By G. T. Houts

Iowa Park, Texas – A routine traffic stop near Iowa Park, Texas of a 2016 Chrysler mini-van lead to the arrest of a former newspaper reporter in the mountain communities — Samuel Herschel Clauder II, 64.

Samuel Hershel Clauder II (Booking Photo – Texas Department of Public Safety)

News that the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) had stopped Clauder on Monday (February 22) about 4 p.m. on U.S. 287 and allegedly seized almost 150 pounds of marijuana valued in excess of $1 million finally reached San Bernardino County late Friday.

THE INCIDENT

During the traffic stop, a Texas trooper’s K-9 alerted the officer to the possibility of narcotics being in the vehicle.

On further investigation, officials report that several large duffle bags of marijuana were reportedly discovered in the back seat of the mini-van.

A media advisory later indicated the marijuana was being transported from California to Tallahassee, Florida.

Once the duffel bags were emptied, the release stated that they contained over 174 pounds of marijuana.

THE ARREST

The Texas Department of Public Safety released this photo of the marijuana allegedly found in Clauder’s vehicle. (Contributed Photo)

Clauder was arrested without incident, charged with felony possession of marijuana and booked at the Wichita County Jail.

He was released on bail Tuesday but booking documents from Texas do not indicate the amount of bail or when he was to be arraigned on the possession charge.

SAMUEL CLAUDER II

Several years ago, Clauder was a resident of Crestline — he now lives in Arcata — and was a reporter for the two weekly newspapers at different times.

At one time, Clauder — a former aide to Congressman Joe Baca — was active in the San Bernardino County Democratic Central Committee.

In 2009, Clauder was arrested and charged with felony possession of child pornography on his personal computer. He spent a considerable amount of money to clear his name and in 2012 the charges were dropped after a computer forensics expert presented evidence the illicit images were planted by his son.

He current has a lawsuit against San Bernardino County and the Sheriff’s Department alleging retaliation, conspiracy, malicious prosecution and violations of his civil rights.

That case is scheduled for a hearing on Monday, February 29, in San Bernardino County Superior Court.

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Two arrests have been made in a case involving seven mannequins hung at various Crestline locations threatening an officer to prevent duties and criminal threats against an officer. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Crestline, CA – A call of a mannequin hanging by a rope near the road with the name of a Deputy Sheriff and a bullseye type target painted on it was received by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station on Thursday, February 18.

Deputies responded and collected the mannequin and while investigating the incident, another mannequin was located near a school bus stop.

Soon after, the station received a call stating there were approximately five additional mannequins with deputy’s names on them, hanging from various locations.

THE INVESTIGATION

As the in-depth investigation continued, a total of seven mannequins were located in the Crestline and Cedarpines Park communities, according to a media release from the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station.

The release indicated that six of the mannequins had the names of current and past Twin Peaks deputies, and the last had a Probation Officer’s name.

All had bullseye targets painted below their names.

THE LEADS

Sarah Stewart (Booking Photo)

Within a few hours, the press advisory stated, leads were given implicating Sarah Stewart, 36, from Crestline as the alleged responsible party.

Stewart was reportedly seen driving a rented U-Haul van with the mannequins inside.

“Stewart is a known criminal in the community with ties to white supremacist gang members whom we have recently arrested for serious crimes,” the release noted.

POSSIBLE ACCOMPLICES

Deputies identified a number of known accomplices allowing for the recovery of additional evidence in the way of text messages and phone calls.

Erin Keith Elder (Booking Photo)

Video tape of the suspects was also recovered from nearby locations.

Through investigation detectives and deputies located six more matching mannequins at residence in Crestline.

Witnesses told investigating officers that they had seen Stewart loading mannequins into the U-Haul van with another suspect (Erin Keith Elder, 47) the night of the reported incident.

THE ARRESTS

On February 26, shortly after 9 a.m, deputies located Stewart and Elder at a residence in the 300 block of Davos Drive in Crestline.

The two suspects were taken into custody without incident. The duo may face a variety of charges including threatening an officer in order to prevent duties, criminal threats against an officer, and criminal activity to promote reputation of a street gang.

