East SBV Times

On June 2, 2024, detectives initiated an investigation into the in-custody death of Benjamin Jose Medina at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga. The incident occurred on May 25, 2024, when Medina, a 43-year-old resident of Fontana, collapsed in a housing segment at approximately 5:55 p.m.

Deputies and jail medical staff responded promptly to the situation and performed life-saving measures, including CPR and the administration of Narcan. These efforts resulted in Medina regaining a heartbeat before he was transported to a hospital for further medical care.

Despite these interventions, Medina's health deteriorated over the subsequent days. On June 2, at 9:28 p.m., he was pronounced deceased. Investigators from the Sheriff's Specialized Investigations Division have taken over the case and plan to conduct an autopsy to determine the cause of death.

Medina had been in custody since March 15, 2024, following his arrest by the San Bernardino County Probation Department. He was found in possession of marijuana and items related to honey oil production at that time.

The Specialized Investigations Division is seeking information regarding this case and can be contacted at 909-890-4904. Individuals wishing to remain anonymous are encouraged to reach out to We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or visit wetip.com.

Detective J. Applegate or Sgt. N. Craig can be referred for further details on this investigation under Case No. DR# 602400040 H# 2024-049.

Shannon D. Dicus,

Sheriff-Coroner

San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department