Humboldt Sentinel

Reports From Humboldt’s Law Agencies

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

Indoor-Outdoor Weed Op Busted

On June 17 at 9:00 am, Humboldt County Sheriff’s Deputies
assisted by Humboldt County Drug Task Force Agents served
a Humboldt County Superior Court Search Warrant in the 25000
block of Highway 36 in Bridgeville.

When the deputies served the search warrant they located a sophisticated indoor and an outdoor marijuana growing operation.  Many of the outdoor marijuana plants were already in the flowering stage.

Deputies located 624 marijuana plants ranging from 4” to 12” in height growing indoors, and 590 marijuana plants ranging from 6” to 4′ tall growing outdoors.  Deputies also located a loaded rifle.

Due to electrical fire hazards at the indoor marijuana grow operation, the Humboldt County Planning Department and Pacific Gas and Electric was called to the scene.  They determined there was a hazard and shut off the electricity.

At the property, deputies contacted Kelly Valentine, 39-years old, and her two teenage children. 

Due to jail overcrowding, Ms. Valentine was issued a notice to appear for cultivation of marijuana, possession of marijuana for sale and maintaining a residence for the unlawful manufacturing of a controlled substance and released at the scene.

Our Ms. Valentine, ever the coolest mom in high school, went down, but deputies have identified another suspect in this case.  They are seeking an arrest warrant through the Humboldt County DA for his arrest.

All in the Family Dispute Leads to Cannabis Pinch

A disturbance between a Fortuna mother and her daughter on Sunday morning led to the arrest of the mother on suspicion of marijuana possession for sale and maintaining a drug house, according to the Fortuna Police Department.

Officers responded to a disturbance call June 9 on the 400 block of 11th Street after a reported altercation occurred between Sheila Ayub, 40, and her whippy daughter.

After the dispute was resolved, an officer attempted to re-contact Ayub.  The officer observed the woman running through the residence with bags of processed marijuana through the front door.

The officer entered the home, detained Ayub for the violation, and found her to be in possession of approximately two pounds of marijuana packaged for sales, FPD said.

Based on the officer’s observations and Ayub’s statements, the home was locked down in preparation for a search warrant.

Inside the home, officers located more weed:  approximately 8 pounds of processed marijuana bud, approximately 10 pounds of untrimmed marijuana plants, two digital scales, approximately $14,000 and several forms of packaging material, officials said.  She was arrested for all of it, and also for possession of marijuana for sale and maintaining a drug house. 

Ms. Ayub– mom– was booked into the Humboldt County Pokey. 

Her daughter had the house to herself for awhile.  Hell hath no fury like a daughter scorned.

Cali Weed and the Land of Mormon

On June 11th and 12th, the Humboldt County Drug Task Force, Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, United States Forest Service, and the United States Marshal Office assisted the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration Metro Narcotics Task Force and the Davis Metro Narcotic Strike Force out of Salt Lake City, Utah, regarding a 3-year long marijuana investigation in Humboldt County linked to the Mormon state.

The Federal Drug Enforcement Administration issued indictments for several Humboldt County residents out of the Federal District Court in Salt Lake City, Utah, for engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise, conspiracy to manufacture, distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana.  Federal and state search warrants were served in Utah during the course of this investigation.

On June 11 at about 10:00 in the morning, local law enforcement and federal law enforcement officers located and arrested one suspect for the federal indictment out of Utah, Michael Stallings, 63, at his residence located off Friday Ridge Road in Willow Creek.  While at Stallings’ residence, officers noticed an outdoor marijuana growing operation.

Officers obtained a Humboldt County search warrant for the property.  Officers then seized over 600 growing marijuana plants that ranged in size from 2 to 3 feet.  Officers seized one pound of processed marijuana, two rifles and one shotgun.   Mr. Stallings was transported to the Federal Courthouse in Eureka to be arraigned on his federal arrest warrant out of the State of Utah.  A local arrest warrant will be sought through the Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office for Stallings for cultivation and possession for sales of marijuana.

On June 12th at about 9:00 in the morning, local and federal law enforcement officers served a search warrant at the residence of John Paul Diller, age 32, in the 1600 block of Children’s Avenue in McKinleyville.  Mr. Diller was taken into custody on a federal arrest warrant out of the State of Utah, too.  Diller was transported to the Federal Courthouse in Eureka to be arraigned on his Federal arrest warrant out of the State of Utah.

When Officers searched Diller’s residence they located and seized 10 individual, one pound bags of processed marijuana. 

Officers also seized 4 pistols and 2 rifles.  A Harley Davidson motorcycle, a vehicle, and $7,900 in cash was seized for possible asset forfeiture.

At the same time, other officers served a search warrant for two storage units off Airport Road in Fortuna that Diller was renting.  Officers seized over 800 growing marijuana plants from inside two storage units ranging in size from 2 to 3 feet.  No one was located at the storage units.

On June 12th at 5:00 pm, a search warrant was served on a piece of property that Mr. Diller owned in the Freshwater area.  Officers seized two motorcycles, a Polaris- Ranger ATV, and a utility trailer for possible asset forfeiture.

A local arrest warrant will be sought through the Humboldt County District Attorney’s Officer for Mr. Diller’s arrest for cultivation and possession for sales of marijuana.

There are other suspects in the investigation from the Salt Lake City indictmentsand more arrests are expected in the Humboldt County of Humboldt. 

The US Attorney’s Office in Salt Lake City is working closely with the US Attorney’s Office in San Francisco with the federal indictments.

Don’t mess with the Mormons, they don’t even like a little Coca Cola and Jack, much less a lot of weed, passing through the beehive state.  Anyone with information on this case or related drug activity is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Drug Task Force at 707-444-8095 or the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Tip line at 707-268-2539.

Just a Little Gunplay in McKinleyville

On June 15 at  8:30 pm, the Humboldt County Sheriffs Office received a call from a male victim reporting his house was just shot at.

The victim resides in the 1700 block of Lime Avenue in McKinleyville.  When deputies arrived they met with the victim and his stepfather.

They reported a person known as Michael Raphael Robitaille, 42-years old, came to their residence and knocked on the front door.  When they did not answer the door, they heard a gunshot and then saw Robitialle leave. 

They checked the door and saw a bullet hole in the front door.  They saw the bullet traveled through the metal front door and three interior walls, before striking a light fixture.  That’s pretty good eyesight, we think.

Deputies located Mr. Robitialle at a residence in the 2400 block of Penn Avenue in McKinleyville.  He admitted going to the home on Lime Avenue but denied shooting into the residence.  Nonetheless, Mr. Robitialle was arrested for shooting into an inhabited building.  No weapon was recovered.

He was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility.

It seems like an open and shot case, but the HCSO asks:  Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

One Bust for Two Arcata Burglaries– by One Very Dim Bulb

On June 17 at 3:05 am, the Arcata Police Department received a report of a burglary in progress at the Chevron gas station on Giuntoli Lane.  

Officers quickly arrived in the area and located a subject fleeing the business. 

The subject, later identified as Stephen James Hansen, age 27, was taken into custody after a short foot pursuit. 

Mr. Hansen was found to be in possession of property that had been stolen from the business and placed under arrest for burglary.

Officers were able to view surveillance footage from the business that showed Hansen breaking the glass front door with a rock and entering the business and removing the merchandise from the store.   

Based upon the same method of entry used at a previous burglary at the Chevron which had occurred on May 31, video surveillance footage was viewed from the prior burglary.  Mr. Hansen was identified as the suspect in that incident as well. 

Mr. Hansen was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked and lodged for both burglaries.

One dim bulb, we hope Mr. Hansen leaves the nightlight on upstairs while he’s away.

* * * * * * * * *

Tuesday’s Opiated Crime

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

From the Eureka Police Department: 

A Little Smack Slingin’ at the Heroin Hotel

On June 6, detectives from the Eureka Police Department’s Problem Oriented Policing Unit (POP) served a search warrant at a motel room at the 1400 block of 4th St, in Eureka.

The warrant service was in response to numerous complaints of in-and-out traffic related to possible narcotic activity from a room inhabited by Alicia Wibur, age 23.

As a result of their search, detectives located 1 gram of heroin, 0.4 grams of methamphetamine, a syringe loaded with suspected heroin, scales, packaging and over $1800 in cash.

Ms. Wilbur was arrested and transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for Possession of a Controlled Substance for Sales and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Anyone with information concerning suspected drug activity, or other nuisances occurring in the City of Eureka is encouraged to call the Problem Oriented Policing Unit at (707) 441-4373.

From the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

Little Mom and Poppy Opium Op

On June 10, bright and early at 7:30 in the morning, the Humboldt County Drug Task Force, assisted by the Fortuna Police Department, served a search warrant at a residence in the 3500 block of Tami Drive in Fortuna.

Officers located two subjects in the residence, along with their 4 year old daughter.  The two subjects were identified as Victoria Adeli Miller, 29, and Benjamin Joseph Dehaven, 30.

When officers searched the residence they discovered an indoor marijuana growing operation located in the attached garage and inside one of the bathrooms.

Officers seized a total of 341 growing marijuana plants that ranged in size from 6 inches to 3 feet in height.  Officers located 2 pounds of processed pot in the residence along with about 4 ½ pounds of marijuana leaf.

Officers noticed a possible electrical fire hazard associated with the indoor marijuana growing operation so they contacted the Fortuna Building and Planning Department. After inspecting the electrical wiring, they in turn determined there was a possible electrical fire hazard and contacted PG&E to have the electrical service shut off.

When officers searched the backyard of the residence they located numerous growing opium poppy plants approximately 5 feet in height.  Officers noticed that several of the plant pods were recently cut or scored.

They also located several dried opium poppy pods in the garage also cut or scored. Based on this information officers believed that the opium poppy plants were being used to obtain opium.

Officers contacted Humboldt County Child Welfare Services who responded to the residence and took the 4-year old girl into protective custody.

Officers arrested Dehaven and Miller for possession and possession for sales of opium, cultivation and possession for sales of marijuana, and for felony child endangerment.

Mr. Dehaven and Ms. Miller were transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility in Eureka where they were booked on the above charges.

Miller was booked and released from the jail due to female overcrowding.  Dehaven is currently being held on $50,000 dollar bail.

This case is still under investigation by the Humboldt County Drug Task Force.

Anyone with information on this case or related drug activity is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Drug Task Force at 707-444-8095 or the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Tip line at 707-268-2539.

* * * * * * *

From Humboldt’s Law Enforcement

–As Usual, Lack of Probation Oversight Abounds–

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

From the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:  Klamath River Death Investigation

On June 8th at 8:50 a.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a citizen who reported he was checking his fishing net in the Klamath River and discovered a body in the river near his nets.

Deputies responded to the scene and met with the reporting party near mile post 23.40 on State Route 169 near Martins Ferry.  The citizen told the deputy he set his fishing net out at approximately 8 pm the night before, a short distance upstream from Owl Rock.

The next morning he went to check his net and saw a Jet Ski type watercraft entangled in his net.  The citizen looked further and saw a body submerged in the water.  The citizen checked the body and saw the person was obviously deceased.  He called law enforcement to notify them of what he found.

Humboldt County Sheriff’s Deputies and the Humboldt County Coroner’s Office used a Sheriff’s Office jet boat to retrieve the deceased male.  The Coroner’s Office will be conducting an autopsy to confirm the cause of death.  Any further news releases, including the deceased name will be released from the Coroner’s Office.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539, the HCSO said.

Update:

Ralph Lemmons, 63, from Weitchpec, was found in the Klamath river halfway between Weitchpec and the village of Johnson on Saturday morning.

He was found by another Weitchpec man who was checking his fishing nets, Humboldt County Deputy Coroner Roy Horton said. 

The man tied Lemmons to a rock so he would not drift farther down the river before officials arrived.

Lemmons entered the river alone near Old Village on Friday to ride his wave runner, Horton said.  It appears that the craft hit a rock and Lemmons tried to pull it to shore.

Officials believe he set his jacket, ice cooler, and cushion on the shore and walked back to the river to grab the wave runner, which may have drifted into deep water. It appears Lemmons fell into the water and most likely drowned, Horton said.  Lemmons’ wife told authorities that he did not know how to swim, Horton said.

The official cause of death is still being investigated, but should be available tomorrow, the Coroner said.  Alcohol or drugs are not believed to be involved.

From the Fortuna Police Department:  Convicted Felon and Probationer Arrested– and then Released !

On June 09, 2013 at about 3:50 pm, the Fortuna Police Department received a report of a male subject on a motorcycle in the area of Fortuna Boulevard and Kenmar Road that was brandishing a firearm at another motorist.

Officer responded to the area and conducted a traffic stop on the motorcyclist in the area of the Strong’s Creek Plaza Shopping Center.  The subject Wade Daniel Harris, 31, of Fortuna was detained and officers learned from witnesses that Harris may have discarded the firearm into a nearby field when he observed officers.

Officers conducted search of the field and located a loaded Kimber Semi-Automatic .45 Cal Pistol.  It was determined that the pistol had been reported stolen out of Ontario, CA.

Harris was subsequently taken into custody on the following charges:

PC 417 – Brandishing Firearm
PC 496 – Possession of Stolen Property
PC 29800 – Felon in Possession of a Firearm
PC 25850 – Carrying a Loaded Firearm in Public
PC 1203.2 – Probation Violation

Harris was booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility.

Unbelievably, Mr. Harris was later released after posting bail.  We hope Harris’ Probation Officer will actually supervise him after not doing so and think twice by placing the requisite ’probation hold’ on him at the jail following his arrest by FPD until his situation can be looked at.

It’s a good thing no one was hurt by this unsupervised felon and probationer running amuck.

Another FPD Report:  Negligent Probation Mom Abandons Infant 

On Saturday June 8, 2013 officers with the Fortuna Police Department responded to an apartment complex located in the 100 block of 12th Street for the report of an infant that had been abandoned.

Upon arrival officers learned that a one year old infant had been left in the care of residents within the complex sometime during the afternoon hours of Thursday, June 6th.  The infant was reportedly dirty and left with little formula or personal care items.

During the three-day period the infant was reportedly passed from one apartment to another before eventually coming into the care of a thirteen-year old tenant.  The tenant phoned the Fortuna Police Department after the infant’s mother, Stefani Renee Nelson, 18, of Fortuna, had failed to return for the infant or contact anyone as to her whereabouts.

Officers attempted contact with Nelson through various means, including at last known residences, through family members and via her last known cellular phone number.  All attempts to contact Nelson were unsuccessful.

Due to the circumstances reported by the apartment tenants and in the interest of the safety of the infant, officers placed the child into protective custody.  Humboldt County Child Welfare Services was contacted and subsequently took custody of the infant.

At approximately 8:20 pm, a Sergeant with the Fortuna Police Department observed Nelson walking near the 100 block of 12th Street.  Ms. Nelson was contacted and subsequently taken into custody for the following charges:

PC 273a(a)– Willful harm to a child
WI 777– Probation Violation

Nelson was transported and booked into the Humboldt County Jail.

Did the supervising Probation Officer even know of Ms. Nelson’s whereabouts whatsoever over the course of three and probably more days?  Thank goodness this child wasn’t hurt– and a 13-year old was smart enough to do something along with Fortuna Police and Child Welfare Services.

From the Arcata Police Department:  More Parole/Probation Supervision Failings

An Arcata Police Department Ranger patrolling the Arcata Marsh area located a suspicious man on a bicycle at about 8:00 am this morning.

The man was contacted and identified as 40-year old Shawn Paul Alberson of Eureka.

It was determined Alberson was currently on parole for burglary.  A search of Alberson was conducted per the terms of his parole.  The ranger located a loaded .22 caliber revolver concealed down the front of Alberson’s pants.

Mr. Alberson was also found to be in possession of numerous burglary tools that included dozens of car keys, a pry bar, a slide hammer and a night vision scope.  Numerous credit and debit cards belonging to previous victims of theft were found in Alberson’s pack.

Over the past month the City of Arcata has seen a significant increase in vehicle burglaries in the parking lots in and around the Arcata Marsh.  Several people have reported seeing a man matching Alberson’s description and riding a similar bicycle in the area just before or just after the burglaries occurred.

Alberson was booked in to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility on the following charges:

29800(A)(1) PC– felon in possession of a firearm
12403.7(A) PC– felon in possession on tear gas
25400(A)(2) PC– carrying a concealed weapon on a person
25850(A) PC– carrying a loaded firearm in public
466 PC– possession of burglary tools

Will the Parole/Probation Department please start supervising their perpy peeps?  This is what they’re paid for.  Again, no one was hurt, thankfully. 

We can write these reports all day, week in and week out, and have.  The public deserves to be better served.  Crime happens– and it could happen to you.

We hope someone doesn’t get hurt.  And lawsuits do happen for negligence, you know.

* * * * * * * *

Criminals Coming Back to Roost

Why Do They Call It Dope?

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

Probation Supervision Fail:  Pepper Spray Bandit Busted Again In Connection to Pot Grow

Gregory Allen Stephens has all the luck.  Only five days after being sentenced to three years supervised probation following his Fortuna pepper spray fiasco, he’s been busted again.  This time for a large marijuana grow going down in Carlotta along with other dopey perps.

On Tuesday, June 4 at 8:40 am, the  Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Community Response Team Deputies (CRT), assisted by the Humboldt County Drug Task Force served a Humboldt County Superior Court Search Warrant at 81 Fir Loop Court in Carlotta.

Deputies located Gregory Aaron Stephens, 37, and Benjamin Robert Rose, 22, at the residence when they arrived.  Mr. Stephens was identified as the property owner and on supervised probation.

Deputies searched the residence and located approximately 53 pounds of marijuana bud in one-pound bags, 72 pounds of dried marijuana, and 1,213 growing marijuana plants ranging in size from 1” to 4’ tall.

Deputies also located four rifles, steroids, approximately $9,600 in cash, packaging material, a scale and other evidence indicating the marijuana was being sold.  The cash, along with along with two vehicles located at the home were seized for asset forfeiture.

Mr. Stephens, probationer, was arrested for cultivation of marijuana, possession for sale of marijuana, violation of probation, possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony.  Mr. Rose was booked on cultivation of marijuana and possession for marijuana for sale.  Both were transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Pokey in short order where their bail was set at $75,000.

While deputies were at the residence, Allan Henry Costa, 23, drove to the search warrant scene.  Deputies contacted Mr. Costa who refused to comply with the officer’s demands. 

Mr. Costa was arrested for interfering with a police officer and also transported to the Humboldt County Clink– where his bail was set at a lowly $10,000.

But wait.  During their investigation, the astute deputies learned that Mr. Stephens also had a residence in the 2500 block of Skyline Drive in Eureka.  Responding to and searching that residence, they located over $10,000 in additional green.  Naturally, they seized the cash.

While deputies were at the Carlotta residence, they saw a well-worn path between that residence and another residence located next door at 69 Fir Loop Court.  They also saw a large greenhouse at the residence which they could tell contained growing marijuana.

The deputies obtained a Humboldt County Superior Court search warrant for that greenhouse and associated residence.  Deputies located Thomas Luther Meahl, 29, at the residence.

When the search warrant was served deputies located 1,011 growing marijuana plants ranging in size from a few inches to 4’ tall.

They also located approximately 5 pounds of processed marijuana, two hash extraction tubes, over a pound of hashish, numerous butane bottles, hash oil, and, believe it or not, a hand grenade.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Squad was called to the scene and rendered the grenade safe at the residence.

Mr. Meahl was arrested for cultivation and possession for sale of marijuana, possession of hashish, conspiracy, manufacturing a controlled substance, possession of an explosive device and conspiracy.  Mr. Meahl, like Mr. Stephens and the rest of the bunch, was transported to the Humboldt County Dope Facility where his bail was set at $500,000.

More information is in today’s Times-Standard’s “Man Arrested In Connection With Pot Grow Days After Sentencing“

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

Arson Fire Follows Large Explosion in Loleta

Today at approximately 1:25 in the morning, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a call of an explosion and a vehicle on fire in the 500 block of Montgomery Street in Loleta.

Two deputies were coincidentally on a routine traffic stop one block away from Montgomery Street when they heard the explosion.  It was then followed by the sound of several smaller explosions rocking the tiny town ‘hood.

The deputies advised dispatch what they heard and responded to the scene, along with Loleta Fire Department and Cal-Fire.

When the deputies arrived they saw several vehicles on fire.  One was fully engulfed and blazing.

A 1995 Pontiac Firebird was burned down to the frame.  A 2004 Yamaha motorcycle and a black 2000 Toyota Echo received extensive damage.  A 2005 Volkswagen sedan received minor scorching. 

Based upon evidence located at the scene and the origin of the fire, the case is being treated as an arson investigation.

Arson Investigators from the Humboldt County Arson Task Force and Sheriff’s Detectives are currently working on this case but there are no dope suspects at this time, the HCSO said.  Cows went back to grazing contentedly.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal dope is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s
Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at
707-268-2539.

