East SBV Times

Between March 3 and March 9, 2025, the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department conducted a targeted crime suppression operation called "Operation Consequences." The initiative involved investigators from the department's Gangs/Narcotics Division and deputies from various patrol stations. Their efforts focused on several locations, including San Bernardino, Phelan, Rialto, and Colton.

During the week-long operation, law enforcement officials made contact with gang members and individuals prohibited from possessing firearms. As a result of these interactions, authorities seized ten firearms, one of which was identified as a ghost gun. Additionally, illegal narcotics were discovered and confiscated. The operation led to 18 felony arrests and 15 misdemeanor arrests.

A new legal framework influenced some of these arrests. On November 5, 2024, California voters approved Proposition 36 titled “The Homelessness, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act.” Effective December 18, 2024, this proposition reformed existing laws that had contributed to issues such as homelessness and drug addiction. Proposition 36 introduced new Penal and Health and Safety Codes that allow for enhanced sentencing in certain cases. One arrest during Operation Consequences fell under this new legal framework.

The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors has provided additional funding for county-wide crime suppression efforts. This financial support aims to bolster the Sheriff’s Department’s capacity to address quality-of-life issues impacting local communities.

Operation Consequences will continue over the coming months with a focus on targeted crime suppression operations in the High Desert region and areas within the Sheriff’s jurisdiction around San Bernardino. Personnel from various divisions will collaborate with agencies such as the California Highway Patrol, San Bernardino County Probation, United States Marshals Pacific Southwest Regional Fugitive Task Force, and Department of Homeland Security Investigations. The operation seeks to reduce violent crime by dismantling criminal street gangs and apprehending individuals involved in illegal firearm activities.

For further information regarding Operation Consequences or related inquiries:

Public Affairs Division

Station: Gangs/Narcotics Division

Phone: (909) 387-3700

Shannon D. Dicus

Sheriff-Coroner

San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department