On a seemingly ordinary Wednesday morning in Phelan, the watchful eyes of a local citizen led to unexpected consequences for one man with a criminal past. Deputies from the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department responded to a call about a suspicious person on May 8, 2024, at about 9:03 A.M. near Sheep Creek Road and Goss Road. The individual in question was later identified as 40-year-old Nicholas Navarro, a known Phelan resident. The citizen reported a man parked his gray GMC truck in such a way it blocked the maintenance service road to a cell tower, sparking concerns.
As reported by the Sheriff's Department, when law enforcement arrived on the scene, they encountered Navarro near the tower. He claimed he had simply parked his truck to take a stroll and refuel. However, a deeper check revealed that more than unorthodox parking was at play. Navarro was discovered to have outstanding warrants for serious weapons charges, including felon in possession of a firearm and manufacturing of a short-barrel gun.
In the incident's aftermath, Navarro's vehicle was towed due to expired registration. Subsequent to his arrest, Navarro was booked at the High Desert Detention Center. According to the sheriff's department release, he is held in lieu of $60,000.00 bail. While no incidents occurred during the arrest, it opens a window into how one citizen's vigilance can unearth hidden dangers and recall old troubles to light.
The authorities have continued to encourage public involvement with the ethos "See Something, Say Something." The effectiveness of this community-police relationship is echoed by former Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges, who is quoted as saying, "True public safety requires a collaboration between law enforcement and the community." For further information or to provide details about this ongoing investigation, the public is invited to reach out to J. Lee, of the Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station, or to maintain anonymity, contact We-Tip at 800-78CRIME.
