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Category Archives: Drugs

Man arrested for using a drone to try to smuggle drugs into the Theo Lacy Jail

Posted on by Posted in Costa Mesa, Drugs, Guns, OC Sheriff, Orange, Orange County Leave a comment

ORANGE, Ca. (Sept. 16, 2021) The Custody Intelligence Unit (CIU) on Tuesday, Sept. 14, arrested a man suspected of using a drone in an attempt to smuggle drugs into the Theo Lacy Facility in Orange.

CIU investigators were advised of a drone carrying narcotics that landed in an outdoor recreation area of the jail. The drone was carrying 2 grams of heroin, 4 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 15 Xanax pills and approximately 15 muscle relaxers.

Through their investigation, the CIU identified a possible suspect in the city of Costa Mesa and obtained a search warrant for the man’s residence. During their search, investigators confiscated numerous illegal firearms, fentanyl and a controller determined to pair with the drone that landed at Theo Lacy.

The suspect also was found to be in possession of a stolen vehicle and had been renting his residence using fraudulent identification. Investigators also recovered materials determined to be associated with identify theft and fraudulent criminal activity in the man’s residence.

Chey Cody Smart, 43, of Costa Mesa was arrested on suspicion of multiple felony drug and firearms charges, along with grand theft. He was booked into the Orange County Jail on Sept. 14. It also was determined Smart had a warrant for his arrest issued by Mendocino County, California for felony weapons charges.

“The Custody Intelligence Unit is extremely proactive in intercepting narcotics attempting to come into our jails,” said Sheriff-Coroner Don Barnes. “They have adopted an investigative strategy that includes locating the outside entities attempting to bring narcotics into our facilities, and this case is a great example of that work. We will continue to stay diligent in keeping those entrusted to our custody and care safe, and we will hold accountable those who attempt to threaten that safety.”

The SAPD seized a drugs and cash from two suspects near the railroad tracks

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While conducting outreach and enforcement in the area of N. Edinger Avenue, the SAPD’s Quality of Life Team (QOLT) made contact with two subjects near the railroad tracks.

Both subjects were found to have outstanding warrants for their arrest.

During a search of one of the subjects’ property, 18.6 oz. of methamphetamine, 18 grams of fentanyl, packaging material, a digital scale and over $2000 cash were found inside of a backpack.

Both subjects were booked for possession of narcotics and outstanding warrants.

The SAPD seized firearms and drugs at an illegal marijuana grow operation

Posted on by Posted in Crime, Drugs, Guns, Marijuana, Santa Ana, SAPD Leave a comment

Yesterday, SAPD Vice Detectives, with the assistance of Directed Patrol and Code Enforcement, served a search warrant at a suspected illegal cannabis business in the area of the 100 block of E. Alton Avenue. just north of the Sandpointe Neighborhood.

Upon entry into the business, officers and detectives located cannabis and firearms.

In total, over 20 pounds of cannabis, 4 firearms & 1 shotgun were seized.

The investigation continues.

The Costa Mesa Police Department is conducting a DUI and driver’s license checkpoint on Friday

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COSTA MESA, Calif. (Sept. 1, 2021) – The Costa Mesa Police Department (CMPD) will be conducting a driving under the influence (DUI) and driver’s license checkpoint on Friday, Sept. 3, 2021, from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. within the city limits.

Checkpoint locations are chosen based on a history of DUI crashes and arrests. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired. During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

“These checkpoints, funded by the California Office of Traffic Safety, are essential to keeping the community safe,” Sgt. Dan Miles said. “We are looking for impaired drivers because driving under the influence is dangerous and puts others on the road at risk.”

CMPD reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or “operating heavy machinery,” which includes driving a car. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

CMPD offers these reminders to ensure you have a safe night of fun that does not involve a DUI:

  • Always use a designated sober driver to get home, which could be a friend who is not drinking, ride-share, a cab or public transportation.
  • If you see someone who is impaired try to drive, take the keys and help them make other arrangements to find a sober way home.
  • Report drunk drivers – Call 911.
  • If you are hosting a party, offer nonalcoholic drinks. Monitor those who are drinking and how they are getting home.
  • If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying at home.

Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

Funding for this checkpoint is provided to CMPD by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Santa Ana pharmacy owner gets 3 years in prison for $1.8 million insurance scheme

Posted on by Posted in California, California Department of Justice, Crime, Drugs, Insurance, Santa Ana Leave a comment

OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the sentencing of Quality Care Pharmacy owner Divina Catalasan for defrauding the Medi-Cal and Medicare programs. An audit by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) found that the amount of drugs the owner of the Santa Ana-based pharmacy claimed to have purchased and billed the programs for was not supported by her actual inventory, and that her fraudulent over-billing totaled more than $1.8 million. Catalasan pleaded guilty on May 14, 2021, to three felony counts of fraudulent healthcare claims and grand theft, with a sentencing enhancement for aggravated white-collar crime. She was sentenced today in Orange County Superior Court to three years in state prison.

“Medi-Cal and Medicare bring healthcare to seniors and people in need, including underserved children and people with disabilities. People who defraud these publicly-funded programs cheat all of us,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Through our Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse, the California Department of Justice works to protect Californians from healthcare fraud. People who try to pull a fast one on these programs will be held accountable.”

In 2015, an audit of Quality Care Pharmacy by the California Department of Health Care Services revealed that from 2011 through 2015, Catalasan billed Medi-Cal more than $540,000 over what her purchase inventory showed. The department then referred the case to DOJ’s Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (DMFEA), which expanded the audit and the time frame under review. DMFEA also expanded its audit beyond Medi-Cal to Medicare and Orange County’s Medi-Cal managed care plan, CalOptima. The expanded audit found that Catalasan fraudulently overbilled Medi-Cal and CalOptima for $1,168,585.06, and Medicare for $687,940.52, for a total of $1,856,525.58. She was arrested on June 11, 2019.

Through the DMFEA, DOJ works to protect Californians by investigating and prosecuting those who perpetrate fraud on the Medi-Cal program. DMFEA also investigates and prosecutes those responsible for abuse, neglect, and fraud committed against elderly and dependent adults. The division regularly works with whistleblowers and law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute crimes.

The DMFEA receives 75% of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $41,264,032 for federal fiscal year 2020-2021. The remaining 25%, totaling $13,754,675 for fiscal year 2020-2021, is funded by the State of California. The federal fiscal year is defined as through September 30, 2021.

A copy of the complaint is available here.

The SAPD’s weekly gun and drug seizure roundup

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SAPD Directed Patrol officers conducted a car stop for vehicle code violations and discovered the driver was on active probation with search and seizure conditions. During their investigation, the driver was found to be in possession of fentanyl. Directed Patrol officers also conducted a search of the driver’s residence in the city of Garden Grove and located a loaded shotgun, 9mm semi-automatic handgun and additional ammunition. The driver was arrested for the illegal possession of narcotics, firearms and ammunition.

SAPD gang detectives stopped a vehicle for minor traffic violations. The two occupants in the vehicle were recognized in having gang affiliation and being on informal probation. The driver of the vehicle gave consent to the search of the vehicle. Detectives located a loaded 9mm semi-automatic “ghost gun” inside a black, nylon, tool bag. They also discovered manufacturing tools to make “ghost guns” and ammunition.

SAPD MET detectives conducted a traffic stop in the parking lot of the Comfort Inn Hotel. Upon contact, the driver admitted to having a firearm on his person. A loaded 9 mm “ghost gun” was found in his waistband. Detectives located a briefcase inside the vehicle with multiple bags containing large quantities of narcotics. Further investigation revealed the driver was registered at the Comfort Inn Hotel. A search of the room revealed more narcotics and a loaded AR15 “ghost” rifle with high capacity magazines.

On Friday, August 20th, the STEARRD Partnership, consisting of Santa Ana PD, Garden Grove Police Department, Brea Police Department, and Westminster Police Department, conducted street racing enforcement in the City of Santa Ana. The results of the enforcement were a total of 30 Citations, 1 impound and 2 seized firearms.

SAPD Directed Patrol Officers, along with the AB 109 Task Force initiated a traffic stop during a patrol check. The vehicle was occupied by a male driver and female passenger. The driver was discovered to be on active probation and out on bail for a stolen vehicle and narcotic violations. The female had prior convictions for narcotic sales. Directed Patrol officers completed a probation check of their motel room. During the search, officers located an unloaded 9mm semi-automatic “ghost gun” and a large quantity of methamphetamine individually packaged for sales.

The SAPD will be conducting a DUI and Driver’s License checkpoint this Friday night

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The Santa Ana Police Department will be conducting a DUI / Driver’s License checkpoint on Friday, August 27th, 2021. It will begin at 8:00 PM and is scheduled to conclude at 2:00 AM.

