May 2008 - Posts

Sheriff's Office Detectives arrest Woman for Violation of Civil rights (person in custody)

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El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Thursday, May 29, 2008 3:30 PM

WHO: El Paso County Sheriff's Office (Criminal Investigation Division- Sex Crimes)

WHAT: Sheriff's Office Detectives arrest woman for Violation of Civil Rights (Person in Custody)
WHERE: 3801 Mattox El Paso, Texas - West Texas Community Corrections Department Community Intervention Center
WHEN: October 2007
WHY: Arrest made

Information:

Earlier this week, Sheriff Office -Sex Crime Detectives arrested a 43 year-old woman for Violation of civil rights (person in custody).

Apparently the female who was identified as Zina Wagner (43) of the 3500 block of Dragon Crest El Paso, TX -was having sexual relations with an individual in custody while employed as a counselor at the West Texas Community Corrections Department Community Intervention Center located at 3801 Mattox, El Paso, TX.

Reports indicate these incidents took place on or about the 9th thru the 27th day of October 2007.

According to the Texas Penal Code:

§ 39.04. VIOLATIONS OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS OF PERSON IN CUSTODY; IMPROPER SEXUAL ACTIVITY WITH PERSON IN CUSTODY. (a) An official of a correctional facility, an employee of a correctional facility, a person other than an employee who works for compensation at a correctional facility, a volunteer at a correctional facility, or a peace officer commits an offense if the person intentionally: (1) denies or impedes a person in custody in the exercise or enjoyment of any right, privilege, or immunity knowing his conduct is unlawful; or (2) engages in sexual contact, sexual intercourse, or deviate sexual intercourse with an individual in custody.

An offense under Subsection (a)(2) is a state jail felony.

Wagner was booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility and is currently out on Bond.

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Zina Wagner (43)

Charge: Violations of the civil rights of person in custody; improper sexual activity with person in custody- $500 Bond

Posted 29 May 2008 03:30 PM by jtovar
Filed under:
Sheriff Deputies arrest WANTED MAN on multiple charges

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El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Thursday, May 29, 2008 1:30 PM

WHO: El Paso County Sheriff's Office (Operation Border Star Units)

WHAT: Subject arrested for multiple outstanding warrants
WHERE: 600 block of N. Carolina El Paso, Texas
WHEN: Earlier this week
WHY: Operation Border Star continues

Information:

Earlier this week,  El Paso County Sheriff Deputies working Operation Border Star arrested an individual wanted for numerous outstanding criminal warrants ranging from drug charges & other offenses. Charles Arellano (27) was arrested at his residence at the 600 block of N. Carolina, El Paso, TX.  He had multiple outstanding Criminal Warrants for 1.) Possession of Controlled substance & Evading Arrest with a vehicle $100,000 bond - 2.)  Possession of Controlled substance o/ 1 gram u/ 4 grams $100,000 bond- 3.) Probation Violation $100,000 bond - 4.) Assault Class "A"- family Violence $4,000 bond. 

In coordination with the United States Border Patrol, the Texas Border Sheriff’s Coalition, the Coastal Bend Sheriffs Coalition and border area police departments, the State of Texas launched Operation Border Star in mid-September. This operation is a unified high intensity, multi-agency effort focused on reducing crime in targeted regions along the Texas-Mexico border. The operation will continue for a time period that will remain undisclosed for operational security purposes.

“By joining together with our local, state and federal partners, we will support the men and women of the U.S. Border Patrol, and protect our communities by dominating the border,” Perry said. “While securing our international borders is ultimately the responsibility of the federal government, Texas can and will assist in that effort to maximize its effect.”- Governor Rick Perry (Sept. 2007)

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Charles Arellano (27)

Charges:

1.) Possession of Controlled substance & Evading Arrest with a vehicle $100,000 bond

2.)  Possession of Controlled substance o/ 1 gram u/ 4 grams $100,000 bond

3.) Probation Violation $100,000 bond 

4.) Assault Class "A"- family Violence $4,000 bond

Posted 29 May 2008 01:30 PM by jtovar
Filed under:
Sheriff Deputies apprehend & arrest subject for Burglary of Habitation / Unlawful Restraint.

