DATE/TIME: September 21, 2026, at 5:50 p.m.
INCIDENT: Runaway Juvenile / H&S 11361(a), Furnishing Marijuana to a Minor
LOCATION: 6000 block of Freedom Way, Twentynine Palms
SUSPECT(S): Jermell Todd Hayes, 49-year-old, Resident of Twentynine Palms
VICTIM(S): State of California
SUMMARY: Adult Arrested for Furnishing Marijuana to Runaway Juvenile in Twentynine Palms
On Monday, September 21, 2026, at approximately 5:50 p.m., deputies located a juvenile at Freedom Plaza in Twentynine Palms who had recently been reported as a runaway by family members. During the contact, deputies discovered the juvenile was in possession of marijuana.
Prior to contacting the juvenile, deputies observed the juvenile in the company of an adult male, later identified as 49-year-old Twentynine Palms resident, Jermell Todd Hayes. Through further investigation, deputies determined Hayes was also in possession of marijuana and had furnished marijuana to the juvenile.
The investigation revealed the juvenile, who was already considered at-risk due to having run away from home, had been provided marijuana by an adult. Law enforcement officials remain committed to protecting vulnerable youth and holding accountable those who contribute to juvenile delinquency by furnishing controlled substances or otherwise placing minors in harmful situations.
The juvenile was safely reunited with family members. Hayes was arrested and booked into the Morongo Basin Jail for violation of Health and Safety Code section 11361(a), Furnishing Marijuana to a Minor. Hayes remains in custody with bail set at $70,000.00.
Anyone with information regarding this incident, is urged to "Say Something." Callers wishing to remain anonymous should call or text "REPORT" to We-Tip at 844-909-3006. Online reporting is also available at https://mobile.catapultems.com/sbcsd/Sites.
Refer: SRO Deputy Alex Stumbo
Station: Morongo Basin Station
Phone No. (760) 366-4175
Case No. 202601392
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