Video arraignments are scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 1.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The media release states that the investigation is ongoing and investigators believe three to four other suspects assisted Stewart.

If you have further information regarding this case, contact the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0687 or We Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME.

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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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A Victorville judge had determined Francis Jared Pusok must stand trial on 12 felony and 2 misdemeanor counts related to his April 9 arrest and beating last year that was captured by a television news crew. (Main Photo By KNBC Channel 4/Booking Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Victorville, CA – San Bernardino County Superior Court Judge Victor Stull has ruled that Francis Jared Pusok, 31, must stand trial on 12 felony and 2 misdemeanor charges related to his arrest on April 9 of last year near Hesperia. That arrest was captured on video by a KNBC Channel 4 chopper and also led to charges against three sheriff’s deputies for felony assault by a peace officer.

Pusok appeared in Victorville Superior Court March 15 and, at the conclusion of the hearing, Judge Stull ordered Pusok to face trial on those charges and an unrelated assault charge after he allegedly punched a man during a confrontation outside an Apple Valley residence in October.

THE HEARING

The hearing — which lasted just under two hours — included testimony by a host of deputies and investigators .

Pusok’s girlfriend/fiancee — Jolene Rhonda Ruth Bindner — also faces charges for being in receipt of stolen property.

Victorville Superior Court (Contributed Photo)

Both Pusok and Bindner — who have entered not guilty pleas — will next appear in court on Friday, March 18, at 8:32 a.m. in Department 10, according to court records.

Pusok — who has been in custody at the Adelanto Detention Center since October 29 — is being held on $600,000 bail.

THREE DEPUTIES CHARGED

Three San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies charged with felony assault by a peace officer during the arrest last year of Pusok entered not guilty pleas February 22 before San Bernardino Superior Court Judge Katrina West.

Deputies Michael Phelps, 30, (Twin Peaks), Nick Downey, 33, (Victor Valley) and Charles Foster, 34, (Hesperia) will next appear in court on Wednesday, April 13.

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A 67-year-old man — identified as Ronnie Lee Yeager — has been arrested in Big Bear City after he allegedly assaulted a tenant during a dispute over past due rent. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear City, CA – A landlord tenant dispute at a residence in the 500 block of West Rainbow Boulevard in Big Bear City led to the arrest of the 67-year-old landlord charged with assault with a deadly weapon (not a firearm).

THE INCIDENT

At about 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 16, Big Bear Sheriff deputies were dispatched to a reported assault at the aforementioned residence.

Deputies made contact with the involved parties and determined that the landlord — Ronnie Lee Yeager — went to the house and confronted the unidentified tenant about past due rent.

A media release reports that a physical altercation ensued and Yeager allegedly punched the tenant several times and threw him onto a dining room table, causing it to break.

Yeager then reportedly picked up a heavy decorative object and hit the tenant repeatedly on his head with it.

The tenant sustained multiple lacerations on his head, requiring medical treatment.

THE ARREST

Yeager was taken into custody by deputies without incident and booked into the Big Bear Jail on the felony charge of assault with a deadly weapon (not a firearm).

The landlord remains in custody in lieu of $50,000 bail with an arraignment hearing scheduled for March 18 in San Bernardino County Superior Court.

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False imprisonment and child abuse charges have been filed against a Crestline woman and her mother from Rancho Cucamonga related to an alleged parental kidnapping. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Crestline, CA – A 30-year-old Crestline woman and her 61-year-old mother face false imprisonment and felony child abuse charges following their arrest related to an incident earlier this month involving an alleged parental kidnapping.

The suspects have been identified by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station as Diana Cox and Isabel Schleif from Rancho Cucamonga.

THE INCIDENT

On March 10, at approximately 1:40 p.m.,  the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station received a 9-1-1 call from the unidentified victim’s residence regarding a parental kidnapping.

A media release indicates that the victim was caring for her 7-month old granddaughter. The victim’s son had temporary custody of the child and was away at work during the incident.

Deputies were told by the the victim that Cox and her mother (Schleif) arrived at the victim’s residence and asked to see the child. When the victim denied the visitation she was allegedly attacked by Cox.

