DATE/TIME: Tuesday, March 29, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.
INCIDENT: PC 498:Theft of Utilities
PC 29800(a)(1): Felon In Possession of a Firearm
PC 30305(a)(1): Felon in Possession of Ammunition
HS 11370.1(a): Possession of a Controlled Substance While Armed
LOCATION: Cayucos Drive / Sheep Creek Road, Phelan
VICTIM: Phelan / Pinon Hills Water District
SUSPECT: Manuel Gomez, 51 years-old, resident of Phelan
SUMMARY: On Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at 5:00 p.m., deputies from the Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station were contacted by employees of the Phelan/Pinon Hills Water District. The employees were out with a subject who was in possession of a stolen water meter at the water filling station on Sheep Creek Road.
Deputy Daniel Peterson arrived and detained Manuel Gomez. Through investigation, Peterson learned an estimated $105,000 worth of water had been taken using the stolen meter. The tanker truck Gomez was driving was found to have expired registration.
During a search of the truck, approximately 8 grams of suspected methamphetamine and a loaded firearm were located. Gomez was arrested and booked at High Desert Detention Center for theft of utilities, felon in possession of a firearm, felon in possession of ammunition, and possession of a controlled substance while armed.
The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact Deputy D. Peterson, at Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station, 760-552-6800. Callers can remain anonymous and contact We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.
Refer: Staci Parks
Station: Victor Valley
Phone No. (760) 552-6845
Case No. 072201058
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
