuana bud is dried, processed and packaged for removal from the grow site.

At this time, it is unknown where the marijuana was being taken to, but most likely would have been sold illegally.

INFORMATION SOUGHT

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Gangs/Narcotics Division at (909) 890-4840.

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

Marijuana buds (File Photo)

Most Wanted fugitive Holly Martineau is being sought by the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – Holly Ginette Martineau, 33, aka Holly Cook, has been named to the list of the Mountain’s Most Wanted by the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station. Deputies are seeking the public’s assistance in locating Martineau.

Martineau is currently on probation and is wanted on a felony, no-bail warrant for burglary related to an incident on November 14, 2014. She failed to appear in court July 23 and Judge R. Glenn Yabuno issued the warrant.

She is also wanted on a misdemeanor warrant for possession of dangerous drugs, according to the Big Bear Sheriff’s station media advisory. She failed to appear for arraignment on the drug charges July 20, according to court documents.

HOLLY MARTINEAU

Martineau is described by deputies as a white female, weighing about 143 pounds and stands 5-foot 1-inch tall.

The fugitive has blonde hair and blue eyes.

INFORMATION SOUGHT

Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Martineau is requested to contact the Detective Bureau of the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station at (909) 866-0100.

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

  (77)

In addition to 804 marijuana plants, investigators removed two large cargo nets filled with supplies and trash from the Skinner Creek site. (File Photo by ROTWNEWS.com)

By G.T. Houts

Angelus Oaks, CA - Illegal marijuana grows — like the one eradicated along Skinner Creek in the Angelus Oaks area — are becoming more and more of a threat to the forest ecosystems. Not only did drug enforcement officers eradicate 804 mature plants on August 7 but the suspects had been clear cutting areas of the San Bernardino National Forest, causing irreversible damage to the forest.

The grow was located in steep terrain off Highway 38 near Angelus Oaks. (Photo by San Bernardino County Sheriff)

In addition, the suspects — one who is now in custody — left behind trash, fertilizer and animal repellent at the grow site.

THE GROW

Investigators cut and confiscated over 800 mature plants in the budding stage and found camping equipment and an abundance of trash as evidence that several suspects were living within the site and caring for the marijuana plants.

The site was located in extremely rugged terrain approximately one half mile south of Highway 38 on the way to Angelus Oaks and re-routed water supplies to sustain their plants.

The plants were producing bud and ranged in height from 2 to 4 feet tall. They would have most likely been ready for harvesting in the next few weeks.

THE ARREST

Marijuana cultivation sites found within the forest areas have a negative impact on the natural resources and wildlife in the area. (Photo by San Bernardino County Sheriff)

With the assistance of the Sheriff’s helicopter, the suspect — 29-year-old Martin Juan Gomez from Selma — was apprehended and taken into custody after a foot pursuit.

Gomez, who is being held on $25,000 bail at the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino — is scheduled for video arraignment on a felony marijuana cultivation charge at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 11.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The latest eradication operation involved law enforcement personnel from the U.S. Forest Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Campaign Against Marijuana Planting (CAMP) and the Sheriff’s Department Marijuana Eradication Team.

Persons with information are urged to contact Sheriff’s Narcotics at (909) 890-4840, or WeTip for anonymous information at 1-800-76-CRIME (7463). (251)

A Washington state man is in custody following an incident leading to charges of assault with a firearm on a peace officer and negligent discharge of a firearm. (File Photo)

By G.T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – Bail for a 53-year-old Washington state resident arrested on charges for assault with firearm on a peace officer and negligent discharge of a firearm has been set at $1 million.

On Saturday, August 8, just before midnight, deputies from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station responded to numerous reports of gunshots heard in the area of Lark Road and Lark Spur in Big Bear Lake.

Deputies were directed to a residence in the 39000 block of Lark Spur as the possible source of the gunfire.

INITIAL CONTACT

As deputies were walking up the driveway to the residence, a man identified as Michael Craig De Mayo appeared on the front deck.

Officers identified themselves to De Mayo and tried to engage in a conversation with him. The subject then produced a revolver and pointed it at two deputies, according to a media release issued by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

The reported action prompted the deputies to seek cover behind large rocks in the yard.

 THE ARREST

De Mayo was eventually ordered out of the home and arrested without injury. No deputies were injured during the incident.

