Friday, December 21, 2018

2018 MCSO Awards



GRAND JUNCTION, Colo – The Mesa County Sheriff's Office was honored to recognize members of the community, deputies and agency staff at its annual awards ceremony last week.

Citizens Max Meneley, Michelle Wilk, and Slater Podgorny were awarded the Distinguished Service Plaque for helping rescued the pilot of a plane that crashed. The Distinguished Service Plaque is awarded to any citizen who, through personal initiative and effort, saves or attempts to save another person who is in danger of death or serious bodily injury. The afternoon of July 31, 2018 Guy Buchanan crashed his single-engine KitFox plane in the Colorado River near the Utah Colorado state line. Three rafters, Max Meneley, Michelle Wilk, and Slater Podgorny, saw Buchanan needed help and acted quickly and selflessly. Recognizing Buchanan was going into shock, they laid him down on the raft, covered him with a blanket and continued talking to him until they were able to reach Lower Valley EMS downriver. Buchanan was air lifted to the hospital where he was treated for his injuries and released the following day.

Sgt. Anthony Lee was awarded the Community Service Award. The Community Service Award is awarded to an employee who selflessly demonstrates their commitment to our Community through voluntary service and acts as a positive ambassador of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office. Sgt. Lee has volunteered extensively in the community including being a member of the Patriot Guard, volunteering at Hope of the Grand Valley, and organizing the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office first team in the Special Olympics Colorado Plane Pull. In addition to raising over $2,000 for Special Olympics, MCSO’s team for the Plane Pull came in first place.

Deputy Thomas Stuckenschneider was awarded the Medal of Merit. Medal of Merit is awarded to employees who voluntarily place themselves in a position of significant risk to their own safety in order to save another person, or apprehend a violent criminal. October 10, 2017, Deputy Stuckenschneider responded to the area of Broadway and Village Way to discover a car had struck several utility poles and had burst into flames. With active wires hanging down, Deputy Stuckenschneider put himself in harm’s way to make contact with the driver. He then went to extraordinary measures to try to rescue him. Despite is efforts, the driver did not survive.

Life Saving Award is awarded to members of the department who, while employed, performed significant life saving measures on an individual; and that these actions led to the prolonging of life to the extent that the victim was released to the care of medical authorities, even though the victim may expire at a later time.

Deputies Taylor Conrad and Troy Rolbiecki were awarded the Life Saving Award. April 2, 2018, Deputy Conrad and Deputy Rolbiecki responded to a report of a man who was unconscious and not breathing. Both deputies performed lifesaving measures (CPR) on the person believed to be suffering an overdose. The man was resuscitated and began breathing again. EMS ultimately transported him to the hospital for further care.

Deputy Luis Renteria and Deputy Janielle Westermire were also awarded the Life Saving Award. August 29, 2018, Deputies Renteria and Westermire observed an inmate in the Mesa County Detention Facility was choking. Both deputies helped with the Heimlich maneuver until the inmate was able to breathe again.

Unit Citation is awarded to groups for outstanding performance.

Street Crimes Unit was honored for its efforts in tracking down the most dangerous suspects in Mesa County. The Street Crimes Unit has been tasked with surveillance & tracking of drug dealers, gang related crimes, weapon crimes, burglary and attempted murder. Through their diligence & dedication, the Street Crimes Unit has become, not only an asset to the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, but to other agencies on the Western Slope. The Unit has taken the initiative to seek out a variety of investigative techniques to track these high-risk suspects. The citizens of Mesa County are safer because of the violent criminals the Street Crimes Unit has assisted with investigating and apprehending.

Crime Reduction Unit was honored for its outstanding work bringing resolution to some of the most chronic and complex problems experienced by the Patrol Division. The Crime Reduction Unit was created in July of 2017 to help find solutions to complex problems in the community. In order to accomplish these difficult tasks, the Crime Reduction Unit developed new relationships with many nontraditional partners, utilized forward thinking policing techniques in the name of community care taking, and did so as opportunity and necessity presented itself. In one year of service, the Crime Reduction Unit has been successful in resolving numerous long term problems.

Patrol Team 1 and Deputy Thomas Stuckenschneider were recognized for their persistence and teamwork that led to the capture of a suspect involved in a shooting. On the evening of July 26, 2018, deputies were dispatched to the area of Lands End Avenue and Cottonwood Lake Drive to a report of a shooting. Dispatch reported a known wanted subject; John Eddy, had just shot at two bail bonds men who attempted to take him into custody. The deputies were able to care for all victims and witnesses as well as locate and arrest the suspect.