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El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Thursday, May 29, 2008 12:00 PM

WHO: El Paso County Sheriff's Office (Lower Valley Patrol)

WHAT: Burglary of Habitation / Unlawful Restraint -Subject arrested
WHERE: 14960 Ferguson El Paso County, TX
WHEN: Thursday, May 29, 2008 at 2:30 AM
WHY: Investigation Continues

Early Thursday morning 05-29-08 at 2:20 AM, Sheriff Deputies were dispatched to a residence at the 14900 block of Ferguson in reference to a possible “suicide in progress.” Upon arrival, Deputies were directed to a locked room inside the residence where a male subject had threatened to kill himself. Deputies forced the door open and saw the subject lying on a bed. The subject refused to comply with the Deputies orders and tried to put up a struggle with authorities but was quickly subdued and restrained. It was later learned that the subject in custody was the ex-boyfriend of the homeowner who was not home at the time of the incident.

After a brief investigation, it was discovered the relationship between the subject & homeowner had recently ended. Apparently the subject returned to the residence and let himself in with a key he had previously refused to return to the ex-girlfriend / homeowner. Shortly after illegally entering the residence, the subject went into the ex-girlfriend’s 15 year-old daughter’s bedroom where he allegedly attempted to smother her with a pillow for reasons unknown. According to the daughter/victim, she managed to fight him off and he locked himself in another room then threatened to kill himself with a knife.

The 15 year-old daughter was not injured during the attack. She was being taken care of by her grandmother who resides at the same residence. The ex-girlfriend / homeowner  was at work during the incident where she received a frantic call from her daughter. The homeowner then called the Sheriff's Office. 

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Pablo Esqueda (42)

Charges:

  1. Burglary of Habitation - $15,000 Bond
  2. Resisting Arrest- $20,000 Bond
  3. Unlawful Restraint (2 counts)- $25,000 Bond each count Total: $50,000 Bond

"Job well done by responding Deputies who risked their lives by kicking the door open and confronting & physically restraining this uncooperative /violent individual"- said Sheriff Jimmy Apodaca

Deadly Conduct: Subject arrested for allegedly shooting in the direction of Sheriff Deputies

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El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Sunday, May 25, 2008 11:00 AM

WHO: El Paso County Sheriff's Office (Lower Valley Patrol)

WHAT: Deadly Conduct / Suspect arrested for shooting in direction of Sheriff Deputies
WHERE: 5029 Hueco Tanks Rd. (Far east El Paso County)-Area near Hueco Tanks & Telles Rd.
WHEN: Saturday, May 24, 2008 at 8:17 PM
WHY: Under Investigation

Saturday night 05-24-08 at 8:17 PM, Sheriff Deputies were dispatched to the area of Telles Road and Hueco Tanks in reference to subject shooting a weapon from a vehicle. Deputies responded to the immediate area. Upon arrival, Deputies observed a vehicle make made an abrupt turn into a residence on Hueco Tanks road.  Deputies then went to check the vehicle. While approaching the residence, Deputies heard a gunshot and observed a male subject inside the property where the car had just pulled in. Deputies saw a clear muzzle flash that flashed toward the direction of their patrol units. Deputies immediately took cover. Several units were summoned to the location to assist. Assisting Deputies arrived shortly after and set a perimeter around the said residence. The residence was 5029 Hueco Tanks Rd. El Paso County, TX. While events were unfolding, Deputies made contact by cell phone with a 17 year-old female who lived at the residence. She advised authorities that she was in the residence with her 19 year-old brother and his 18 year old-friend. Via telephone, Deputies instructed them to exit the residence. After several requests, the 3 occupants of the home surrendered to Sheriff Deputies without incident. Deputies conducted protective sweep of the residence and located several spent high caliber casings located by the porch of the residence. Inside the residence Deputies located an assault rifle which uses the same high caliber casings.

