East SBV Times

Between February 10 and February 16, 2025, the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department conducted targeted crime suppression operations under "Operation Consequences." The initiative involved investigators from the Gangs/Narcotics Division and deputies from patrol stations executing search warrants in Apple Valley and Twentynine Palms.

During this period, authorities contacted gang members and individuals prohibited from possessing firearms. Their efforts led to the seizure of three firearms and suspected methamphetamine. The operation resulted in 19 felony arrests and 36 misdemeanor arrests.

Proposition 36, known as “The Homelessness, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act,” was passed by California voters on November 5, 2024, and took effect on December 18, 2024. This proposition reforms laws from Proposition 47 that were linked to increased homelessness, drug addiction, and theft. Proposition 36 introduces new Penal and Health and Safety Codes that allow for enhanced sentencing during arrests. Two of the arrests made during Operation Consequences were subject to these new provisions.

The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors has allocated funds for county-wide crime suppression efforts aimed at improving quality-of-life issues within communities. Operation Consequences will continue over several months focusing on violent crime reduction in the High Desert area and surrounding jurisdictions. It involves multiple agencies including the Sheriff's Gangs/Narcotics Division, Specialized Enforcement Division, California Highway Patrol, San Bernardino County Probation, United States Marshals Pacific Southwest Regional Fugitive Task Force, and Department of Homeland Security Investigations.

Sheriff-Coroner Shannon D. Dicus is overseeing these efforts as part of a broader strategy to disrupt criminal street gangs and address illegal firearm activities.

For more information regarding this operation or related cases, contact the Public Affairs Division at (909) 387-3700.