Chino Hills' quiet was shattered early in January when a brazen burglar decided to force his way into a residence on Lilac Circle. Little did the thief know, Chino Hills detectives were hot on his trail that would culminate in handcuffs. The break-in, which saw an intruder pilfering through a car parked in a private garage and snatching personal items, was reported on January 3, 2024, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department. The detectives, showing some sleuthing finesse, pinned the crime on one Christopher Ford, 32, of Ontario.
Chino Hills Police made a move to apprehend Ford nearly three months after the incident, arresting him on April 10, according to a sheriff’s department statement. He now finds himself facing charges of burglary, credit card information theft, and fraudulent credit card use, as he's presently cooling his heels at the West Valley Detention Center. Ford allegedly didn't just stop to quickly and guiltlessly snatch the goods – he's accused of credit card theft and then proceeding to use the stolen plastic for his gain.
The Chino Hills Police Department isn't closing the book on this investigation just yet. They're calling on the public's eagle eyes and open ears for any additional information. Anyone knowing something that might be related to the Lilac Circle burglary, or Ford's other activities, is encouraged to come forward and dial the authorities at (909) 364-2000. Moreover, those wishing to dish details but keep their names out of it can hit up the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME, or leave a tip online at www.wetip.com.
As Ford's legal entanglements begin, Chino Hills residents can breathe a minor sigh of relief, though the incident undoubtedly leaves a bitter taste and lingering questions about security in their community. The arrest is a check in the win column for the Chino Hills Detective Bureau led by Detective Zachary Twardowski, whose work was essential in tracking down the suspect. For further details on the case, reference number 222400030 can be used when contacting the station, as noted in the sheriff-coroner’s department announcement.