After a brief investigation, it was revealed that the 19 year-old resident of the home was firing the rifle as he saw marked units approaching. He was identified as Antonio Rodriguez (19) from 5029 Hueco Tanks Rd. El Paso County, TX. 

Rodriguez was arrested and charged with Deadly Conduct as he Recklessly engaged in conduct that placed others in imminent Danger by discharging the firearm with in close proximity of the approaching Deputies. He remains at the El Paso County Detention Facility.

The other two occupants were released with no charges.

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Antonio Rodriguez (19)

Charge: Deadly Conduct- $750.00 Bond

Posted 25 May 2008 10:30 AM by jtovar
Filed under:
Search & Rescue Call Out / Mountain Rescue

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El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Friday, May 23, 2008 10:30 PM

WHO: El Paso County Sheriff's Office (Lower Valley Patrol / Search & Rescue Team)

WHAT: Mountain Rescue / Search & Rescue call-out
WHERE: 6900 Hueco Tanks Rd. Hueco Tanks State Historic Park
WHEN: Friday, May 23, 2008 at 7:10 PM
WHY: Mountain Rescue

On Friday evening 05-23-08 at 7:10 PM, Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched to Hueco Tanks State Historic Park in reference to an injured party. Early reports indicate a 38 year-old male was rock climbing (rock hopping) when during one of his jumps, he landed wrong, hyper-extended his knee and almost fell off the mountain. He apparently was hanging from a cliff with a 70 ft. drop holding on to the mountain by his own strength until emergency services arrived. The Montana Vista Fire Dept. along with Sheriff Deputies arrived to the scene & immediately began climbing the mountain until they reached the Victim roping & securing him. Due to the steep cliffs, the El Paso County Sheriff's Office Search & Rescue Team was summoned to the scene. The elevation of where the rescue took place was about 300 feet high.

A joint effort by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office Search & Rescue Team, Montana Vista volunteer Fire Dept. & Park Rangers worked together in the successful rescue of the Victim.  He was later identified as 38 year-old Ed Gurrola.  

A couple of mountain climbing safety tips according to Search & Rescue Sgt. Deputy Dan Watling:

  • Always climb using proper equipment  
  • Climb during daytime hours
  • Take the necessary survival items such as water, food, a cell phone 

"We train for situations such as this & it is important to remind the public that the services provided by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office Search & Rescue Team are free of charge" -said Sgt. Deputy Dan Watling

 

Posted 23 May 2008 10:30 PM by jtovar
Filed under:
Hard Hats for Little Heads featuring the El Paso County Sheriff's Office- "Sheriff's Town"

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El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

MEDIA ADVISORY

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Friday, May 23, 2008 9:20 AM

WHO: Sponsored by The Children’s Hospital at Providence, TMA physicians, El Paso County Sheriff’s Office

WHAT: Hard Hats for Little Heads
WHERE: The Children’s Hospital at Providence - 2001 N. Oregon (located at the corner parking lot of Oregon and University).
WHEN: Saturday, May 24, 2008 10 AM- 1 PM
 WHY: The Children’s Hospital at Providence and Texas Medical Association to Give Away 250 Bicycle Helmets to Local Children             
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The Children's Hospital at Providence and the Texas Medical Association announce partnership to encourage bicycle safety by announcing “Hard Hats for Little Heads”. Both have teamed up to donate two hundred and fifty helmets to the public in an effort to protect children from head injuries. Parents will have the opportunity to bring their kids to take part in “Sheriff’s Town” which features a comprehensive mobile educational curriculum involving bicycle, scooter and pedestrian safety.

