Riverside County authorities have apprehended a suspect in connection with a grand theft of construction equipment valued at approximately $11,000, as reported by the Riverside County Sheriff's Office. The theft occurred on October 20, 2025, in the Lake Mathews area, when deputies responded to a call on Hill Top Drive but failed to locate the perpetrator at that time.
Following the investigation by the Lake Mathews Station Special Enforcement Team, 34-year-old Sergio Fernandez of Perris was identified as a suspect. On December 9, Fernandez was found at a Perris residence and arrested without incident during a warranted search. Although initially, the stolen construction equipment was not recovered at the location, the Riverside County Sheriff's Office statement disclosed.
The serious nature of grand theft prompted diligent efforts by law enforcement, culminating in the recovery of the stolen items at a different residence on Jurupa Road in Jurupa Valley. The equipment has since been returned to its rightful owner, offering some closure to the victimized party.
While currently booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center for grand theft and vehicle theft, authorities have indicated that the investigation remains active. The Riverside Sheriff's Lake Mathews Station is reaching out to the public for further information, which can be shared by contacting Deputy Torres or the Riverside Sheriff's Dispatch, as detailed on their official website. Their appeals for community cooperation underline the ongoing nature of the case.
Those with knowledge of the incident are encouraged to step forward and contribute to the inquiry, which may yield additional developments. Any updates will be communicated through the appropriate channels by the Riverside County Sheriff's Office as they surface.