Both Cox and Schleif reportedly forced their way into the victim’s home and restrained her.

The news release stated: “Schleif held the victim while Cox searched the home for the child. Cox located the child and removed her from her crib.”

THE INVESTIGATION

During the investigation, officers determined that after taking the child, Cox and Schleif entered a vehicle and sped away. The victim and a witness stated Cox was holding the baby on her lap unrestrained as she drove away. As the vehicle left the scene, it allegedly ran a stop sign at a high rate of speed.

Deputies and detectives from the Twin Peaks Station responded to the scene in the 23000 block of Zurich Drive in Crestline and began their investigation.

Based on the investigation, a San Bernardino County Superior Court Judge signed an arrest warrant for Cox and Schleif.

THE ARRESTS

Cox and Schleif were found to have ties to Ranch Cucamonga (San Bernardino County) and Irvine (Orange County).

Investigators placed an alert on the vehicles Cox and Schleif were last seen driving

On Tuesday, March 15, the Irvine Police Department notified the Twin Peaks Station they had located Cox and the 7-month old child.

Cox was taken into custody and booked into an Orange County jail facility and the child was returned to her father unharmed.

Schleif was also contacted on the same day by Twin Peaks Deputies at her residence in the 6000 block of Mendocino Place in Rancho Cucamonga. Schleif was arrested and transported to the West Valley Detention Center for booking.

Both Cox and Schleif are being held on $250,000 bail.

CASE INFORMATION

If you have further information regarding this case, contact the Twin Peaks Station at (909) 336-0687 or We Tip 1-800-78-CRIME.

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A high speed pursuit in the Crestline/Cedarpines Park area Saturday evening ended with the arrest of a possible suspect in an assault with a deadly weapon case. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Crestline, CA – A high speed chase through the streets of Crestline Saturday evening led to the arrest of a suspect in an assault with a deadly weapon case. The name of the man was not immediately available.

THE INCIDENT

The incident began about 9:50 p.m. in the Lake Gregory area and came to a conclusion after Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies and California Highway Patrol officers made the arrest near Elliott Road and Crest Forest Drive in Cedarpines Park about 10:05 p.m., according to scanner reports.

MINIMAL INFORMATION

ROTWNEWS.com was monitoring the call on scanners and following comments from community members in RimTraffic but little information was being broadcast on open channels.

Residents in the area where the pursuit ended posted that they had secured their residences as they watched the chase and eventual arrest unfold.

One eyewitness told ROTWNEWS.com, “it was friggin’ nuts.” Another resident posted, “I swear there is a high speed chase going on right now past my house! Sirens, racing cars, screeching tires (Lake Gregory).”

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Additional details will be released as soon as they are available.

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Over a dozen vehicle windows have been smashed by rocks in the past week. Most of the incidents were reported in the Twin Peaks area. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Twin Peaks, CA – Over a dozen incidents of vandalism involving rocks being thrown through the windshields or rear windows of vehicles in Twin Peaks and Crestline have been reported to the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station in the past week.

Several of the reporting parties told deputies that a black Jeep with several occupants was seen speeding away from the scene of the rock throwing incidents.

THE INVESTIGATION

Twin Peaks deputies are investigating the vandalism incidents — 11 or more in Twin Peaks and at least 2 in Crestline.

Sheriff’s Department records show that ten occurred on March 17 and the balance reported on March 18.

The first of the Twin Peaks incidents was reported at 9:29 p.m. on March 17 in the 26000 block of Lake Forest Drive. The additional incidents were report between that time and 11:47 p.m.

The following day, the first Twin Peaks report was received at 7:17 a.m. in the 500 block of Rose Lane. However, that incident most likely occurred about  the same time as those the previous day.

CONTACT SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Persons with information about the vandalism incidents are encouraged to call the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station at (909)  336-0600.

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2015 crime statistics reported by the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station show an overall decrease of 25 percent. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Twin Peaks, CA – The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department’s Twin Peaks Station is reporting a one (1) percent increase in Part 1 crime reports for 2015. There were 790 Part 1 reports in 2014 and 794 in 2015, according to a report issued by the Sheriff’s Department.

