FIRE DEPARTMENT SEEKS SUSPECTS IN PLAYGROUND ARSON
Crime Stoppers of El Paso is assisting investigators from the Fire Marshals Office of the El Paso Fire Department in identifying the individuals who burned down a school playground in the northeast part of the city, making this the Crime of the Week.
On Friday, August 14th, about 12:30 A.M., shortly after Midnight, seven units with the Fire Department responded to a fire at Dolphin Terrace Elementary School, 9700 Pickeral. First units on the scene reported that the playground equipment at the school was fully engulfed in flames, and placed a condition II on the fire.
The arriving firefighters said that five male subjects were seen running away from the school shortly after the fire started. Investigators from the Fire Marshals Office determined that the fire was intentionally set, and ruled the fire as arson. The investigators also reported that there was a failed attempt to set another fire at a smaller playground in the school, and evidence from that attempt was collected.
Total damages to the playground were reported at over $150,000. This is the second playground fire set at Dolphin Terrace Elementary School. The first fire at this school was set on Oct. 11, 2006, and caused more than $110,000 in damages. The total cost for all school playground fires in El Paso is more than $700,000.
If you have any information at all about this crime, call Crime Stoppers of El Paso immediately at 566-TIPS(8477) or submit your tip online at www.crimestoppersofelpaso.org. You will remain anonymous and, if your tip leads to an arrest, you may earn a cash reward up to $1,000.
Crime Stoppers of El Paso, Inc. is a private non-profit corporation that brings together the community, law enforcement and the media to solve crime.
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LABOR DAY 2009 DWI ENFORCEMENT BEGINS TODAY 08/21
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office in coordination with the Texas Department of Transportation Education & Enforcement (TXDOT) will be utilizing a GRANT for additional patrols this Labor Day Holiday season for DWI traffic enforcement. The purpose of this program is aimed at getting speeding & impaired drivers off the roadways. Extra Deputies will be out on the streets during the Labor Day Holiday period. The push is to deter drunk driving. The enforcement program begins today Friday, August 21st, 2009 and continues through the Labor Day Holiday weekend until Monday, September 7th, 2009. TXDOT
Statistics from the Texas Department of Transportation indicate Texas leads the nation when it comes to the number of traffic fatalities where the driver or motorcycle operator was legally drunk. Last year, Texas experienced an increase in the number of motor vehicle traffic fatalities. The 2008 death toll of 3,468 was an increase of 0.20% from the 3,461 deaths recorded in 2007. In 2008, there were 975 people killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes where a driver was under the influence of alcohol. This is 28.1% of the total number of people killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes.
Based on reportable crashes in 2008:
* 1 person was killed every 2 hours 32 minutes
* 1 person was injured every 2 minutes 10 seconds
* 1 reportable crash
Penalties for a first-time DWI offense include :
* Up to $2,000 fine
* 72 hours to 6 months in Jail
* Driver’s license suspension for up to one year
* $1,000 annual fee for 3 consecutive years to retain drivers license
Deputies will be focusing on other law DWI enforcement issues:
* Possession of Alcohol by a Minor
* Purchase of Alcohol by a Minor
* Attempt to Purchase Alcohol by a Minor
* Consumption of Alcohol by a Minor
* Misrepresentation of Age by a Minor
* Driving Under Influence of Alcohol by a Minor
* Sale to a Minor
* Purchase of Alcohol for a Minor
* Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor
Our Sheriff Deputies will patrol and arrest / ticket drivers who ignore traffic laws. We continue to enforce the zero tolerance on seat belt/child safety seat use and drinking and driving. We will also focus on aggressive driving, and those who fail to obey the speed limit.
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DWI HIT & RUN DRIVER LEADS DEPUTIES ON CHASE
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Direct: (915) 538-2119
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com
EPCSO.ORG
Release Date / Time: Thursday, August 20, 2009 9:15 AM
SECTION: El Paso County Sheriff's Office – LOWER VALLEY PATROL
EVENT: HIT & RUN DWI DRIVER LEADS DEPUTIES ON CHASE
LOCATION OF OCCURRENCE: 1300 MONTANA to 3500 YARBROUGH El Paso, TX
DATE / TIME: Wednesday, August 19, 2009 9:37 PM
RESULT: HIT & RUN ACCIDENT / DRIVER ARRESTED
EL PASO COUNTY, TX– Late Wednesday night at about 9:37 PM, Sheriff’s Deputies were flagged down by several witnesses at the Diamond Shamrock Store located at 1302 Montana Ave. El Paso, TX in reference to information on a Reckless / DWI Driver. The suspect vehicle was described as a Silver Honda Prelude who witnesses reported had just struck a metal pole located next to the convenience store & fled the scene just moments before Deputies arrival.
Assisting Deputies spotted the suspect vehicle at the intersection of George Dieter and Montana Ave. where Deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop. The driver refused to stop fleeing from authorities westbound on Montana Ave. at which time a pursuit ensued.
