Last week’s City Council meeting included the proclamation of a state of emergency for the City of Big Bear Lake, and also included recognition to Big Bear Sheriff’s Station deputies for some heroic efforts prior to the storms. Deputy Mark Rios, as acknowledged here on KBHR in December, was saluted by Sheriff’s Captain Greg Garland and Councilmembers for an astute observation that resulted in the arrest of a suspect wanted by the Santa Ana Police Department. Per the proclamation from the City, “Sincere appreciation to Deputy Mark Rios for your diligent assistance…in the apprehension of a highly dangerous felon wanted for arson and murder in the Orange County area. During the month of December, while off duty and with his wife, Deputy Rios spotted the subject in the Big Bear Valley.” Outstanding performances by Detective Craig Harris and Deputy Lonnie Siebert were also recognized by Council as, per the proclamation presented them by Mayor Liz Harris, “As a result of your intense investigation, over $200,000 worth of personal property was recovered and returned to numerous victims of burglaries. In addition, several vehicles taken in the course of the burglaries…were also returned to victims.” At the time of the bust, back in December, Captain Garland had told KBHR, “This is one of our major burglary rings, which we’ve been working on for months. We’ve now got a room, truck and trailer full of stolen stuff.” This stolen property was ultimately returned to the victims and the suspect, a former Big Bear resident, booked at West Valley Detention Center; his hearing is scheduled for later this month.
