On November 20, 2025, deputies at the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino arrested two visitors on felony charges related to weapons and drugs. According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department, Melinda Russell, a 53-year-old resident of Nipomo, was found with a folding razor knife concealed in her waistband while visiting an inmate. She was taken into custody for possession of a deadly weapon on jail grounds.
Deputies also encountered Elizabeth Travis, age 40 from Santa Barbara, in the parking lot as a passenger in Russell’s vehicle. An investigation revealed that Travis had used methamphetamine earlier that day. She was found with methamphetamine and two loaded firearms. Travis was arrested for possession of a deadly weapon on jail grounds, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of a controlled substance while armed.
The department stated: “Jail grounds are proactively patrolled, and individuals found in possession of contraband will not be tolerated. All applicable laws are fully enforced and arrests will be made.”
Authorities encourage anyone with information about this incident to contact the Central Detention Center at 909-386-0910. Anonymous tips can be submitted through We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or online at wetip.com.
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