Head injury is the most common cause of death and serious disability from bike crashes. Bicycle helmets can reduce the risk of head injury by as much 85 percent, yet only about 50 percent of cyclists wear one when they ride. In the U.S. about 300,000 children are treated in the ER for severe head injuries. Many could have been prevented had they worn bicycle helmets. The Children’s Hospital at Providence wants to ensure local kids are wearing bicycle helmets and wearing them correctly, said Irene Chavez, CEO for Children’s Hospital at Providence.

For more information please call  (915) 538-2223 (915) 747-1595 or (915) 747-1592

Posted 23 May 2008 09:20 AM by jtovar
Filed under:
Aggravated Robbery / Suspect caught by Sheriff Deputies

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El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Wednesday, May 21, 2008 11:00 AM

WHO: El Paso County Sheriff's Office (Lower Valley Patrol / Border Star Units)

WHAT: Aggravated Robbery  / Suspect caught by Sheriff Deputies
WHERE: 1590 N. FM 1110 Cotton Valley Exxon
WHEN: Tuesday, May 20, 2008 at 9:23 PM
WHY: Under Investigation

On Tuesday night 05-20-08 9:23 PM Sheriff Deputies were dispatched to the Cotton Valley Exxon, 1590 N. FM-1110 in reference to an attempted robbery. Dispatch Operators advised responding Deputies that a subject possibly with a gun was attempting to rob the clerk.

Deputies arrived moments later but the subject had already fled the scene prior to the Deputies arrival. Deputies met with the store clerk who told authorities a male subject entered the store and shortly after, he motioned with his hands to his right hip/waist area and told her, “give me the money I have a gun”, at which time she yelled for her manager and the subject ran out of the store and left in a gray passenger car.

Store employees were able to get the License plate # of the fleeing suspects gray car.

Apparently the subject attempted to buy a pack of cigarettes with a credit card. When the credit card was rejected, he then initiated the attempted robbery.

Both the license plates of the car & credit card information returned to an address in 19300 block of Alameda Tornillo, TX.

Dispatch Operators relayed that information to area units. Sheriff's Office Border Star Units responded to the area of the 19300 block of Tornillo, TX and intercepted the same gray passenger car involved in the attempted robbery.

Deputies took the driver into custody. He was later positively identified as the same subject who committed the attempted robbery. 

There were no injuries reported, no items were taken from the store.

The subject was identified as Rolando Andres Morales (25) of the 19300 block of Alameda. He was arrested and charged with Aggravated Robbery.

He was booked and remains at the El Paso County Detention Facility.

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Rolando Andres Morales (25)

Charge: Aggravated Robbery -$50,000 Bond

On 02-11-08, Deputies working under Operation Linebacker witnessed and arrested 2 individuals who had just committed an Aggravated Robbery at the Exxon Super Stop at 12040 Socorro Rd. San Elizario, TX.

"Due to the on-going Border Star Operation, we have extra patrol units out in the areas of the Border. The increase of patrol units was vital in the apprehension of this individual." - said Sheriff Jimmy Apodaca

Posted 21 May 2008 11:00 AM by jtovar
Filed under:
DWI traffic stop leads to arrest of 2 individuals / Deputies Assaulted

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El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Monday, May 19, 2008 10:50 AM

WHO: El Paso County Sheriff's Office (Lower Valley Patrol)

WHAT: DWI traffic stop leads to 2 arrests / Deputies assaulted
WHERE: Intersection of Upsala & Grand River El Paso, TX
WHEN: Saturday, May 17, 2008 at 7:08 PM
WHY: Under Investigation

On Saturday 05-17-08 at 7:08 PM a Sheriff's Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a suspected drunk driver at the intersection of Upsala and Grand River. Deputies made contact with the female driver who was highly intoxicated. After a brief investigation, it was revealed that the female driver of the vehicle had an outstanding criminal warrant for assault causing bodily injury. As the Deputy was placing the female subject under arrest, she became uncooperative. The Sheriff's Deputy requested assistance to his location. Assisting Deputies arrived moments later and they were able to place the female subject in custody. The arrested female later complained of feeling ill. While Deputies were attending to her, the female's  brother who sitting in the front seat exited the vehicle and rushed at the Deputies. The male subject assaulted Sheriff's Deputies repeatedly punching authorities multiple times. After a brief struggle, Deputies were able to subdue the male.