Sheriff’s Deputies Persuade Armed Suicidal Man to Surrender

Yesterday, May 5 at 6:30 pm, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a call of a suicidal man armed with a .45 caliber handgun.

The man fired the gun into the roof of his home in the 1000 block of Carson Woods Road in Fortuna. 

The man had also warned family members to vacate the residence.

Roads around the home were blocked off by responding deputies and the Fortuna Police responded to assist.  Neighbors were advised to stay indoors.

A Humboldt County Sheriff’s Sergeant trained as a Crisis Negotiator was able to speak with the man on the telephone.

After an hour the man voluntarily surrendered to law enforcement and was transported to the hospital for treatment.  Numerous weapons– including the .45 caliber handgun– were recovered from the residence.

No one was injured in the incident, the HCSO said.  Kudos to the Sheriff’s officers; that’s totally dope.

Parolee Goes Down with Guns, Drugs, and Cash– Again

On June 4th, at about 11:30 pm, a Eureka Police Department officer on uniformed patrol observed a dark colored Chevrolet Camaro make an abrupt turn onto Pine Street from West Harris Street.

The officer recognized the vehicle as belonging to a fellow named Benjamin James Goldman. 

Unfortunately for Mr. Goldman, the officer also knew his driver’s license had been suspended.

The officer ‘contacted’ Mr. Goldman as he exited his Camaro in the alley located between the 3100 blocks of Ingley and California Streets just south of West Harris Street.

After confirming Goldman’s unlicensed status, the officer arrested him for driving on a suspended license.  The officer then searched him after his arrest.

Inside Goldman’s right front pants pocket, the officer located a loaded .22 caliber semi-automatic handgun.  In his other pockets were two small baggies containing dope:  approximately 4 grams of crystal methamphetamine, or about 1/8th of an ounce.

Goldman’s vehicle was towed from the scene on a 30-day impound pursuant to the California Vehicle Code for knowingly driving with a suspended license.

Mr. Goldman, age 35 of Eureka, was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked for the following offenses:

• Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm
• Possession of a Controlled Substance
• Driving on Suspended License
• Felony Committed While Released on Bail    

APD Seeking Suspect Identified in Arcata Dope Robbery

On May 31 at about 1:38 pm APD officers were dispatched to a disturbance in the area of 13th St and Union St.   Witnesses in the area told APD dispatch that multiple gunshots were heard.

Officers arrived on scene and contacted the victim in the 1200 block of Union St.  The victim told officers that he was engaged in a marijuana transaction with an unknown subject when the subject pointed a gun at the victim and demanded his property. 

The victim had a brief struggle with the subject and the gun discharged during the fight.  The subject then fled the area.

The victim received minor injuries when the subject hit him in his face with the barrel of the firearm.  Nobody was reported to have been shot during the incident and the firearm was later recovered.

Investigators were able to identify 37-year old Jamie Delos Jeffery of Fortuna as the suspect in the attempted robbery and assault.

Jeffery currently has a felony warrant issued for his arrest for a violation of the terms of his Post Release Community Supervision agreement, another dope probation fail.  

Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of Mr. Jeffery is asked to call the Arcata Police Department at 822-2428, APD said.

Neighborhood Complaints Result in Weed Seizure

On May 28, detectives with the Eureka Police Department’s Problem Oriented Policing Unit (POP) severed a search warrant in the 300 block of Orchard St. in Eureka.  The search warrant was served in response to numerous complaints of a possible marijuana grow there.

During the service of the search warrant, detectives discovered a dope grow inside the attached garage of the residence.

Three subjects, who were inside the residence at the time, were detained and later released.  Among other items of evidence, detectives seized 269 immature Marijuana plants and a .45 caliber pistol.  Additionally, PG&E responded and disconnected the electrical service to the residence due to unsafe wiring installed to operate the grow.

No arrests have been made at this time. The investigation is ongoing to root out any double-dealing dopers, EPD said.

* * * * * * * *

From the Sheriff and Eureka Police Department

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

Sexual Assault on Avenue of the Giants

On Monday, June 3 at approximately 8:30 pm, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a local hospital emergency room nurse who reported a 33-year-old female was at the hospital being treated for a sexual assault. 

A deputy responded to the hospital and met with the victim.  She reported she was walking on US 101 near Rio Dell early today when she got a ride from an unknown Asian female who dropped her off near the Pepperwood exit in the Holmes Flat area.

After being dropped off she walked down to the Eel River and went for a swim.  During her swim, she lost her pants in the rapids.  She walked back to Avenue of the Giants and began walking south again towards her mother’s residence in Weott, however she was not wearing pants, only underwear, a bra and t-shirt. 

She walked for about ten minutes when she encountered three males in a light blue Ford van in a turn out.  She asked the males for a ride, and they agreed to give her a ride.  After evaluating the males further, she decided to decline the ride because she did not feel comfortable with the males.  The three males then drove off in the van.

She then continued walking south on Avenue of the Giants.  Further down the road as she was walking the three males suddenly exited the brush and all three sexually assaulted her.

During the assault she struck one of the males in the face with a tree branch she found causing injury to the males face.  The victim believes she may have broken the male’s nose or knocked out some of his teeth.

After the assault the victim ran to a nearby residence for help, and the residents gave her a ride to the hospital.

The victim described her attackers as follows:

1. White Male, 19-25 years old, approximately, 6’ tall, 160 pounds, red curly hair with fresh injuries to his face and nose.

2. White Male, 19-25 years old, approximately 6’2” tall, approximately 160 pounds, blond hair, wearing black jeans

3. White male, 19-25 years old, approximately 6‘2” tall, approximately 160 pounds, brown hair

Suspect Vehicle: Light Blue older Ford Van, possibly late 1970’s or early 1980’s no side windows in the rear cargo area.  Only the front seats and back doors had windows.

Anyone with information for the Sheriffs Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriffs Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriffs Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

Senseless Iron Pot Assault

On Saturday, June 1 at 4:15 p.m. the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a man who said he had been assaulted with an iron cooking pot in the head and was bleeding.

Deputies and medical personnel responded to the Palms Hotel and Cafe in Orick and met with the 26-year old male victim.  Deputies saw the victim had an approximate one inch gash on the back of his head.

The victim told the deputies he was staying in a travel trailer behind the Palms Hotel when a female known to him as Gabriella Gutieriez, 18-years old, entered the trailer and began yelling and screaming at him.

He asked her to leave, and she picked up a six inch diameter cast iron pot she found in the kitchen of the trailer and struck him in the head with it.

The victim told the deputies the blow almost knocked him out, and he became dizzy and disoriented.  Gutieriez then reached into his pants pocket and stole $260 in cash from him, and then fled the trailer on foot.

Deputies searched the area for Gutieriez but were unable to locate her.  A Be-On-the-Lookout was placed for Gutieriez who is wanted for assault with a deadly weapon and robbery.

Gabriella Laticia Gutieriez is described as a Hispanic female, 18 years old, 5‘3” tall, approximately 160 pounds, brown hair and brown eyes.  She is from the Eureka.

Anyone with information for the Sheriffs Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriffs Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriffs Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

Bicycle Tweaker Nailed by Vehicle, Goes Down for the Count

This morning at about 8 am EPD Officers were dispatched to the 1600 block of “J” street on the report of a vehicle vs. a bicyclist injury traffic collision.

Upon arriving at the scene officers located 41-year old bicyclist, Joel Kerlin of Eureka down in the roadway.

Mr. Kerlin sustained moderate injuries and was transported to the hospital.  He was not wearing a bike helmet.

Mr. Kerlin later told officers that he tried to “cut across the street” from the west sidewalk of the street to the east side, and he didn’t see the 1996 Toyota T-100 truck as he rode off of the sidewalk between two parked cars and onto “J” street– directly into the path of the truck.

The driver of the truck, 22-year old Bao Vang of Eureka, was driving her three juvenile sisters to school.  She was driving southbound on “J” street when Kerlin rode out from between the parked cars directly in front of her and collided with the vehicle.  Vang and her three sisters were uninjured.

Kerlin admitted that he had smoked methamphetamine about three hours before the collision.  Mr. Kerlin was also found to be on felony probation with one of his terms being “not use drugs.”

Drugs appeared to be a contributing factor in this collision.  Anyone who witnessed the collision is asked to contact Senior Traffic Officer Gary Whitmer at 707 441-4232.

Crime and Criminals Never Sleep

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

From the County Sheriff, Eureka, and Arcata Police Departments:

Carlotta Man Beaten, Tied Up, and Robbed

Carlotta–  On Friday, May 31 at 8:30 am, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a 55-year old Carlotta man who reported being assaulted and robbed at gunpoint.

A deputy met with the victim who had fresh visible injuries on his face and head.  The victim declined medical assistance.

The victim told the deputy he resides alone in the 10000 block of Highway 36 in Carlotta in a single wide mobile home.

He said he was awake in his home around 6:30 in the morning when an adult male opened his front unlocked door and entered his residence.

The suspect had his face covered with a black bandanna or mask and was wearing all black, the victim said.  The suspect brandished a black revolver and told him to lie down on the floor, tied him up, and demanded his vehicle.  He also demanded the title to his vehicle.

The suspect then ransacked the victim’s home for approximately an hour.  While searching the victim’s home, the suspect would periodically strike the victim in the head with the handgun.

Prior to leaving the victims residence, the suspect told the victim if he called law enforcement he would kill him.  The suspect then stole the victims Toyota Pickup truck and fled. 

The suspect is described as:  White male, approximately 5’9” tall, wearing all dark clothing.  No further description could be provided by the victim except that the suspect speaks with a slight accent and was armed with a black revolver.

The stolen pickup truck was described as a 2000 silver Toyota truck, California Plate 8U16001

Anyone with information for the Sheriffs Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

Plants, Pot, and Psilocybin Seized

Eureka– On Wednesday, May 29, officers from the Eureka Police Department, assisted by detectives from the Eureka Police Department’s POP Unit, served a search warrant in the 2400 block of 15th Street in Eureka.

The search warrant was obtained after a traffic stop and investigation was conducted on the home owner, EPD said.

Upon arrival at the residence, officers contacted and detained the sole occupant of the residence, identified as Ian Huddon-Cossar, 29, of Eureka.

A search of the residence revealed the garage and one bedroom were being used to cultivate and process marijuana.  There were a total of 141 growing marijuana plants seized, along with approximately 15 pounds of processed marijuana, approximately one ounce of psilocybin mushrooms, two shotguns and approximately $2,400 in United States currency.

Ian Huddon-Cossar was arrested on violations of cultivating marijuana, possessing marijuana for sale, possessing psilocybin mushrooms, and maintaining a residence for unlawful narcotic activity.  He was transported and booked at the Humboldt County Correctional Facility.

Humboldt Bay Fire and a representative from the City of Eureka building department responded to the residence and inspected the wring associated with the marijuana growing operation.  It was determined that the wiring was not up to code and installed in an unsafe manner.

Due to the unsafe wiring, Pacific Gas and Electric responded to the residence and pull the meter, shutting off all electricity to the residence until the wiring can be corrected.

This is an ongoing investigation and additional arrests are expected, EPD said.

Car Thief Caught Red-Handed, Released To Self

Eureka– On Friday, May 31 at 8:10 pm, an officer with the Eureka Police Department was on a routine patrol checking the dock/parking lot area of Marina Way.

The officer’s patrol unit was equipped with an Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR).  As the officer passed a parked vehicle, the ALPR system alerted on the parked vehicle indicating the vehicle had been reported stolen.

The Eureka Police Department Dispatch Center confirmed the vehicle was listed as stolen out of San Diego.  The officer approached the vehicle and found it to be occupied by two subjects.  The officer held the two subjects inside at gun point until additional backup could arrive.

Upon the responding officer’s arrival, a “high risk” contact was made of the occupants and they were detained without further incident.

The driver, identified as Takele Fekadu Hikssa, 27, from San Diego, was taken into custody for vehicle theft and possession of stolen property.

The passenger was found not to have been involved nor had knowledge of the vehicle being stolen and was released at the scene.

Mr. Hikssa was transported and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was released on his own recognizance with a court date due to the jail’s population and matrix.

Shots Fired After Weed Deal Goes Awry

Arcata– On Friday, May 31 at about 1:30 in the afternoon, APD officers were dispatched to a disturbance in the area of 13th and Union Streets.

Witnesses in the area told APD dispatch that multiple gunshots were heard.  Officers arrived on scene and contacted the victim in the 1200 block of Union Street. 

The victim told officers that he was engaged in a marijuana transaction with an unknown subject.

The subject then pointed a gun at him and demanded his property.

The victim had a brief struggle with the subject and the gun was discharged during the fight.  The subject then fled the area.

The victim received minor injuries when the subject hit him in his face with the barrel of the firearm.  Nobody was reported to have been shot during the incident.  The firearm has been recovered.

The suspect was described as a white male adult in his mid 20’s 6 feet tall and 180 pounds with red hair and a mustache.  He was last seen leaving the area in a newer Nissan Maxima with Oregon license plates.

Anybody with information regarding this ongoing investigation is asked to contact the Arcata Police Department at 822-2428.

Dachshund ’Gigi’ May Hold Clue to Killer’s Location

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

Photos and Description Given

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

On Monday, May 13, a McKinleyville man reported to a Humboldt County Sheriff’s Deputy that he had been intentionally struck by a truck.

Sheriffs are seeking the suspect.

From the Sheriff’s Office:

On 05-13-2013, at approximately 10:30 p.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a 20-year old McKinleyville man who told the deputy he was struck intentionally by a truck.

When the deputy arrived at the McKinleyville Shell Gas Station 1606 Central Avenue in McKinleyville, the victim related the following:
    
The victim was standing in line to make a purchase inside the gas station when a male suspect behind him in line became irritated because the line wasn’t moving fast enough.

The victim attempted to explain to the suspect that the person in front of him at the register was disabled and needed extra time to gather his items and make his purchase.

The suspect got angry with the victim and began yelling obscenities at him.  The victim decided to leave and began walking out of the gas station and across Central Avenue in McKinleyville.

The suspect got into his truck and drove out of the gas station.  He accelerated at the victim, striking the victim with his truck and causing him to literally get knocked of his feet and fly through the air.  The victim landed on the shoulder of the road.

Several uninvolved citizens witnessed the assault.  The victim sustained injuries to his elbow, hip and knee.  Medical arrived, but the victim refused medical treatment.

The investigating deputy was able to obtain a video of the suspect from the gas station.  The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is requesting the public’s help in locating and identifying
the suspect.

Anyone with information for the Sheriffs Office regarding this case is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

The suspect is described as:

• White male
• Approximately 6’ tall and 220 lbs
• Late 50’s
• Balding with some hair on the side of his head.
• Driving a dark colored pickup truck, possibly a Nissan.

Shasta Triple Homicide Suspect on the Loose in Southern Humboldt

Mattole Residents Advised to ‘Shelter in Place’ by Sheriff

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

From the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On May 8 at approximately 3:30 p.m. the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a citizen that wanted Shasta County Homicide suspect Shane Miller’s Gold Dodge 2010 pickup truck was seen at the mouth of the Mattole River in Petrolia.

Humboldt County Sheriff’s Deputies, along with officers from the California Highway Patrol, the Fortuna Police Department and the Rio Dell Police Department responded to the area.

While enroute to the scene, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office began receiving 911 calls that Miller was in the truck and was driving on the Mattole Road towards Honeydew.

Deputies and officers from the other agencies converged on the area.  After an extensive search they located the truck parked and vacant in the 30000 block of Mattole Road.

Deputies searched the area and are still on scene looking for Miller.

Anyone who resides in the area is requested to shelter in place.  If anyone sees Miller they are requested to call 911.

 Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case  is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

* * * * * * * * *

Previously from the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office:

Shane Franklin Miller is a suspect in the triple homicide shooting of his wife and two daughters in Shingletown, CA.  Miller is considered armed and dangerous, and possibly having access to a cache of weapons. 

Sheriff’s Officials are pursuing leads in the Northern California Region and a nationwide manhunt bulletin has been issued.

Suspect is believed to be driving a Gold 2010 Dodge Mega Cab Pickup with a camper shell.  CA License #8Z75988

VICTIMS:

Sandy Miller, wife, 34 years old 
Shelby Miller, daughter, 8 years old
Shasta Miller, daughter, 4 years old
  
SUSPECT(S):

Shane Franklin Miller: White male, Red hair, Blue eyes, 5’10”, 200 pounds
DOB 05/08/1968, 45 years of age

* * * * * * * *

More information can be found at The Record Searchlight.

More Reports From the County Sheriff’s Office

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

Violent SoHum Claw ‘n Hammer Assault

Phillipsville– On May 7 around 10:00 in the morning, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received multiple 911 calls from citizens about a violent altercation taking place.

They told the dispatchers a female and her boyfriend were fighting at the Deerhorn Trailer Park located in the 2700 block of Highway 254 in Phillipsville.

While the dispatchers were on the phones with the citizens, they were told the female had left, but then returned to the residence and was now hitting the male with a claw hammer. Deputies and medical personnel were dispatched to the scene.

When the first deputy arrived at the residence he heard a male screaming inside, “She is still hitting me!”

The deputy attempted to enter the home after announcing his presence; however the front door was locked.  The deputy then kicked open the door and shoved his way into the residence.

The female suspect had shoved a couch in front of the door to block law enforcement from entering the residence.  Once inside, he witnessed the female suspect, later identified as Jessica Ann Darsch, 31-years old, beating the living daylights out of her 32-year old live-in boyfriend with her fists.

Ms. Darsch’s boyfriend was covered in blood and holding their 20-month old female child.  The deputy immediately grabbed and subdued Darsch, who fought with the deputy’s attempt to handcuff her.  After he successfully handcuffed Darsch, medical personnel entered the residence and began treating the victim.  He had wickedly been struck in the head, arms, and hands with the claw hammer–  in addition to being pummeled with fists.

The victim told the deputy that he and Darsch got into an argument and she began hitting him with her fists and an even harder-headed hammer.  He said she was holding their child while she was doing the beat down.

Ms. Darsch was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon, domestic violence, felony child endangerment and resisting arrest.

She was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where she was booked on those charges and an outstanding domestic violence arrest warrant.  Her bail is set at $75,000.

The male victim was transported to a local hospital where he was treated for his injuries.  He is expected to fully recover.

The child was not injured. Child Welfare Services were notified and authorized the child to be watched by a neighbor until the father can take custody of the child.

* * * * * * * *

Missing At-Risk Juvenile

Eureka– On May 4 at approximately 8:00 p.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by the grandmother of a missing juvenile.

The grandmother told the investigating deputy her granddaughter, Kirin Aurealas Maciel, 14-years old, from Eureka was missing.

She told the deputy her granddaughter has medical issues and was very concerned for her well-being.

Maciel left her grandmother’s residence on Meadowbrook Lane in Eureka on foot.  A friend of the grandmother told her she saw Maciel walking towards downtown Eureka about 4:30 p.m. that afternoon.

Deputies checked the area for Maciel but didn’t locate her.  The Sheriff’s Office is requesting the public’s help in locating her.

Kirin Aurealas Maciel is described as:

• 14 years old
• white female
• 5’3” tall and 140 lbs
• Blue eyes and strawberry-blond colored hair

She was last seen wearing a dark-colored sweatshirt and dark-colored pants.

UPDATE:  On 05-14-2013, approximately 10:00 a.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office spoke with Redding Police Department who informed the Sheriff’s Office Kirin Maciel had walked into their office and was located safe and in good health.  Her grandmother picked her up from Redding Police.

* * * * * * * * *

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding these cases or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

From the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office This Week–

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

HOMELAND SECURITY LEADS TO  ARCATA ECSTASY BUST

Arcata– On April 26, the Humboldt County Drug Task Force was contacted by an Agent with the Homeland Security Investigation Unit (HSIU) regarding a package that they had intercepted.

The Agent with HSIU relayed that the package was being shipped from China through the United States Postal Service to a residence located in the 4900 block of Airstream Avenue in Arcata.

The package contained 106 grams of MDMA– also known as Ecstasy.

On May 3 the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by the Drug Task Force and HSIU, conducted a controlled delivery of the 106 grams of MDMA to the residence. After the delivery of the MDMA, officers served a search warrant at the residence.

Officers detained 5 suspects at the residence.  During their investigation officers learned that Bradley C. Remington, age 20, who was one of the five subjects detained, was the suspect that had ordered the narcotics from China. 

Mr. Remington, to note, was on felony probation for assault with a deadly weapon and with a search and seizure probation clause.

Officers learned through their investigation that Remington’s residence was located in the 4900 block of Valley East Blvd in Arcata.  Officers then went to Remington’s residence to conduct a probation search.

Officers located 10 pounds of processed marijuana in Remington’s residence.

