A San Bernardino County Deputy Sheriff was arrested for suspected narcotic possession on November 6, 2023. The deputy, Samuel Espinoza, is a 35-year-old Fontana resident and has served in the force for five years. At the time of arrest, Espinoza was assigned to the Transportation Division and did not operate department vehicles carrying inmates during his shift according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department's press release.
Espinoza's supervisor, suspecting the deputy to be under the influence of narcotics, initiated a search that led to the discovery of the substance on Espinoza's person. Current investigations provide no evidence linking Espinoza to supplying narcotics to inmates or staff members.
The deputy was arrested on felony charges, including possession of a narcotic controlled substance while armed and bringing narcotics into a jail facility. After being booked at the High Desert Detention Center, Espinoza posted bail, was released, and subsequently resigned from the Sheriff’s Department.
Sheriff Shannon D. Dicus, while expressing disappointment in Espinoza, commended the supervisory staff for their intervention. His statement reflected his commitment to upholding the rule of law, regardless of the suspect's status. "I'm proud of the supervisors who intervened and maintained the trust of the public. Despite my disappointment in the decisions made by my deputy, I hope he receives the help he needs," Dicus said.
Anyone with information related to this incident can contact Sergeant J. Ramstad of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Transportation Division at (909) 463-5297. Individuals wanting to maintain anonymity can reach out to We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463).
