DATE/TIME: October 17, 2025 / 6:09 P.M.
INCIDENT: PC 666.1(a)(1) - Petty Theft with Two Prior Convictions
PC4573(A)- Smuggle a Controlled Substance Into a Jail
LOCATION: Home Depot, Rancho Cucamonga
SUSPECT(S): James Edward Mueller, Age 43, Resident of Rancho Cucamonga.
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 October 17, 2025, at 6:09 p.m., deputies responded to a theft at Home Depot. James Edward Mueller entered the Home Depot and selected merchandise throughout the store. Mueller ultimately concealed several items of merchandise in his waistband. Mueller exited the store by passing all points of sale, without attempting to pay for the merchandise. Mueller was detained by deputies and the stolen merchandise was recovered. A record’s check revealed Mueller had multiple previous criminal convictions for theft.
Mueller was arrested and booked at West Valley Detention Center for PC 666.1-Petty theft with two prior convictions. During booking at West Valley Detention Center, Mueller was found to have suspected Methamphetamine concealed on his person. Mueller was also booked for PC4573(A)-Smuggling a controlled substance into a jail.
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 I. Estrada
Station: Rancho Cucamonga
Phone No. (909)477-2800
Case No. 112510765
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
