Early in the predawn hours of January 30th, Chino Hills deputies responded to a suspicious person's call that ultimately led to the arrest of three men caught with stolen property. According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department, authorities received a tip-off when a resident heard unusual grinding noises and observed a suspicious individual fleeing the scene. The suspects, identified as Rolando Neri Solis, Edwin Giovani Morales, and Ernesto Martinez Hernandez, were apprehended shortly after as they traveled in a white BMW on Butterfield Ranch Road.
Following a search of the vehicle, deputies discovered five catalytic converters, items often stolen for their valuable metals, and a loaded Smith & Wesson .380 pistol with an altered serial number. It was reported by Shannon D. Dicus, Sheriff-Coroner of San Bernardino County, that this incident marks one of the first applications of Proposition 36 since being passed by California voters in November 2024. Proposition 36 has reformed laws from the previous Proposition 47, targeting increased crime rates linked to homelessness, drug addiction and theft.
The suspects are now facing charges that include grand theft and receiving stolen property, with the added potential for enhanced sentencing thanks to the newly enacted proposition. The law also aims to hold offenders accountable by preventing cite release before court appearances. All three men had a history of theft-related crimes, contributing further to the gravity of their situation.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with more information regarding this incident to come forward and contact the Chino Hills Police Station. Callers seeking to remain anonymous can turn to We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME or visit their website directly.