The female driver was arrested on the outstanding criminal warrant and an additional charge of Felony DWI (DWI w/passenger under 15). There were 3 children in the vehicle ages 3, 10, & 14. They were released to family members a short time later. The female driver was identified as Judith Alba (33) of the 13000 block of Sparks in El Paso County, TX.

The male was arrested and charged with two counts of Assault on a Peace Officer. He was identified as Cruz Abraham Lopez (35) of the 14600 block of Annegret El Paso County, TX.

Both were booked at the El Paso County Detention Facility.

 

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Judith Alba (33)

Charges:

  • Assault causing bodily injury- $5,000 Bond
  • Driving While Intoxicated w/ passenger under 15

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Cruz Abraham Lopez (35)

Charges:

  • 2 counts of Assault on a Public Servant - total bond $10,000 Bond
Posted 19 May 2008 10:50 AM by jtovar
Filed under:
Family Dispute leads to Arson / Subject Found Deceased

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El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Friday, May 16, 2008 12:30 AM

WHO: El Paso County Sheriff's Office (Lower Valley Patrol /Criminal Investigation Division-Arson Investigators)

WHAT: Family Dispute leads to Arson / Male Subject found Deceased
WHERE: 3831 Krag Far East El Paso County, Texas (Montana Vista area)
WHEN: Thursday, May 15, 2008 at 7:00 PM
WHY: Under Investigation

Information:

On Thursday afternoon 05-15-08 at about 2:30 PM the El Paso Police Department was called to a residence at the 7200 block Amethyst El Paso, TX in reference to a family argument involving a male & female couple. Responding EPPD Officers arrived, separated the couple & initiated a report.

Later that evening at about 7:00 PM,  residents observed a male subject who is known to reside at 3831 Krag (Montana Vista area) from time to time was acting suspiciously around the residence. Witnesses then observed the subject ignite the home on fire & quickly get into his truck & leave the scene. Neighbors immediately called 911 & rapidly grabbed their water hoses in an effort to extinguish the fire.

Upon arrival,  Deputies found the residence fully engulfed in flames. Deputies immediately secured the area and began interviewing people for information. Neighbors told Deputies what they had witnessed / recognizing the person responsible for the fire. Deputies immediately began searching the area to try & locate the subject's truck.

Montana Vista Fire Dept. arrived to the scene & quickly battled the flames that were spreading to the main part of the house. Firefighters were able to extinguish the flames & save a portion of the home. No one was at the residence at the time of the fire.

The El Paso Fire Department Fire Marshals & Sheriff's Office CID-Arson Investigator's were summoned to the scene. The Red Cross was also summoned to provide assistance to the family who were arriving home as the fire was being extinguished.

Fire Investigators confirmed the fire was intentionally set to the residence. The fire damaged a portion of the home which included a garage & two vehicles parked next to the residence. The fire also damaged a home next door. No estimated damage amount was available at the time.

Early Friday morning 05-16-08 at 6:30 AM, Sheriff Deputies were called to the 6900 block of Hueco Tanks Rd. in reference to a unresponsive male subject. The male subject was found by a Park Ranger patrolling Hueco Tanks State Historic Park.  Deputies arrived and found the male subject unresponsive with no signs of life (deceased). Sheriff Detectives were called to the scene.

After a brief investigation, it was determined by Sheriff's Detectives that the deceased male was the same subject responsible for the family dispute / arson from the previous day.