Officers placed Remington under arrest for possession for:

• Sales of a controlled substance (MDMA)
• Possession of marijuana for sales
• Violation of probation

Mr. Remington was booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility.

The other four suspects at the residence were released at the scene.  This case is still under investigation by the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigation Unit.

 Anyone with information on this case or related drug activity is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Drug Task Force at 707-444-8095 or the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Tip line at 707-268-2539.

ALDERPOINT ROAD RAGE BEATING

Alderpoint– On May 4 at 9:20 p.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call regarding some type of road rage incident– two to three miles past the Harris-Alderpoint Junction– on Alderpoint Road in Alderpoint.

Humboldt County Sheriff’s Deputies and California Highway Patrol Officers responded to the scene.  When they arrived they spoke with the victim, a 28-year old male from Alderpoint.

The victim told the deputies he was driving a U-Haul truck when he became involved in a traffic accident with a 2011 white Toyota Tacoma truck, rear ending it.

After the accident, the victim reported seeing the male passenger– later identified as Terry Robinson– in the Toyota truck and exiting the vehicle carrying a silver-colored metal pipe, four feet long and three inches in circumference, in his hand.

Mr. Robinson approached the driver’s door of the U-Haul truck as the victim was attempting to exit his truck.  Robinson began striking the victim two to three times on the right side of his arm with the metal pipe.

The victim retreated into the truck and closed the door to escape the attack.  Robinson then struck the truck several times with the pipe and shattered the driver’s side window of the truck.

The victim called 911 to report the attack.  The victim had injuries to his arm consistent with being stuck by a blunt object, and the U-Haul truck had damage including a smashed in drivers side window.  The victim denied medical attention.

Deputies spoke with Terry Michael Robinson, 31-years old from Eureka, who was still at the scene.

Robinson admitted to having a pipe, but denied striking the victim with it.  Robinson told the deputies “it was for protection” because he believed the U-Haul intentionally ran into the Toyota truck he was in.

Deputies arrested Robinson for assault with a deadly weapon and transported him to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility.  He was booked and his bail was set at $50,000.

DETERMINED DIESEL DWEEBERY

McKinleyville– On May 5 at 7:00 a.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by an employee of the McKinleyville Community Services District (MCSD) regarding a vandalism and theft.

A deputy met with the employee at the end of Letz Lane, McKinleyville.  The employee told the deputy unknown suspect(s) cut and removed the gate to their building located at the end of Letz Lane using bolt cutters which were found at the scene.

The suspect(s) then cut the diesel tank intake fuel line and attached a garden hose to it.  Once the hose was attached, the suspects removed approximately 150 gallons of red dye diesel from the tank.

The employee believed the crime occurred between May 4th and 5th during the late night or early morning hours.

There was a large amount of fuel spilled on the ground leaking into a drainage ditch and then into a stream. MCSD immediately worked to contain the spilled diesel and California Department of Fish and Wildlife, along with Humboldt County Environmental Health, were notified and responded to the scene.

MCSD had placed a camera on top of the building because of a previous incident in December of 2012 when 130 gallons of diesel was stolen, and that camera was stolen by the thieves.

The total loss this time was estimated at $2,000.

MISSING JUVENILE GONE LOST

Eureka– On May 3 at approximately 10:00 p.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by the father of a missing juvenile.

The father told the investigating deputy his daughter, Michelle Hibberts-Goodwin, 15-years old and from Eureka, was missing.

She goes by the nickname of “Elle.”  She was last seen in the area of Eureka High School around 2:30 p.m. and was supposed to take the bus home.  She failed to show up.

Michelle Hibberts-Goodwin is described as:

• White Female
• 5’2” tall, 125 lbs
• Blue eyes, blond and black hair

She was last seen wearing jeans with sparkles and a black top.

UPDATE,  MAY 7:

On 5-7-2013, approximately 12:00 noon, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office was notified by the Principal of Eureka High School that missing person Michelle Hibberts-Goodwin, 15-years old, showed up at school.

A deputy responded to the school and confirmed Hibberts-Goodwin was there.

She was in good health and told the deputy she voluntarily left home, but decided to return due to media attention.

* * * * * * * *

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding any of these cases or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

The Humboldt Low-Life High Style

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

On May 1 at High Noon, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Community Response Unit (CRU), assisted by the Rio Dell Police served a Humboldt County Superior Court
search warrant for marijuana on five storage units on
Northwestern Avenue in Rio Dell.

The deputies had been working on this investigation for over a month after receiving complaints from citizens.  The storage units were located in the old Eel River Saw Mills Industrial Park Planer Shack which had been converted to other industrial uses.

When deputies arrived on scene they located a sophisticated marijuana growing operation in the storage units.  The units contained:

4,300 growing marijuana plants– ranging in size from three inches to five feet

76 pounds of dried processed marijuana

And 49 Peyote buttons

They also located two aggressive Pitbull Terriers at the grow site and evidence that someone lived at the storage site.

While deputies were searching, the person who lived on site arrived on scene and was arrested for cultivation and possession for sale of marijuana, along with possession of an illicit drug.

He was identified at Geoffrey Allan Davis, 32-years
old, of Rio Dell. 

Mr. Davis was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked and released.

Davis’ girlfriend was called to the scene and took custody of the two Pitbulls.

Some of the storage units had medical marijuana cards posted in them.  However, due to the quantity of marijuana, package material, scales and other evidence indicating this was a commercial “For Sale” growing operation, all of the marijuana was removed.

Deputies are still investigating other
suspect’s involvement and anticipate
further arrest warrants being issued,
the HCSO said.

Anyone with information for the Sheriffs Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

A Dumb Spud in the Hand is Worth Two in the Hazzard County Bush

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

On May 1 at approximately 1:30 a.m., a Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Deputy driving a marked patrol car spotted a
stolen Green 1995 Honda Civic in the parking lot of Blue Lake
Casino.

The Honda was unoccupied so the deputy concealed his patrol car and watched the Honda from a distance.  Approximately 15 minutes later the deputy saw three peeps enter the Honda and drive away.  The deputy got a good look at all three occupants, including the driver.

The deputy attempted a traffic stop on the Honda as it was leaving the parking lot.  The Honda sped up as soon as it saw the patrol car was attempting to stop it– and the Dukes of Hazzard potato-headed pursuit was on.

The Honda fled northbound on Chartin Road towards Blue Lake Blvd. in Blue Lake, then turned westbound on Glendale Drive reaching speeds of 70 mph in a 35-mph zone.

The Honda then turned onto Fieldbrook Road.  Additional deputies
joined in the pursuit.  The pursuit ended when the Honda turned onto
David Lane, Fieldbrook, which is a dead-end dirt road.  All three suspects
in the vehicle immediately ran into the heavy brush at the end of the roadway.

A homeowner hearing the sirens and commotion exited his home and caught one of the spudly suspects trying to sneak away as deputies were searching the heavily wooded area for the suspects.  The homeowner saw the suspect walking up his driveway behind where the deputies were searching.  The homeowner grabbed him by the shirt collar and held on until the deputies took custody of the ‘lil tuber.

That suspect was identified as Dana Alan Cooley, 21 years old, from McKinleyville. Deputies were unable to locate the other two dim bulbs who fled into the bush.

The Blue Lake Casino is assisting the Sheriff’s Office with the investigation by providing video surveillance of the suspects getting into the car.  The initial deputy identified Cooley as a passenger– and not the driver– of the vehicle. 

A relatively small Mr. Potato Head of sorts in this criminal caper and certainly no Lex Luthor of organized crime, Mr. Cooley was booked and released on his own recognizance from the Humboldt County Correctional Facility (HCCF) on charges of probation violation and resisting arrest. 

The HCCF sign at intake reads, “You must be this tall to be booked into the Pokey” and Potato Head Cooley was a peach fuzz Tater Tot kid in comparison.  No Russet Burbank, Cooley failed meeting the minimum height requirement by several inches.

The dumb-as-a-potato driver of the Honda was described as:  White male adult with a goatee, wearing a baseball cap and was wearing a dark colored jacket or sweatshirt, approximately 5-4, 130 lbs, with brown hair.

The fingerling female– a french fry passenger– was described as:  Dark skinned, possibly Native American or Hispanic.

The Sheriff’s Office is actively working to identify and Shanghai both of the dumb spuds, coercing them gently into the deep fat fryer of justice.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this small-potatoes case, or any related criminal activity for that matter, is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office
Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

They left their detailed plan below.

Self-Proclaimed Mongol Gang Member, Mr. Lundin Takes a Trip to the Pokey

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

On April 22 at approximately 11:55 p.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office was notified of possible kidnapping
victim being treated at a local hospital emergency room.

A deputy respond responded to the hospital and met with the 63 year old female victim.  She told the deputy she was home alone at approximately 8:00 p.m. of the same day at her residence in the 2500 block of Central Avenue in McKinleyville when she heard a knock at the door.

She opened the door and Eric Eugene Lundin, 63 years old from Arcata, grabbed her by the neck and pushed his way into the residence.  He began shouting at her accusing her son of stealing marijuana from him as he shoved her backwards.  He made her sit on the couch in the living room of her residence as he continued shouting at her.  He then removed two handguns from his pockets.  One handgun was a silver-colored semi-automatic handgun and the other was a black semi-automatic handgun.

Lundin set the guns on the coffee table in front of her and then removed a pill bottle from his pocket and ordered her to take three pills which he gave her.  He told her the pills were methadone and it was the easiest way to make her overdose.

Lundin repeatedly told her she was going to die, while also stating several times he was a member of the Mongols motorcycle gang and they do not leave witnesses.  After the victim took some pills he placed the black semi-auto handgun to her temple and told her to call her adult son and have him come home.  He then stuck her television with the handgun breaking the screen and grabbed her cell phone and threw it across the room, destroying it.

Lundin ordered her into his pick up truck parked in front of her residence.  He drove the victim around from McKinleyville to Arcata while telling the victim all the places he could hide her body.  Lundin eventually dropped the victim back off in front of her home and told her he only wanted to scare her.

A Be-On-the Lookout (BOLO) was placed for Lundin to area law enforcement agencies.  Arcata Police located Lundin at his residence in Arcata in the 1100 block of G Street in Arcata.

Mr. Lundin was arrested at the residence for:

• Kidnapping
• Assault
• Brandishing of a firearm
• Burglary
• Being a convicted felon in possession of firearms
• Administering drugs to commit a felony
• Vandalism
• Transportation and Possession of a Controlled Substance.

Deputies also recovered two loaded semi-automatic handguns.

Lundin was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked and his bail set at $100,000

The victim was admitted to the hospital.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Tip Line 707-268-2539, the HCSO said.

* * * * * * * *

Wait ’til the Mongols hear about this one.  We suspect they won’t take kindly to a dimwitted knucklehead pulling these sorts of stunts while using their name in vain.  Keeping up appearances, they get a little touchy over this kind of thing.

How Many Chances Do Probationers Get When They’re Not Being Supervised?

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

On April 18 Eureka Police Department officers and detectives responded to a motel at the 4000 block of
Broadway to investigate a stolen car in the parking lot.

During their investigation, Robert Tyson (age 32), Casey Hunter (age 31) and Daniel Silva (age 28) were contacted inside one of the rooms and arrested for unrelated charges.  The motel room, registered to Tyson and Hunter, was searched as a result of Tyson’s probation terms.

The search yielded a stolen laptop computer, 191.5 grams of Marijuana, 25.7 grams of Hashish, 32.4 grams of Heroin, 63 grams of Methamphetamine, and various prescription pills.  Also collected were numerous laptop computers and other electronic items, suspected of being stolen property.

Mr. Tyson was arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance for Sale, Possession of Concentrated Cannabis for Sales, Possession of Heroin and Prescription Medication for Sales, Possession of Stolen Property, and an outstanding warrant.

Ms. Hunter was arrested for Possession of Stolen Property and an outstanding warrant.

Mr. Silva was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine and an outstanding warrant.

All three subjects were transported and booked into the Humboldt County Jail.

The stolen vehicle, which originated the investigation was recovered and towed to a local tow yard.

But this isn’t Mr. Tyson and Ms. Hunter’s first time around the criminal drug block.  They were popped only six months ago– under similar circumstances– at the Royal Inn in Eureka.  Here’s what happened back then:

On 11-26-2012 at about 1000 hours the Humboldt County Drug Task Force conducted a probation search at a motel room located at the Royal Inn on 5th Street, Eureka.  Agents contacted three subjects in the motel room, who they identified as:

• Casey Marie Hunter, age 31
• Robert Eric Tyson, age 31
• And Steven Michael Ridley, age 27.

When Agents searched the motel room they located about 50 Vicodin pills that Agents learned were being sold at $2.00 dollars a pill, 3 pounds of marijuana, ½ of an ounce of methamphetamine, a methamphetamine smoking pipe and a loaded .22 caliber revolver.

Agents arrested Robert Tyson for being armed in commission of a felony, being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, possession of Vicodin for sales, possession of marijuana for sales and for violation of probation.  Mr. Tyson was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility and his bail was set at $ 50,000 dollars.

Agents arrested Steven Ridley for an outstanding felony warrant for his arrest for a narcotic violation, for possession of methamphetamine, for violation of probation and for possession of a methamphetamine smoking pipe.  Mr. Ridley was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility and is currently being held without bail, because of his outstanding arrest warrant.

Agents arrested Casey Hunter for possession of a methamphetamine smoking pipe.  Ms. Hunter was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where she was booked and released on her promise to appear in court.

This case is still under investigation by the Humboldt County Drug Task Force.

* * * * * * *

Once again we ask the question:  how many chances does one get flaunting their probation?  Where were the Probation Officers providing court-ordered supervision for their drug-addled felons?

It’s both a shame and a crime when the Eureka Police Department and the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office have to come along and clean up these messes when the Probation Department is either unwilling or unable to do so.  The Sentinel has reported this happening repeatedly and we’ve given example after example showing this to be the case, yet the non-supervision problem continues unabated.

Perhaps someone needs to wake up from their desk and start doing the job they’re supposed to do.  It’s no wonder EPD leaves out the Probation Department while giving the following advice for citizens:

Anyone with information concerning suspected drug activity, or other nuisances occurring in the City of Eureka is encouraged to call EPD’s Problem Oriented Policing Unit at (707) 441-4373.

Cast Adrift Without a Clue– or a Moral Compass

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

“There are crimes of passion and crimes of logic.  The boundary between them is not clearly defined.”
~Albert Camus

New Lead in Golf Course Sexual Assault:  EPD Seeks Owner of this Bike

EUREKA– On March 30, 2013, at about 6:00 p.m. the Eureka Police Department received the report of a sexual assault that had just occurred near the Eureka Municipal Golf Course on Fairway Drive.

The victim reported that she was walking on Fairway Drive when she heard a male in the nearby bushes asking for help.  She saw that the male was bent down on one knee and appeared to be injured.

When she approached the male, he used force to push her to the ground and sexually assaulted her. 

The suspect is described as a white male adult.  He is about 5’8’’ tall with a medium build and brown eyes.

He was wearing a gray ski mask so his exact age is unknown but he appeared to be in his 30’s.  He may have a reddish-brown thin mustache.

He wore a black hooded sweatshirt, dark blue exercise pants, and flesh-colored gloves.

The suspect was last seen on foot on Fairway Drive.  Anyone with information concerning this assault is urged to call Detective Cress at the Eureka Police Department at 441-4044. Refer to case number 3C13-2697.

The Eureka Police Department has a new lead in the case.  On the same evening, about two hours later, a citizen reported a bicycle abandoned on their property, several blocks north of the crime location, on F Street. The description of the subject who left the bike was similar to the description of the rape suspect given by the victim.

Two pictures of the bike are here.  Clicking on the pictures will enlarge them.  Anyone who recognizes this bike is asked to contact either lead Detective Pete Cress or Senior Detective Ron Harpham.  

Detective Cress:  pcress@ci.eureka.ca.gov  or 441-4390  

Detective Ronald B Harpham:

604 C Street, Eureka, Ca 95501  #707-441-4305   rharpham@ci.eureka.ca.gov

* * * * *

Abandoned Puppies Left to Die, Rescued

FORTUNA– On 04/01/13 at approximately 1:30 pm, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control was dispatched to the area of Palmer Creek Road and Valley Road in Fortuna for a report of 5 abandoned puppies.

Upon arrival, Animal Control officers found 6 puppies in a grey Rubbermaid style tote.  The puppies and the tote were covered in feces and urine and were sitting in the direct sun.  There were no air holes in the tote, and the small holes in the handles had been covered with duct tape.  The citizen who discovered the puppies advised that there was a lid with the tote and it was found lying on the ground next to it.

The puppies appear to be Border Collie mix, approximately 7 weeks old.  Dehydrated and malnourished, they were transported to the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Animal Shelter.

It is unclear exactly how long the puppies had been at that location, the HCSO said.  A citizen who was in the shelter when the puppies were brought in stated that she thought she had seen the tote sitting there the previous day as she was traveling on U.S. Highway 101.

The abandonment of an animal is a crime.  Anyone with information about these puppies is asked to contact Animal Control Officer Nims at (707) 445-7251or call the Sheriff’s crime tip line at (707)268-2539.

* * * * *

‘Explosive’ Fire in Eureka Has Burn Victim in Critical Condition

EUREKA– A burn victim was been flown to the U.C. Davis Medical Center after an explosion and fire in Eureka.

It happened around 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 2, at 3555 Pine Street in Eureka.  Humboldt Bay Fire officials said they got to the scene and discovered the 40-year-old male victim on the sidewalk with second and third degree burns on his arms.

The explosion and fire started in an attached garage behind the victim’s home. Firefighters said there was dark gray smoke coming from inside. The victim said there were fireworks in the garage, but investigators also found butane which started to explode as they were extinguishing the flames and forcing them to attack the blaze from the outside.
 
There was no one else inside the home.  The victim was taken to St. Joseph Hospital and later flown to U.C. Davis.

Humboldt Bay Fire officials said due to ‘suspicious circumstances’ that were present they will be conducting a further investigation.  The garage was destroyed and $50,000 in extensive damages resulted.

UPDATE April 3:  Fire investigators said today the blaze was caused by the illegal manufacturing of concentrated cannabis—or, butane-extracted hash.

* * * * *

Traffic Stop Yields Meth, Stolen Property, and a Whole Lot More

EUREKA– On 4/01/13, at about 11:12 am, a uniformed Eureka Police Department officer on patrol observed a white 1987 Oldsmobile sedan traveling southbound on the 1400 block of Broadway in Eureka.  The officer noticed the Oldsmobile’s windshield was shattered and he decided to stop the vehicle for the violation.

The officer conducted a traffic enforcement stop on the vehicle on the 1500 block of Broadway.  When he asked the occupants for identification, the front passenger, Richard Burse Firebaugh (AKA: Richard Green), stated he thought he had a bench warrant because he had missed a court date.  A local wants/warrants check on Firebaugh confirmed he had a misdemeanor warrant for his arrest.

The officer placed Firebaugh under arrest for his warrant.  During a subsequent search of Firebaugh’s person and belongings, the officer located 8 individual small baggies containing crystal methamphetamine (approximately 4.4 grams total gross weight), two digital gram scales, 100 small clear plastic baggies (drug sales packaging materials), drug use paraphernalia (two meth pipes), and a suspicious set of keys.  The keys had been filed down making their ridges smooth.  The officer suspected these were “shave keys” commonly used for committing auto burglaries or stealing cars.

Inside Firebaugh’s leather jacket, which had been resting on the floorboard at his feet, the officer found a loaded Smith & Wesson .38 revolver. The revolver’s registered owner was subsequently contacted and asked if he knew the present whereabouts of his handgun. The owner, who resides in McKinleyville, confirmed he had recently reported it as stolen to the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office.

In addition to his warrant, Firebaugh (age 28 of Fortuna) was arrested on multiple fresh charges and transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked for:

• Possession of a controlled substance for sale
• Possession of stolen property
• Possession of a controlled substance while armed with a loaded firearm
• Possession of a firearm with intent to commit a felony
• Possession of a concealed firearm by a passenger in a vehicle
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Possession of burglary tools

* * * * * *  

More on the Hit-and-Run Bang ‘Em Up Crash and Property Damage on Buhne and I Streets

EUREKA—For those who remember, on 3-10-13 at about 5:09 in the morning, officers were dispatched to the intersection of Buhne and “I” streets on the report of a hit and run that just occurred.  Upon arrival Officers located a tremendous amount of property damage including: signal light pole down in the road, damaged fencing to a residence, damage to the chain link fence at Carson Park, and a large tree nearly pushed over, and miscellaneous vehicle debris belonging to a Dodge truck.

The registered owner of the truck, Chelsea Eisenberg was contacted at Wabash and “E” streets where the Dodge finally stopped running.  She explained to investigating Officers that she was driving the Dodge when the collision occurred and was attempting to follow a car that “came out of nowhere” that caused her to crash.  After speaking with her for a while Officers suspected that she was providing false information due to numerous inconsistencies with her statement.

