Latest News
Cinco de Mayo Holiday Enforcement Results
By Coachella Valley Times | May 6, 2024
On May 5, 2024, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office took action during ABC’s statewide Cinco De Mayo Holiday Enforcement operation in Lake Elsinore. The enforcement led to the citation of 20 individuals for municipal code violations at various locations within the city.Riverside County Sheriff’s Office Captain J. Rayls emphasized the significance of the operation, stating, "This operation is important to the city of Lake Elsinore to increase protection for youth and to hold accountable problem locations that contribute to an increase in crime."The primary goal of such...
Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation in Riverside County to Target Violations, with Funding from Traffic Safety Grant
By Coachella Valley Times | May 6, 2024
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, Jurupa Valley Station, has announced that they will be conducting a Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation on May 7th. The operation will see additional deputies on patrol, specifically targeting violations made by drivers and motorcycle riders.According to a statement from the Sheriff’s Office, the top primary crash factors for motorcycles include unsafe speed, improper turning, right-of-way violations, driving under the influence, and unsafe lane changes. It was highlighted that speeding is the most common factor, accounting for...
Riverside County Sheriff's Office Launches "Click It or Ticket" Campaign to Promote Seat Belt Safety
By Coachella Valley Times | May 6, 2024
The Riverside County Sheriff's Office has launched its annual "Click It or Ticket" campaign to remind Californians about the importance of seat belt safety. The campaign, running from May 20 to June 2, aims to encourage drivers and passengers to always buckle up and secure children in the appropriate car seats.Sergeant Ignacio Robles emphasized the significance of seat belt usage, stating, “Wearing a seat belt should be automatic for all drivers and passengers every trip." He further added, "Seat belts save lives, and everyone – front seat and back, child and adult –...
DUI Checkpoint Scheduled in Eastvale, Calif. by Riverside County Sheriff's Office
By Coachella Valley Times | May 6, 2024
City of Eastvale, Calif. – On May 10, 2024, The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, Jurupa Valley Station will conduct a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Checkpoint from 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM at an undisclosed location.The primary purpose of DUI checkpoints, as stated by Sergeant Ignacio Robles, is to promote public safety by taking suspected impaired drivers off the road. Robles emphasized, "Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk," and added, "Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improves traffic...
Riverside County Sheriff's Office to Conduct DUI Checkpoint in Moreno Valley
By Coachella Valley Times | May 6, 2024
May 6, 2024The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office in Moreno Valley has announced that they will be conducting a DUI checkpoint on May 10, 2024, from 8:00 P.M. to 2:00 A.M. at an undisclosed location.Deputy Julian Antonissen emphasized the importance of such checkpoints by stating, “Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk. Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improves traffic safety.”The department also highlighted that impaired driving is not limited to alcohol, as some...
Cat Burglar Arrested
By Coachella Valley Times | May 6, 2024
Rancho Mirage, CA - The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of a cat burglar in the community. Michael Zibell, a 47-year-old resident of Thousand Palms, was apprehended for his involvement in a residential burglary in the Escala gated community.According to Michael Zibell, the suspect gained entry by first burglarizing the victim’s vehicle and then using the garage door opener to access the garage. The stolen items included possessions from both the vehicle and the garage.The Rancho Mirage Special Enforcement Team (SET) deputies were able to gather...
The Palm Springs International ShortFest Unveiled Their Poster For The Upcoming 2024 Event
By Coachella Valley Times | May 5, 2024
Shag, the artist behind the distinctive and vibrant retro-style artwork for the 2024 Palm Springs International ShortFest poster, shared his inspiration, stating, “Inspired by our city and setting of Palm Springs, I wanted to express both the emotion of living in southern California, as well as the perspective of location shoots taking place across the Coachella Valley.”Lili Rodriguez, Artistic Director of the Palm Springs International Film Society, expressed her excitement about Shag's contribution, saying, “It is a joy to have Shag’s singular, fun style capturing and...
Tragic Incident in Blythe: Phillip Means, 61, Found Deceased at Shorty's Sports Park
By Coachella Valley Times | May 5, 2024
A man identified as Phillip Means, 61 years old, was found deceased at Shorty's Sports Park in Blythe, according to official records. The incident, documented under Coroner’s File #: 2024-03455, occurred on May 5, 2024.The Coroner's File stated, "Refer to investigating agency for further details." The document also indicated that the case status was marked as "Final."Further information regarding the circumstances surrounding Phillip Means' death was not provided in the available details.The California Highway Patrol in Indio is the agency investigating the incident...
Riverside police make more than 100 arrests in undercover drug operation
By Coachella Valley Times | May 4, 2024
The Riverside Police Department has announced that its narcotics unit's undercover drug operation, Operation "Street Sweeper", has resulted in over 100 apprehensions along the Magnolia Avenue Corridor. The operation, conducted over three days, led to arrests between Van Buren Boulevard and Pierce Street, including 44 drug dealers.
Riverside County Supervisors OK model behavioral health project
By Coachella Valley Times | May 4, 2024
The Riverside County Supervisors gave their approval to the Riverside University Health System’s (RUHS) Wellness Village in Mead Valley at the end of last month. This innovative behavioral health project is being hailed by the county as a model that will seamlessly integrate behavioral health treatment with medical care and social services.