The driver led Deputies to the 3500 block of Yarbrough until he finally pulled over. Deputies immediately took the driver into custody without further incident. Deputies immediately smelled a strong odor of alcohol emitting from the driver. The Driver was arrested & charged with DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED & EVADING ARREST w/ VEHICLE. Emergency services were called in as a precaution to check on the driver due to the impact where his vehicle struck the metal pole.
The driver of the vehicle was identified as JESUS DIAZ (48) of the 3000 block of Hector El Paso, TX. He remains incarcerated at the El Paso County Detention Facility.
THE CHASE WAS CAPTURED ON DASHCAM VIDEO WHICH HAS SINCE BEEN SUBMITTED AS EVIDENCE.
THERE WAS MINIMAL TRAFFIC & NO PEDESTRIANS ON OR NEAR ROADWAYS AT THE TIME OF THE PURSUIT.
ASIDE FROM THE SUSPECTS VEHICLE, THERE WAS NO OTHER DAMAGE TO OTHER PROPERTY OR PERSONS.
ARRESTED:
JESUS DIAZ (48)
DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED- $750 BOND
EVADING ARREST w/ VEHICLE- $1,500 BOND
PHOTOS BELOW: COURTESY EPCSO
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Fire press releases
NEWS RELEASE
August 20, 2009
This afternoon at approximately 1242 hours 7 units with the El Paso Fire Department responded to a fire behind a residence on the 10000 block of Stone Way in east El Paso. First units on the scene reported heavy smoke and flames coming from a 2001 Monaco Dynasty motor home that was parked in the backyard of the home and placed a condition II on the fire.
Because the motor home was parked close to the residence firefighters used a protection line to keep the fire from spreading into the home. Investigators with the Fire Marshals Office also responded to the scene and conducted an investigation.
Investigators conducted an investigation and determined that an electrical problem within a refrigerator inside the motor home was the cause of the fire. The fire was ruled as accidental. Total damages to the motor home and its contents were estimated at $150,000.00. There were no reported injuries to firefighters or civilians.
Investigators also reported that the owner had attempted to fight the fire with an extinguisher prior to calling the fire department, delaying the call to 911. Fire Officials want to remind the public to always call 911 first and evacuate the home and leave the firefighting to El Paso’s Bravest.
***
NEWS RELEASE
August 20, 2009
This morning at approximately 2317 hours 16 units with the El Paso Fire Department responded to a fire in a residence on the 1500 block of Golden Hill Terrace in central El Paso. First units on the scene reported heavy smoke and flames coming from the attic of a two story residence and placed a condition III on the fire.
Four adult occupants who were home at the time of the fire where able to escape unharmed prior to arrival of the fire department. Firefighters brought the fire under control at 0002 hours. Investigators with the Fire Marshals Office also responded to the scene.
Investigators conducted an investigation and determined that an electrical short in the attic was the cause of the fire and the fire was ruled as accidental. Total damages estimated to the structure and its contents were over $75,000.00. There were reported injuries to firefighters or civilians.
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Cargo drug bust by CBP officers working at the El Paso Port of Entry yields 1,392.60 pounds of marijuana
EL PASO, Texas - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers working at the Bridge of the Americas (BOTA) commercial cargo facility in El Paso seized 1,392.60 pounds of marijuana in one bust this week on Wednesday.
“The layered enforcement approach CBP utilizes helped in making this seizure,” said William Molaski, CBP El Paso Port Director. “Drug sniffing dog, high technology and officer expertise all contributed to this enforcement action”.
The seizure was made at approximately 11:24 a.m. when a 2001 white International tractor-trailer hauling a load of plastic pallets entered the BOTA cargo facility from Mexico. CBP officers selected the vehicle for a gamma-ray exam and identified several anomalies in the appearance of the shipment. The vehicle was moved to the inspection dock where a CBP drug sniffing dog searched the shipment and alerted to the cargo. CBP officers inspected the pallets and found numerous wrapped bundles concealed in the shipment. CBP officers removed a total of 408 marijuana-filled bundles from the shipment. The seized marijuana weighed 1,392.60 pounds. No arrests were made and the investigation is continuing.
While anti-terrorism is the primary mission of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the inspection process at the ports of entry associated with this mission results in impressive numbers of enforcement actions in all categories.
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MAN ARRESTED FOR DWI AFTER 2 PREVIOUS CONVICTIONS – LATEST CONVICTION 6 DAYS PRIOR
Date/Time: 08-19-2009 @ 1:07 a.m.