Twin Peaks Captain Donny Mahoney will provide a full report during a combined meeting of the Crest Forest and Lake Arrowhead Municipal Advisory Committee on April 5 at the San Moritz Lodge.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The 17 patrol deputies from the Twin Peaks Station responded to 18,146 calls for service during 2015, according to the report and made 723 arrests (adult bookings). The station reported 3 traffic collision incidents and issued 427 traffic citations.

Part II crimes are described as: simple assault, curfew offenses and loitering, embezzlement, forgery and counterfeiting, disorderly conduct, driving under the influence, drug offenses, fraud, gambling, liquor offenses, offenses against the family, public drunkenness, prostitution, runaways, sex offenses, stolen property, vandalism, vagrancy, and weapons offenses.

PART 1 CRIME REPORTS – Twin Peaks

MURDERS  – (2014 – 2) (2015 -1) (Percent Change -50%)    

MANSLAUGHTER  – (2014 – 0) (2015 – 0) (Percent Change 0%)

RAPE – (2014 – 7) (2015 – 10) (Percent Change +43%)

ROBBERY  – (2014 – 10) (2015 – 7) (Percent Change -30%)

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT – (2014–  75)  (2015 – 92) (Percent Change +23%)

SIMPLE ASSAULT  – (2014 – 113) (2015 – 132 ) (Percent Change +17%)

BURGLARY – (2014 – 303)  (2015 – 205) (Percent Change -32%)

LARCENY – (2014 – 227) (2015 – 292) (Percent Change +29%)

GRAND THEFT AUTO – (2014 – 53) (2015 – 55) (Percent Change +4%)

PART ONE TOTAL – (2014 – 790) (2015 – 794) (Percent Change +1%)

PART TWO TOTAL – (2014 – 1,213) (2015 – 699) (Percent Change -42%)

GRAND TOTAL – (2014 – 2,003) (2015 – 1,493) (Percent Change – 25%)

TOMORROW: Crime statistics for the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station

FRIDAY: Crime statistics for the City of Big Bear Lake

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2015 crime statistics reported by the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station show an overall decrease of 15 percent. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear Lake, CA – The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department’s Big Bear Station is reporting a 21 percent increase in Part 1 crime reports for 2015. There were 365 Part 1 reports in 2014 and 443 in 2015, according to a report issued by the Sheriff’s Department.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The 10 patrol deputies from the Big Bear Station responded to 11,363 calls for service during 2015, according to the report and made 522 arrests (adult bookings). The station reported 5 traffic collision incidents and issued 73 traffic citations.

Part II crimes are described as: simple assault, curfew offenses and loitering, embezzlement, forgery and counterfeiting, disorderly conduct, driving under the influence, drug offenses, fraud, gambling, liquor offenses, offenses against the family, public drunkenness, prostitution, runaways, sex offenses, stolen property, vandalism, vagrancy, and weapons offenses.

PART 1 CRIME REPORTS – Big Bear Station

MURDERS  – (2014 – 0) (2015 -0) (Percent Change 0%)    

MANSLAUGHTER  – (2014 – 0) (2015 – 0) (Percent Change 0%)

RAPE – (2014 – 7) (2015 – 4) (Percent Change -43%)

ROBBERY  – (2014 – 3) (2015 – 5) (Percent Change +67%)

AGGRAVATED ASSAULT – (2014–  45)  (2015 – 28) (Percent Change -38%)

SIMPLE ASSAULT  – (2014 – 89) (2015 – 112 ) (Percent Change +26%)

BURGLARY – (2014 – 106)  (2015 – 105) (Percent Change -1%)

LARCENY – (2014 – 99) (2015 – 173) (Percent Change +75%)

GRAND THEFT AUTO – (2014 – 16) (2015 – 16) (Percent Change 0%)

PART ONE TOTAL – (2014 – 365) (2015 – 443) (Percent Change +21%)

PART TWO TOTAL – (2014 – 673) (2015 – 443) (Percent Change -34%)

GRAND TOTAL – (2014 – 1,038) (2015 – 886) (Percent Change – 15%)

TOMORROW: Crime statistics for the City of Big Bear Lake

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Crestline resident Sarah Stewart, 36, has agreed to a plea bargain in the February case where mannequins threatening law enforcement officials were hung at various locations in Crestline and Cedarpines Park. (Contributed Photo)

By G. T. Houts

San Bernardino, CA – The 36-year-old Crestline woman accused of hanging seven (7) mannequins with the names of Sheriff’s deputies and a probation officer in various Crestline area locations has accepted a plea bargain in San Bernardino County Superior Court.