Deputies found the revolver, on the porch, where De Mayo was initially observed.

The deputies found numerous fired cartridge casing and live ammunition scattered through the home.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

De Mayo was booked at the Big Bear Jail for the charges of PC 245(d)(1)- assault with a firearm on a peace officer and PC 246.3-negligent discharge of a firearm.

He is currently in custody at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga and is scheduled for video arraignment at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 11. (156)

Forty-nine year-old Gary Michael Simrak, a former Most Wanted subject, has been arrested in Fawnskin by the Multi-Enforcement Team from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station. MET officers also made 7 additional arrests as part of a probation check. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA - Former Most Wanted subject Gary Michael Simrak, 49, is once again in custody as deputies from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station Multi-Enforcement Team (MET) arrested 6 males and 2 females. The arrests – including Simrak’s — were made as MET officers conducted routine probation checks and an attempt to locate subjects with active warrants.

FIRST ARREST

At about 10:15 a.m., the MET deputies arrested Kenneth Steven Rehfeld, 42, at a residence in the 1500 block of Malabar Way in Big Bear City. Rehfeld is on probation in connection with a felony failure to yield investigation.

MET members determined Rehfield was in violation of the terms and conditions of his probation, and was arrested without incident, according to a media advisory.

Rehfeld remains in custody without the possibility of bail, with a video arraignment set for 12:30 p.m. on Friday, August 14.

SIMRAK’S ARREST

At approximately 1:40 p.m., the MET officers conducted a home check at a residence in the 900 block of Canyon Drive in Fawnskin in an attempt to locate Simrak. He was wanted on a $250,000 felony warrant for assault with a deadly weapon.

Simrak’s latest arrest was for possession of narcotics and paraphernalia, as well as the felony assault warrant. He is being held without bail.

The media release indicated that Simrak was found to be at the residence with several other subjects.

COMPLIANCE CHECKS

After conducting compliance checks and a security sweep, MET deputies arrested Joshua Kahle, 31; Chad Lohman, 27; Gerard Hurtado, 34, and Justina Bowden, 26, for possession of narcotics and paraphernalia.

Also at the location were Tyler Solis, 20, who was arrested for possession of paraphernalia, and probationer Brandy Johnson, 31, who was found to be in violation of the terms and conditions of her probation.

All suspects are scheduled to appear in San Bernardino County Superior Court.

MULTI-ENFORCEMENT TEAM

The Multi-Enforcement Team of the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station is a proactive crew of deputies who routinely work with patrol deputies, County Probation officers, and State Parole officers to regularly conduct home visits and searches on local parolees and probationers. (101)

Ronald Michael Hitchcock, accused of the 2012 murder of Deborah Ann Crouch, will now have a disposition/reset hearing on Friday, September 25, after the case was continued at the request of the Public Defender. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San Bernardino, CA – Big Bear murder suspect Ronald Michael Hitchcock, 59, has been granted a continuance until Friday, September 25, at the request of Public Defender Rod Curbelo. Curbelo explained to Judge J. David Mazurek that despite several delays he is still hoping to resolve the matter.

Hitchcock, who is being held at the West Valley Detention Center on $1 million bail, appeared in court August 19 for a disposition/reset hearing.

THE INCIDENT

Hitchcock is facing 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 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.

Deborah Ann Crouch (Contributed Photo)

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.

The Sheriff’s 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/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. (71)

Jakeb Hume has been added to the list of the Mountain’s Most Wanted by the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station. (Contributed Photo)

By G.T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA - Jakeb Hume, a probationer on Post Release Community Supervision, is being sought by the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station. The public is asked to help locate the newest member of the Mountain’s Most Wanted.

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 Post Release Community Supervision through the County’s Probation Department after being released.

JAKEB HUME

Hume is wanted on a no bail warrant for violation of his probation terms and conditions stemming from a felony conviction for assault with a deadly weapon.

Hume is described by authorities as a 28-year-old White male, 6’1” tall, 200 lbs., with brown hair and green eyes.

CONTACT AUTHORITIES

Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Jakeb Hume is requested to contact the Detective Bureau of the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station at (909) 866-0100. (589)

A 60-year-old Hispanic male has been arrested for allegedly annoying or molesting at least two female juveniles, according to the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – The Big Bear Sheriff’s Station has received several calls and social media postings over the past several days reporting suspicious activity wherein a male subject was making contact with adolescent children at or near bus stops in Sugarloaf while they were on their way to or from school.

