DATE/TIME: July 19, 2025 / 8:00 P.M.
INCIDENT: PC 666.1(a) Theft with Two or More Prior Convictions
LOCATION: 10576 Foothill Boulevard, Rancho Cucamonga
SUSPECT(S): Sterling Gaston, 29-year-old resident of Rancho Cucamonga
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 July 19, 2025, Rancho Cucamonga deputies responded to Target for a theft in progress. Sterling Gaston was concealing alcohol bottles in the sleeves of his jacket and another bottle of alcohol down his pants. Sterling exited the store without paying. He was contacted by deputies east of Target, with alcohol next to him. During a records check, Gaston was found to have multiple convictions for theft related offenses meeting proposition 36 criteria. The total amount stolen was approximately $46.00.
Gaston was arrested and transported to West Valley Detention Center for PC 666.1- Petty Theft with Two Prior Convictions.
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 you may leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.
Refer: Deputy J. AlNemri
Station: Rancho Cucamonga
Phone No. 909-477-2800
Case No. 112507446
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
