Yucaipa Station deputies have cracked down on a fraudulent scheme in Mentone, leading to the arrest of multiple individuals on various charges ranging from identity theft to narcotics possession. The crackdown took place after a series of investigations into criminal activities linked to a single residence.
During a coordinated operation on February 7, 2024, law enforcement officers served a search warrant at a house on the 1300 block of Tourmaline Avenue. At the scene, deputies discovered a cache of forged checks, stolen personal identifying information, contraband including tear gas, and illegal drugs. A total of 10 suspects were apprehended during the raid, with an additional person nabbed later that day, the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department stated.
Among those arrested were Jordan Maxwell, a 29-year-old from Mentone, nabbed for possession of narcotics with intent to sell, and Sheila Lopez, a 47-year-old local woman, charged with possession of a stolen vehicle and identity theft. Other individuals, such as Cory Mount and Justin Chavez, face charges for possessing contraband typically restricted only from felons, reflecting the diverse and serious nature of the offenses being addressed.
As the investigation continues, Deputy Smit and other officers involved encourage anyone with additional information to step forward. Community members can contact the Yucaipa Station directly or opt for anonymity via the We-Tip Hotline, details of which are shared in a statement by the Sheriff's Department.
All suspects were booked at the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino, as confirmed by officials. To report any related tips, community members may refer to the case numbers 042400071, 042400065, and 042300772 when providing information to the authorities.
For more details on the incident and updates on the continuing investigation, interested parties can follow the case progress via the Sheriff-Coroner Department's official reports or contact the deputies directly. An official statement can be accessed for reference and further information on the arrests and charges brought against the individuals involved in this case.
