Full Notification

DATE/TIME: March 19, 2025, 2:32 p.m

INCIDENT:  PC 666.1(a)(1) - Theft with Two Prior Theft Convictions
                     H&S 11395(b)(1)- Possession of a Controlled Substance with Two Prior Convictions 

LOCATION: 10576 Foothill Boulevard, Rancho Cucamonga

SUSPECT(S): Jose Alexander Gallaga, Age 32, Resident of La Puente
Denise Griselda Taragaza, Age 49, Resident of La Puente

VICTIM(S): Target


SUMMARY: 

On November 5, 2024, California voters passed Proposition 36 titled “The Homelessness, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act.” The proposition took effect on December 18, 2024, and reforms multiple laws from Proposition 47, which have been responsible for increasing homelessness, drug addiction and theft. Proposition 36 includes several new Penal and Health and Safety Codes that deputies will be able to apply during arrests when appropriate. These new charges can carry enhanced sentencing, as well as prevent offenders from being cite released prior to their court appearance. The following is an arrest where Proposition 36 is applied:

On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 2:32 p.m, deputies from the Rancho Cucamonga Sheriff's Station responded to a report of a theft at Target. Two subjects, later identified as Jose Gallaga and Denise Taragaza, concealed several items on their person and in a stroller, did not pay for any of the concealed items and exited the store. Gallaga and Taragaza were contacted outside of the store and the stolen items were recovered. Taragaza was also found to have cocaine on her person. Gallaga and Taragaza each had two prior convictions for theft and Taragaza had two prior drug convictions. 

Gallaga was arrested for PC 666.1(a)(1), Petty Theft with Two Prior Theft Convictions. Taragaza was arrested for PC 666.1(a)(1), Petty Theft with Two Prior Theft Convictions and H&S 11395(b)(1), Possession of a Controlled Substance with Two Prior Drug Convictions. Gallaga and Taragaza were transported and booked at the West Valley Detention Center.  

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Rancho Cucamonga Sheriff's Station at (909) 477-2800. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.  

Refer: Deputy M. Thomspon

Station: Rancho Cucamonga Station 

Phone No. (909) 477-2800

Case No. 112502916

SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department