The Deceased was identified as Paul David Lucero (47) from 3800 block of Krag El Paso County, Texas.

No other information is being released at this time. This case remains under investigation.

Posted 16 May 2008 12:30 PM by jtovar
Filed under:
Sheriff's Office Detectives arrest another suspected of multiple Burglaries in Upper Valley

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El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Thursday, May 15, 2008 3:30 PM

WHO: El Paso County Sheriff's Office (Upper Valley Patrol /Criminal Investigation Division)

WHAT: Arrest made on Subject suspected of multiple burglaries  
WHERE: Canutillo / Westway, TX
WHEN: Tuesday, April 1, 2008
WHY: Update-Arrest made

Information:

Early last month, April 1st, 2008, Sheriff Deputies responded to a burglary call at SteelWay International located at 210 Los Mochis in Canutillo, TX. Sheriff Deputies made contact with the business manager who told Deputies the company had been burglarized multiple times that same week. It was learned that over $3000 worth of items had been taken from the company during these burglaries.

After an extensive investigation, Sheriff Detectives discovered that the suspect responsible for these burglaries was an ex-employee of the company. On the night of the initial burglary, responding Deputies located shoe impressions at & leading away from the crime scene. Deputies working several burglaries in the Westway / Canutillo, TX also found similar shoe impressions at those other crime scenes.

Sheriff's Office Detectives took over the case & initiated their investigation. It was learned that the suspect was burglarizing his neighbor's homes & other businesses and pawning the stolen items at the local pawn shops.

The suspect was identified as Alfonso Hernandez (38) from the 800 block of Coach, Westway, TX.

At the time of being charged with these crimes. Hernandez was already in custody at the El Paso County Detention Facility for other charges of Drug Paraphernalia Possession &  Parole violation. On the day Hernandez was arrested by Sheriff Deputies on the Drug Paraphernalia charge,  he was wearing the same shoes which make the same impressions found at each burglarized site.

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Luis Alfonso Hernandez (DOB 03-03-70)

Charges:

Theft of Property over $50 under $500- $3000 Bond

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia- $700 Bond

Parole Violation- **NO BOND**

Burglary of Building- $25,000 Bond

"Great job by responding Deputies locating the initial shoe impressions & the follow-up investigation by Detectives that led to the arrest of this individual which will bring an end to several unsolved burglary cases"- said Sheriff Jimmy Apodaca  

Posted 15 May 2008 03:30 PM by jtovar
Filed under:
Couple Arrested in connection with several area vehicle Burglaries

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El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Thursday, May 15, 2008 12:30 PM

WHO: El Paso County Sheriff's Office (Criminal Investigation Division)

WHAT: Couple arrested in connection with several area vehicle burglaries
WHERE: 4815 Alameda -Thomason Hospital parking Garage
WHEN: Friday, April 25, 2008
WHY: Update-Arrests made

Last week,  the El Paso Police Dept. West Side Regional Command TAC unit apprehended a couple for several vehicle burglaries committed within the City of El Paso.

The El Paso County Sheriff's Office Detectives had several active open cases on vehicle burglaries committed at the parking garage at Thomason Hospital. EPPD Investigators discovered the same couple are responsible for other area vehicle burglaries which included Thomason's parking garage.

The El Paso Police Department then assisted Sheriff’s Office Detectives with vital information and evidence that led to the arrest of these individuals.

The couple was identified as April Ramirez (23) of the 5100 of Wally, El Paso, TX & Joseph Candelaria (23) of the 600 block of Bandolina, Socorro, Texas.

Both were booked and remain at the El Paso County Detention Facility.

