East SBV Times

On March 21, 2025, a joint operation involving several law enforcement agencies, known as Operation Consequences, targeted crime suppression in Highland and the surrounding areas. The initiative, organized by the Sheriff's Gangs/Narcotics Division and other patrol stations, also engaged the California Highway Patrol, multiple police departments, and the Department of Homeland Security Investigations.

The operation led to six search warrants being executed in Highland and San Bernardino, resulting in the apprehension of gang members and individuals prohibited from carrying firearms. A total of 21 felony arrests and 61 misdemeanor arrests were made, and quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl, along with five firearms, were seized. Law enforcement officers made over 400 public engagements and issued 14 traffic citations.

During the operation, the Sheriff's Homeless Outreach Proactive Team (H.O.P.E.) identified several unhoused individuals. Assistance was offered for substance abuse treatment, mental health programs, and medical services. Thirty of the arrests included unhoused individuals for offenses such as trespassing, narcotics possession, and outstanding warrants.

California voters recently passed Proposition 36, "The Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act," which took effect on December 18, 2024. This reform modifies previous laws and introduces new charges with the potential for enhanced sentencing. Proposition 36 applied to one arrest in this operation.

The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors has approved funds to enhance law enforcement services, addressing quality-of-life issues throughout the county. Sheriff Shannon Dicus noted, “I want to thank the county wide taskforce for its ongoing efforts to keep our community safe in the City of Highland. I am actively working with the Mayor and the City Manager to increase the number of patrol deputies assigned to the city. Highland’s population and economic activity has grown significantly over the past decade but staffing levels have not kept pace. Collectively we’re committed to addressing the gap to protect the residents of Highland.”

Operation Consequences aims at suppressing crime and conducting parole and probation checks in the High Desert and areas around San Bernardino. The effort will continue over the coming months, focusing on reducing violent crime and dismantling criminal street gangs.