DATE: May 11, 2025
INCIDENT: In-Custody Death Investigation
LOCATION: West Valley Detention Center, 9500 Etiwanda Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga
DECEDENT(S): Phillip Lester, 66-years-old, Resident of Moreno Valley
SUMMARY:
On May 8, 2025, at about 6:13 a.m., deputies at the West Valley Detention Center observed inmate Phillip Lester walking with difficulty. Lester also had trouble breathing and deputies assisted him to an area inside the housing unit to be evaluated by medical personnel. During the evaluation, an ambulance arrived, and Lester was transported to a hospital where he was admitted for various serious illnesses.
On May 11, 2025, Lester was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The Specialized Investigations Division responded and assumed the investigation.
Lester turned himself in on March 17, 2025, for an assault warrant and remained in custody until his death.
Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Specialized Investigations Division at 909-890-4904. Callers wishing to remain anonymous should contact We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or go to wetip.com.
Refer: Detective T. Gagne
Station: Specialized Investigations Division
Phone No. 909-890-4904
Case No. DR# 602500036 H# 2025.033
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