Location: 3100 N. Mesa
Arrested: Pedro Ruiz, 37 years of age, 10300 block Newcastle, El Paso, TX
Vehicle: 2001, maroon Jeep Wrangler
EL PASO, TEXAS – An El Paso man is arrested for his 3rd DWI after a DWI Task Force Officer sees a Jeep Wrangler speeding southbound on Mesa St. A DWI Task Force Officer observed a 2001 Jeep Wrangler speeding in the 3300 block of N. Mesa just after 1 am Wednesday morning. A traffic stop was conducted and an investigation began which revealed that Pedro Ruiz was the operator of the 2001 Jeep Wrangler that was speeding. It was determined that Ruiz was intoxicated and he was placed under arrest for Driving While Intoxicated. A check of Ruiz’ record showed convictions for the offense of DWI on 02-06-2003 and 08-13-2009 both out of County Court 1. Ruiz was booked into the El Paso County Jail for DWI - 3rd or More (Felony) on a $5,000.00 bond.
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BLOOD DRAW OPERATION IN EFFECT TONIGHT
Date/Time: Thursday, 08/20/09 - 10:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m.
Location: Various
EL PASO, TEXAS – The El Paso Police Department in cooperation with the Office of District Attorney Jaime Esparza will begin the use of blood draw procedures tonight, Thursday, August 20, 2009. The blood draw procedure is used after the individual(s) refuses to give a specimen of their breath when taken into custody for Driving While Intoxicated. This current Blood Draw Operation will run TONIGHT only from 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. Friday, August 21, 2009.
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CBP officers at Presidio port of entry arrest another fugitive being sought on sexual assault on child charges
PRESIDIO, TEXAS -- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers working at the Presidio port of entry apprehended a man Wednesday morning who was being sought on sexual assault of a child charges in Pecos County and assault and family violence charges in Crane County. The apprehension is the second time in three days CBP officers at the Presidio crossing have nabbed a high profile fugitive. CBP officers captured a man wanted by Presidio police on sexual assault on a child charges Monday.
“Capturing two high profile fugitives in a span of three days is unusual but it does illustrate that the CBP inspection process is thorough, complete, and effective,” said John Prewit, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Presidio Port Director. “Fugitives who enter the United States at a port of entry can expect to be apprehended by CBP officers.”
The most recent apprehension was made shortly after 8:00 a.m. Wednesday when 21-year-old Fidel Martinez Carrrasco of Fort Stockton, Texas, arrived at the port from Mexico as a passenger in a taxi. CBP officers performed a name query on the passenger and found that he was being sought in Pecos County and Crane County. CBP officers confirmed the warrants and then contacted the Presidio Police Department, which took custody of the subject without incident.
On Monday, CBP officer at the Presidio port arrested 18-year-old Ivan Francisco Carrizales of Presidio as he was driving a car through the port south from the U.S. to Mexico. During a southbound examination CBP officers determined that Carrizales was being sought by the Presidio Police Department in connection with sexual assault on a child charges. He was taken into custody without incident and turned over to Presidio police.
CBP Field Operations is responsible for securing our borders at the ports of entry. U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers’ primary mission is anti-terrorism; they screen all people, vehicles, and goods entering the United States, while facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel into and out of the United States. Their mission also includes carrying out traditional border-related responsibilities, including narcotics interdiction, enforcing immigration law, protecting the nation’s food supply and agriculture industry from pests and diseases, and enforcing trade laws.
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ARREST OF BURGLAR CLEARS SEVEN CASES
Date/Time: 08-18-2009 @ 8:00a.m
Location: 2800 block of Richmond
Arrested: Sylvester Cooper, 24 years of age, 2800 block of Richmond
EL PASO, TEXAS – The arrest of a man for outstanding traffic warrants leads to the clearance of seven Burglary of Habitation cases. Officers from the Westside Regional Command Center went to the 2800 block of Richmond in an attempt to locate 24-year old Sylvester Cooper, who was a suspect on a burglary and had four outstanding traffic warrants. Investigators from the Westside Tac Unit talked with Cooper and through their investigation seven cases were solved. Cooper was charged with Burglary of Habitation and booked currently on three separate charges of Burglary of Habitation(2nd Degree Felony). More than half (4 out of the 7) of the cases involved no force. In those cases entry was made through an open window or unlocked window. All of the cases involved apartments, two in east El Paso and five in west El Paso. Most of these burglaries were also believed to have occurred from hours that most people are at work or school 7a.m. to 6p.m and all occurred during the week. The first burglary occurred on June 12, 2009 at 300 block of Bartlett and the last on August 12, 2009 at the 7000 block of Westwind. The items taken in the burglaries included handguns, jewelry, electronics, and other items of value.
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FATAL MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT MARKS 8TH TRAFFIC DEATH OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Direct: (915) 538-2119
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com
Release Date / Time: Wednesday, August 19, 2009 3:00 AM
SECTION: El Paso County Sheriff's Office – UPPER VALLEY PATROL / SPECIAL TRAFFIC INVESTIGATORS (STI)
EVENT: MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT RESULTS IN FATALITY / VICTIM IDENTIFIED
LOCATION OF OCCURRENCE: Transmountain Rd. reference point 20 El Paso County, TX
DATE / TIME: Tuesday night, August 18, 2009 7:47 PM
RESULT: VICTIM IDENTIFIED
EL PASO COUNTY, TX– Tuesday night, 08-18-2009 at about 7:47 PM, Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to Transmountain RD. (TMR) reference point 20 in reference to a serious motorcycle accident. Deputies along with First Responders / EMT Medics arrived on scene to find the Operator / Victim(sole occupant) of the motorcycle lying on the with serious injuries. Deputies also located the motorcycle nearby with heavy damage nearby. Special Traffic Investigators (STI) were summoned to the scene.