Eisenberg then told Officers that her fiancé, Julio Gonzalez, was driving the truck when he crashed at Buhne and “I” streets.  She said that Gonzalez was at their home a few blocks away.  Officers were unsuccessful in contacting Gonzalez that night and he was determined to have a suspended driver’s license.

Officers spoke with Gonzalez a couple days later. He told the officers that he was driving home when he fell asleep and crashed the truck.  He said he left the scene because he has a suspended driver’s license.

The investigating officer will submit a report to the District Attorney’s Office requesting the following charges:

Mr. Gonzalez to be charged with Hit and Run, Driving while Suspended, and Conspiracy to Commit a Crime.

Ms. Eisenberg to be charged with Delaying / Obstructing Peace Officer, Providing False Information to a Peace Officer, and Conspiracy to Commit a Crime.

* * * * *

Lost in Shelter Cove

SHELTER COVE– On 04-1-2013, at 2:00 am, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office was notified by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) of a lost motorist in the Paradise Ridge Area, Shelter Cove.

The lost motorist was able to call 911 and ask for assistance.

CHP dispatched officers out to the area of the motorist using the cell phone GPS coordinates.  Officers attempted to locate the motorist for over two hours driving on roads in the area near the coordinates provided, sounding their sirens and horns.

When CHP efforts failed to locate the motorist the Sheriff’s Office was notified at 4:00 am.

A search and rescue was initiated.  Search and Rescue deputies responded to the area and located the motorists at 11:00 am in the 5000 block of Paradise Ridge road behind a locked gate.

The lost motorist had driven around the gate and became stuck in the roadway.  The motorists were in a sport utility vehicle and identified as Marlene Elias, 27-years-old from Sausalito, and Michael Breen, 25-years-old from Hayward, California.

Both were in good health. HCSO deputies gave them a ride to Garberville to arrange for a tow truck to retrieve their vehicle.

* * * * *

More Traffic Accidents, as Reported by the Friendly California Highway Patrol

ORICK– On March 31, 2013, at approximately 11:37 am, Mr. Johnson was driving a Toyota pickup southbound on US 101, north of Davidson Rd. at an unsafe speed, while negotiating a curve in the roadway.   Mr. Hall was traveling northbound in a Ford pickup at a speed of 30 MPH.   Due to the unsafe speed Mr. Johnson was traveling, he failed to maintain his vehicle in the southbound lane.

Mr. Johnson’s vehicle crossed over the solid double yellow lines and into the northbound lane directly in front of Mr. Hall’s Ford pickup.  Mr. Hall was unable to stop in time avoid a collision.  The front of the Mr. Hall’s Ford pickup struck the right side of Mr. Johnson’s Toyota pickup.   Both vehicles came to rest in the northbound lane.   Traffic was restricted to one way travel for approximately one hour until the northbound lane could be cleared.  
 
Emergency personnel from the Orick Volunteer Fire Department, Cal Fire, Mad River Ambulance, California State and Federal Parks Service and California Highway Patrol responded to the scene.  Ms. Hall was transported to Mad River Community Hospital for her injuries.  
 
This collision is still under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.  Impairment was not believed to be a factor.

CARLOTTA– On 03/31/2013, at approximately 1:20 pm, Mr. Oclair was driving a Toyota Tacoma pickup eastbound on SR 36, east of Grizzly Creek Campground at an unknown speed.  Mr. Oclair claimed he fell asleep while driving and allowed his vehicle to travel off the south side of the road.

Mr. Oclair’s vehicle became airborne when it traveled off a steep embankment and impacted a large redwood tree.  His vehicle then fell to the ground and landed on its left side.

Mr. Oclair’s passenger, Joshua Burge, exited the vehicle and climbed up the embankment and onto the highway, where he summoned a passing motorist for help.  
 
Emergency personnel from the Carlotta Volunteer Fire Department, Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Department, City Ambulance and California Highway Patrol responded to the scene.  Mr. Oclair and his passenger, Joshua Burge were transported to Redwood Memorial Hospital for their injuries.  
 
This collision is still under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.  Impairment was not a factor.

* * * * * *

Rubber Bullets (or were they Bean Bags?) and Tree-Sit Removals

WILLITS– You just have to see the video to believe it.

More of the details of what happened is carried in the Willits News.

* * * * * *

Another day, another crime.  Or two. 

Buckle up, it’s gonna be a bumpy ride.

McKinleyville Weed Grow and Hash Lab Catches Fire

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

On Thursday, March 28 at approximately 1:40 p.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call re-
garding a house fire at Landis Court in McKinleyville.  The
initial calls reported there was possibly a person trapped in
the home.

Sheriff’s deputies, Arcata Fire District personnel and an ambulance responded to the scene.  When emergency personnel arrived a few minutes later the 30-year-old unidentified male victim was outside the residence with serious burn injuries.  The victim was transported to a local hospital and then transferred to an out of the area hospital for treatment.

When the fire department began fighting the fire they discovered an indoor marijuana grow in the residence.  Deputies stood by until the Arcata Fire District suppressed the fire.  The Sheriff’s Office Community Response Unit (CRU) and Humboldt County Drug Task Force (HCDTF) were notified and responded to the scene.

A Humboldt County Superior Court search warrant was obtained for the residence.

After the fire was out and the residence was safe to enter, deputies entered the residence.  They located and seized evidence indicating there was a butane hashish lab in the home, along with approximately 17 pounds of marijuana leaves, 188 growing marijuana plants approximately two feet tall and 176 marijuana plants (clones) approximately 3” tall.

The cause and origin of the fire is still under investigation by the Arcata Fire District.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251, the Arcata Fire District at 825-2000, or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

165 Marijuana Plants Taken Out After Tip and Month-Long Investigation

(PUPPY PICTURES)

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

From the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

Today at approximately 8:30 am, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Community Response Unit (CRU) assisted by the Humboldt County Drug Task Force (HCDTF) served a Humboldt County Superior Court Search Warrant at residence in the 2500 block of Knox Cove Road in McKinleyville.

The search warrant was obtained after a month-long investigation initiated by a crime tip on the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line.

When deputies served the search warrant they located approximately three pounds of marijuana bud packaged for sale and 165
growing marijuana plants ranging from 3-feet to 4-feet in height being grown in the residence.  The deputies also located packaging material and a scale, along with evidence that the marijuana was being grown for sale.

The Humboldt County Building Department was notified and responded to the scene. They determined the electricity to the marijuana grow was a fire hazard and PG&E was notified to respond.

Deputies arrested Wilbur Clark Springer IV, 43-years-old, for cultivation and possession of marijuana for sale.

Lisa Springer, 36-years-old, was issued a notice to appear for cultivation and possession for sale of marijuana.  This was to allow Lisa to care for their children.

Mr. Wilbur Springer IV was transported and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where his bail was set at $25,000.

* * * * * * * *

Puppy pictures?  The English Springer Spaniel pups are adorably innocent.

We found the Springer puppies more interesting than this generic press release.  While they have nothing whatsoever to do with Mr. Springer IV, they’re enjoyable to look at and a whole lot more cute than seeing another ugly-mug mugshot today.

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

Stabbing Drama Unfolds After Discussion About Religion

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

On March 25th at approximately 8:30 pm, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a stabbing which
just occurred on US 101 at the Weott Overpass, in Weott.

Humboldt County Sheriff’s Deputies, California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers, and medical personnel responded to the scene. 

When the deputies and CHP Officers arrived, they found the 46-year-old male victim, a transient from the Redding Area, on the overpass in the middle of US 101.

Several citizens were attempting to render aid to the victim, including one citizen applying pressure on the victim’s chest wound.  Deputies learned from several passing motorists that was how they found the victim in the roadway.

Deputies located the suspect, identified as Clayton Winfield Hamilton, 29-year-old, from Orem, Utah.  Hamilton was detained and treated at the scene for a laceration wound to his hand requiring stitches.   Mr. Hamilton admitted to stabbing the victim three or four times with a knife and told the deputies it was in self-defense.

Deputies interviewed a 30-year-old male friend of the suspect who was at the scene.   The friend resides in Rio Dell, and told deputies he hadn’t seen or heard from Hamilton in five years.

The friend told the deputies that Hamilton called him from Utah on March 21st  and said he had a business opportunity and was on his way out to meet up with him to discuss it.  On March 25th, he arrived in Rio Dell to meet up with his friend.

The friend saw Hamilton speaking with a male victim who was hitchhiking in front of the Shell Gas station in Rio Dell.  The victim told Hamilton he wanted a ride to Garberville.  The three got together and decided to go for lunch in Fortuna first, at McDonalds.

At lunch, Hamilton told the victim he wanted to talk with his friend– alone– so the victim walked off.  Hamilton then told his friend the victim was “evil” and he needed to kill him.  Hamilton then left his friend and said he was going to find the victim.

The friend began to worry that Hamilton was serious– and he would harm the victim.  The friend went looking for Hamilton.  The friend saw Hamilton’s vehicle southbound on US 101 as he was traveling northbound.  The friend pursued Hamilton’s vehicle, finally catching up with him in Weott at Sewell Drive and Spring Street.

Hamilton’s truck stopped and the friend approached the truck.  The friend witnessed a struggle in the truck and opened Hamilton’s truck door.  He saw Hamilton had a knife in his hands and there was blood all over the interior of the truck.

The friend grabbed Hamilton and began pulling him from the vehicle, allowing the victim to escape from the truck.  The friend then called 911 to report the crime.

Deputies were able to interview the victim at a local hospital where he was being treated for multiple stab wounds, including one to the chest and one to the abdomen.  Doctors told deputies the wounds were life-threatening.

The victim related a similar story as Hamilton’s friend, but added that he was originally picked up hitchhiking by Hamilton in Redding.  He was given a ride to Rio Dell by Hamilton, who stopped to meet up with a friend.  The victim told Hamilton he wanted a ride to Garberville when he was picked up in Redding.

After they ate at McDonalds, the victim walked off after Hamilton told him to leave.  He was picked up a second time during the drive to Garberville and he and Hamilton had a discussion about religion.  Hamilton then suddenly pulled off to the side of the road in Weott and told the victim ‘he had to kill him.’ 

Hamilton produced a large knife and began stabbing the victim repeatedly.

Mr. Hamilton was arrested for attempted murder and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for attempted murder.  His bail is set at $500,000, the HCSO said in their release.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

* * * * * * * * *

A fanatic is a man who does what he thinks the Lord would do if He knew the facts of the case.   He can’t change his mind, won’t change the subject, and he may want to kill you.

Remember:  A fanatic is only two letters shy of spelling a lunatic.

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

Suspects Captured on Murder Warrants Identified

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

The Fresno Bee named the two suspects arrested in Eureka last week in connection with a gang-related shooting
two weeks ago in Fresno, the Times-Standard reported today.

Reginald Taylor, 28, and Abel Price, 21, both of Fresno, were arrested in an early morning SWAT raid Friday in an apartment on the 900 block of ‘O’ Street in Eureka, where they had been hiding out.  Forty law enforcement personnel evacuated neighbors and surrounded the building at 7 am, demanding the suspects surrender themselves on their outstanding murder warrants.  They wisely and pecefully did.  No one was hurt.

According to Fresno Police Department Lt. Mark Salazar, the two men were wanted in connection with a shooting that left a woman with severe injuries.  Salazar, a homicide and robbery unit commander, said both men are known gang members with criminal records.  Fresno detectives were able to trace the men to the O Street residence on a tip and coordinate the raid with local law enforcement agencies.

Mr. Taylor

Fresno Police Chief Jerry Dyer said suspect Reginald Taylor is believed to be the gunman in the March 13 shooting occurring at Colima’s Fade Barber Shop in the Manchester Shopping Center of Fresno.  Abel Price faces a charge of conspiracy to commit assault with a deadly weapon.  Both are gang members, Dyer said.

According to the Fresno Bee, police got an anonymous tip last Wednesday that Taylor and Price were in Eureka.  The two were staying with a local acquaintance who believed they had come to Humboldt County to look for jobs, and who claimed he was unaware of the barber shop shooting.  He was helping the two look for work, Dyer said.

On March 13, the two men went to the Manchester Center barbershop about 7:30 pm with Trenice Williams, 22, who wanted to talk with barber Ronald Moore about the custody of a child they have together.  That’s when a fight broke out, Dyer said.

Mr. Price

Taylor left the shop– but then he returned with a gun.  He fired four shots toward a chair Moore was hiding behind, Dyer said.

Moore wasn’t hit during the exchange, but one shot that Taylor fired struck 46-year-old victim Rafiola Binger, who had taken her son and daughter to the barbershop for a haircut.  Ms. Binger was hit in the lower back by Taylor’s bullet and partially paralyzed.  About half a dozen workers and patrons were inside the barbershop when the shooting happened.

Binger was listed in fair condition Friday at Fresno’s Community Regional Medical Center.  Doctors initially were concerned that Binger wouldn’t be able to walk again, but are now more optimistic that she will, Dyer said.

Trenice Williams was subsequently arrested.  She faces a charge of conspiracy to commit assault with a deadly weapon.

Reginald Taylor has a moderately lengthy criminal record– including serving seven years in prison for shooting and killing a man in Fresno on Christmas Day in 2001 when he was 17, Dyer said.  He faces charges that included attempted murder and four counts of assault with a deadly weapon in the barber shop shooting, the Fresno Bee reported.

No details were immediately available on Abel Price’s involvement in the shooting.

Both Taylor and Price are expected to be returned shortly to Fresno from the Humboldt County Correctional Facility, where they were being held on $2 million bail following their surender and arrest.

County Sheriff Asks for Public’s Help in Identifying Victims and Leads

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office makes their Missing Persons and Cold Cases page available to the public.

We wish the HCSO would do the same.

They ask that if you can offer any details on the cases below, please call them at (707) 234-2100.

JOHN AND JANE DOE:  TWO YOUNG VICTIMS FOUND DEAD TOGETHER

On July 08, 1979 the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a person reporting the discovery of human remains in the area of Mile Post Marker 21.11 on Highway 20.  This area was located between the city of Willits and the city of Fort Bragg in Mendocino County of California.

During a search of the rural area, Sheriff’s Detective recovered the skeletal remains of two separate human bodies.  Anthropologists determined the bodies to be that of a male and female.  In 2001 DNA testing showed the bodies were not biologically related.

Over the course of the investigation, Sheriff’s Detectives were able to obtain computer-generated facial reconstructive sketches of the bodies.

The attached colors sketches were first obtained in the early 2000′s from a forensic artist with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.  The picture of the bird in the inset at the bottom of the picture is depicted as an earring (pierced ear type) that was recovered with the human remains.

In 2012, a more advanced 3D sketch process was used by a digital forensic artist with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children resulting in the attached black & white sketches.  The new process and this specific case were featured in a BCC News television program: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-18529366.

Anyone with information in regards to this case is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office Tip-Line by calling 707-234-2100.

John Doe

• Height:  5′ 2″ to 5′ 11″
• Race: White
• Estimated Age: 10-20 years old
• Date of Discovery: July 8, 1979
• MCSO Case #: 1979-1900

Jane Doe

• Height:  5′ 3″ to 6′ 0″
• Race: White
• Estimated Age: 10-20 years old
• Date of Discovery: July 8, 1979
• MCSO Case #: 1979-1900

CHRIS ROBERT GIAUQUE:  MISSING HUMBOLDT/MENDOCINO RESIDENT

On the evening of August 9, 2003, Chris Robert Giauque went to the Spyrock Road area of Mendocino County and met with an associate near the Iron Peak lookout.  This area is located north of the town of Laytonville, California.

Chris Giauque was on probation for cultivation of marijuana and reportedly left his vehicle, a 1994 blue Toyota extra cab pickup truck at this location as he did not want to be seen in his truck on the property that he and the associate owned on Simmerly Road in Covelo, California.

Reportedly, the associate gave Chris Giauque a ride into and out of the property.  Chris Giauque was reportedly last seen in this area around 9:00 PM.  It is possible that Chris Giauque became a robbery-homicide victim.

Chris Giauque had made the trip to pick up a substantial amount of cash and it was possible that numerous people knew of the pending business transaction.

Chris Giauque’s pickup truck was located on August 10, 2003 approximately 50 miles north of Spyrock Road and 3 miles south of Myers Flat on the Avenue of the Giants near Elk Creek Road in Humboldt County.  This location is north of Salmon Creek where Chris Giauque resided.

To this date, Chris Giauque’s body has not been located and his father (Bob Giauque) has established a website to aid in the investigation.  The website located at www.chrisreward.org contains additional information on the circumstances of Chris Giauque’s disappearance and an established reward. 

The investigation into Chris Giauque’s disappearance is being handled by the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office.

Anyone with information in regards to the disappearance of Chris Giauque is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office Tip-Line by calling 707-234-2100.

• Age at time of murder:  36 years-old
• Height:  6′ 0″
• Weight:  145 lbs.
• Hair:  Brown
• Eyes: Blue
• MCSO Case#:  03-3247
• Date of disappearance:  August 9, 2003

To note, Chris Giauque’s page has much more lengthy detailed information of his disappearance and acquaintances.  It reads in part:

“My family is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of my remains.

An additional $150,000 reward is offered for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the individuals responsible for killing me.  And now, an additional reward incentive is being made available to anyone bringing in direct evidence of the crime.

Failure to bring rapid closure to this case will lead to a number of bounty hunters invading your territory.  They will scour the area, seeking information and asking questions.”

* * * * * * * *

The MCSO has other missing persons and cold cases that can be found here: http://www.mendocinosheriff.com/missing/coldcases.html

We wonder why our own Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office doesn’t make similar information available to its residents as the Mendocino Sheriff’s Office does.

Why they haven’t do so– or even attempted a posting of Humboldt’s Most Wanted Individuals list for the public– is a cold case mystery in and of itself.

Fresno Gang Bangers Apprehended in Early Morning Eureka Raid

–UPDATED BELOW–

Staff Report
Humboldt Sentinel

The 900 block of O Street in Eureka was abruptly shaken from its slumber this morning as numerous law enforcement agencies swarmed into the neighborhood and evacuated residents from their homes in an early morning raid seeking two murder fugitives on the lam from the Central Valley.

A multi-agency SWAT team comprising forty officers from the Eureka Police Department, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and Fresno law enforcement descended upon the O Street home at the crack of dawn in the pre-planned operation, the Times-Standard reported.

The SWAT team apprehended two unidentified men on attempted warrants murder warrants.  The fugitives, believed to be Fresno County gang members, were taken into custody without incident and reportedly surrendered to authorities during the raid.

Neighborhood residents reported they were awakened from their sleep as numerous lawmen in bullet proof vests and full tactical gear encircled the house and loudly shouted to the men that they were completely surrounded and to come out and surrender themselves, they said.

The names of the two men were not released.  HCSO Lt. Steve Knight said the two men were wanted for their involvement in a Fresno shooting leaving a woman with severe injuries almost two weeks ago.

There have been over 20 shooting incidents in Fresno in the last three weeks, prompting the city to conduct a major gang operation sweep towards reducing gang violence and shootings plaguing the city.

Eight shootings occurred in Fresno the week before the gang operation began, including a gang-related shooting that critically injured an 8-year-old girl.  During the 5-day sweep, 153 felony arrests and the seizure of 19 illegal firearms were made, the Fresno Police Department said.

More details of Eureka’s raid are expected to be made by the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office once they are made available, officials said.  The Times-Standard will have more information regarding the incident in their forthcoming story.

UPDATE I: 

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office issued their press release just a few moments ago:

“On 03-20-2013, the Eureka Police Department was contacted by Fresno Police Department regarding two wanted suspects that were believed to be hiding out in the City of Eureka.  Fresno Police Detectives told Eureka Police Detectives they had arrest warrants for the two males in connection with a recent shooting in Fresno.

The warrants were both for assault with a firearm and conspiracy to commit a crime.  The bail on the arrest warrants was for two million dollars. Fresno Police told Eureka Police both suspects were validated gang members, had violent pasts, and were considered to be armed and dangerous.

Eureka Police immediately began working with Fresno to locate both suspects.

Local law enforcement agencies were notified the suspects could be in the area.  Fresno Police and Eureka Police were able to locate the suspects staying in a residence in the 900 block of O st, Eureka.

Eureka Police with the assistance of Fresno Police were able to obtain a search warrant for the residence the suspects were believed to be in. Fresno Police immediately dispatched three detectives to Eureka, arriving on 3-21-2013.

Due to the suspect’s violent history, the likelyhood of being armed, and the type of arrest warrants issued, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Interagency SWAT team (the Sheriff’s Office and Eureka Police), and the Sheriffs Office Crisis Negotiation Team, were activated.

