Amidst evacuated streets in the serene landscape of Big Bear Lake, alleged opportunism has led to the arrest of two residents. In a recent statement, the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department reported the arrest of Tammi Wormsbecker and Tammy Smith during a burglary investigation within the evacuation zone on September 14. The arrests came as Big Bear deputies spotted suspicious activity in a neighborhood left deserted due to mandatory evacuations.
On the serene morning that may have otherwise been disturbed by nature's wrath or silence, the deputies observed Wormsbecker and Smith in front of a residence at the 700 Block of Outlook Lane, where neither woman lived, nor possessed permission to enter. According to the Big Bear Sheriffs Department, Smith and Wormsbecker were found to have made their way into the house after deputies discovered the front door unlocked, and, the key missing from its lockbox. Inside the property, law enforcement located Wormsbecker's phone alongside drug paraphernalia.
The duo was arrested on charges of burglary and drug possession, with bail set at $30,000 each. Following their custody at West Valley Detention Center, an arraignment awaited them on September 17, in the San Bernardino County Superior Court, as detailed by the Big Bear Sheriffs Department. The incident has prompted officials to call for the public’s assistance in gathering further details. Information can be shared with the Big Bear Sheriff Station or anonymously through the We-Tip Hotline.
