DATE/TIME: August 16, 2025 / 8:33 p.m.
INCIDENT: Penal Code 597 - Felony Cruelty to Animals, PC 69 - Resisting an Executive Officer
LOCATION: 7500 Block of Araby Avenue, City of Twentynine Palms
SUSPECT(S): Joseph McGee, 28-year-old Resident of Twentynine Palms
VICTIM(S): Confidential
SUMMARY: On Saturday, August 16, 2025, at approximately 8:33 p.m., deputies responded to the residence of Joseph McGee following reports of violent behavior.
During the incident, McGee threatened to harm his elderly grandmother’s Pomeranian. He then grabbed the dog and forcefully twisted its torso in an apparent attempt to break its back. As McGee continued his assault, his grandmother intervened and was able to pull the dog from his grasp, preventing further harm.
Deputies arrived moments later and contacted McGee. He became combative and directed his aggression toward the responding deputy, resulting in a use-of-force encounter during his detention. McGee was subsequently taken into custody without further incident.
Joseph McGee was arrested and booked into the Morongo Basin Jail on charges of Penal Code 597 (Felony Animal Cruelty) and Penal Code 69 (Felony Resisting an Executive Officer).
Anyone with information related to these cases are encouraged to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Morongo Basin Station at (760) 366-4175. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may contact We-Tip at 1-888-78-CRIME.
Refer: Deputy J. Starvos
Station: Morongo Basin Sheriff Station
Phone No. (760) 365-9413
Case No. 202501100
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