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Joseph Candelaria (DOB: 12-12-84)

Charges:

4 counts of Burglary of vehicle with a total bond of $40,000

1 count of Criminal Mischief over $50 under $500 - $7500 bond

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April Ramirez  (DOB: 04-27-85)

Charges: 4 counts of Burglary of vehicle with a total bond of $40,000

"This is a great example of how both agencies work closely together and share information for a common goal"-said Sheriff Jimmy Apodaca

Posted 15 May 2008 12:30 PM by jtovar
Filed under:
Copper Burglars caught in the act / Arrested by Sheriff Deputies

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El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Tuesday, May 13, 2008 10:30 AM

WHO: El Paso County Sheriff's Office (Upper Valley Patrol)

WHAT: Copper Burglars Caught / Arrested
WHERE: Israel Sheet Metal Cooling & Heating- 6900 Doniphan Canutillo, TX
WHEN: Monday, May 12, 2008 at approximately 10:05 PM.
WHY: Under Investigation

Late Monday night 05-12-2008 at 10:05pm El Paso County Sheriff Deputies responded to a burglary in progress at the Israel Sheet Metal Cooling and Heating business located 6928 Doniphan, Canutillo, TX.  Responding Deputies arrived moments later and while checking the business on foot Deputies observed two suspects taking copper piping from the business yard and loading them into a vehicle. Deputies immediately placed one of the suspects in custody. The second suspect was spotted on top of the roof of the said business and attempted to flee on foot & elude Sheriff Authorities by jumping across adjacent roof tops. Sheriff Deputies climbed onto the roof of the building and engaged in a foot pursuit in an effort to catch the second suspect. The suspect was quickly apprehended when he jumped off the rooftop where Deputies on the ground quickly converged on him & took the suspect into custody.

Sheriff Deputies arrested David Jesus Morales (30) from the 200 block of La Mesa Canutillo, TX for Burglary of a Building and Angel Villareal (27) from the 100 block of Mcnutt Sunland Park, NM for Burglary of Building & Evading Arrest.

Both were booked and remain at the El Paso County Detention Facility.

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David Jesus Morales (DOB: 11-15-77)

Charge: Burglary of Building -$10,000 Bond

Suspect Morales is also a registered Sex Offender

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Angel Villareal (DOB: 09-22-82)

Charges:

Burglary of Building -$10,000 Bond

Evading Arrest / Detention - $300 Bond

This case has been turned over to Sheriff's Office Detectives & remains under investigation.

There have been several reported cases of theft involving copper in recent months.

It is unknown at this time if this case is linked to any other copper theft incidents. 

Posted 13 May 2008 10:30 AM by jtovar
Filed under:
Update-Hazardous Material Found - Investigation Continues
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El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Wednesday, May 7, 2008 3:00 PM

WHO: El Paso County Sheriff's Office (Lower Valley Patrol / Haz-Mat Team)

WHAT: Hazardous Material Found
WHERE: Area near the 14000 block Gateway West  & Horizon El Paso County, Texas
WHEN: Tuesday, May 6, 2008 at approximately 4:56 PM.
WHY: Update
Background:

On Tuesday evening 05-06-08 at about 4:56 PM, Sheriff Deputies were dispatched to the area near the 14000 block of Gateway West to reports of a hazardous material found on the blacktop asphalt. Deputies along with the Horizon Police Department arrived minutes later and discovered a yellow type substance on the asphalt with fumes coming from it.

Early investigation of the found chemical substance was said to be a SULFUR-LIKE product. Haz-Mat Teams collected a sample for analysis.

Update:

It has been determined the substance found was on property belonging to the Flying J Truck Stop.

The El Paso County Sheriff's Office HAZ-MAT Unit has been working closely with Flying J -General and District managers who are involved in contracting a cleaning company to go out to scene for cleanup/disposal.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has already spoken with Flying J officials and have given them until 5:00 PM today clean up the site.

It is not known at this time which cleaning company will be hired for the work.

Disposal site/procedure is the responsibility of the cleanup company.  Disposal site is unknown in as each company has contracts in place to accommodate the chemical/substance involved.

Not all chemicals/substances can be disposed of at the same site or using the same disposal procedures.

