Two suspects were arrested in Rancho Mirage on allegations of extorting over $100,000 from a victim, according to a press release from the Riverside County Sheriff's Office. Ilivia Yvette Lopez, 43, and Bertha Gasso, 67, both residents of Hemet, will now have to face the consequences of their alleged White Collar crimes.
The investigation was initiated on March 4 when authorities were tipped off about a female who threatened to deport the victim unless a substantial amount of money was handed over. The Rancho Mirage Special Enforcement Team took over and managed to quickly identify and locate Lopez on Tuesday. Gasso, an accomplice, was also arrested during the operation. Both were apprehended in the 32000 block of Bob Hope Drive and were booked into the John Benoit Detention Center on theft-related charges, including extortion. Officials further state they are seeking a formal "White Collar" crime enhancement with the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, likely to increase the gravity of the penalties at play.
"The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to contact Deputy Paull with the Rancho Mirage Special Enforcement Team at (760) 836–1600," Sergeant Bryan Whitley was quoted in the press release. The Sheriff's Office is also prompting the public to stay vigilant and to report any suspicious activities, reminding everyone that extortion is no small affair and no individual should be made to feel unsafe or under duress to part with their money.