Preliminary Investigation by STI’s determined the operator of the black 2007 Harley Davidson Street Glide was traveling east on Transmountain Rd at reference point 20 at a high rate of speed on the left lane. The operator failed to negotiate the right curve of the highway at that location and traveled from the left lane, through the left shoulder, and onto the unprotected median. The operator violently struck a sign located on the median with the right side of the motorcycle suffering serious injury at the point of impact. The operator and the motorcycle skidded from the point of impact through the westbound lanes of Transmountain Rd to their resting points (approximately 203 feet). The operator suffered other critical injuries and was transported to William Beaumont Medical Center. The operator / victim was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
THE VICTIM HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED AS WILLIAM MICHAEL O’LEARY (51) OF VINTON, TX.
IT APPEARS THAT SPEED & STRONG WINDS ARE FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT.
THIS ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION IS ONGOING PENDING AUTOPSY & TOXICOLOGY RESULTS.
THIS MARKS THE 8TH FATAL ACCIDENT OUTSIDE EL PASO CITY LIMITS.
NO OTHER INFORMATION IS BEING RELEASED AT THIS TIME
=================
MISSING ELDERLY MAN FOUND DEAD IN MISSION VALLEY
Date/Time: 08-18-2009 @ 2:50p.m.
Location: Desert area west of 300 block of N. Nevarez (El Paso, Texas)
Deceased: Miguel Olivas, 74 years of age, 300 block of Chelsea
EL PASO, TEXAS – An elderly man for who a Silver Alert had been initiated is found dead in El Paso’s Mission Valley. The discovery took place after an employee of Union Pacific Railroad was inspecting the railroad tracks just west of the 300 block of Nevarez. Upon arrival of officers, it was soon discovered that the deceased was 74-year old Miguel Olivas. At that time Detectives from the Central Regional Command Center responded to the scene along with the Medical Examiner’s Office. There is no foul play suspected on this case and investigators will have to await autopsy reports to determine the exact cause of death. Olivas was reported missing on the afternoon of Friday August 7, 2009. As a result spot broadcasts were put out to officers across the city, a search of the are where he was last seen and he was entered in to the national and state database as a missing person. As the investigation continued a Silver Alert was initiated and various searches continued until his discovery yesterday afternoon.
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CBP officers arrest man sought on sexual assault on child charges
PRESIDIO, TEXAS -- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers working at the Presidio port of entry apprehended a man Monday night who was being sought on sexual assault on a child charges. The arrest was made while CBP officers were conducting a southbound operation at the border port of entry.
“The primary CBP mission is anti-terror however our inspection process frequently results in the apprehension of people who are considered dangerous and pose a threat to the community,” said John Prewit, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Presidio Port Director. “The vigilance of our CBP officers plays an important role in keeping our communities safe.”
The apprehension was made at approximately 5:30 p.m. Monday in the southbound lanes at the Presidio port of entry. CBP officers performed a name query on 18-year-old Ivan Francisco Carrizales of Presidio, who was driving a car from the U.S. to Mexico. CBP officers determined that Carrizales was being sought by the Presidio Police Department in connection with sexual assault on a child charges. CBP officers confirmed the warrant and then contacted the Presidio Police Department, which took custody of the subject without incident.
CBP Field Operations is responsible for securing our borders at the ports of entry. U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers’ primary mission is anti-terrorism; they screen all people, vehicles, and goods entering the United States, while facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel into and out of the United States. Their mission also includes carrying out traditional border-related responsibilities, including narcotics interdiction, enforcing immigration law, protecting the nation’s food supply and agriculture industry from pests and diseases, and enforcing trade laws.
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UPDATE: ATV ACCIDENT / SEARCH & RESCUE CALL-OUT
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Direct: (915) 538-2119
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com
EPCSO.ORG
Release Date / Time: MONDAY, August 17, 2009 12:00 PM
SECTION: El Paso County Sheriff's Office – LOWER VALLEY PATROL / SEARCH & RESCUE - SAR
EVENT: UPDATE- ATV ACCIDENT / SEARCH & RESCUE CALL-OUT
LOCATION OF OCCURRENCE: RED SANDS - EL PASO COUNTY, TX
DATE / TIME: Sunday, August 16, 2009 6:23 PM
RESULT: ATV ACCIDENT
RED SANDS– Late Sunday evening 08-16-09 at 6:23 PM, Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to Reds Sands near the area of the 15600 block of Montana Ave. El Paso County, TX in reference to an ATV accident with serious injuries. Sheriff’s Deputies among with Montana Vista Fire Rescue & Life Medics arrived short time later to discover that a 27 year-old male and a 21 year-old female had sustained serious injuries while riding their ATV approximately 1 ½ miles into the desert off Montana Ave. Both victims sustained apparent head, neck, back, and hip injuries. Due to the location of the injured, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Search & Rescue Team was summoned to the scene. Emergency services also requested immediate air evacuation for the injured from Southwest Air Ambulance.