On 03-22-2013 at 7:00 a.m., officers and deputies from Eureka Police, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, United States Marshalls Office, Bureau of Land Management, Humboldt County District Attorney Investigators and Humboldt County Drug Task Force blocked off the area around the suspects location and evacuated nearby neighbors.  The SWAT team was deployed while this was occurring.

Both suspects were then called out of the residence and surrendered immediately to the SWAT Team.  No one was injured.

Fresno Police has requested the names of the suspects be withheld along with their booking photos.  They are still actively investigating their case.

The suspects, both in their 20’s, reside in Fresno and were booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility on their arrest warrants. Eureka Police and Fresno Detectives searched the residence the suspects were staying in, pursuant to the search warrant.”

UPDATE II, March 25:

The Fresno Bee named two suspects arrested in Eureka on Friday in connection with a gang-related shooting two weeks ago in Fresno, the Times-Standard reported.

Reginald Taylor, 28, and Abel Price, 21, both of Fresno, were arrested in the early morning raid on the 900 block of O Street.

According to Fresno Police Department Lt. Mark Salazar, the two men were wanted
in connection with a shooting that left a woman
with severe injuries.

Salazar, a homicide and robbery unit commander, said both men are known gang members with criminal records and Fresno detectives were able to trace the men back to the O Street residence based on a tip.

UPDATE III:  More Details Emerge of Friday’s ‘O’ Street SWAT Raid

* * * * * * *

Photo from the Times-Standard Facebook page.

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

The Beat Goes On

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

HUMBOLDT’S LATEST INTERNET SCAM 

Eureka– On 3/20/13, the Eureka Police Department received a report of a computer-related scam that’s now affecting some local residents. Victims are reporting a pop-up message that appear on their personal computer and is purportedly from the “Department of Homeland Security National Cyber Security Division.”

The message, which appears to be a form of malware/virus known as “ransomware,” states: “The work of your computer has been suspended on the grounds of the violation of the law of the United States of America.”

It further declares, “This computer has been blocked.”

The message remains locked in the front of one’s screen and the user is unable to close it or access other programs.  It essentially freezes the computer.  The message instructs the user that to “unlock” the computer they are “obliged to pay a fine of $300.00.”  It further states they must pay this fine through “MoneyPak” within 48 hours by using Green Dot MoneyPak that’s available through Walmart, Kmart, Rite Aid and other major retailers.

If the fine has not been paid, it threatens the user will become the subject of criminal prosecution without the right to pay the fine.  The warning asserts once you pay the “fine” your computer will be unblocked.  The “fine” is paid by entering your $300.00 MoneyPak code into a box on the pop-up warning screen and clicking ok.

The warning screen is very convincing with logos from Homeland Security as well as major retailers such as Walmart.  Walmart and the other retailers are not associated with this scam.  Alternate versions of this same scam may use the FBI’s logo.

Anyone receiving this message should not enter a MoneyPak code or any other payment method into the screen.  Users should file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center at:

http://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx.

Additional information concerning this scam may be found at the following Internet links:

http://corporate.walmart.com/privacy-security/fraud-alerts/green-dot-moneypak-scam

http://www.ic3.gov/media/2012/121130.aspx

SEARCH WARRANTS AND METH 

Mr. Ross

Fortuna– On March 20, 2013 at about 07:30 am, officers of the Fortuna Police Department served a search warrant on a residence located in the 2300 block of Newburg Road.

During the execution of the warrant officers located over:

• 12 grams of suspected methamphetamine packaged for sale
• Additional packaging materials
• A digital scale and $3,000 in US currency

Phillip Allen Ross (50) of Fortuna was arrested on the following charges:

· HS 11379: Possession of controlled substance for sale
· HS 11377: Possession of controlled substance.
· HS 11364: Possession of drug paraphernalia
· HS 11366.5 Maintaining a drug house

Mr. Hutchins

James Eugene Hutchins (52) of Fortuna was arrested on the following charges:

· HS 11364: Possession of drug paraphernalia
· PC 1203.2 Probation violation

Both Ross and Hutchins were transported to the Humboldt County Jail where they were booked without further incident.

FORTUNA MAN AND MINOR BUSTED ON MULIPLE BURGLARIES

Fortuna– On March 20, 2013 at about 2:00 am, a Vancil Street resident reported that he believed someone had just taken several items from his vehicle. While officers were in the area, the initial victim re-contacted the department to report that he had seen a white two-door older model car in the area which he did not recognize.

Officers continued to search for the vehicle and at about 2:30 am, a sergeant observed a vehicle matching the description leaving the area.  Based on the information received as well as several observed vehicle code violations, an enforcement stop was conducted in the area of Main Street and Harlan Way.

The occupants of the vehicle were identified as 25-year-old Edward Brinson Jr. of Eureka, and a 15-year-old male of Eureka.

Upon further investigation, officers observed burglary tools and suspected stolen property in the back seat of the vehicle and determined that Brinson was on Felony Probation for Possession of Stolen Property and had an extensive history of theft related convictions.

Brinson and the minor were both taken into custody.  During a search of Brinson’s person, he was found to be in possession of methamphetamine.

Mr. Brinson was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility and booked on the following charges:

- Petty Theft with a Prior
- Grand Theft
- Possession of Burglary Tools
- Possession of Stolen Property
- Possession of Methamphetamine
- Violation of Probation
- Vandalism

The minor was transported to Humboldt County Juvenile Hall and booked on the following charges:

- Grand Theft
- Possession of Burglary Tools
- Possession of Stolen Property
- Possession of Concentrated Cannabis

Currently, the department has identified eight victims all of which reside in the northern portion of Fortuna.

The Fortuna Police Department is asking that any additional victims or witnesses contact the department at 707-725-7550.

UNSUPERVISED PROBATIONER NODDING OFF… AGAIN

Eureka– On 3-18-13, at about 3:30 pm, an officer with the Eureka Police Department received a tip about a male subject passed out inside a white van parked on the 1500 block of 2nd Street, Eureka.   The officer responded to the location and located the white Chrysler van in the parking lot of the apartment building there.

The officer approached the van and observed a male subject, later identified as Michael Edward Sovereign, slumped over in the driver’s seat.  Nodding off.  Again.

The officer woke Sovereign who stated he was “just taking a nap.”  A records check revealed Sovereign was on formal felony probation for possession of a controlled substance.  His probation terms included submitting to search and seizure. 

During a subsequent search of Sovereign’s person pursuant to his probation conditions, the officer located a baggie containing approximately 12.3 grams (nearly ½ ounce) of crystal methamphetamine. 

The officer then conducted an additional probation search at Sovereign’s nearby apartment.  Inside Sovereign’s room, the officer located a realistic air soft pistol with its safety markings removed, drug use paraphernalia (glass meth pipe), and a hockey puck-sized piece of suspected concentrated cannabis/hash (approximately 41.2 grams or 1 ½ ounces). 

Sovereign, age 67 of Eureka, was arrested and transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked for possession of a controlled substance and probation violation.

Again.

DOJ ANNOUNCES POT-TRAFFICKING RING TAKEN OUT

Fortuna– Six people were arrested, assault rifles were seized, and thousands of marijuana plants were uprooted Wednesday after a three-year investigation by a state drug task force uncovered a pot-trafficking ring, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced.

Michelle Gregory, a California Department of Justice spokeswoman, said North State Marijuana Investigation Team (MSMIT) agents served 12 search warrants in the Rio Dell, Fortuna and Bridgeville areas of Humboldt County, and also in the cities of San Francisco and Sonoma.

Investigators from state and local law enforcement agencies found 2,896 plants, 400 hundreds pounds of processed pot, 44 weapons, 15 high-capacity magazines, 2 ounces of cocaine, 2 ounces psychedelic mushrooms and $74,000 in cash.

The pot was being sold illegally on the street throughout the United States.  “We have shut down an illegal, multi-state operation,” California Attorney General Kamala Harris said in a statement.

Eric Sordal, 31, was arrested on suspicion of child endangerment, marijuana cultivation and possession of assault weapons.

Also arrested were:

• Jamie Gilbert, 35
• Scott Moore, 31
• Emory Ayers, 64
• Shawn Mitten, 35
• Alvin Machado, 27

They were being held on suspicion of possessing marijuana for sale and other charges.

Officials said two additional warrants were served at a Coldwell Banker office and a Fortuna storage unit.

In 2010, NSMIT agents received a tip and launched an investigation.  The DOJ task force was assisted by a gaggle of agencies– …almost everyone EXCEPT the Donut Police.

The participating law organizations were:  the Alcohol Beverage Control, California Highway Patrol, Central Valley Marijuana Investigation Team, DEA, Eureka Police Department, Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office, Humboldt County Drug Task Force, Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, Mountain and Valley Marijuana Investigation Team, Siskiyou County-wide Interagency Narcotic Task Force, and Trinity County Sheriff’s Office.

That’s a whole lotta folks, folks.

HUMBOLDT COUNTY FAIR BOARD DISINTEGRATING UNDER PRESSURE

Ferndale– You might recall our previous story on the alleged Brown Act violations by the Humboldt County Fair Board.

Now another member of the Humboldt County Fair Board has resigned from his position, as controversy continues with fair management, and a looming grand jury investigation into the board’s actions.  Two board members have been subpoenaed by the Grand Jury, and possibly more.  And they’re not talking about it, either.
 
Humboldt County Fair Director Ken Christen announced his resignation “effective immediately” in a formal letter to the board, stating, “I can no longer support the current board and the path they have chosen to take regarding the fair manager and the direction in which the fair is headed.”
 
Christen added a thank you to Stuart Titus for his 22 years of work with the fair.  It was the non-renewal of Titus’ contract that sparked controversy and investigation into the board.  Don Becker and John Burger resigned from the fair board in early February.
 
The remaining members– those still standing and present, that is– are set to meet in a regularly scheduled session on Monday.

Flee and Spree Leads to SoHum Chase and Arrest

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

From the HCSO:

On Monday, March 18 at 1:00 in the morning,  a Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office deputy patrolling the area of Blue Slide Road and Price Creek Road near Rio Dell area saw a grey 1989 Toyota pickup truck parked in a turnout, in the same vicinity where the Suddenlink fiber-optic vandalisms had been occurring.

As the deputy drove by he saw a subject standing outside the truck’s driver side door wearing a black backpack.  When the deputy made a u-turn to investigate what the person was doing, the truck sped away south on Blue Slide Road.

The deputy sheriff attempted to pull the car over but the truck failed to yield.  Instead, the pickup sped up to speeds in excess of 60 mph.

The deputy initiated a pursuit as the truck accelerated to 70 mph as it approached Rio Dell City limits.  The truck failed to stop for a stop sign and then entered US-101 southbound at speeds of 50 to 80 mph.  It then exited US-101 at the Pepperwood exit, continuing southbound on State Route 254– Avenue of the Giants.  While traveling southbound on State Route 254 the truck weaved into both lanes of traffic.  Due to public safety concerns the deputy terminated the pursuit.

A few minutes later the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Officers who were responding to assist the deputy spotted the pickup truck on Dyerville Loop Road in the Garberville area.  The truck again started to flee from the CHP car;  however it lost control and crashed in the 2700 block of Dyerville Loop Road.

The pickup truck rolled over during the crash and traveled approximately 400 feet down a hillside.  The driver, who was the sole occupant in the pickup truck, was taken into custody by the CHP.   He received minor injuries in the collision.  The CHP officers located a loaded Colt handgun in the vehicle, along with a variety of illegal drugs.

The deputy joined the CHP officers on the scene and the driver, Michael Joseph Petersen, 29-years-old from Garberville, was arrested for:

• Felony evasion
• Possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle
• Possession of illicit drugs
• Possession of hashish
• Possession of a controlled substance
• Resisting arrest
• Driving unlicensed
• Driving under the influence

Mr. Petersen was taken to a local hospital for his injuries and was treated and released.  He was then transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where his bail was set at $50,000.

There is no indication Petersen was involved in the Suddenlink vandalisms, the HCSO said.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251, or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

* * * * * * * *

If he were any slower, he’d be going backward.

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

10,000 Suddenlink Customers Affected by Latest Vandalism Incident This Morning

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

The mysterious fiber-optic pirate has struck again,
this time severing Suddenlink’s cable, phone, and
Internet lines to parts of Northern Humboldt County
affecting 10,000 residential and business customers.

It is the fourth incident of vandalism in less than one week.  Despite a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Suddenlink’s serial slasher, the malicious slicing and dicing mayhem continues unabated throughout the County with the recent cutting of more fiber-optic lines early this morning.

Suddenlink Director of Operations Wendy Purnell said in a prepared statement today:

Suddenlink fiber-optic cable was cut in multiple locations early this morning in what appear to be further acts of vandalism.

We have again contacted the Sheriff’s Department and are offering a $5,000 reward leading to the arrest and conviction of the responsible individuals. Our technicians have been dispatched to the damaged areas and are in the process of restoring service.

The cuts affected service for about 10,000 customers in Big Lagoon, Trinidad, Big Lagoon, McKinleyville, Fieldbrook and parts of Arcata.

We’re sorry for the inconvenience, are working to restore service as soon as possible, and are supporting local law enforcement in their efforts to stop these crimes.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the multiple incidents that have caused upwards of $30,000 in damages and lost revenues to thousands of customers throughout Humboldt.  Suddenlink ground crews have been struggling to restore service to thousands of exasperated customers who found themselves suddenly and abruptly disconnected without warning.

The unknown saboteur has been deviously consistent in damaging and knocking out residential and business service.  He seems to know exactly where to strike, how to enter the secure underground vaults where the fiber-optic lines are, and identifying the appropriate lines to cut.

On Monday night he took out a four-foot section of Suddenlink’s line in Ferndale.  The previous Friday he struck twice in the Trinidad and Ferndale areas disrupting service.

HCSO’s Lt. Wayne Hanson said, “This is not a random act of violence.  Someone knows what they’re doing,” he told the
Times-Standard news yesterday.

“This could have been a former employee, an angry customer—we’re looking at all angles,” Hanson said.

Whoever it is, they have some misdirected anger and a serious grudge going on.  They also have more than a few screws and electrical  connections loose upstairs.  Not the brightest light in the socket, they’re a few bits shy of a byte and obviously played too much without a helmet.  Or stuck fingers in the outlet when the babysitter wasn’t looking.

The Sheriff’s Office is requesting that anyone with information about this case to call the HCSO at 445-7251, or the anonymous tip line at 268-2539.

Mushrooms, Weed, Hash, and Two Pounds of Meth Seized in Family Bust

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

On March 7^th at approximately 9:40 p.m., the Humboldt County Drug Task Force assisted by the Humboldt County
Sheriff’s Office, the California Highway Patrol, and the Eureka
Police Department arrested John Arthur Moreno, age 37 and
from Eureka, for transporting over 2 whopping pounds of crystal
methamphetamine in his vehicle.

After a two month long methamphetamine investigation by the Humboldt County Drug Task Force, officers obtained a Humboldt County Superior Court search warrant for Moreno’s vehicle and residence.

Moreno was located traveling southbound US Highway 101 near McKinleyville in his vehicle. Officers conducted a traffic stop and detained Moreno and his 21-year-old daughter, Amanda Brooke Cranston, the driver of the vehicle.

Officers also served a search warrant at Moreno’s residence, located in the 1800 block West Avenue in Eureka.  Officers located Moreno’s 16-year-old son in the residence by himself.

When officers searched Moreno’s vehicle they located over two pounds of crystal meth concealed in a television in the rear of the vehicle.

The street value of the meth is approximately $80,000 dollars.

When officers searched Moreno’s residence, they found and seized 326 growing marijuana plants ranging in size from 10 inches to 3 feet in height.  Officers seized approximately 3 pounds of dried marijuana and a small amount of marijuana hash.

Officers also located evidence of a butane hash lab in the house.  In addition to the weed and hash, officers seized about ½ of a pound of Psilocybin mushrooms as well as a loaded handgun from the residence.

During their investigation, officers learned that Moreno’s 16-year-old son was making marijuana hash in the residence.  Officers arrested Moreno’s son for cultivation and possession for sales of marijuana.  Mr. Moreno Jr. was transported to the Humboldt County Juvenile Hall.

John Moreno was arrested and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for:

• Possession for sales and transportation of methamphetamine
• Felony child endangerment
• Being armed in commission of a felony
• Manufacturing of a butane hash lab

Mr. Moreno’s bail was set at $500,000.

Ms. Cranston, his daughter, was arrested and booked into the Humboldt County Jail for Possession for Sales and Transportation of Methamphetamine. Her bail was set at $75,000 dollars.

This investigation is being sent to Humboldt County Child Welfare Services, the HCDTF said in their release, and the case is still under investigation.

* * * * * * * * *

We don’t know where Ms. Moreno was during all this family hoopla.

Crime Reports Throughout Humboldt County

–Scoundrels and Skullduggery Abound–

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

Fortuna Traffic Stop Leads to Ecstasy and Weed Bust

On March 5, 2013 at about 11:50 p.m., a Sergeant with the
Fortuna Police Department located a vehicle traveling south-
bound on South Fortuna Boulevard without tail lights.

Mr. Mcintyre

Upon conducting a traffic stop, the Sergeant detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle.  The driver, Kaine Mcintyre, age 20, of Arcata, related that he had a medical recommendation for the use of marijuana but alas– it was determined to be expired.

Upon a search of the vehicle, several bags of marijuana packaged for sale were located along with more than 80 tablets of MDMA– also known as Ecstasy. Mcintyre was subsequently taken into custody.

While on scene, the passenger was contacted and identified himself as 18-year-old “Johnny Adams” of Arcata.  Or so the knucklehead said.

During the investigation, officers determined that he was providing a false name and his true name was David Mark Lamb, age 24, of Sonora.  Mr. Lamb was found to have an active “No Bail” felony warrant in Calaveras County for Petty Theft with a prior, Fraud, and Resisting Arrest.

Mr. Mcintyre was booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility
on the following charges:

Mr. Lamb

• Health & Safety §11377 – Possession of a controlled substance
• H&S 11359 – Possession of marijuana for sale
• H&S 11360 – Transportation of marijuana
• H&S 11357 – Possession of more than an ounce of marijuana
• H&S 11378 – Possession of a controlled substance for sale
• H&S 11379 – Transportation of a controlled substance
• Penal Code 148(a) – Obstructing / Resisting or delaying a peace officer

Mr. Lamb was booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility on the following charges:

• Penal Code §148.9 – Providing a false name to a peace officer
• No Bail Warrant (Calaveras County)

Fast Feet and Warrants Lands One in the Pokey

On March 5th at approximately 10 in the morning, an officer with the Fortuna Police Department contacted Jacob Hines, age 27, of Fortuna, near the intersection of Ninth and K Street in Fortuna.

Upon advisement that he was being placed under arrest for his outstanding warrants, Hines elected to evade arrest by fleeing the area on foot.

After a search that spanned over two blocks and lasting only a few minutes, the evasive Mr. Hines was located and arrested in a resident’s garage a block away from the initial contact.

Due to the initial contact being in close proximity to the Fortuna Middle School and school officials witnessed the subject flee from officers, staff elected to place the school in lockdown status to ensure the safety of the students.  The lockdown was lifted moments later when Hines was taken into custody for impersonating a dimwit.

Mr. Hines was booked into the Humboldt County Jail on the following charges;

• Warrant: Violation of a Court Order
• Warrant: Grand Theft
• Warrant: Trespassing
• PC 148(a): Resists Police Officer

A Boris in the Hand is Worth Two in the Bush

On March 4th, detectives from the Eureka Police Department’s Problem Oriented Policing Unit (POP) conducted narcotic enforcement in the Old Town area of Eureka.

During the operation, Boris Lee Valentine, age 45, was spotted driving a GMC SUV near 4th and ‘N’ streets.  A traffic stop was conducted at 2nd and ‘Q’ streets, resulting in Valentine’s arrest for an outstanding felony warrant.

Valentine had two passengers in his vehicle at the time of his arrest: Selena Ranney, 29, and Casey Hunter, 31.

As a result of the EPD detective’s investigation, Ranney was taken into custody for Possession of a Dirk or Dagger, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Probation Violations.  Hunter was taken into custody for an outstanding warrant, Possession of Heroin, and Possession of Methamphetamine.

We’re unsure exactly where the Probation Officer was during all the excitement.  We think shopping for Tater Tots at Winco.

All three subjects were transported and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility by EPD.

Another Bird in the Hand is Worth Three in the Bush

On March 5th, detectives from the Eureka Police Department’s Problem Oriented Policing Unit (POP) were conducting narcotics enforcement in the 1100 block of 5th St in Eureka.

During their investigation, Dennis Burriesci, age 45, was contacted in the parking lot of a motel at this location.

Burriesci led the detectives back to his room, where three other subjects were contacted.

 As a result of the investigation:

Burriesci was arrested for Possession of Heroin–9 grams– and Probation Violations.  His Probation Officer was AWOL during the arrest, chowing down some fiery kung pao chicken chow mein at China Buffet.

