DATE/TIME: August 21, 2025 / 6:46 P.M.
INCIDENT: PC459- Burglary, HS 11395 (b)(1) – Treatment Mandated Felony Act/Misdemeanor Possession with Two Prior Convictions
LOCATION: Home Depot, 11884 Foothill Blvd, Rancho Cucamonga
SUSPECT(S): George Joseph Melchor, Age 47, Transient of San Bernardino
VICTIM(S): Home Depot
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 August 21, 2025, at 6:46 p.m., deputies responded to a theft at Home Depot. Melchor removed two separate power tools from their original packaging and concealed them inside his pants. Melchor exited the store without paying for the merchandise. When he saw deputies, he ran back into the store. A short foot pursuit ensued and Melchor was taken into custody. Melchor was detained by deputies and the stolen merchandise was recovered.
During the investigation, Melchor was found to possess suspected methamphetamine and had several prior theft and drug related convictions. Melchor was arrested and booked at West Valley Detention Center for PC459- Burglary and HS 11395-Possession of Narcotics/Paraphernalia 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 leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.
Refer: Deputy D. Vital
Station: Rancho Cucamonga
Phone No. (909)477-2800
Case No. 112508637
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