Preliminary investigation revealed the couple was riding a Yamaha 700 ATV driven by the 27 year-old male when they rode over the top of Red Mountain and started to descend on the south side. The ATV ended up tumbling on the steep terrain. Both Victim’s were thrown off of the ATV to the mountain side. SAR Members successfully stabilized both Victim’s on the mountain side then carried them out the helicopters standing by. Two Southwest Air Ambulance Helicopters were used. Both injured parties were transported to University Medical Center for medical treatment & further evaluation.
The area of the incident / rescue was very remote. The only roadways to get to & from the scene were mere paths through the deep, drifting red sand. SAR members were assisted by civilians on scene to get to the injured parties.
Both Victims were identified as ISRAEL BAYLON (27) of San Elizario, TX & ALEXANDRIA JIMENEZ (21) of Fabens, TX –they remain at University Medical Center –last said to be in stable condition.
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UPDATE: DRIVER SOUGHT IN HIT & RUN ACCIDENT INVOLVING PEDESTRIAN / VICTIM IDENTIFIED
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Direct: (915) 538-2119
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com
EPCSO.ORG
Release Date / Time: MONDAY, August 17, 2009 4:15 PM
SECTION: El Paso County Sheriff's Office – LOWER VALLEY PATROL / SPECIAL TRAFFIC INVESTIGATORS (STI)
EVENT: UPDATE- DRIVER SOUGHT IN HIT & RUN ACCIDENT INVOLVING A PEDESTRIAN / VICTIM IDENTIFIED
LOCATION OF OCCURRENCE: GATEWAY WEST / HORIZON EL PASO COUNTY, TX
DATE / TIME: Sunday, August 16,, 2009 12:00 AM
RESULT: HIT & RUN ACCIDENT / VICTIM IDENTIFIED
EL PASO COUNTY, TX– Midnight Sunday morning 08-16-09, Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to the area east of Gateway West and Horizon in reference to a hit & run motor vehicle accident involving a pedestrian. Deputies arrived and observed a Hispanic male lying on the ground. The subject was not able to speak and did not have any form of identification on him. Due to the severity of the injuries, Special Traffic Investigators were summoned to the scene.
Preliminary investigation by STI’s revealed that just before midnight 08/15 an unknown male pedestrian (approx 40 years of age, wearing a black tank top, camouflage shorts and black shoes) was walking on the right westbound lane of Gateway West. The pedestrian was struck by a pickup truck (possibly a red or maroon older model Chevrolet truck) that was traveling on the right westbound lane of Gateway West. The unknown driver of the pickup truck failed to stop and render aid to the pedestrian and fled the scene of the accident. The pedestrian was transported to the University Medical Center of El Paso and suffered a fracture to the left side of his pelvis and dislocated neck, right elbow, and right shoulder as a result from the crash (currently listed in stable condition). The pedestrian was under the influence of alcohol.
Late Sunday 08-16-09:
STI’s were continuing the investigation trying to determine the identity of the pedestrian.
08-17-09/ UPDATE:
The Victim was identified as SANDRO SOLIS (33) of the 1200 block of Iguana, El Paso County, TX 79928 (El Paso Hills Area).
DESPITE BEING A HIT & RUN, SPEED DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT.
Sheriff’s Office Special Traffic Investigator’s are once again asking the community for assistance in helping find the driver and / or the pick-up truck that fled the scene. If anyone has information on who is responsible for striking the pedestrian or has any information regarding this case, you are urged to call Crime Stoppers of El Paso, Inc at (915) 566-TIPS (8477). You will remain anonymous and, if your tip leads to an arrest, you could earn a cash reward.
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2 MANHUNT MONDAY FUGITIVES CAPTURED MINUTES APART (6 CAPTURES IN 25 DAYS)
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Direct: (915) 538-2119
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com
Release Date / Time: Tuesday, August 18, 2009 9:35 AM
SECTION: El Paso County Sheriff's Office – SPEC OPS / PATROL DIVISION
EVENT: 2 MHM WANTED FUGITIVES CAPTURED BY SHERIFF’S DEPUTIES
LOCATION OF OCCURRENCE: El Paso County, TX
DATE / TIME: MONDAY, August 17, 2009 between 5pm-6pm
RESULT: FUGITIVES CAPTURED
EL PASO COUNTY, TX– Late Monday afternoon, 08-17-09 just after 5:00 PM, Sheriff’s Deputies assigned to the Special Operation Division received an anonymous tip on the whereabouts of a WANTED FUGITIVE VICENTE RIVAS who was just featured as this week’s MANHUNT MONDAY’s FUGITIVE AT LARGE.
