On a recent Friday night in Rancho Cucamonga, a vehicle check led to more than deputies might have expected. According to a press release by the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department, it was approximately 11:10 P.M. on March 14 when deputies pulled over a BMW on Baseline Rd and Archibald Ave. The routine stop quickly escalated after contacting Joel Mark Thompson, the car's driver and sole occupant.
Thompson, a 32-year-old Upland resident, was not just out for a late-night drive. With an active felony arrest warrant for narcotics, his past appeared to catch up with him. Deputies discovered roughly one-half a pound of what they suspected to be methamphetamine and a locked portable safe under the seat which, being the driver, concealed likely illicit goods.
Following the find, deputies promptly authored a search warrant for the safe. Their hunch paid off—inside, they found more suspected methamphetamine, presumed fentanyl, baggies, digital scales, and drug paraphernalia, along with US currency. Mr. Thompson was no stranger to this sort of operation, as he had prior arrests linked to narcotics sales. His BMW was towed, and he found himself booked into West Valley Detention Center on charges including HS11351-Possession of a controlled substance and HS11378-Possession of a controlled substance for sale.
Authorities are keeping a close watch on this incident and encourage anyone with additional information to step forward. The Rancho Cucamonga Sheriff's Station can be reached at (909) 477-2800. Anonymity is offered through the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME, or online via the We-Tip website, for those who wish to provide tips without disclosing their identity.
