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SBSD - Morongo Basin Sheriff's Department
Monday August 31st, 2026 :: 10:57 a.m. PDT

Advisory

Automated License Plate Reader Technology Helps Locate Felony Domestic Violence Suspect, Arrest MadeĀ 

DATE/TIME: Sunday, August 30, 2026, at 12:01 p.m.

INCIDENT: Penal Code 273.5(a) - Felony Spousal Abuse

LOCATION: 6500 Block of Manzanita Avenue, Twentynine Palms

SUSPECT(S): Gerald Isaiah Emmanuel Williams III, 36-year-old, Resident of Twentynine Palms

VICTIM(S): Confidential Adult Female


SUMMARY: Automated License Plate Reader Helps Expedite Arrest of Felony Domestic Violence Suspect     

Twentynine Palms, CA - On Sunday, August 30, 2026, at approximately 12:01 p.m., deputies from the Morongo Basin Station responded to the 72000 block of Twentynine Palms Highway regarding a reported domestic disturbance.

During their investigation, deputies learned the female victim had been physically assaulted multiple times by her long-term boyfriend, leaving her with several visible injuries indicative of felony spousal abuse.  In addition, the suspect threatened bodily harm against her son if the victim contacted law enforcement.  Following the abuse and prior to deputies’ arrival, the suspect fled the location in a vehicle.

Deputies Eduardo Hernandez and Nathen Arenas conducted a thorough investigation and entered the vehicle information into the Department’s automated license plate reader system.  The technology quickly generated a critical lead that assisted deputies in locating the suspect vehicle.  Shortly thereafter, deputies located it near Sunfair Avenue and Twentynine Palms Highway and conducted an investigative stop.

The suspect and driver of the vehicle was positively identified as Gerald Williams.  He was taken into custody without incident and arrested for Penal Code 273.5, Felony Corporal Injury to Spouse or Cohabitant.  Williams was booked at the Morongo Basin Jail and being held in lieu of $50,000 bail.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department takes reports of domestic violence seriously and remains committed to protecting victims and their families from further harm, while holding offenders accountable.  If you see signs of domestic violence or believe someone may be a victim, say something and report it.  Reporting suspected abuse can be critical in connecting victims with law enforcement and resources, preventing further violence, and ensuring offenders are held accountable.  Domestic violence often occurs behind closed doors, and a concerned family member, friend, neighbor, or community member may be the person who makes the difference.  If you See Something, Say Something.  Reporting domestic violence can save lives.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department Morongo Basin Station at (760) 366-4175.  Callers wishing to remain anonymous may submit a We-Tip at https://mobile.catapultems.com/sbcsd/Sites or text “REPORT” to (844) 909-3006.


Refer: Deputies E. Hernandez | N. Arenas

Station: Morongo Basin Station

Phone No. (760) 366-4175

Case No. 202601262

SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department

Address/Location
SBSD - Morongo Basin Sheriff's Department
63665 Twentynine Palms Highway
Joshua Tree, CA 92252

Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1

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