The tip led Deputies to a residence in the 3000 block of Saul Kleinfeld in east El Paso, TX where fugitive VICENTE RIVAS (23) was said to be. RIVAS was located & taken into custody without incident.
VICENTE RIVAS (23) was wanted for various offenses which included; UNLAWFUL CARRYING OF A WEAPON (HANDGUN)- $40,000 BOND & POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE (COCAINE) >4g <200g- $40,000 BOND
El Paso County, TX- As Deputies on the eastside of town were taking VICENTE RIVAS into custody, Deputies received another anonymous tip on the whereabouts of a WANTED FUGITIVE previously featured on MANHUNT MONDAY.
The tip led Deputies to the Adult Probation Office located at 800 E. Overland where information received indicated at-large fugitive EDGAR SEALEY (33) was due to report to his probation officer. Deputies waited & took SEALEY into custody without incident once he showed. SEALEY was featured on August 10th’s edition of MANHUNT MONDAY.
EDGAR SEALEY (33) was wanted for the offense of CRIMINAL NON-SUPPORT **NO BOND**. SEALEY was arrested on the heels of “OPERATION DEAD BEAT” in which several individuals were arrested for various amounts of unpaid child support.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW MANHUNT MONDAY FEATURE ON EDGAR SEALEY 08/10
Both arrests marked the 5th & 6th MANHUNT MONDAY captures in just the last 25 days.
CAPTURED MANHUNT MONDAY FUGITIVES
VICENTE RIVAS (23)
EDGAR SEALEY (33)
=================
BP officers discover two food containers filled with methamphetamine
EL PASO, Texas —U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers working at the Ysleta international crossing at the El Paso port of entry made an unusual crystal methamphetamine seizure Friday afternoon. The drugs were concealed in the waistband of a pedestrian border crosser.
The seizure was made at noon on Friday when a man applied for entry to the United States via the pedestrian lanes at the Ysleta crossing. A CBP officer working at the primary inspection station noticed unexplained bulges in the waist area of the man and initiated an inspection. The CBP officer found two bundles hidden along the waist line of the man’s pants. A further examination revealed that the tape wrapped bundles were food containers filled with a material that looked like shards of glass. CBP officers tested the substance and received a positive match for methamphetamine. The drugs weighed 1.55 pounds.
“The primary CBP officer on duty was thorough and focused and was able to identify this pedestrian as a person who needed additional scrutiny,” said William Molaski, CBP Port Director El Paso, Texas.
CBP officers arrested the smuggler, who is identified as 26-year-old Carlos Alberto Gonzalez Payan, Of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. He was turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) special agents and booked into the El Paso County Jail where he is being held without bond.
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UPDATE: ATV ACCIDENT / SEARCH & RESCUE CALL-OUT
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Direct: (915) 538-2119
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com
EPCSO.ORG
Release Date / Time: MONDAY, August 17, 2009 12:00 PM
SECTION: El Paso County Sheriff's Office – LOWER VALLEY PATROL / SEARCH & RESCUE - SAR
EVENT: UPDATE- ATV ACCIDENT / SEARCH & RESCUE CALL-OUT
LOCATION OF OCCURRENCE: RED SANDS - EL PASO COUNTY, TX
DATE / TIME: Sunday, August 16,, 2009 6:23 PM
RESULT: ATV ACCIDENT
RED SANDS– Late Sunday evening 08-16-09 at 6:23 PM, Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to Reds Sands near the area of the 15600 block of Montana Ave. El Paso County, TX in reference to an ATV accident with serious injuries. Sheriff’s Deputies among with Montana Vista Fire Rescue & Life Medics arrived short time later to discover that a 27 year-old male and a 21 year-old female had sustained serious injuries while riding their ATV approximately 1 ½ miles into the desert off Montana Ave. Both victims sustained apparent head, neck, back, and hip injuries. Due to the location of the injured, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Search & Rescue Team was summoned to the scene. Emergency services also requested immediate air evacuation for the injured from Southwest Air Ambulance.
Preliminary investigation revealed the couple was riding a Yamaha 700 ATV driven by the 27 year-old male when they rode over the top of Red Mountain and started to descend on the south side. The ATV ended up tumbling on the steep terrain. Both Victim’s were thrown off of the ATV to the mountain side. SAR Members successfully stabilized both Victim’s on the mountain side then carried them out the helicopters standing by. Two Southwest Air Ambulance Helicopters were used. Both injured parties were transported to University Medical Center for medical treatment & further evaluation.
The area of the incident / rescue was very remote. The only roadways to get to & from the scene were mere paths through the deep, drifting red sand. SAR members were assisted by civilians on scene to get to the injured parties.