The primary purpose of a DUI Checkpoint is to deter impaired driving, not to increase arrests. All too often, members of our community are senselessly injured or killed on local roadways by impaired drivers. This DUI / Driver’s License checkpoint is an effort to reduce those tragedies, as well as ensuring drivers have a valid driver’s license. The DMV reports that unlicensed drivers are 4.9 times more likely to cause a fatal crash than a licensed driver is.

The checkpoint will be staffed by officers trained in the detection of alcohol and drug impairment to provide on-the-spot assessments of drivers suspected of alcohol or drug impairment. All checkpoints are conducted in accordance with the guidelines for DUI checkpoint operations outlined in the California Supreme Court decision, Ingersoll v. Palmer.

All vehicles may be checked and drivers who are under the influence of alcohol and / or drugs will be arrested. Our objective is to send a clear message to those who are considering driving a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol and / or drugs – Drunk Driving, Over the Limit, Under Arrest. The public is encouraged to help keep roadways safe by calling 911 if they see a suspected impaired driver. Funding for this operation is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

An inmate at the O.C. Lacy Facility died of a suspected drug overdose

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A 25-year-old male inmate housed at the Theo Lacy Facility in Orange died on August 20, 2021 of a suspected overdose.

The inmate was booked into jail in June 2021 on a probation violation. He was found unresponsive on his bed in dormitory housing this morning. Medical attention was provided and the inmate was transferred to a local hospital. He was pronounced deceased at the hospital just after 11 a.m. Preliminarily, there are no suspicious circumstances.

The identification of the decedent is being withheld pending the notification of next of kin.

The Orange County District Attorney’s Office will investigate the in-custody death. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department will conduct an in-custody death review. No additional information will be released at this time.

The SAPD seized more guns and drugs this week

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A witness called to report a subject brandishing a handgun at pedestrians. Responding SAPD police officers located a vehicle matching the suspect vehicle description.

SAPD Patrol and Directed Patrol officers initiated a car stop and detained the driver. Officers located a 9mm “ghost gun” in plain sight under the driver seat.

SAPD gang detectives developed information on an active gang member in possession of firearms/narcotics and authored a search warrant for his residence.

As a result of the investigation, detectives located two loaded revolvers, a large amount of narcotics, and several rounds of ammunition inside the suspect’s bedroom.

While conducting a patrol check, the SAPD AB109 Task Force officers initiated a traffic stop and contacted two subjects in the vehicle. The officers located a .380 Bersa handgun during a search of the vehicle.

The SAPD busted a large illegal marijuana grow operation

Posted on by Posted in Crime, Drugs, Marijuana, Santa Ana, SAPD Leave a comment

After receiving a community complaint regarding a possible illegal marijuana cultivation site, Santa Ana Police Vice detectives began surveillance in the area to identify the illicit business. Through investigative leads, Vice detectives were able to narrow down the location of the industrial complex located in the area of the 2100 block of S. Yale Street. Santa Ana Police detectives authored a search warrant and served the warrant the morning of Wednesday, August 11, 2021.

Initial investigation revealed several individuals were working inside this illegal business and those individuals were detained. Once inside the building, detectives located an illegal, large-scale, operational marijuana cultivation site. In total, six individuals were detained for illegal cultivation.

While in the process of investigating this illegal business, further evidence led detectives to an adjacent building in this complex. Vice detectives utilized a narcotics detection K9, which immediately alerted on a large roll up door. This additional information allowed for detectives to author and obtain a secondary search warrant.

Upon entering the secondary illegal business, detectives located a marijuana packaging facility with large amounts of marijuana. While inside, detectives detained 90 individuals and three juveniles, who appeared to be working at the facility. Upon further investigation, it appeared the detained individuals might have been victims of human/labor trafficking. Detectives are currently working with the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force (OCHTTF) and the Orange County District Attorney’s Office to determine if these individuals are involved in the illegal marijuana business and/or victims of human/labor trafficking.

Representatives from the County of Orange Social Services Agency and Waymakers responded to provide services.

Chief of Police David Valentin stated, “Providing effective policing services and addressing quality of life issues is our highest priority. This multi-pronged enforcement operation illustrates our unwavering commitment to a balanced traditional and community based policing strategy. We not only removed a nuisance business from our community, we also saved individuals who were victims of human/labor trafficking. This would not have been possible without the assistance and collaborative efforts of our allied law enforcement agencies which include the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force and U.S. Department of Labor, in addition to our partnerships with the County of Orange Social Services Agency and Waymakers.”

