East SBV Times

A deputy sheriff in Twentynine Palms, Christopher Bingham, has been arrested following an extensive investigation into his criminal activities. Bingham, a 45-year-old male resident of Twentynine Palms, was found to be involved with a local Outlaw Motorcycle Gang (OMG) and was arrested on charges including possession of a machine gun, silencers, destructive devices, and a stolen firearm.

Sheriff Shannon Dicus expressed his dismay over the situation, stating, “The actions of this deputy are alarming and inexcusable; he not only tarnishes his badge but also undermines the integrity and credibility of the entire department. Criminal behavior will not be tolerated.” Bingham has been placed on compulsory leave, and the case has been forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office.

Investigators discovered approximately 160 firearms at Bingham's residence, including a fully automatic assault rifle with a grenade launcher, destructive devices, silencers, OMG paraphernalia, and a stolen San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department shotgun. Following the investigation, Bingham was arrested and booked at the West Valley Detention Center in lieu of $500,000 bail.

The District Attorney’s Office has filed several felony charges against Bingham, including possession of a machine gun, possession of a short-barreled rifle, grand theft of a firearm, possession of a stolen firearm, possession of a destructive device, possession of silencers, and participation in a criminal street gang.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Gangs/Narcotics Division at (909) 387-8400. Anonymous tips can be provided to the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or online at www.wetip.com.

The arrest of Deputy Sheriff Christopher Bingham serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of criminal behavior within law enforcement agencies.