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San Bernardino County Sheriff's Deputy Resigns Following Arrest for Narcotic Use on Duty

Issue #007

In This Issue of the CucamongaConnect Newsletter

🌡️ Today’s Weather

📅 Upcoming Events

📝 San Bernardino County Sheriff's Deputy Resigns Following Arrest for Narcotic Use on Duty

📝 Rancho Cucamonga Macy’s Theft Leads to Arrests, Including Juveniles

🏈 Sports

🔦 Local Business Highlight

San Bernardino County Sheriff's Deputy Resigns Following Arrest for Narcotic Use on Duty

In a striking breach of law enforcement standards, a San Bernardino County sheriff’s deputy was arrested at his workplace for operating under the influence of an illegal narcotic, leading to his immediate resignation, the Sheriff's Department disclosed.

Samuel Espinoza, who had been with the department for five years, was serving as a driver at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga, tasked with transporting inmates. Notably, he was not assigned inmate transport duties on November 6, the day of his arrest, as per a statement from the sheriff’s office.

The arrest followed a determination by Espinoza's supervisor that he was under the influence of cocaine and in possession of the drug while on duty. The Sheriff’s Department emphasized that the investigation, still in progress, has so far found no evidence to suggest Espinoza provided narcotics to inmates or fellow staff members.

Espinoza faces serious legal repercussions, including felony charges for possession of a narcotic controlled substance while armed and for bringing narcotics into a jail. Following his arrest, he was booked at the High Desert Detention Center but has since posted bail.

The incident culminated in Espinoza's resignation from the department.

Sheriff Shannon Dicus, in a written statement, reflected on the incident: “While such events are deeply regrettable, they underscore our unwavering commitment to combating crime, irrespective of the perpetrator's status, including when it involves one of our own deputies. I commend the supervisors for their decisive action, which reinforces the public's trust. Although I am disheartened by the choices made by Deputy Espinoza, and he is no longer a member of our team, it is my hope that he will seek and receive the necessary assistance.”

21st Annual Claremont Village Wine Walk

Get ready for the Annual Claremont Village Wine Walk! This is one of the most anticipated events of the year and we just can't wait! Sip your favorite reds, whites, get a taste of local restaurants, listen to amazing sounds, and get a head start on your holiday shopping! It all happens on Saturday, November 18 at 3:30 PM. Check in sites are at SHELTON PARK and the CLAREMONT DEPOT.

Get ticket info and more details by clicking here.

Fall Cocktail Workshop

Come & Shake Things Up With Us!

In this hands-on cocktail workshop, not only will you be learning to create beautiful and delicious autumn drinks, you'll also get a tour of Evolve Distilling, Claremont's new and only distillery! You will learn how the spirits you'll be using were made by the actual distiller! How cool is that? We will demonstrate some tips and tricks on how to craft three seasonal FALL libations that are sure to impress (especially with all those holiday parties coming up). This workshop includes 3 craft cocktails(made by you), a distillery tour, and lots of fun! This is a one of a kind class and is going to fill up fast, so don't miss out!

+21 only

*Ticket sales are final.

Get ticket info and more details by clicking here.

San Bernadino Sheriff Dept
‘Stuff The Bus’ Charity Event
Dec. 6 & 7

Are you ready to help stuff our Sheriff bus?!! This is going to be a great event! We’re excited to watch our community come together to help give children in need a few extra smiles.

Rancho Cucamonga Macy’s Theft Leads to Arrests, Including Juveniles

On the evening of Saturday, November 11, 2023, San Bernardino County deputies were dispatched to a reported theft at the Macy’s store located at 12501 S. Mainstreet in Rancho Cucamonga, marking a concerning incident in the area’s retail sector.

The theft, reported at approximately 7:33 p.m., involved suspects who allegedly selected and removed merchandise from Macy’s without making payment. The incident escalated when the suspects were confronted by the store's Loss Prevention Officers. According to the authorities, one juvenile suspect engaged in a physical altercation, shoving and striking a Loss Prevention Officer in the face.

The confrontation led to the apprehension of all three suspects, and the stolen merchandise, valued at around $1,000, was recovered. The incident underscores the challenges faced by retail establishments in managing theft and maintaining the safety of their staff.

Two of the apprehended individuals, identified as juveniles, were subsequently booked at the San Bernardino Juvenile Hall. The third suspect, Angel Verdugo, faces more severe consequences, having been arrested and booked at the West Valley Detention Center on charges of robbery.

The Rancho Cucamonga Police Department is actively seeking further information related to this case and encourages anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward. Individuals with information can contact the department directly at 909-477-2800. For those wishing to provide information anonymously, the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) remains available, along with the option to submit tips online at www.wetip.com. This case highlights the ongoing efforts of local law enforcement to address retail crime and ensure community safety.

Upland Police Thwart Bold Burglary, Recover $60,000 in Stolen Goods

Photo: Upland PD

In a striking display of criminal audacity, burglars tunneled into a business at the intersection of Arrow Highway and Mountain Avenue in Upland, making off with an estimated $60,000 in medical supplies and other merchandise. The Upland Police Department, responding with alacrity to the daring midday heist, successfully thwarted the burglary and apprehended the suspects.

The police were alerted to the burglary in progress and quickly mobilized to the location. In a notable act of police work, an officer at the scene intercepted the suspect vehicle as it attempted a swift escape, leading to the arrest of the perpetrators.

This swift response by the Upland Police led to the recovery of the stolen items, a significant relief to the victimized business and a reassurance to the community, often shaken by such blatant criminal acts. The identities of the suspects, now in custody, remain undisclosed, but they face serious burglary charges.

In the wake of the incident, the Upland Police Department is collaborating with the business to facilitate the return of the stolen property and to evaluate the full extent of the burglary's impact. This case underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing increasingly bold criminal strategies and highlights the importance of prompt and effective police response in safeguarding local businesses and communities.

High School Athletic Schedules - November

Chaffey College Athletic Schedules - Seasonal

Men’s Sports

Women’s Sports

We Want To Spotlight Your Business!

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We 💖 Love Local Businesses!

We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you're a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! "CucamongaConnect" is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town. Let's collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. Send us a message, and let's celebrate the spirit of Rancho Cucamonga together!

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