Thomas Applewhite, age 18, was arrested for Possession of Heroin (3 grams), Illegal Possession of Prescription Medication, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Marijuana.

Michael Plowright, 49, and Brandy Tritchler, 31, were both arrested for outstanding warrants.

All four subjects were transported and booked into the Humboldt Hilton Salmon Slammer for the above listed charges.

Anyone with information concerning suspected drug activity, or other nuisances occurring in the City of Eureka is encouraged to call the
Problem Oriented Policing Unit at (707) 441-4373.

Speedball on Two Wheels

On March 4th at about 1:10 pm, detectives from the Eureka Police Department’s Problem Oriented Policing Unit (POP) were conducting narcotic enforcement in the Old Town area of Eureka.  During the investigation, Cynthia Sue Bryson was spotted riding a bicycle– her war pony– near 3rd and ‘L’ streets.

An enforcement stop was conducted on Bryson, age 41, who is on probation.  During a search of Bryson, detectives located 5.4 grams of heroin, .4 grams of methamphetamine, and a digital gram scale.

Ms. Bryson was taken into custody and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for Possession of Heroin for Sale, Possession of Methamphetamine and Transportation of Narcotics.

We don’t know what happened to her trusty heroin steed– or the Probation Officer nodding off in a comfy chair with the phone on hold. 

Scoundrels and Drug Skullduggery

On March 6th, at about 9:39 AM, an officer with the Eureka Police Department (EPD) on uniformed patrol saw a male and female walking together on the 200 block of West Grant Street.

The officer recognized the female, Heather Irene Fontaine, from numerous prior contacts with her.  Truth be told, everyone knows Heather.

The officer stopped to speak with the subjects.

As the officer exited his patrol car, the male subject walked behind a nearby parked van in an apparent attempt to conceal contraband from him.  The officer heard the sound of an object striking the pavement.

When the officer approached the male, later identified as Steven Michael Ridley, he saw a small circular case in a puddle of water on the asphalt beside the van’s rear tire.  When asked if he had just dropped something, Ridley replied that he’d just found the item and didn’t know what it was.

While the officer was speaking with Ridley, Fontaine stated she had warrants.  Fontaine and Ridley were subsequently detained by officers.  A records check confirmed Fontaine had multiple warrants for her arrest.  Ridley was also on formal probation with search and seizure conditions.

Inside the case Ridley had discarded, officers located 10 ½ grams of crystal methamphetamine.  A digital gram scale was also found on top of one of the van’s tires.

During a search of Ridley’s person, officers located a large fixed blade knife which was completely concealed under his clothing.

Mr. Ridley, age 27 of Eureka, was arrested and transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked for possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of a concealed dirk or dagger, and probation violation.  His Probation Officer was nowhere to be found at the time of his search, seizure, and arrest.  This isn’t unusual.  We suspect he was having a bagel with a schmeer in the company break room.  That’s usual.

A familiar face to both police and the resident junkies, Ms. Fontaine, age 28 of Eureka, was arrested and transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility and booked for her 8 misdemeanor and felony warrants.

Always at death’s doorstep and datin’ Satan, we hope Ms. Fontaine will dry out with three hots and a cot for a few weeks or more.

Stolen Property Recovered; Arrest Made by HCSO

On 03-04-2013, approximately 4:45 p.m., deputies contacted Travis J. Sovereign, 35-years-old, at his residence in the 1000 block of M street, Eureka.

Deputies conducted a parole search of his residence and located some of the stolen property taken in a West End Road burglary.  Deputies also responded to another residence in the 1600 block of 2nd street, Eureka after learning property may be located there.

Between the two locations deputies recovered approximately twenty bottles of fine wine, serving pitchers, collectible baskets, a lap top computer, several
collectible vinyl records, coats, jackets, collectible figurines
and silverware which were stolen from the West End Road
residence.

Deputies also recovered twelve fishing poles that had been reported stolen from an unrelated burglary that occurred in Blue Lake.

Mr. Sovereign was arrested for possession of stolen property and parole violation.  We have no idea where his Parole Agent was when all this went down.  We think in the Safeway bakery aisle looking for sticky buns with pecans.

Mr. Sovereign was unceremoniously transported and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he is being held without bail.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office.  This is an ongoing investigation with additional property missing.  Additional suspects are waiting to be identified and duly fingered, the HCSO said.

Alleged Burglar Sought in Arcata

On March 5th, investigators from the Arcata Police Department received information regarding the identity of an individual believed to be responsible for numerous burglaries in the Sunny Brae area over the past months.

Through the course of the investigation, 36-year-old Timothy Dickinson of Arcata was identified by witnesses as burglarizing a home in Sunny Brae.

Dickinson’s vehicle, a 2000 Oldsmobile Bravada– Ca Lic # 6MKD992– has been identified by additional witnesses.

It appears his vehicle has been seen leaving the scene of several burglaries.

A search warrant was served at Dickinson’s residence, but Dickinson has not been located.  Local law enforcement agencies have been alerted and are on the lookout for Dickinson, APD said.

The neighbors are pissed.

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Dickinson is encouraged to call the Arcata Police Department (707)822-2428.

* * * * * * *

We’re finding old criminals never really die, they just steal away.

“A Useless and Clueless Life Is An Early Death”
~Johann Goethe

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

‘I Was Only Joking’

On 3-1-2013, approximately 7:15 p.m. Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Deputies met with a female who was identified as Monica Jung Bresee, 29 years old, from Eureka, at the Sheriff’s Office.

Bresee came into the Sheriff’s Office after learning a video of her attempting to rob Fairway market was on the news.  Bresee told the investigating deputy she was the person on the video and admitted to telling the clerk she was robbing him, but said it was a joke.

A few Froot Loops shy of a bowl, Bresee was arrested for attempted robbery of Fairway Market, Eureka.

Deputies had also been looking for Bresee from an incident which occurred on 02-26-2013, approximately 4:00 p.m. at a residence in the 2200 block of Wycliff Lane, Eureka.

Bresee was wanted for driving her 1988 Toyota into the garage door of the residence of her ex-boyfriend during an argument and driving away.  The garage sustained over $2,000 in damage.

Bresee was booked into the Humboldt County Correctional facility on charges of attempted robbery, felony vandalism, violation of a court order and hit and run.  Her bail was set at $75,000, a little bit higher than what 20-watt dim bulbs usually go for.

Jail Assault

On Friday March 1, 2013 at approximately 7:40 p.m. Correctional Officers responded to an assault within the Humboldt County Correctional Facility.

Officers were summoned by an inmate to check the welfare of another inmate who was injured.  Officers arrived on scene and found a 37 year old male with numerous injuries to his face and head.  After a brief investigation it was determined the inmate was the victim of an assault.  The victim had been in custody for one day on a charge of violation of parole.
 
Officers spoke with inmates in the immediate area to determine what happened.  Inmate Christopher Lee Kasavich, age 32 of Eureka, stepped forward and identified himself as the person responsible for the assault.

Kasavich told officers that he and the victim had previous issues prior to coming to jail and he assaulted the victim because of the previous disagreement they had.

Kasavich was in custody for a felony possession of stolen property and has also been booked on California Penal Code Section 243(d), Battery with Serious Bodily Injury, a felony.  Strong like bear, smart like tractor, and a  twist short of a real stinky, his bail was set at $50,000 on the new charge.
 
The victim was transported to St. Joseph Hospital where he received initial treatment for multiple fractures of the jaw.  Because of the extent of the injuries he sustained he was flown to an out of area hospital.  He is expected to recover from those injuries.
 
Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

Caught In the Act Of Stripping

On 03-02-2013, two Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Sheriff’s were patrolling in the area behind the Ricks Avenue Apartments in Fairhaven, when they saw a black Ford Mustang parked on New Navy Base Road near where previously located stolen vehicles were found in the sand dunes.

Mr. Youravish

The deputies contacted a passenger in the vehicle identified as JD Michael Youravish, 27 years old from Eureka.

While speaking with him, he told the deputies the car he was in belonged to a guy named Zach who left walking towards the sand dunes.  A check on the Mustang’s license revealed the owner was Zachary Scott, who was on felony probation with a search clause. 

One of the deputies walked into the sand dunes to locate Scott.

While doing so, the deputy saw the previously stolen blue Nissan Truck which had been stripped of its tires and several other items.  The owner of the truck had been working to have it removed by a friend or a tow company and had hoped to
have it removed by March 3, 2103.

Mr. Scott

As the deputy walked in the direction of the truck he heard noises coming from the truck.  The deputy located Scott in the process of stripping the seats out of the truck.  Scott was arrested for tampering with a motor vehicle.

When the deputy returned to the Mustang and joined the other deputy, they told Youravish and Scott they were going to search the Mustang per Scott’s probation.  Youravish then told the deputies he had some credit cards he found and also hid his drug paraphernalia in the car.

Deputies located several credit cards in Youravish’s possession, one of which was confirmed reported stolen.  The victim told the deputies his credit cards and wallet were in his car when it was stolen.  One of the cards in Youravish’s possession was from that car.

Youravish told the deputies he found the stolen items on the ground in Henderson Center.  Youravish was arrested for possession of stolen property, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of stupidity.  His bail was set at $25,000.

Scott was arrested for tampering with a vehicle and violation of probation.  He was booked and released.

If stupid were a talent, they both would be considered gifted.

As if you didn’t know by now, anyone with information for the Sheriffs Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriffs Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriffs Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

Multiple Crimes, One Couple

On 3-2-2013, approximately 5:45 p.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a report from Blue Lake Casino Security regarding a suspicious truck parked in their parking lot.

Security reported a white 1997 Ford Ranger had arrived at the Casino about 1:30 a.m. on 03-02-2013, and both front side windows were broken.  The people who had been around the vehicle had left and the truck was left unoccupied.  The Casino Security attempted to find the registered owner of the vehicle and determined they were not a patron.  They also attempted to call the registered owner and were not able to make contact with him.

The deputy examined the vehicle and saw there was glass covering the front seats.  The deputy drove to the registered owners address in the 7000 block of West End Road, Arcata, and saw several exterior doors to the residence were open.  The interior of the home appeared to be ransacked.

Deputies found a crowbar in the home which appeared to have been used to force entry into the home.  Multiple doors had been forced open.  Deputies were able to contact the owner of the residence who was out of the area.

The owner told the deputies there was a BMW 321i that should have been parked at the home. Deputies discovered that vehicle was also stolen. Deputies had dispatch broadcast that the BMW was stolen to local law enforcement and entered it into the Stolen Vehicle System.

On 3-3-2013, deputies were notified by a friend of the victim that was checking on the home that the home had been broken into again, and additional items were stolen including a washer and dryer.  It appeared the suspects had returned to the residence overnight.

Deputies responded again to the residence and observed fresh entry damage to the home that had been secured since the last burglary.  An apartment on the property had also been broken into.

On 03-03-2013, approximately 11:15 p.m. a Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Deputy spotted the stolen BMW in the McDonalds parking lot in the 1700 block of Fourth Street in Eureka.

Deputies arrested Harley Wayne Hammers Jr., 36-years-old from McKinleyville, and Shavonne Patricia Pratt (aka Shavonne Hammers), 34-years-old from Lakeport.

Not the sharpest tools in the shed, Mr. Hammers and Ms. Pratt were both arrested for possession of stolen property and possession of illicit drugs.  Mr. Hammers was also arrested on outstanding arrest warrants for possession of illicit drugs and being so dense light bends around him.

Ms. Pratt was booked into the Humboldt County Correctional facility and released on her own recognizance.  Mr. Hammers, the scoundrel that he is, was held on $105,000 bail.

This case is still an active investigation and more suspects are being identified.  Blue Lake Casino Security is assisting with the investigation by providing and reviewing video tapes. 

Stupid is as stupid does.

“I read about eight newspapers in a day.  When I’m in a town with only one newspaper, I read it eight times.”

~Will Rogers

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

Fairway Market Robbery

 On 02-28-2013, approximately 8:50 p.m. the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office was notified of an attempted robbery at the Fairway Market, 590 Herrick Avenue in Eureka.

When deputies arrived the clerk told the deputies a female entered the market at approximately 8:30 p.m. and stood near the front door of the store.   As soon as the clerk finished with a customer at the cash register, the female walked over to the counter and told the clerk, “Give me all your money or I will roll you”, while keeping both hands in her pocket.

The female repeated the demand for the money several more times.  No weapon was displayed.

Additional customers entered the store and the clerk told the female he was calling 911.  The female then told the clerk, “Go back to your own country”, and left the store.

The suspect left without obtaining any money and was last seen on foot, heading towards Meyers Avenue.  

 Deputies checked the area and were unable to locate the suspect.  The suspect is described as follows: White female adult, approximately mid 30’s, 5’3” to 5’6” in height, wearing glasses, dark pants, white shirt, dark coat or sweatshirt with a hood. 

 Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

Eureka High School Student Hit by Reckless and Intoxicated Driver

A Eureka High School Student was thrown across an intersection after being hit by an impaired driver yesterday.

The accident happened at the intersection of “I” and Del Norte streets, near Eureka High School, around 1 p.m. Friday afternoon.

Eureka Police said an officer witnessed the crash.  They said the unidentified student, who was in a cross walk, was hit when the driver recklessly passed several other cars before hitting the student.

The victim was conscious when medical personnel arrived but said she couldn’t remember details of the crash.  She was taken to St. Joseph Hospital.

After field sobriety tests were taken, EPD said the driver, identified as Cheyanne Samson, 23, of McKinleyville, was arrested for DUI causing serious injury.  Marijuana and a pipe were found during a search of her car.

EPD believes Samson was under the influence of a controlled substance and has been jailed for the crash.  The victim was taken to St. Joseph Hospital.

Missing Man Found Deceased

Yesterday, March 1 at approximately 12:15 p.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office was notified by a citizen that they located a male, believed to be missing person Jeffrey Panutsos in the woods near Redwood Fields.  the 20-year-old Panutsos was deceased.

Deputies responded to the scene and the Humboldt County Coroner’s Office was notified.  It appeared that Panutsos’ injuries were self inflicted.

Wayne Bare Trucking Abruptly Lays Off Workforce

The Wayne Bare Trucking Company has laid-off its workforce of dozens of truckers Friday.  It came somewhat as a suprise to workers.

Employees say they received two letters about their termination.  The first letter implied the business may close, while the second letter advised them of their benefits when their employment is terminated.

On Friday, March 1,  the company’s employee online scheduling site for informed the company’s truckers with a note thanking them for their service.  It seems they were abruptly out of work.

Wayne Bare Trucking had employed more than 60 local truckers.  Several were retained to help drive the company’s fleet of semi-trucks to a site where they will soon be auctioned off.

Owners of the local company could not be reached for further comment.  Employees say they have been talking with the local employment development department about their sudden layoffs and unemployment benefits.

Eureka’s Hikshari Trail Grand Opening Today

A grand opening celebration of the Hikshari trail will be held from 2-4 p.m. today at the foot of Truesdale Avenue in Eureka, just south of the Bayshore Mall.
  
Grant money from Pacific Gas and Electric, California River and Parkways and the Coastal Conservancy funded the $1.7 million dollar project and construction began in 2011.
 
Event goers can hear speakers involved in the Elk River Trail project and enjoy food and drinks from local vendors.

If you haven’t seen it, the new trail is a beautiful gem and wonderful addition for Eureka and Humboldt County.  You can also catch some good food at nearby Shamus T-Bones barbecue place, a very nice and new restaurant.

Del Norte County Chief Probation Officer Returns to Work Amidst Embezzlement Charges

After being arrested for embezzlement,  Del Norte County Chief Probation Officer Thomas Crowell has been reinstated to his position.

Crowell was put briefly on administrative leave after the charges surfaced.  Del Norte County Supervisors voted unanimously to reinstate Crowell yesterday until his criminal embezzlement case has been resolved.

In November, Crowell was arrested on suspicion of two counts of embezzlement after he allegedly stole $800 dollars from a bank account belonging to law enforcement administrators.

County officials say they reinstated Crowell because public funds are not involved, and the initial felony charges filed have been reduced to misdemeanors by the State Attorney General’s Office.

County officials say it’s likely that Crowell will return to work on Monday.

Bear River Endows HCSO with $300K

Members of the Bear River Band of the Rhonerville Rancheria presented a check to Sheriff Mike Downey at the Tribal Office in Loleta to the tune of $300,000.

The money presented will fund a full time sheriff’s deputy to specifically patrol the Eel River Valley for the next two years.

The tribe will also be providing a substation for the Sheriff’s Office inside of the Tribal headquarters building.  Tribe members say activity around the casino provides an ‘increased risk’ for incidents and they want to help provide safety for their patrons and an extra deputy on patrol.

State Awards $1.75 Million to Humboldt Clean Energy Project

The Redwood Coast Energy Authorityand HSU Schatz Center received approval for a breakthrough biomass power project yesterday.

The Redwood Coast Energy Authority of Eureka is the proposed recipient of $1.75 million in state funding for a community-scale renewable energy implementation project that will include a biomass power system at Blue Lake Rancheria, community-wide energy upgrades, and electric vehicle infrastructure.

The contract for the project is expected to be signed in June.  The grant comes from the California Energy Commission (CEC) and is aimed at enabling local renewable resources to supply electricity at competitive rates.

The project stems from renewable energy planning recommendations in the “RePower Humboldt Strategic Plan” and was a joint effort of the Schatz Energy Research Center (SERC) at Humboldt State University and the Energy Authority.

Ranked third among 30 submissions, the Energy Authority proposal is a collaboration among SERC, the Blue Lake Rancheria Tribal Government, and numerous other supporting project partners.

 Components of the project include:

• A renewable biomass gas-fuel cell combined heat and power system
• Energy upgrades throughout the Mad River Valley region
• Electric vehicle charging stations

The biomass power system will be sited at the Blue Lake Rancheria and has the potential to double the efficiency of generating electricity from biomass.  SERC will function as the engineering integrator for the biomass system.  SERC engineers have already pioneered advancements in hydrogen technology and fuel cells.

“We’re eager to work with our partners to bring this system
on-line,” said Peter Lehman, Founding Director of SERC.  “It will pioneer a new way to make renewable hydrogen available to produce electricity with fuel cells cleanly and efficiently.”

The energy upgrade project component focuses on energy efficiency, solar energy systems, and heat pumps for residences and businesses, training for equipment technicians, and other initiatives for energy conservation throughout the Mad River Valley Community.

“It is exciting to be making significant progress toward the Tribe’s goal of exceeding California’s renewable energy standards,” commented Jana Ganion, Energy Director for the Blue Lake Rancheria, “and this type of system may fulfill the
energy needs of similar communities through local, renewable
resources.”

The electric vehicle component will include installation of two charging stations within the Mad River Valley Community, and monitoring the performance of these stations over the course of one year.  This dovetails with other regional and state-level electric vehicle initiatives.

County Launches Online Discussion Forum:  Open Humboldt

Humboldt County launched Open Humboldt yesterday, an online platform designed to engage citizens in their input on a variety of topics and important County issues. To take part in the discussion, visit: www.co.humboldt.ca.us/openhumboldt.

County staff will read the statements from citizens and incorporate them into the decision-making process, empowering citizens by providing information on issues.

“We want the public to be part of the process,” said Board Chair Ryan Sundberg.  “This is an incredibly cost-effective way to empower residents to participate in County decisions from the privacy and convenience of their own home.”

The first topic on Open Humboldt asks: “How would you prioritize the County’s budget in fiscal year 2013-14?”  Citizens will have the opportunity to prioritize how County core services are restored or expanded.  The topic looks to expand on yesterday’s community budget meetings in which citizens, County staff, and the Board of Supervisors gathered at five sites around the county and discussed the upcoming fiscal year budget via live video conference.  You can check the topic out at the website listed above.

“Many Humboldt County residents live in remote, rural areas. It can take up to two hours for some people to get to Eureka, which makes it difficult for them to have input into important decisions that affect them,” said Third District Supervisor Mark Lovelace.  “Open Humboldt provides an online forum to make it easier for rural residents to stay involved and have their voices heard.”

Peak Democracy, a non-partisan company based in the Bay Area, developed the online platform.  Their mission is to broaden civic engagement and build public trust in government. About 50 other cities and counties across the country are using their unique service.

There’s no word yet as to whether citizens can also comment on the General Plan Update, which is slowly sinking into yet another morass of catastrophic and opinionated proportions.

* * * * * * *

 “If you don’t read the newspaper, you’re uninformed. If you read the newspaper, you’re mis-informed. And fine print is always bad news.  One reason cats are happier than people is they don’t read newspapers.”

~Mark Twain

But We’d Like To:  Catching Up On The Reports

–And Supervisor Mark Lovelace Sounds Off About Planning Commissioner Lee Ulansey

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

Knife-play on the Arcata Plaza by 18-Year-Old

On February 28, 2013 at approximately 8:49 pm, officers responded to the Arcata Plaza on the report of a subject that had just been stabbed.