Sarah Stewart (Booking Photo)

Sarah Stewart entered a guilty plea to a felony count of resisting an executive officer by means of threats and violence. The mannequins not only had the names of the officers but a bullseye painted on the torso area.

One of the mannequins was hung near a school bus stop and another near the San Bernardino County Fire Station on Crest Forest Drive in Top Town.

THE PLEA BARGAIN

The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s office  reports that under the plea bargain — because Stewart has a prior strike — is facing a four (4) year sentence in state prison when she is sentenced on Wednesday, April 6.

Four additional felony charges of resisting an executive officer and an additional felony count of threatening a public officer have been dismissed.

CASE STILL ACTIVE

The case is still active and the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station is anxious to hear from individuals who may have information about the mannequin incident.

Call (909) 336-0600 to talk with a detective.

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A 22-year-old Redlands man is in custody after he was reportedly robbing items from the U.S. Post Office in Moonridge. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Big Bear, CA – Deputies from the Big Bear Sheriff’s Station responded to a report of a commercial burglary in progress at the Moonridge Post Office about 8 a.m. on Wednesday, March 30.

Upon arrival at the post office, deputies made contact with a male subject inside the business — identified as Wade Anthony Hall, 22, from Redlands.

THE INCIDENT

A media release from the station indicates that Hall allegedly forced entry into the closed business office and opened several packages and envelopes.

The suspect was found to be in possession of numerous items that were removed from the opened packages, according to the release.

THE ARREST

Hall was arrested and booked into the Big Bear Jail on a felony charge of burglary.

The Moonridge Post Office is located at 42025 Sandalwood Drive in Big bear Lake. (Contributed Photo)

A records check on Hall revealed that he is currently on felony probation, so deputies contacted Hall’s probation officer and Hall was placed on a hold for violation of the terms and conditions of his probation.

Hall remains in custody without the possibility of bail, pending a video arraignment hearing scheduled for Tuesday, April 5, at 12:30 p.m.

The U.S. Attorney General’s office has been contacted and is reviewing this matter for the possibility of filing additional federal charges.

The property that was stolen by Hall was released to the Postmaster of the Moonridge Post Office for return to its rightful owners.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

In addition to being arrested on the burglary charge, Hall was also issued a citation on March 27 on a charge of petty theft for stealing food at a local grocery store.

He is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, June 27, to answer for that misdemeanor charge.

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By G. T. Houts

UPDATE 2: Thursday, April 7 – 10:45 a.m.

Crestline, CA – The Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station is now indicating three juveniles were arrested on commercial burglary charges related to the theft of three computer towers from the closed Lake Gregory Education Center on April 5.

The juveniles were spotted with flashlights inside the building — after reportedly gaining entry through a broken window — in the 24000 block of Crest Forest Drive by an off duty security guard from Hook Private Secutive Service about 9:30 p.m.

Arriving deputies heard the subjects running through the bushes and were located a short time later during an area check.

All three subjects were juveniles between the ages of 15 and 16 years old, according to the press release.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The computer towers were retrieved and the juveniles were issued citations for burglary (Penal Code 459) and released to their guardians.

The case has now been forwarded to the District Attorney’s Juvenile Division for filing.

UPDATE: Wednesday, April 6 – 6:55 a.m.

Crestline, CA – Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Department spokesperson Gil Flores reports that deputies not only arrested the juveniles but recovered the items taken from the closed school complex.

He also praised Hook Private Security Service’s Brennon Thompson for being so observant.

ORIGINAL STORY

Crestline, CA – Two juveniles were taken into custody and have been charged with burglarizing the former Lake Gregory Elementary School in the San Moritz area of Crestline.

