DATE/TIME: Sunday, June 22, 2025, at approximately 1:52 a.m.
INCIDENT: Health and Safety Code 11395(b)(1): Possession of a Controlled Substance with Two Prior Convictions
LOCATION: 57980 Twentynine Palms, Yucca Valley
SUSPECT(S): Rodriguez, Steven Daniel
VICTIM(S): State of California
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 Sunday, June 22, 2025, at approximately 1:51 a.m., deputies from the Morongo Basin Sheriff’s Station conducted an after-business hours area check for frequent foot traffic behind the local business, Harbor Freight. While in the area, deputies contacted Steven Rodriguez. Rodriguez was found to have a misdemeanor warrant for his arrest and was in possession of a methamphetamine pipe, in violation of HS 11364(a).
During a search, deputies located suspected methamphetamine inside Rodriguez’s wallet. A record-check was subsequently conducted, and Rodriguez was found to have two prior convictions for possession of a controlled substance, and possession of a controlled substance for sale. Under the convictions, Rodriguez was in violation of HS 11395(b)(1), Possession of a Controlled Substance with Two Prior Felony Convictions. With the two prior felony convictions, it met California's new Proposition 36 criteria. Rodriguez was not arrested at the time. The contraband was confiscated, and he was advised a report would be sent to the District Attorney's Office for complaint.
Refer: Deputy E.OrtegaTorres
Station: Morongo Basin Station
Phone No. 1(760) 366-4175
Case No. 232500964
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