Both Victims were identified as ISRAEL BAYLON (27) of San Elizario, TX & ALEXANDRIA JIMENEZ (21) of Fabens, TX –they remain at University Medical Center –last said to be in stable condition.
=================
13 ARRESTED DURING “OPERATION DEAD BEAT”
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Direct: (915) 538-2119
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com
EPCSO.ORG
Release Date / Time: MONDAY, August 17, 2009 11:00 AM
SECTION: El Paso County Sheriff's Office – STRIKE TEAM
EVENT: “OPERATION DEAD BEAT” NETS 13 ARRESTS
LOCATION OF OCCURRENCE: EL PASO COUNTY, TX
DATE / TIME: Week of August 12-15 , 2009
RESULT: SEVERAL ARRESTED
EL PASO COUNTY, TX– During the week of August 12 to August 15 2009, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Strike Team conducted “OPERATION DEAD BEAT”. The operation was intended to identify and locate subjects who had outstanding warrants for Criminal Non-Support (Child Support back pay). As a result of the operation Strike Team Deputies located a total of 11 people that had outstanding warrants for various amounts of unpaid child support. During the operation Deputies also located two other subjects that had active unrelated felony criminal warrants. One of the additional subjects located was wanted for assaulting a school district security officer and the other for a Driving While intoxicated 3rd or more charge.
ARRESTED :
Roy Provencio(43)
CRIMINAL NON-SUPPORT:
NO BOND
Raul Vasquez (37)
CRIMINAL NON-SUPPORT:
NO BOND
George Zuniga (34)
CRIMINAL NON-SUPPORT:
$8,000.00
Jose Morales (31)
CRIMINAL NON-SUPPORT:
NO BOND
Moses Diaz (32)
CRIMINAL NON-SUPPORT:
$2,000.00
Luis Albert Gutierrez (33)
CRIMINAL NON-SUPPORT:
NO BOND
Alfredo Ronquillo (42)
CRIMINAL NON-SUPPORT:
$7,900.00
Ramon Mendoza (31)
CRIMINAL NON-SUPPORT:
$1,400.00
Jose Macias (45)
CRIMINAL NON-SUPPORT:
$1,000.00
Rafael Rodriguez (52)
CRIMINAL NON-SUPPORT:
$14,000.00
Ted Williamson (56)
CRIMINAL NON-SUPPORT:
$24,750.00
Jose Franco (18)
ASSAULT ON SECURITY OFFICER-
$100, 000.00
Albert Mendez (37)
PROBATION VIOLATION / DWI 3rd OR MORE:
NO BOND
(NOTE: ALL INDIVIDUALS ARRESTED / SHOWN ABOVE ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW)
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MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES / LOOT FOUND
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Deputy Jesse Tovar / PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Direct: (915) 538-2119
Pager: (915) 533-0733 (#5370)
EMAIL: jtovar@epcounty.com
EPCSO.ORG
Release Date / Time: Monday, August 17, 2009 9:45 AM
SECTION: El Paso County Sheriff's Office – LOWER VALLEY PATROL / SPEC OPS
EVENT: MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES / LOOT DISCOVERED
LOCATION OF OCCURRENCE: 3700 block of Tierra Allen EL PASO , TX 79938
DATE / TIME: OVER THE WEEKEND
RESULT: ARREST MADE
NARCOBlkPatchEL PASO COUNTY, TX– Over the weekend, Sheriff’s Deputies executed arrest warrants on a subject in the 3700 block of Tierra Allen in El Paso, Texas. The arrest warrant was for the apprehension of MISAEL ALONSO MORAN (29) wanted on 3 counts for the Delivery of Controlled Substances (Cocaine) o/1-u/4 grams with a $40,000 bond on each count.
A subsequent search of the residence revealed over 3259.6 grams of cocaine and $56,841 in United States Currency. And additional charge of Possession of Controlled Substance (Cocaine) o/ 400 grams was added onto MORAN’s charges. The additional charge had a $175,000 bond. MORAN remains incarcerated under bonds totaling $295,000.
The narcotics, money, three vehicles and a large quantity of home furnishings, believed to have been purchased with drug proceeds, were seized. The El Paso County Sheriff Office will be filing appropriate forfeiture paperwork.
ARRESTED:
MISAEL ALONSO MORAN (29)
CHARGES:
* 3 counts- Delivery of Controlled Substances (Cocaine) o/1-u/4 grams with a $40,000 bond on each count
* Possession of Controlled Substance (Cocaine) o/ 400 grams - $175,000 BOND
(NOTE: INDIVIDUAL ARRESTED / SHOWN ABOVE IS PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW)
PHOTOS BELOW: COURTESY EPCSO
NO OTHER INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE AT THE TIME.
=================
MANHUNT MONDAY 08/17: VICENTE RIVAS
MONDAY, AUGUST 17, 2009
WANTED FUGITIVE:
VICENTE RIVAS
FUGITIVE INFORMATION:
NAME: RIVAS, VICENTE MANUEL (23)
AKA’s: RODRIGUEZ, VICENTE
CAMACHO, MANUEL
DOB: 03-25-86
HEIGHT: 5’7”
WEIGHT: 170 lbs.