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call SAPD Vice Detectives at (714) 245-8384 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.

The Tustin Police pulled over a suspect and found a gun and cocaine

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While patrolling the area of McFadden Ave & Tustin Village Way on Thursday night, Tustin Police Officers made a traffic stop on a vehicle.

Resulting from the investigation, the male driver was arrested for unlawful possession of a firearm (loaded 9mm handgun) and a controlled substance (cocaine).

The male subject was booked into Orange County Jail.

The SAPD will conduct a DUI and Driver’s License checkpoint tonight

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The Santa Ana Police Department will be conducting a DUI/Driver’s License checkpoint on Friday, July 30th, 2021. It will begin at 8:00 PM and is scheduled to conclude at 2:00 AM.

The primary purpose of a DUI Checkpoint is to deter impaired driving, not to increase arrests. All too often, members of our community are senselessly injured or killed on local roadways by impaired drivers. This DUI / Driver’s License checkpoint is an effort to reduce those tragedies, as well as ensuring drivers have a valid driver’s license. The DMV reports that unlicensed drivers are 4.9 times more likely to cause a fatal crash than a licensed driver is.

The checkpoint will be staffed by officers trained in the detection of alcohol and drug impairment to provide on-the-spot assessments of drivers suspected of alcohol or drug impairment. All checkpoints are conducted in accordance with the guidelines for DUI checkpoint operations outlined in the California Supreme Court decision, Ingersoll v. Palmer.

All vehicles may be checked and drivers who are under the influence of alcohol and / or drugs will be arrested. Our objective is to send a clear message to those who are considering driving a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol and / or drugs – Drunk Driving, Over the Limit, Under Arrest. The public is encouraged to help keep roadways safe by calling 911 if they see a suspected impaired driver. Funding for this operation is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Garden Grove Police Department will conduct a DUI and CDL Checkpoint on July 31

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Garden Grove, Calif. – The Garden Grove Police Department will hold a DUI Checkpoint July 31st, 2021 from 2100-0300 hours at an undisclosed location within the city of Garden Grove in the County of Orange.

Checkpoint locations are chosen based on a history of DUI crashes and arrests. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired.

During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

As the state continues to work to stop the spread of COVID-19, the Garden Grove Police Department is committed to keeping the public safe.

“The safety of our community is and always will be our mission,” Police Chief Tom DaRé said. “We are still out there looking for impaired drivers because driving under the influence is still dangerous.”

The Garden Grove Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving or ”operating heavy machinery,” which includes driving a car. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying at home.

Drivers charged with DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

An O.C. Lyft driver allegedly crashed while asleep behind the wheel and a passenger died

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On April 4, 2021 at approximately 7:00 am, the Tustin Police Department responded to the area of Jamboree Road and Patriot Way regarding a major, solo vehicle traffic collision.

During the preliminary investigation, it was determined the involved driver, a LYFT driver, fell asleep behind the wheel while transporting a customer. The vehicle struck a light pole and caused traumatic injuries to the passenger ultimately resulting in death.

After an extensive investigation by the Tustin Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team, it was determined the driver, 30-year-old Andy Van Pham was driving with negligence resulting in the death of the victim.

On July 20, 2021 the Orange County Superior Court issued an arrest warrant for Pham.

After conducting surveillance, Pham was arrested without incident and booked into Orange County Jail for Vehicular Manslaughter with Ordinary Negligence.

Pham was fired from Lyft and the company said it would assist law enforcement authorities however it can.

Pham pleaded not guilty on Friday to the manslaughter charge, possession of drug paraphernalia, providing false information to a police officer, and making an unsafe turn or lane change,

SAPD police officers seized guns, drugs and cash from two probationers

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The SAPD’s AB 109 Task Force along with their Directed Patrol officers responded to the 4900 block of W. Crystal Ln. (a few blocks northeast of Mile Square Park) for a compliance check of a subject on probation.

During a search of the subject’s vehicle officers located a loaded 9mm “Ghost” gun, along with a large amount of fentanyl.

While conducting a traffic stop in the area of the 600 block of N. Harbor Blvd.,(a few blocks west of Cesar Chavez Campesino Park) SAPD MET detectives contacted two subjects in the vehicle.

The passenger advised detectives he had a firearm in his waistband and was on probation.

The subject was handcuffed and a loaded firearm was removed from his waistband.

The driver was also in possession of approximately 40 grams of narcotics and roughly, $5,000 in cash was also recovered from the vehicle.