THE SUSPECT

Nelson Nodar (Booking Photo)

Following an extensive investigation, 60-year-old Nelson Nodar was identified as the male subject in question and a warrant for his arrest was obtained.

On September 2, about 2 p.m., the Multi-Enforcement Team and detectives of the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station served the warrant at a residence in the 500 block of Victoria Avenue in Sugarloaf.

A media release from the Sheriff’s Department reports that Nodar made contact with at least 2 juvenile victims for the purpose of annoying or molesting them.

THE ARREST

Nodar was taken into custody without incident and booked at the Big Bear Jail on misdemeanor charges of violation of California Penal Code 647.6(a)(2).

Nodar remains in custody in lieu of a $100,000 bail enhancement, with an arraignment hearing set for September 4 in San Bernardino County Superior Court.

The arrest of Nodar Nelson is a direct result of the awareness of private citizens and school officials, and their quick action to report the suspicious activity.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Big Bear Sheriff’s Station is appreciative of the community partnerships that help ensure the safety and protection of the citizens of Big Bear Valley.

Investigators believe suspect Nelson Nodar has tried to contact additional children with the same intent.

Nodar, is an Hispanic male, 5’6” tall, 120 lbs., with brown eyes and brown hair.

Anyone who believes their children are unreported victims of Nodar is urged to contact the Detective Bureau 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 online at WETIP. www.wetip.com. (302)

Child endangerment charges against a Lake Arrowhead couple will be filed along with possible drug charges following a probation check of the residence occupied by Joshua Marks and Jenelle Murawski and two children. (Photo by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station)

By G. T. Houts

Lake Arrowhead, CA – A home visit of 33-year-old probationer Joshua Marks in the 800 block of Lake Drive in Lake Arrowhead led to his arrest along with a 29-year-old female identified as Jenelle Murawski.

Drug charges are pending against a Lake Arrowhead couple following a probation check of a residence in the 800 block of Lake Drive..(Photo by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station)

The probation visit on Wednesday, September 2, was conducted by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station and San Bernardino County Probation Officer Morris.

RESIDENCE CHECK

Upon checking the Lake Arrowhead residence, Twin Peaks deputy Chavez located a large quantity of marijuana, concentrated cannabis, items used to extract concentrated cannabis, and items commonly used for sales of marijuana.

A media release indicated the items were located in the bedroom Murawski and Marks share with their two young children. The cannabis and concentrated cannabis was unsecured and accessible to the two youngsters.

Officers displayed evidence collected at a Lake Arrowhead residence. (Photo by Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station)

Murawski and Marks were aware the children had access to the drugs, and willfully permitted them to be placed in a situation where their health was endangered.

The Department of Children and Family Services responded to the scene and took custody of the two small children.

THE ARREST AND INVESTIGATION

Murawski was taken into custody and booked at the West Valley Detention Center and is being held on $100,000 bail.

Marks was not at the Lake Arrowhead home and is currently being sought by the Sheriff’s and Probation Offices.

Officers report the investigation also revealed this was an illegal marijuana sales and concentrated cannabis operation, which was not in compliance with California medical marijuana laws.

Additional charges of H&S 11359, Possession of Marijuana for sales are to be filed against Murawski and Marks with the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, the media advisory stated.

INFORMATION SOUGHT

Anyone with further information about the case should contact Deputy Chavez at the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station (909) 336-0600.

Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information online on the WETIP HOTLINE.
(210)

DNA has revolutionized the war on cold cases and helped solve the 1985 murder of a Fullerton man whose skull was found by hikers near Big Bear Lake. The murderer has now been sentenced. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – DNA evidence speaks even when a victim can’t. That’s why a 1985 cold case was solved almost 30 years after the fragments of a skull were found by hikers near Big Bear Lake.

The remains were unidentified for over 27 years until DNA identified the skull as Frank “Bart” Marshall, 26, from Fullerton.

Frank “Bart” Marshall (Photo Courtesy Fullerton Police Department)

An Orange County District Attorney’s news release indicates that DNA evidence also linked David Richard Campbell to the 1982 cold case murder of Marshall to cover a previous murder.