It is estimated that the total amount for the clean-up / disposal could be anywhere in the area of $10,000 to $25,000.

An Investigation continues.

Posted 07 May 2008 03:00 PM by jtovar
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MVA Fatality I-10 East Mile Marker 1

Sheriff Badge (2)      clip_image002 

El Paso County Sheriff's Office

3850 Justice Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938

NEWS RELEASE

Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / Public Information Officer
(915) 538-2223
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com

Release Date & Time: Friday, May 2, 2008 9:30 am

WHO: El Paso County Sheriff's Office (Upper Valley Patrol / Special Traffic Investigators.

WHAT: Motor Vehicle Accident- Fatality
WHERE: I-10 East Mile Marker 1 - Anthony, Texas.
WHEN: Thursday, May 1, 2008 at approximately 11:11 PM.
WHY: Under investigation.
Preliminary investigation:

Late Thursday night, 05-01-08 11:11 PM, Sheriff Deputies along with the Anthony Police Department were dispatched to Interstate 10 east at mile marker number one in reference to a motor vehicle accident roll-over with serious injuries. Special Traffic Investigator were summoned to the scene.

Upon arrival, Officials found the vehicle on its side in the median facing westbound. Deputies met with a female who was standing outside of the car. It was determined later she was the back seat passenger of the vehicle. Deputies also discovered a 29 year-old female front passenger inside the 1999 Saturn SC 2 which was on its side.

As a result of her injuries, the 29 year-old female front passenger was pronounced dead at the scene. She was identified as Victoria Venturo of Las Cruces, NM.

Deputies discovered that there was a 3rd occupant in the vehicle (male driver). The male subject said to be the driver of the vehicle fled the scene of the accident prior to the arrival of Sheriff Deputies & APD Officers.  Officials quickly shut down I-10 east  from the county line (mile post 0) to mile post 2 in an effort to search the area for the third suspect / driver. 

Officials searched the darkness of the immediate desert area, truck stops & convenience stores . After an extensive search, Officials could not locate the male suspect /driver.  

After a brief investigation, STI's determined the driver of the Saturn lost control of the vehicle traveling eastbound on I-10 at Mile post 1. It was determined that the vehicle then veered from the inside lane of I-10 east to the center median.  As the vehicle entered the center median it struck the guardrail.  Once the vehicle struck the guardrail, the vehicle then collided with the cable barrier system.  The vehicles front left portion dug into the ground and it flipped over while continuing to travel eastbound.  It crossed over the cable barrier system and it landed on its left side approximately 200 feet from the initial point of impact. 

The front passenger /deceased was pinned inside the mangled car. First responders arrived & rescue efforts commenced to extract the female from the wreckage. Helicopter service Southwest Medivac was called to the scene to attempt to transport the injured. They did not transport any occupants as it was determined moments later the front passenger was deceased. 

Several hours later, 05-02-08 at 2:45 am, while media camera crews were taking footage of the wreckage. The driver was located sitting in the front passenger seat of a local news channel vehicle covering the accident. The driver was immediately taken into custody & placed under arrest. The driver was found very disoriented & highly intoxicated.

The driver of the vehicle was identified as Marcelino Davila (DOB 12-12-88) of the 200 Three Crosses in Las Cruces, NM.

The results of the drivers Blood Alcohol Content Level was .17 and .16 -double over the legal limit.

He was placed under arrest by Special Traffic Investigators and charged with Accident Involving Injury or Death and for Intoxication Manslaughter. 

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 Marcelino Davila (DOB: 12-12-88)

Charges:

1.) Intoxication Manslaughter - $50,000 Bond 

2.) Accident Involving Injury or Death-  $25,000 Bond

Speed and Alcohol were factors in this accident. I-10 eastbound from mile post 0 to 2 was closed for approximately 5 hours. An Investigation continues.

Posted 02 May 2008 09:30 AM by jtovar
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