Upon arrival to the area, officers located the victim lying on the sidewalk in the 900 block of H Street.  The victim was bleeding from multiple stab wounds to his right leg.

Arcata Fire Department and Arcata Mad River Ambulance were called to the scene.  The victim was transported to Mad River Community Hospital where he was treated and released.

While on scene, officers talked with witnesses and obtained a description of the suspect.  While on patrol in the Valley West area, the
suspect was located and detained in the parking lot at a local motel.
The suspect was subsequently identified by the victim.

Blake Broderick, 18 of Redlands, was booked into the Humboldt County
Correctional Facility for a violation of penal code section 245(a)(1), Assault
with a Deadly Weapon.

US Marshalls Arrest Two McKinleyville Men on Marijuana Conspiracy

Two McKinleyville men were indicted by the United States Government, Thursday, February 28, after an FBI drug raid on their homes.

The suspects are Henry Anthony Combs and Gregory John Harris.  Combs and Harris were arrested and taken into custody by the US Marshals Office on Wednesday.  The Humboldt County Drug Task Force assisted the Drug Enforcement Agency and FBI in searching their homes on Hiller Road in McKinleyville and Johnson Lane in Fieldbrook.
 
The indictment comes from a District Court out of Billings, Montana.  Law enforcement would not release what was found in the raid or why it involves Montana, but the allegedly criminal duo have been charged with conspiracy and intent to distribute marijuana.

They have both pleaded not guilty. Federal Judge Nandor Vadas released them both on $100,000 bond.
 
Law enforcement say Combs and Harris’ charges were unsealed in their indictment, but there are other people involved– and the case is ongoing.

42 Pounds of Weed, 1 1/2 Ounces of Meth

From the Eureka Police Department: 
 
On 02/27/2013, a detective with the Eureka Police Department’s Problem Oriented Policing Unit (POP) conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of 7th and ‘B’ Streets in Eureka.

As a result of the enforcement stop Gilberto Farias Lopez (age 25) was arrested for Driving on a Suspended License, Possession of Methamphetamine, and Possession of Marijuana.

Information gathered from the traffic stop led to a search warrant service at Lopez’s residence in the 6700 block of Harrison Street in Fields Landing.

During a search of the residence, detectives located additional methamphetamine and marijuana. At the conclusion of the investigation,
detectives seized a sizable 42 pounds of processed Marijuana and 1.6 ounces
of methamphetamine.
 
EPD asks that anyone with information concerning suspected drug activity, or other nuisances occurring in the City of Eureka is encouraged to call the Problem Oriented Policing Unit at (707) 441-4373.  

McKinleyville Gas, Cash, and Grab

On 2-27-13 at about 3 in the morning, Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a reported burglary at the 76 Gas Station in the 2600 block of Central Avenue, McKinleyville.

Sheriff’s units arrived within minutes and learned from the clerk that an unknown suspect had entered the gas station through a backdoor and stole an undisclosed amount of cash from the register before fleeing out the front door.  At the time of the burglary the clerk was outside in front of the business and saw the suspect flee.

The suspect was last seen running westbound on Reasor Road from Central
Avenue.

Deputies checked the area and did not locate the suspect.  The business was open at the time of the theft.

The suspect is described as a:

• Male (unknown age or race)
• Approximately 5’4, 150 lbs
• Wearing a black hoodie, a ski mask, blue jeans, and black shoes with white trim

This investigation is on going and anyone with information is ask to call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Tip Line at 707-268-2539.

Missing Person: Jeffrey Panutsos, 20, of Eureka

Updated Below:  Panutsos Found Deceased

On 2-27-13 at about 1000 hours, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a concerned relative of Jeffrey Panutsos reporting him as a missing person.  The relative informed the Sheriff’s Office he was last seen on 2-26-13 at about 2:00 p.m., when he left for a walk in the 3200 block of Cedar Street in Eureka.

The sheriff’s office also learned that Panutsos frequently walks in the areas of Redwood Fields, Sequoia Park, and other forested areas surrounding these locations.  The relative is concerned because he suffers from unspecified medical conditions and for him to be gone overnight is unusual.

The sheriff’s office is asking the public’s help in locating Panutsos.  Panutsos is described as a:

• White male, age 20
• 6’2, 175-180 lbs.
• Blond hair and green eyes

Panutsos was last seen wearing a green sweatshirt with “Humboldt” printed on the front, blue jeans, dark colored Van shoes and a black beanie cap.

Panutsos has been entered in the state missing persons’ database and other local law enforcement agencies have been alerted.

UPDATE: 

Officials have confirmed that a missing Eureka man Jeffrey Panutsos, 20, was unfortunately found deceased today, March 1, by members of a search party who went looking for him at Redwood Fields in Cutten around noon.  His death is being considered a suicide, officials said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Tip Line 707-268-2539.

Sean Hawk Pleads ‘Not Guilty’ in Manslaughter Case

Sean Hawk has entered a not guilty plea on February 27 for the crash that left an Orleans man dead.

Hawk has been charged with Vehicular Manslaughter with Gross Negligence, with a special allegation that he fled the scene.

Mr. Hawk was on the run from law enforcement for about two weeks when the California Highway Patrol finally caught him in Siskiyou County on February 24th.

The CHP say Hawk is responsible for the crash that killed 25-year-old Virgil Martin as he was walking on Highway 96 in Orleans in mid-February.

Hawk’s bail has been set at $75,000 and he’s due to return
back to court in March to face the music. 

Supervisor Lovelace Delivers the Final E-Mail Diss to Lee Ulansey

If you’ve read this far, the Humboldt Sentinel thanks and salutes you!

OK, it’s not crime, felons, or their felonies.  It’s just an FYI thing that we expect to heat up as the General Plan Update slowly unravels before our eyes like a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat. 

An observant reader sent us this post blasted out by Supervisor Mark Lovelace regarding the controversial appointment of HumCPR Director Lee Ulansey to the Humboldt County Planning Commission.

We checked it out.  It’s bona-fide:

“I could not disagree more strongly with my Board’s choice for this appointment.

Mr. Ulansey is the President of an organization that describes itself as being at “war” with the County, and has backed that up by filing two lawsuits against the County over planning-related matters.

As a Planning Commissioner, he will hear recommendations from planning staff, whom he has repeatedly said cannot be trusted.  He will receive legal guidance from County Counsel, who he has accused of not following the law.  Where will he take his recommendations from?  Who will he turn to for legal counsel?

He has suggested that both Supervisor Fennell and I should recuse ourselves on any issue regarding the General Plan Update because of our involvement with interest groups prior to running for the Board.

Does that mean he should recuse himself, too?”

 * * * * * * * *

Can’t we all just get along?  Have a good weekend, folks… Skips

Four Reports of Humboldt Skullduggery

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

McKinleyville High Copper Wire Thieves:

Yesterday, February 25 at 1:30 p.m., the Humboldt County
Sheriff’s Office received a call from McKinleyville High School reporting a theft of copper wire.

When the deputy responded to the High School, officials told the investigating deputy the unknown suspect(s) stole a large quantity of copper wire from the football stadium lights which are brand new.

The suspect(s) removed the access panels that exposed the conduit for the stadium lighting and removed it.

The high school is still evaluating the actual loss and damage; however it is estimated to be at least $1000.00 in copper wire alone.

The suspects used a pulling object and hacksaw to remove the wire.  The cost of rewiring the football field could be extensive.

Officials told the deputy they believe the wire was removed on the night of February 21, 2013.

Anyone with information for the Sheriffs Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriffs Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriffs Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

Good Morning, Sunshine:

Arcata Police have arrested a women wanted on a burglary
warrant out of Redding.

Erica Vancura was found sleeping in her car at the ‘Liquor Still’ parking lot off Giuntoli Lane Monday morning, February 25.

In her possession were medications that were reported stolen from a residential burglary that took place in Eureka, APD said.

Before searching her vehicle, police also found that she was wanted for a Redding burglary, too.

In addition to her Shasta County warrant, Ms. Vancura was also arrested and booked into the Humboldt County Jail for possession of stolen property, APD said.

Honey, we hope you can face the music and get into rehab before you wind up in prison.  Consider this a courtesy wake-up
call.

Redcrest Marijuana Grow Investigation:

Car Thieves:

On Saturday, February 23 at approximately 11:30 a.m., a Eureka Police officer, who was operating a patrol unit outfitted with the Automated License Plate Reader, received a “stolen hit” on a vehicle, which was traveling north on “E” Street near Sonoma Street.

The officer broadcasted the information to other EPD Units and the vehicle was quickly located still traveling north on “E” Street.

A traffic stop was conducted on the vehicle which failed to yield for several blocks while traveling at low speeds, but failing to stop at posted stop signs, and driving erratically.

The vehicle eventually pulled into a parking lot at the Eureka Inn and a high risk traffic stop was conducted.

The vehicle was occupied by two subjects, who were taken into custody without incident.

The driver, identified as Thomas Dale Applewhite– 18-years-old from Eureka– was arrested and booked at the Humboldt County Jail on charges of:

• Possession of stolen property
• Failure to yield
• Driving under the influence of a controlled substance and or alcohol
• Driving without a license
• Probation violation

Applewhite was released from jail on a promise to appear later on this same date.

The passenger, identified as Kristina Campos, 25-years-old, from Eureka, was arrested and booked on a violation of public intoxication.

The registered owner of the vehicle was contacted and their stolen vehicle was returned to them at the scene.

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

Three Arrested; Three Ounces of Methamphetamine and $7K Seized

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

On Friday, Februrary 22 at 9:45 a.m. a Humboldt County Sheriff’s deputy working patrol in Trinidad City limits stopped
a Grey 2005 Jeep Cherokee for a traffic violation– failure to
wear seatbelts– in the 200 block of Main Street in Trinidad.

After the vehicle stopped, the HCSO deputy ran a wants and warrants check on the driver, identified as  Rachael Squire, aka Hardy, 21-years-old, from Eureka.

Ms. Squire-Hardy was driving on a suspended driver’s license and was on probation for drug possession with a search clause.  She also had a warrant out for her arrest for possession of stolen property.

The deputy also checked wants and warrants on the three passengers in the vehicle.

One of the passengers, Esteban Domingo Arredondo,
32-years-old from McKinleyville, had warrants for his arrest for
possession of illicit drugs and possession of stolen property.  He
was also on felony probation for burglary and drug possession with
a search clause.

Another female in the vehicle, Michelle Lynn McDaniel, 21-years-old from Eureka, had a warrant for her arrest for petty theft and three counts of possession of stolen property.

After arresting three of the four occupants of the vehicle, deputies conducted a probation search of the vehicle.  They located approximately 3 ounces of suspected methamphetamine, along with approximately $7,000.00 in cash.

Arrendondo, Squire and McDaniel were all arrested and transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility, the HCSO said.

Esteban Domingo Arredondo was arrested for:

• Warrants
• Transportation of methamphetamine
• Possession of methamphetamine for sale
• Violation of probation
• Possession of drug paraphernalia

Arredondo’s bail was set at $115,000.00.

Rachel Squire aka Hardy was arrested for:

• Transportation of methamphetamine
• Driving on a suspended license
• Violation of probation

Her bail was set at $55,000.00.

Michelle Lynn McDaniel was arrested for transportation and possession for sale of methamphetamine.  She was booked and released on her own recognizance.

Anyone with information for the Sheriffs Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

* * * * * * * * *

Still more probationers running amok without supervision?  Good grief.

The Humboldt Sentinel has reported on over a hundred similar situations in the past year after we started paying attention, and noticing that there was something seriously wrong in our law enforcement system.

We noticed there’s a wide gaping black hole of criminal accountability where there shouldn’t be one.

The County Probation Department should start monitoring their clients, testing them, and actively supervising them per their court-ordered dispostions.  That’s their job and that’s what they get paid the Big Money for.

This is truly bordering between the negligent and the ridiculous and the inept as these repeated examples of probation fails are showing time and time again.

The community, its citizens, and law enforcement, deserve better.  Criminals, adjudicated by the Courts and given conditions of probation to avoid prison sentences, need to be held accountable and supervised.

Period.

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

Landlords and Angry Tenants Don’t Mix

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

From the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office on Saturday:

On Saturday, February 23 at approximately 1:30 p.m., the
Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area of
Mattole Road and North Fork Road in Petrolia for the report
of a gunshot victim.

Deputies arrived in the area in less than 5 minutes and located a male victim with a gunshot wound.  The victim was air-lifted to an out-of-the-area hospital for treatment. 

A short time later, HCSO deputies located a male suspect, who was detained.  Additionally the suspected firearm was located and recovered.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is working with the Humboldt County District Attorney Investigators at this time and this case is on-going.

 The Sheriff’s Office reported today:

On 02-23-2013, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from a citizen regarding a 57-year-old male gunshot victim located in the 1500 block of North Fork Road in Petrolia.

Deputies were already enroute to the Petrolia area regarding an unrelated call and arrived at the victim’s residence with medical personnel.  Bureau of Land Management (BLM) had a Ranger who was also in the area and responded to the scene to assist.  When deputies arrived on scene, they were told the suspect was armed and still in the area. 

The victim and the victim’s girlfriend told the deputies the suspect was Evans “Chompers” Rupert Cook, 53-years-old, of Petrolia.

Cook is the brother of the victim’s girlfriend and rents a house from the victim which is on the same parcel as the victim’s home.  Cook had been having an ongoing dispute with the victim.

On 02-23-2013, approximately 1:00 p.m., the victim drove on his property to feed his livestock.  While doing so he drove by the home that Cook rents from him.  When driving by the home, Cook suddenly started to shoot at the victim with a rifle while the victim was driving by.

The victim and his vehicle were struck by the rounds.

The victim immediately abandoned his vehicle and fled on foot.  He ran to his residence which is nearby for help.  When the victim got home, his girlfriend called for help.

Deputies searched the area for Cook and located him leaving the area in a White Chevy Suburban.

Deputies and a California Highway Patrol Officer (CHP) initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle and arrested Cook.

Cook was booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon, with bail set at $500,000.00.

Deputies recovered a rifle that was believed to be used in the assault.  The Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office assisted Sheriff’s Detectives in this investigation.

The victim was transported to an out of area hospital for treatment and is expected to recover from his injuries.

Anyone with information for the Sheriffs Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539, the HCSO said.

* * * * * * * *

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

–Riverbar Fun Goes Sour–

Authorities Seek Felon Curtis Flowers After He Flees Hospital

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

Remember when riverbar parties and bonfires involved
hanging out, playing guitars, roasting marshmallows–
and not beating the crap out of people?

From the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On Sunday, February 17 at approximately 1:00 a.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from a citizen who reported three males were at a large party in the area of East Ferry Road in Ferndale and were assaulting several people.

Sheriff’s Deputies, California Highway Patrol officers, and Ferndale Police responded to the scene.  While deputies were enroute they were advised the three male suspects were attempting to leave the area in a dark colored KIA Rio.

A Ferndale Police Officer spotted the Kia SUV near
Fernbridge and stopped it.  Deputies and CHP officers
joined the Ferndale Officer and detained the three males
who were in the vehicle.

The officers saw the occupants had fresh injuries to them.  They also showed signs of alcohol intoxication.  The officers could also see open alcoholic containers in the vehicle.

The three subjects were identified as:

• Douglas Wayne Flowers, 43-years-old, and from Fortuna;
• Curtis Flowers, 22-years-old, from Fortuna;
• Christopher James Hanly, 23-years-old, from McKinleyville

All three men were were detained.  To note, Douglas Flowers is the father of Curtis Flowers; Curtis was the driver of the KIA Rio.  Medical personnel were requested to respond to the scene and treat them for their injuries.

Deputies then contacted witness and the victims.

They were told by the witness and victims that the Flowers and Hanly showed up at the party on the Ferndale River bar intoxicated.

The suspects shouted “White Pride”, as they walked around through
the crowd.  They were asked to calm down by party attendees; Curtis
Flowers started pushing people and challenging them to fight.

An 18-year-old female attempted to leave the party in a Toyota Pickup truck
because of Curtis Flowers’ behavior.  As she got into the truck, Curtis Flowers
walked up to the truck and swung the truck door open.  In doing so, the door struck another 18-year-old female who was watching what was occurring and standing near the pickup truck.

When the female who was struck by the door made a comment about being struck by the door to Curtis Flowers, he punched her in the face with a closed fist.  When the injured female got back up, Douglas Flowers punched her in the face knocking her back to the ground.  The female immediately fell to the
ground a second time.

Meantime, the female who had been in the truck exited the truck to assist the assaulted and injured female.  She was punched in the face, too, which knocked her to the ground and unconscious.

A 16-year-old male was close by and came to both females’ aid.  He was was punched in the eye by Curtis Flowers.  Then all three suspects– Curtis Flowers, Douglas Flowers and Christopher Hanly– began punching him in the face after knocking him to the ground.

Deputies could see the 16-year-old’s eye was swollen almost shut.  One of the 18-year-old females received a broken jaw which required surgery at a local hospital.  The other female refused medical attention.

Curtis Flowers

Curtis Flowers was transported by ambulance and admitted to Redwood Memorial Hospital for a cut on his neck; however he fled from the hospital the same day, February 17, at around 5:00 p.m.

Fortuna Police checked the area for him but were unable to locate him.  A ‘Be-on-The-Lookout’ was broadcast to local law enforcement for his apprehension.  Curtis Flowers is on State Parole for a conviction of Assault with a Deadly Weapon.  Now, he’s wanted for:

• Assault Causing Great Bodily Injury
• Driving under the Influence
• Assault and Battery
• Violation of Parole

Douglas Flowers and Christopher Hanly were both arrested and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility.

Douglas Flowers was booked for Assault Causing Great Bodily Injury and Public Intoxication.  His bail was set at $50,000.00.

Mr. Hanly was booked for Assault, Probation Violation, and Public Intoxication.  For reasons we don’t fully understand given his probation status, he was surprisingly released on his own recognizance in spite of his apparent stupidity.

The Sheriff’s Office will be increasing patrols in the Eel River area for the foreseeable future to help curtail parties and other criminal activity.

We can only hope Probation and Parole Agents can supervise their clients as well.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251, or the Sheriffs Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539, the HCSO said.

HCSO Widens Investigation into Ryan Floyd’s Alleged SoHum Burglaries

–Not-So-Pretty Boy Floyd Ripping and Pissing Off Neighbors–

Staff Report
Humboldt Sentinel

It’s been a busy past couple of day for the HCSO.

The Sheriff’s Office announced a press conference this morning regarding the continuing investigation of the Flint Rock Road incident and suspect Ryan Floyd, and to allow photographs of the 100 firearms that were seized yesterday by law enforcement.  Sheriff Mike Downey was at the conference with details of the widening stolen firearms and multiple burglary investigation, below.

Here’s the background and pictures of what happened yesterday:

On February 12 at 9:00 a.m., Humboldt County Sheriff’s Deputies and California Highway Patrol Officers returned to 500 Flint Rock Road in Garberville.

Deputies obtained a Humboldt County Superior Court search warrant for the residence and property after receiving new information from citizens about possible additional stolen property in the residence and on the property.

When the deputies arrived they located Deanna McDonald, 33-years-old and her two small children at the residence.  Deputies searched McDonald’s vehicle parked at the residence and
found a loaded .45 caliber semi-automatic
handgun.  McDonald was issued a notice to appear
for possession of a loaded weapon by a prohibited
person and released at the scene to care for her two
small children, one which was an infant.

Deputies searched the residence and located stolen jewelry that had been reported stolen in a residential burglary of a nearby residence. Deputies also located a stolen new UTV Kubota Tractor on the property, along with a stolen concrete cutter, air compressor and what is believed to be numerous stolen chainsaws.  Many of these items were reported stolen from local residences in the Eel River Valley, Dyerville and Highway 36 areas.

Deputies continued the search for a cache of firearms that they believed was stashed somewhere on the property based on the numerous empty gun cases they found during
earlier searches.

During the search of the 55-acre property, an alert deputy located a cave in some rocks that was covered with brush.  Upon further investigation the deputy discovered the cave was filled with numerous firearms.

Deputies recovered 100 weapons on the property, 99 of which were in that cave.  Of the weapons recovered at least 20 are confirmed as stolen.

Deputies recovered a fully automatic MG 42 caliber WW II Machine gun that is belt fed– and with a belt full of ammunition.  In the weapons cache were numerous assault weapons
including SKS, Colt AR-15’s, sawed off shotguns with
pistol grips, and Tech Nine assault weapons.

Several of the assault weapons are to believed to be
fully automatic.  Many of the weapons were loaded.

Deputies are continuing to try to determine what is– and what is not– reported stolen property.  Citizens that are missing property, especially a firearm and who live in the area of Flint Rock Road may E-mail Sheriff’s Property Technician Ryan Chamberlain at Rchamberlain@co.humboldt.ca.us.