HAIR: Black
EYES: Brown
BUILD: Medium
COMPLEXION: Medium
TATTOO’S:
LEFT ARM (FULL SLEEVE)- “MOB” / “LIVE FOR MONEY DIE FOR MONEY” / SKULLS / $$$ / DRAWING OF FEMALES
CHEST- DRAWING OF WOAMN LABELED “IRMA”
NECK- TRIBAL w/ 2 WOMEN / CLOWN w/ SKULLS
PLACE OF BIRTH: El Paso, Texas
WANTED FOR:
UNLAWFUL CARRYING OF A WEAPON (HANDGUN)- $40,000 BOND
POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE (COCAINE) >4g <200g- $40,000 BOND
The Manhunt is on for VICENTE RIVAS
RIVAS is wanted for the OFFENSE of:
1. UNLAWFUL CARRYING OF A WEAPON (HANDGUN) - $40,000 BOND
2. POSSESSION OF CONTRILLED SUBSTANCE (COCAINE) - >4g <200g- $40,000 BOND
EL PASO, TX - This week’s MANHUNT MONDAY fugitive is a subject the El Paso Community may remember well- in July 2008 VICENTE RIVAS along with several other accomplices terrorized a mobile home park in Montana Vista. RIVAS has previously & repeatedly threatened Law Enforcement & is now the focus of MANHUNT MONDAY.
APRIL 2009- On Thursday 04-03-2009 at approximately 3:50 PM, Deputies were dispatched to the intersection of Krueger and Eichelberger in reference to a Hit & Run accident that just occurred. Deputies arrived to find a black 2005 Nissan Pathfinder with heavy damage. The second vehicle fled the scene prior to Deputies arrival. Witnesses described the vehicle that fled as a Red Pontiac Grand- AM. Deputies located a 2005 Red Pontiac Grand Am a short time later where they came into contact with the driver VICENTE RIVAS. Authorities went on to find a black box belonging to RIVAS containing a 9mm Taurus handgun with two magazines and approximately twenty four rounds of 9mm ammunition, to include a clear plastic bag of cocaine (30.5 grams). RIVAS was subsequently arrested for Possession of A Controlled Substance and Unlawful Carrying Weapons. RIVAS bonded out a short time later & has not been seen since – never reporting for court.
RIVAS has an extensive violent criminal history & is known to carry handguns with him at all times. RIVAS continues to elude capture & is believed to remain in El Paso, TX.
A WARNING TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC, ** USE EXTREME CAUTION** IF YOU ENCOUNTER VICENTE RIVAS - HE IS CONSIDERED ARMED & DANGEROUS.
SERIES of INCIDENTS in 2008 INVOLVING VICENTE RIVAS- COURTESY EPCSO ARCHIVES:
JULY 14, 2008- 4 ARRESTED FOR ENGAGING IN ORGANIZED CRIMINAL CRIMINAL ACTIVITY / DRUGS / ASSAULT CHARGES
JULY 16, 2008- SWAT CALL-OUT AFTER SHOTS FIRED AT DEPUTIES
JULY 17, 2008- WANTED FUGITIVES CAUGHT-MANHUNT FOR 2 VIOLENT SUSPECTS OVER AFTER ANONYMOUS TIP
Sheriff’s Officials are asking the Public if anyone has seen or knows the whereabouts of VICENTE RIVAS they are urged to call Crime Stoppers of El Paso at 566-TIPS (8477). Callers will remain anonymous & may be eligible for a reward if the information provided leads to the apprehension of the individuals featured.
=================
MAN ARRESTED FOR DWI AFTER 2 PREVIOUS CONVICTIONS
Date/Time: 08-15-2009 @ 2:17 a.m.
Location: 100 Shadow Mountain
Arrested: Justin M. Carrasco, 29 years of age, 6900 block Escondido, El Paso, Tx
Vehicle: 1999, red Chevrolet S-10 pickup
EL PASO, TEXAS – An El Paso man is arrested for his 3rd DWI after Westside Patrol Officers are alerted about two vehicles racing early Saturday morning on North Mesa. Westside Patrol was notified to two vehicles racing on N. Mesa just after 2 a.m. this morning. A Westside Supervisor saw the vehicles traveling at a high rate a speed and was able to get both vehicles stopped at N. Mesa and Shadow Mountain. An investigation began and revealed that Justin Carrasco was the operator of a 1999 Chevrolet S-10 pickup truck was involved in the racing incident. It was determined that Carrasco was intoxicated and he was placed under arrest for Driving While Intoxicated. A check of Carrasco’s records showed convictions for the offense of DWI on 11-15-2002 and 03-11-2004 both out of County Court 2. Carrasco was booked into the El Paso County Jail for DWI - 3rd or More (Felony).