The incident — that involved Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies and Sheriff’s Aviation — began just before 10 p.m. Tuesday when an off-duty Hook Private Security Service employee drove past the school and observed flashlights in the area behind the school.

THE INCIDENT

Hook Security’s Brennon Thompson told ROTWNEWS.com he had just left a meeting at the San Moritz Lodge and drove past the Lake Gregory Education Centerl on his way home.

“I left the meeting,” Thompson noted, “and saw some flashlights near the back of the building.”

Thompson notified the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station and officers were dispatched. . .along with the Sheriff’s helicopter 40-King . . .and they arrested the juveniles for felony burglary related to the break-in of the school and the theft of three computers.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Individuals with information about the break-in are urged to contact the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station at (909) 336-0600.

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Homicide detectives are investigating the in custody death of a 48-year-old Twin Peaks man in a single man holding cell at the Twin Peaks Sheriff’s Station. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Twin Peaks, CA – An in custody death investigation is being conducted by San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Homicide detectives after 48-year-old Twin Peaks resident Michael Paul was found unresponsive in a single man holding cell.

THE INCIDENT

On Tuesday, April 5, at 10:15 a.m. a deputy assigned to the Twin Peaks Station conducted a pedestrian check on Michael Paul from Twin Peaks after witnessing him jaywalking in the 23000 block of Crest Forest Drive in Crestline.

The deputy evaluated Paul, determined he was under the influence of a controlled substance and took him into custody. The subject was placed in a single man holding cell and following a brief interview, deputies determined Paul had weapons in his residence, which were in violation of a criminal restraining order.

Deputies authored a search warrant for Paul’s residence for firearms and narcotics and served that warrant at 2:50 p.m.

Numerous firearms and narcotics were seized from the residence.

Additionally, Paul’s 37-year-old girlfriend, Emily McKernan, was arrested during the search warrant for narcotic and firearms violations.

Deputies returned to the Twin Peaks station and after a brief interview, McKernan was placed in a single man holding cell.

PAUL FOUND UNRESPONSIVE

At 5:39 p.m. deputies prepared to interview Paul regarding the evidence located at his home and found he had hanged himself in the cell, according to a media release issued by the station.

Medical personnel responded and Paul was pronounced dead at the scene.

THE INVESTIGATION/AUTOPSY

As per department policy, Sheriff’s Homicide Detectives responded and are conducting the investigation.

An autopsy will be conducted by the Riverside County Coroner to determine the exact cause of death.

The investigation is ongoing, including an administrative investigation and no additional information is being released at this time.

Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to contact, Sheriff’s Homicide Detail, Sergeant Jason Radeleff at (909)387-3589.

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

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The theft of a safe from a Lake Arrowhead business was reportedly solved when employees of the Saddleback Inn & Restaurant recognized the man suspected of the burglary while viewing surveillance video. (File Photo)

By G. T. Houts

Lake Arrowhead, CA – Employees of the Saddleback Inn and Restaurant in Lake Arrowhead were able to identify a suspect in the theft of the business’ safe by viewing surveillance video and notifying authorities.

Armed with that information, Twin Peaks Sheriff’s deputies made contact with a 28-year-old Lake Arrowhead man — identified as Ruben Gurrola — at his residence in the 27000 block of Rim of the World Drive.

Gurrola was subsequently arrested.

THE CASE

On Thursday, April 7, Twin Peaks deputies were dispatched to the Saddleback Inn & Restaurant in the 300 block of Highway 173 in Lake Arrowhead to investigate a reported burglary.

The reporting party told deputies that an unknown subject had entered the business at about 12:30 a.m. and stole the safe.

The restaurant’s video surveillance tape was reviewed buy deputies and employees and observed the subject breaking into the business and commit the crime.

It was at that point the suspect was recognized and his name provided to deputies.

THE ARREST

Deputies made contact with Gurrola at his residence at about 3:35 p.m. Thursday and he was taken into custody without incident, according to a Sheriff’s Department media release.

The unopened safe was recovered and returned to the business.

Gurrola was transported to the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga for booking.

He was released from custody at 4:04 p.m. on Friday, April 8.

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