This is an ongoing investigation.  Additional charges against Ryan Floyd, who resembles Alfred E. Newman, will be sought.

PREVIOUS UPDATE:

The investigation into Ryan Floyd is continuing, the HCSO said.

Deputies initially located 42 grams of hashish at Floyd’s residence, an additional four grams of suspected methamphetamine, an additional stolen trailer ( besides the stolen car), thousands of rounds of various ammunition, twenty ballistic
vests, numerous tactical holsters and empty rifle
cases, and a total of 6 high capacity magazines.

The Sheriff’s Office is continuing their investigation into this case and the California Highway Patrol is assisting with processing the numerous vehicles on the property to determine whether or not they are stolen.

The total amount of dried marijuana bud seized on the property was approximately 117 pounds.

Previously, on February 7, at 8:30 a.m., Humboldt County Sheriff’s Deputies and Humboldt County Drug Task Force Agents conducted a probation search at the residence of Ryan Floyd, 30-years-old, in the 500 block of Flint Rock Road (off Wade Road ) in Garberville.

When deputies arrived at the residence they located Floyd and arrested him on the outstanding no bail felony warrant for his arrest.  Deputies on scene conducted a probation search of the residence.

So far deputies have located:

• 45 pounds of dried marijuana bud
• $12,000.00 cash
• A .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun
• 1 oz of suspected heroin
• 2 grams of suspected methamphetamine
• Body armor
• Numerous loaded high capacity magazines
• Scales
• Drug paraphernalia
• Other indications of drug sales
• And what is estimated to be over forty vehicles,
  along with numerous all terrain vehicles.

One of the vehicles is confirmed stolen.  Deputies anticipate being at the residence for a lengthy period of time conducting their investigation and searching the property and vehicles.

Besides the outstanding arrest warrant, Floyd was arrested for:

• Possession of a controlled substance
• Possession of a controlled substance for sale
• Cultivation of marijuana
• Possession of marijuana for sale
• Illegal possession of a firearm magazine
• llegal possession of ammunition by a convicted felon
• llegal possession of a firearm
• Violation of probation

Other charges may be added as the investigation continues.  He was transported and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he his being held without bail.

Deputies also located a second male on the property identified as Gregory Benson, 48-years-old, from Garberville.  Benson was arrested and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for illegal possession of ammunition and a firearm by a prohibited person.  His bail was set at $50,000.

So how did it all begin?  With a very slow speed chase.

On February 2. a deputy attempted to pull over a black Chevy Silverado pickup truck for driving erratically and with no rear license plate on Dyerville Loop Road and Fort Seward Road in the Dyerville area of Humboldt County.

When the deputy activated his overhead lights the vehicle
failed to stop– and a pursuit was initiated.

A slow speed pursuit traveled east on Fort Seward road at speeds of around 30 mph.  At one point the pickup traveled onto the middle fork of the Eel River on the gravel bar before looping back onto Fort Seward Road.

A second HCSO deputy caught up with the original deputy and they continued pursing the vehicle on Fort Seward Road at speeds of approximately 30 mph.  When the vehicle drove up to the intersection of Dyerville Loop Road and Fort Seward Road, it turned south onto Dyerville Loop road.

Approximately one half mile later, the vehicle drove off the roadway and down a hillside before crashing into a tree.  When deputies reached the vehicle it was unoccupied. 
Deputies learned the vehicle was registered to a
residence in the 29000 block of Alderpoint Road in
Garberville.

When contact was made with the registered owners of the truck, they were on vacation out of the area.  A relative checked their residence and learned the vehicle was just stolen from their residence and their residence had been burglarized.

The Sheriff’s Office was asking for the public’s help in locating Ryan Floyd, until they recently found him.  His companion, Honey Walsh, is a persons of interest in this case and presumably still wanted for questioning and some ’splainin’ to do.

Floyd was described as follows:

• White male adult
• 30-years-old
• 5-8 and 155 pounds
• Strawberry blond hair

Floyd currently has a no-bail felony warrant for his arrest for being armed while possessing narcotics issued by Humboldt County Superior Court.

Honey Walsh is described as:

White Female adult

• 29-years-old
• 5-6, and 130 lbs
• Brown hair and green eyes

Miss Honey-Pot is from the Cave Junction, Oregon, area.  She has a misdemeanor warrant for her arrest for possession of a controlled substance out of Humboldt County Superior Court.

* * * * * * * * *

You can click on the pictures to biggify.  If you recognize your gun, contact the HCSO, above.  Or not.

Groceries, guns, and ammunition.  You just can’t have enough of them to get by these days.  Lawyers, too.

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

Multiple Reports by Law Enforcement Agencies

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

Dead Body Found on Samoa Beach

Deputies from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office recovered
a body near the Samoa Dunes yesterday morning.

Little information is available at this time regarding the details of the discovery, the identity of the man, or the circumstances of his death.

According to the HSCO, deputies brought the body of an unidentified man from the shoreline to land at about noon Sunday.

Officials said the body was discovered by ATV riders who happened to be passing by on the trails.

An investigation on the possible cause of death is underway, officials said.

The body was taken to the Humboldt County’s Coroner’s Office where personnel will examine dental records in an attempt to identify the remains.

More information will be made available from the Sheriff’s Office at a later time, the HCSO and Coroner’s Office said.

Attempted Smash ‘N Grab at Adventure’s Edge

This morning, February 11 at about 4:43 a.m., Arcata Police Department officers were dispatched to the Adventure’s Edge business located at 650 10th Street for a burglary alarm.

An alert citizen also called APD to report the front window to the business was broken out and gave a description of the suspect.

Officers responded and found a large glass display window broken out of the business.  A bicycle, belonging to the business and still attached
to a security cable, was sitting outside the window.  

Officers checked the area and located a subject matching the suspect description one block away from the business.

After conducting an investigation, APD officers arrested 21-year-old Dylan Joshua Zingg of Crescent City for commercial burglary.

Zingg was taken to the hospital for injuries caused by the broken glass and later transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked on burglary charges.

Stabbing at Sal’s

On Februrary 9 at about 50 minutes past midnight, officers of the Eureka Police Department were dispatched to a reported stabbing at Sal’s Off-Broadway bar.

Upon arrival, officers found a male lying on the floor.  He was being attended to by patrons of the bar, due to bleeding wounds to his neck and throat area.  A second subject was located fighting with security and other bar patrons.

The security staff was trying to detain the subject, later identified as Clinton Robert Myers (27 years old of Eureka), who was bleeding heavily from the face.  Officers were advised by witnesses that Myers had stabbed the second subject in the throat.

Officers confronted Myers and after a short struggle, were able to take him into custody.  During this confrontation, Myers sprayed two officers in the face with blood that he expelled on them.

Medical personnel arrived on scene moments later and transported the victim to St. Joseph ER for treatment for his wounds.  Myers was also transported to St. Joseph ER for treatment, prior to being taken to the Eureka Police Department for questioning.

Detectives and an evidence technician were summoned to the scene to process the scene for evidence and interview the large number of witnesses to the assault.

Myers was eventually booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility on charges of assault with a deadly weapon.

He is being held on $50,000 bail.  This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact Detective Harpham at 707-441-4305.

Sisterly Love and Assault

On February 7, at approximately 4:30 p.m.,  Humboldt County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the 1100 block of Vista Drive in McKinleyville regarding an assault with a vehicle that just occurred.

When the deputies arrived they met with the 39-year-old male victim.  He told the deputies his 36-year-old sister, Renea Soderberg, had been drinking alcoholic beverages and was angry with him.

His sister is transient, occasionally sleeps in his garage, and was upset after he told some of her friends to leave his residence, the victim said.  The situation went downhill from there.

She began yelling at him as he was getting into his white 2012 Ford F-350 pickup truck and backing out of his driveway.

Ms. Soderberg then got into her silver 1998 Chevy Silverado Pickup truck and accelerated rapidly towards him.  She struck his vehicle in the driver’s side door, causing an approximately four-inch deep dent in the door.  She backed up and struck his vehicle again in the front.

A witness reported seeing her back up and strike the victim’s vehicle approximately four times.  Deputies found damage to the residence’s lawn caused by the spinning tires of Soderberg’s vehicle
during the assault.  The victim, her brother, was not injured.

Deputies located Renea Soderberg’s vehicle in the 900 block of Vista Drive, McKinleyville, with signs of fresh damage consistent with the victim’s account as to what occurred.  Deputies were unable to locate Renea Soderberg at that time.

On Februrary 8, at approximately 2:30 in the morning. deputies were dispatched to a report of a ’suspicious woman’ in the 1100 block of Vista Drive in McKinleyville.

When they arrived, they located Ms. Soderberg.

She was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon and transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility, where she was booked.

At the Correctional Facility, a small bag of methamphetamine was located on Soderberg by Correctional Officers during her booking search.  Soderberg was charged with the additional charge of possession of an illegal drug.

Her bail was set at $50,000.

* * * * * * * * * *

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

Hoopa Valley Tribe Focusing on Drug Eradication Efforts

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

The Hoopa Valley Tribe has been conducting a series of high profile busts on tribal lands to curb drug activity in the
past few weeks.

On January 27, 2013, after receiving information of drug activity from community members, the Hoopa Valley Tribal Police Department with the assistance of the:

• US Forest Service
• Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office
• and the Humboldt County Drug Task Force

–said they conducted two probation searches and executed a search warrant at two residences on Grasshopper Lane in Hoopa.

Officers located 34.7 grams of heroin and 18.8 grams of methamphetamine
packaged for sales.

Officers also located and seized two loaded firearms, one of which had a high-capacity magazine, and approximately $3,500 in cash.

Those arrested during the operation were:

• Karen Hostler, 54, for H&S 11378 possession of a controlled substance for sales;  H&S 11366.5 maintaining a residence for the sales of controlled substances; and PC 273 a (a) child endangerment likely to produce great bodily harm,
• David Hostler, 28, for H&S 11351 Possession for sales;  H&S 11370.1 possession of a controlled substance while armed with a firearm,
• Shoshoni Gensaw, 30, for resisting or obstructing a police officer.

Also wanted in connection with this case is 30-year-old Amanda Hostler.

The Hoopa Valley Tribal Police asked that anyone with information on Ms. Hostler’s  whereabouts should contact the Hoopa Police Department or the HCSO.

These arrests comes on the heels of the two-day narcotics enforcement operation conducted by Hoopa Valley Tribal Police Department two weeks ago, resulting in 10 arrests.

Tribal police at that time, with the assistance of the U.S. Forest Service, seized:

• 38.5 grams of methamphetamine
• Four grams of cocaine
• 4.4 grams of heroin
• 13.6 grams of hashish
• About a pound of marijuana
• And two loaded handguns.

Arrested in relation to the narcotics operation were:

• Richard Carpenter, 51-years-old
• Michael Atkins, 56
• Bishop Little Feather Rivas, 25
• Dawn Colegrove, 24
• Terry Ballard, 25
• Charlotte Frank, 46
• Timothy Perry Jr., 26
• Don Colegrove, 27
• Angela Risling, 26
• Jessie Mosier, 31

The Hoopa Tribal Police ask that anyone with information regarding the
sale of controlled substances to call the department at 530-625-4202.

* * * * * * * *

If you haven’t noticed, the Tribe has become serious about drug activity on the Rez as of late.

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

$10,000 of Equipment Lost to Thieves (PICS)

Staff Report
Humboldt Sentinel

On Sunday, January 27, at approximately 12:00 noon the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a call from the station manager of KIEM News reporting a burglary to the
station.

A deputy responded to 5650 South Broadway Avenue in Eureka and met with the station manager. 

He reported that someone stole four news video cameras and a scanner from a single wide trailer located behind the building.  There were no signs of forced entry.

The stolen items were last seen in the trailer at 8:30 p.m. Saturday night, January 26, and were discovered missing on Sunday, January 27, at approximately 11:00 a.m.

The news station and the Humboldt County Sheriff’s office is requesting the public be on the lookout for:

• Three stolen Sony cameras
• A Panasonic camera
• A  Radio Shack scanner

The estimated loss is $10,000.00, the HCSO said.

Anyone with information for the Sheriffs Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

HCSO Officer to Return to Duty after Investigation

–Updated Below–

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

Humboldt County Sheriff Mike Downey held a news conference today in the early afternoon concerning Saturday’s officer-involved shooting of a fleeing suspect’s vehicle.

This is the summary of what he told the press in attendance in a prepared statement:

The deputy involved in the officer-involved shooting has been cleared to return to full duty.  Sheriff Downey made the decision to return four-year veteran deputy Conan Moore, 31-years-old, to full duty after speaking with Critical Incident Response Team (C.I.R.T.) Investigators and the Humboldt County District Attorneys’ Office.

Sheriff Downey believes Deputy Moore’s actions were lawful and within policy.

C.I.R.T. Investigators continue with their investigation into this incident.

On January 23, a search warrant issued by Humboldt County Superior Court was served on the vehicle that (Elliot Michael) Walin was driving (and that the Deputy shot at).

When members of the C.I.R.T. searched the vehicle they located:

•  A loaded .380 semi-auto handgun between the seats,
• A sawed off shotgun in the rear of the car,
• And suspected methamphetamine.

Additional charges against Walin are being sought.

These were the details of the incident previously given by the HCSO in their release:

On January 19, 2013, at approximately 4:15 a.m., a Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office deputy driving a marked patrol car was southbound on Thompkins Hill road when he saw black 2002 Honda two door hatchback driving erratically and over the double yellow line.

The deputy attempted a traffic stop on the Honda, but the vehicle failed to stop.

The deputy initiated a pursuit and followed the Honda which turned onto Hookton Road, then south on Eel River Drive reaching speeds up to 65 mph.  When the reached Loleta it attempted to turn onto Loleta Drive where it spun out of control causing it to strike the curb.

The deputy exited his vehicle to apprehend the occupants. When the deputy exited his patrol vehicle he saw the male driver had a handgun in his hand.

The male driver then drove at the deputy who discharged his duty weapon at the vehicle, striking it.

The Honda ran over the deputy’s foot as it fled the deputy again.  The deputy re-initiated a pursuit of the vehicle which was now southbound on Eel River Drive.  The Honda lost control at Eel River and Copenhagen Road, Loleta, running off the road.

The male driver fled the car still holding the handgun and the female passenger also exited the Honda.  They both ran off on foot in separate
directions.

Additional law enforcement arrived on scene and a perimeter was established.  A Eureka Police K-9 arrived to assist with the search of the area.

The K-9 located Elliott Michael Walin, 29-years-old, from Fortuna hiding in a nearby drainage and covered in mud.  Walin was wanted on a no-bail probation violation warrant and was arrested on that warrant, along with new charges of:

• Attempted murder
• Assault with a deadly weapon
• Resisting/obstructing an executive officer
• Evading a police officer
• Resisting arrest

Prior to be transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility, Walin was transported to a local hospital where he was treated and released for the dog bite wounds sustained from the K-9.

He is being held without bail in the Humboldt County Correctional Facility.

Deputies located Jill Deanna Winnop, 35-years-old and from Fortuna, hiding in bushes nearby.  She was arrested for resisting arrest.  She was booked into the
Humboldt County Correctional Facility.  Her bail set at
$10,000.00.

Walin and Winnop were not struck or injured by the deputy’s gunfire, only the vehicle they were driving was hit.

The deputy was transported to a different hospital and was treated and released for an injury to his foot.  He is expected to make a full recovery.

The deputy was been placed on Administrative Leave which is standard protocol when they have been involved in an on-duty use of deadly force.  The Humboldt County Critical Incident Response Team (C.I.R.T.) was activated to investigate this shooting.

Investigators from the Eureka Police Department, Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office and Humboldt County District Attorneys Office are investigating this incident.

Investigators were at the scene of the crime searching the fields for the firearm which Walin had– and has not been recovered as of yet.

Walin was recently released from California State Prison due to prison realignment (AB109). He was on Parole Revocation Community Supervision and
was wanted for violating those terms.

* * * * * * * * *

UPDATE:  Readers may be interested in knowing Mr. Walin’s prior history and sentencing contained in the comments below.

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

Nicholas Grant Robinson, Eureka, Arrested for Heroin and Meth

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

On January 22 at about 6:30 p.m., a Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant on routine patrol noticed a
suspicious vehicle parked on Vance Avenue near
Highway 255 in Manila.

The Sergeant contacted the sole occupant of the vehicle who he identified as Nicholas Grant Robinson, age 28, from Eureka.

The Sergeant checked Robinson’s name through his dispatch for any possible arrest warrants.  The dispatcher advised that Robinson was on probation for a narcotics violation and had a search and seizure clause.

The Sergeant then advised Robinson that he was going to search his person and his vehicle.  The Sergeant then located what appeared to be about ¼ of a pound of heroin hidden in the fuse box underneath the dash board in the vehicle.  The Sergeant also located about a 1/8 of gram of methamphetamine in the vehicle.

Robinson was then placed under arrest.  The Humboldt County Drug
Task Force was contacted to take over the investigation.

Humboldt County Drug Task Agent later arrived on scene with their narcotics detection trained dog.  No more narcotics were located in the vehicle.

Robinson was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked for:

• Possession for sales of heroin
• Possession of methamphetamine
• Possession of a pipe used to smoke controlled substances
• Violation of probation

Robinson’s bail was set at $50,000 dollars.

Drug Task Force Agents and the Eureka Police Department then searched Robinson’s residence located in the 1600 block of “L” Street in Eureka.  Officers located numerous smoking pipes for controlled substances, and syringes in the residence.

This case is still under investigation, the Humboldt County Drug Task Force said.

* * * * * * * *

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

Strange Event Just Got Stranger

–Updated Below–

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

First we have the HCSO report today:

 
On January 20 at approximately 8 a.m., the Humboldt County Sheriffs Office was called by a citizen who reported a male possibly deceased located at Centerville Beach near Ferndale.

A deputy and medical was dispatched to the scene approximately 1/2 mile south of the parking lot.  When the deputy arrived he saw a male located in the area described between the cliffs and the water line.  Medical and the deputy determined the male was deceased.

Sheriff’s Detectives and the Coroners Office were summoned to the scene to investigate the death.  The death is determined suspicious at this time.  The identity of the deceased has not been confirmed.  Sheriff’s Detectives are requesting the public’s help with this case.

The vehicle described:  Blue with Tan Trim, Eddie Bauer 2000 Ford Explorer, with California Plates.

Deceased male described: White male, late 40’s , wearing sweat pants, a sweat shirt, two scarf’s, a beanie and a hoodie.

Anyone who may have seen this man at Centerville Beach or has any information regarding this case is requested to call Detective Rich Schlesiger at 1-707-268-3642 or the Sheriffs Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

The investigation is ongoing and further information may be released in the future.

 So who was this individual whose body was found just below the steep cliffs of the now-defunct Centerville Naval Facility?  Did he commit suicide or was he murdered?  

This is where it takes a turn for the truly strange.

Kym Kemp fills us in on the rest of the bizarre story with her link here:  “Centerville Beach Body Identified as Man Outed for Pretending to be Navy Seal”

And the Times-Standard link by Luke Ramseth:  “Man Found Dead at Centerville Beach was Navy SEAL Impostor; Officials say Densmore Likely in Humboldt for Several Days”

UPDATE, JANUARY 29, 2013:  The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office reported the following brief information today:

On 01-29-2013 an autopsy was conducted on Ike Densmore.  The medical examiner concluded that Densmores death was self inflicted by a gunshot wound.

* * * * * * * * * *

(Posted by Skippy Massey)

Myra Sheek, 61, Missing for Past Four Days

–Updated Below–

Skippy Massey
Humboldt Sentinel

From the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On Friday, January 18 at approximately 11:30 a.m., the
Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office was notified by the owner of
Aguilar Manor Assisted Living Facility located at 6433 Eggert
Road, Eureka, that resident Myra Sheek was missing.

The resident went for a walk at 11:00 a.m. that day and did not return.  Normally Sheek never walks more than a block away from the home and returns within a short period of time.

The owner told the investigating deputy that the missing female has some medical issues which raised the concern for her welfare.

HCSO Deputies and Sheriff’s Citizens on Patrol (S.C.O.P.) searched the area for Sheek, but could not find her.  Several neighbors were contacted but also had not seen her.

The Sheriff’s Office is requesting the publics help in locating her.

Myra Sheek is described as follows:

• 61 years old
• White Female
• Height 5-6 and weight 200 lbs
• Brown hair and brown eyes

She was last seen wearing a denim jacket, yellow sweat pants.  She wears glasses.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this
case is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251.

UPDATE:  On Wednesday, January 23 at 9:30 a.m., the Sheriff’s Office reported that 61 year-old Myra Sheek was  found in the woods off of Eggert Road.  Medical personnel were called to the scene but there was no confirmation of her condition given.

* * * * * * * * *

(Posted by Skippy Massey)