Riverside County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office seeks claimants to more than $1.6 million dollars in unclaimed funds
By Coachella Valley Times | May 4, 2024
The Riverside County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office is currently seeking nearly 2,000 residents who may be entitled to more than $1.6 million in unclaimed funds. A minimum of $480,000 is due for disbursement but risks being lost due to the statute of limitations.
Fatal Accident Report: Intersection of State Route 74 and Betty Road Claims Life of Jason Frost
By Coachella Valley Times | May 4, 2024
A tragic incident occurred on May 2, 2024, at the intersection of State Route 74 and Betty Road in Good Hope, 92570, resulting in the loss of a life. The victim has been identified as 44-year-old Jason Frost from Lake Elsinore, CA.According to the report filed by the California Highway Patrol - Temecula, the time of death was recorded as 21:31 hours, following an injury that occurred at 21:15 hours on the same day. The next of kin has been notified about the unfortunate demise of Jason Frost.The investigating agency has stated, "Refer all inquiries to investigating...
City of Perris Checkpoint Results
By Coachella Valley Times | May 4, 2024
On May 3, 2024, one person was arrested for DUI and 17 citations were issued at a DUI checkpoint in Perris, California. The checkpoint, located at Perris Blvd. and Business Park Dr., was operational from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.According to the report, 17 drivers were cited for various violations such as operating a vehicle unlicensed or with a suspended/revoked license out of the 512 vehicles that were contacted. In total, 54 vehicles underwent secondary screening, four field sobriety tests were conducted, and two vehicles were towed as a result of the checkpoint.The City of...
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Responsibly
By Coachella Valley Times | May 3, 2024
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, Jurupa Valley Station is urging the public to commemorate Cinco de Mayo responsibly by taking necessary precautions, particularly by ensuring a designated sober driver. Sergeant Ignacio Robles emphasized, "Don’t put yourself and others on the road at risk by driving impaired." He further advised, "If you’re planning to celebrate with a drink or two, leave your keys at home and designate a sober driver."The law enforcement agency also highlighted that impairment on the road can be caused by substances beyond alcohol. They cautioned...
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Responsibly
By Coachella Valley Times | May 3, 2024
On May 3, 2024, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office issued a reminder for the public to celebrate Cinco de Mayo responsibly by planning ahead and designating a sober driver. Lieutenant Rick Espinoza emphasized the importance of responsible behavior, stating, "Don’t put yourself and others on the road at risk by driving impaired."The Sheriff’s Office highlighted that alcohol is not the only substance that can impair driving. They cautioned that marijuana, prescription medications, or over-the-counter drugs can also affect one's ability to drive safely. They advised...
Suspects Arrested During a Firearms Investigation
By Coachella Valley Times | May 3, 2024
On Thursday, May 2, at 9:00 a.m., the Gang Task Force Officers from Region 2 served a search warrant in the 300 block of 12th Street in the city of Beaumont regarding an ongoing firearms investigation. As a result of the search warrant, Gang Task Force Officers seized Ronald Partain Jr, 54-year-old, and Michael Ortega, 46-year-old, both residents of Beaumont, who are convicted felons prohibited from possessing firearms. Both subjects were arrested and booked into the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility for various weapons-related charges.The Riverside County Gang Task...
Rev Up Safety: May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
By Coachella Valley Times | May 3, 2024
Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Calif. — During Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in May, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind drivers to always look twice for motorcycles. By practicing safe driving habits and taking shared responsibility on our roads, we can help everyone arrive at their destination safely.Sergeant Don Olson emphasized the importance of vigilance on the roads, stating, "Motorcycles may be difficult to spot, so be extra careful before changing lanes." He added, "Let's all do our part to keep each other safe out there."According to...
Tragic Death of Marcia Zarco on SB 86 Expressway
By Coachella Valley Times | May 3, 2024
In a recent incident on May 2, 2024, a tragic event unfolded on the SB 86 Expressway in Thermal, California, resulting in the death of Marcia Zarco, a 52-year-old female resident of Thermal. The Coroner's File number for this case is 2024-03390.According to the available information, the California Highway Patrol – Indio Station is the agency investigating this unfortunate event. The incident occurred at 1/4-mile N/O Avenue 70 in Thermal, California. The time of injury was reported as 16:35 hours, with the time of death recorded as 17:20 hours on the same day.The...
Law Enforcement Crackdown on Theft Operation Yields Results in Wildomar
By Coachella Valley Times | May 3, 2024
On Wednesday, May 1, 2024, a coordinated effort involving deputies from the Wildomar Special Enforcement Team (SET), Lake Elsinore SET, and Lake Elsinore Robbery/Burglary Suppression Team was carried out at a local business on Clinton Keith Road in Wildomar to address increased theft activities. The operation targeted individuals engaged in various unlawful activities, resulting in the recovery of $760 worth of stolen merchandise.According to a statement from the authorities, "The Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Station takes all crime seriously and will continue these operations...
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Responsibly
By Coachella Valley Times | May 2, 2024
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office is urging the public to celebrate Cinco de Mayo responsibly by planning ahead and designating a sober driver. Deputy Timothy Garfin emphasized, "Don’t put yourself and others on the road at risk by driving impaired."The Sheriff’s Office highlighted the importance of leaving keys at home if planning to consume alcohol and designating a sober driver to ensure everyone's safety on the roads. Additionally, they cautioned that impairment can be caused not only by alcohol but also by substances like marijuana, prescription medications, or...