Campbell, now 70, pleaded guilty to Marshall’s murder last week and was sentenced to nine years to life in prison, which was the maximum allowed for murder in 1982. He is currently serving a life sentence without parole for two other murders in Riverside County.

THE CASE

On January 2, 1982, Marshall — a U.S. Forest Service employee in Oregon — was in Fullerton visiting his “foster” family and friends. He told family members he was going for a ride on  his motorcycle and disappeared.

Investigators — who pieced together the case —  indicated in court that Marshall had gone to Campbell’s residence to inquire about a mutual friend, 30-year-old William Raber, unaware that Raber had been killed by Campbell several months earlier.

THE PRISON VISIT

David Richard Campbell (Prison Mugshot)

Armed with the DNA evidence, detectives visited Campbell at Salinas Valley Prison where he confessed to killing Marshall, Raber and 17-year-old John Fischer.

At the time, Campbell told authorities he feared the men were going to kill him or harm others. The incarcerated suspect also agreed to show detectives where he left the bodies of the three men after he conducted a ritual he described as a Tibetan sky burial.

A Tibetan sky burial — as described in Wikipedia – is a funeral practice in which a human corpse is dissected and placed on a mountaintop to decompose while exposing it to the elements.

COURT STATEMENTS

Prosecutors stated in court that Campbell feared Marshall had connected him to Raber’s murder and killed him to conceal his previous deed.

A letter, penned by Campbell was read in court. He apologized to the families for their “overwhelming loss.” The letter went on to say he has had a great deal of time to reflect on his deeds during his 33 years in custody.

  (223)

Someone forced open 21 post office boxes and four package lockers at the Big Bear City Post Office early Sunday. A criminal investigation is underway. (File Photo)

By G.T. Houts

Big Bear City, CA – At least 21 post office boxes at the Big Bear City Post Office were forced open and mail was scattered on the floor, according to a media release from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station.

Shortly after 6 a.m. on Sunday, September 6, deputies were dispatched to the Post Office after the theft was reported by a citizen.

Four package lockers were also forced open, according to deputies who notified the Postmaster.

THE INVESTIGATION

A criminal investigation has been launched to try and identify the person or persons responsible for the break-ins.

Boxes within the following groups were found open400-599, 700′s, 2600-2799.

Package lockers 2, 19, 140 and 143 were forced open and were empty.

OFFICIAL NOTIFICATION

The U.S. Postal Service will notify all identified victims.

Some mail was received at the scene and will be turned over to postal authorities.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Victims or individuals with information about the mail theft are encouraged to call the Big Bear City Post Office at (909) 585-7132 or the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station at (909) 866-0100. The deputy report is #0615000934.

Stealing mail is a federal offense, and, if convicted, the charge has a sentence up to five years in prison. (104)

Two people were shot — one fatally — early Tuesday morning in the 2500 block of Secret Drive in Running Springs. (Photo by Kelly Pajak)

By G. T. Houts

UPDATE 4: Tuesday, September 8 – 9:37 a.m.

Running Springs, CA – On Tuesday, September 4, emergency dispatchers received a call at 12:14 a.m. from a residence in Running Springs indicating subjects were outside attempting to break into the home in the 2500 block of Secret Drive.

While deputies were enroute, they received additional information from dispatch that a shooting had occurred.

Upon arrival, deputies and CHP officers observed two male subjects shot at the location. One victim died and the second — James Dye, 32 — was transported to a local hospital with a gunshot wound in the shoulder area.

THE INVESTIGATION

Homicide investigators are collecting information and a report will be filed with the District Attorney. To date, no arrests have been made.

Persons with information about the case are encouraged to contact Detective Marc Goodwin or Sergeant Jason Radeleff at (909) 387-3589.

Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call the WeTip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME or leave information online at WETIP.

UPDATE 3: Tuesday, September 8 – 9:15 a.m.

Running Springs, CA – No murder suspects are in custody, according to a San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department media release. However, several subjects have been interviewed related to the murder of an adult male in the 2500 block of Secret Drive and the wounding of another.

Temporary screens have been placed around the murder scene in Running Springs as CSI officers conduct their investigation in the 2500 block of Secret Drive. (Photo by Kelly Pajak)

The second victim, who received a gunshot wound to the shoulder area and is expected to survive, has been identified as 32-year-old James Dye of Running Springs.

UPDATE 2: Tuesday, September 8 – 8:55 a.m.

Running Springs, CA – The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has issued the following statement:

“Homicide investigation in the 2500 block of Secret Drive in Running Springs. 2 victims; 1 deceased, 1 hospitalized. Investigation ongoing.”

No other details have been released.

UPDATE: Tuesday, September 8 – 8:10 a.m.

Running Springs, CA – At least one person is dead following a shooting in the 2500 block of Secret Drive in Running Springs shortly after midnight.

An additional person was hospitalized.

The Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) unit was still on scene about 8 a.m. Tuesday.

The Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) unit is on scene of a fatal shooting in the 2500 block of Secret Drive in Running Springs. (Photo by Kelly Pajak)

ORIGINAL STORY

Running Springs, CA – San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Detectives are investigating a shooting in the 2500 block of Secret Drive in Running Springs. The incident was reported shortly after midnight Tuesday (September 8).

Details remain sketchy but the incident log at 12:14 a.m. lists the incident as Penal Code 187 – murder.

Running Springs Fire responded to the scene but staged away from the Secret Drive address until law enforcement was on scene and secured the area.

ROTWNEWS.com will add information as soon as it becomes available.

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A 42-year-old Banning man — arrested by Twin Peaks deputies — on child sex charges allegedly involving a female relative under the age of 10 has entered a plea of not guilty. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

UPDATE: Monday, September 14 – 5:15 p.m.

San Bernardino, CA – A not guilty please has been entered by a 42-year-old family member accused by Twin _Peaks Sheriff’s deputies on suspicion of sexual abuse of a female relative under the age of 10.

The video hearing for Charles Allen Parrish from Banning — with Commissioner Ronald J. Gilbert presiding — included the appointment of the public defender.

Commissioner Gilbert also denied Parrish’s request to be released on his own recognizance. Bail remained at $500,000.

Parrish’s next appearance will be on Tuesday, September 22, for a preliminary hearing at 8:30 a.m. inh Department S-17.

ORIGINAL STORY

Crestline, CA – A 42-year-old family member will be arraigned in San Bernardino County Superior Court September 14 after being arrested on suspicion of sexual abuse of a female relative under the age of 10. The video hearing is scheduled for 12:30 p.m.

Charles Allen Parrish is being held at the West Valley Detention Center on $500,000 bail.

THE CASE

A Twin Peaks deputy responded to a call in Crestline in the 23000 block of Lakeview Drive on Friday, July 17, for a suspected sexual abuse report.

A press release issued by the Sheriff’s Department indicates that the female victim told a family member that she was sexually abused by Parrish.

The family member notified law enforcement and the Department of Children and Family Services.

THE ARREST

Parrish was arrested without incident on Thursday, September 10.

He is charges with violating Penal Code 288.7 (b) oral copulation with a child under 10 and Penal Code 288 (a) sex crime with a child under 14. (282)

Attempted murder charges have been filed against Josue Cervantes, 31, after he allegedly stabbed a Crestline man. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Crestline, CA – A 31-year-old man – identified as Josue Cervantes – has been charged with attempted murder after he allegedly stabbed a 23-year-old man in Crestline.

Deputies from the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station responded to the 22000 block of Valley View Drive in Crestline on Tuesday, September 22, at 5:38 p.m.regarding a possible stabbing.

THE INCIDENT

The victim’s mother called 9-1-1 and stated her ex-boyfriend (Cervantes) had stabbed her 23-year-old son. After the reported stabbing, Cervantes left the scene and the victim was transported to a local hospital where he is received medical attention.

A press release from the Twin Peaks Station reported the victim’s injuries were severe, however, he is expected to survive.

THE INVESTIGATION

Deputy Chavez from the Twin Peaks Station learned through investigation that Cervantes had possibly fled to a residence in the Palm Desert.

Deputy Chavez conducted a follow-up investigation and located Cervantes at an apartment in the 72000 block of Edgehill Road in Palm Desert.

Cervantes was taken into custody at 3 p.m. on Thursday, September 24, without incident and was transported to the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga where he is being held on $250,000 bail.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A video arraignment on the attempted murde5r charge is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on Monday, September 28.

Individuals with further information about the case should contact the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station (909) 336-0600.

Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information online at WETIP. (304)