Western Colorado Drug Task Force was honored for their hard work, outstanding performance and dedication to fighting the battle against drug trafficking in Mesa County. In 2018, Western Colorado Drug Task Force made 134 felony arrests, seized $1,080,085 in drug money, and took 20 handguns and 14 long guns off the street. The WCDTF has assisted both the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and the Grand Junction Police Department Investigations units with the apprehension of numerous homicide/attempted homicide suspects, as well as a kidnapping suspect. The WCDTF Investigators have worked countless hours and long days to accomplish their mission and have a significant impact on the overall drug trade in and through Mesa County.

Patrol Team 3 was recognized for its work cleaning up illegal abandoned campsites. Over the summer, deputies on Team 3 spent their day off disposing of garbage and other waste left at several abandoned transient camps in the areas of Front Street and 32 to 32 1/2 Road, I70 Frontage Road and Lois, and 31 Road near Walnut Place. Rocky Mountain Sanitation also donated a truck for the day. This patrol team’s actions not only accomplished the Mesa County Sheriff's Office vision by making the community a safer place to live, work, and play, but also created public trust with their efforts.


Excellence Award is awarded to employees who, through their own efforts, have developed and initiated a means of significantly increasing the agency’s administrative or operational efficiency or effectiveness; or who have developed a problem-solving approach to the delivery of law enforcement services with an attention to those factors that contribute to deteriorating conditions in neighborhoods and community decay or to those issues which give rise to crime in the community. This year recipients are:
  • Deputy Nick Bouton (Patrol) 
  • Beth Boydstun (Records) 
  • Leanne Camp (Sex Offender Registry) 
  • Deputy Brian Eldridge (Patrol) 
  • Deputy Chris Kiefer (Detentions) 
  • Sgt. Mark Johnson (Law Operations) 
  • April Medrano (Detentions, Quartermaster) 
  • Investigator Lissah Norcross (Support Services) 
  • Sgt. Connie Olson (Professional Standards) 
  • Sgt. Wayne Weyler (Crime Reduction Unit) 
  • Staci Writer (Professional Standards)

Monday, December 17, 2018

Deputies involved in December officer involved shooting identified

Deputy Thomas Stuckenschneider
The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is identifying the deputy involved in the officer involved shooting that occurred the evening of December 11, 2018. The deputy involved in the shooting is Deputy Thomas Stuckenschneider.

Deputy Stuckenschneider is a 7-year veteran of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, a patrol deputy for the Street Crimes Unit, a member of the SWAT team, and is a firearms instructor.

As per standard protocol for these type of incidents, Deputy Stuckenschneider remains on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation that takes place independently of the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) investigation.

Sgt. Travis Christensen
Sgt. Travis Christensen is the deputy who sustained injuries during the incident. He was taken to the hospital for a medical evaluation and was released a short time later. Sgt. Christensen is a 13-year veteran of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office. He is the sergeant for the Street Crimes Unit, a member of the SWAT Team, a firearms instructor and a member of the Peer Support Team.

The officer involved shooting remains under investigation by the Critical Incident Response Team. For the latest information about the CIRT investigation click here.

Tuesday, December 11, 2018

Update: A fifth person arrested in the Kyle Free homicide investigation

Nathan A. Ryan, 30
Mills County Photo
MESA COUNTY, Colo – A fifth person was taken into custody yesterday evening after a warrant was obtained for his arrest by Mesa County Sheriff’s Investigators.

Nathan A. Ryan, 30, of Grand Junction was arrested in Iowa on the following charges:
  • Accessory to the Crime of Murder in the First Degree (Class 4 Felony) 
  • Tampering with Evidence (Class 6 Felony) 
  • Abuse of a Corpse (Class 2 Misdemeanor) 

Ryan is being held at the Mills County Jail on a No Bond hold.

All documents related to this case remain sealed by the court. This is still an ongoing active investigation.

For previous press releases about this case click here.

Monday, December 10, 2018

#Update: Two more arrests made in the Kyle Free homicide investigation

John C. Eddy, 25
MCSO Photo 11-18-18
MESA COUNTY, Colo – Mesa County Sheriff’s Investigators obtained two more arrest warrants today related to the Kyle Free homicide investigation.

John C. Eddy, 25, of Clifton is facing the following charges:
  • Murder in the First Degree (Class 1 Felony) 
  • Conspiracy to Commit Murder in the First Degree (Class 1 Felony) 
David S. Castro, 32, of Clifton is facing the following charges:
  • Murder in the First Degree (Class 1 Felony) 
  • Conspiracy to Commit Murder in the First Degree (Class 1 Felony) 
David S. Castro, 32
MCSO Photo 4-22-18

Both Eddy and Castro are being housed in the Mesa County Detention Facility on a No Bond Hold.

All documents related to this case remain sealed by the court. This is still an ongoing active investigation.

For previous press releases about this case click here.

Friday, December 7, 2018

#Update: Human remains found in Free homicide case

MESA COUNTY, Colo - On December 5th, 2018 Mesa County Sheriff’s Investigators recovered human remains that have been positively identified by the Mesa County Coroner's Office as Kyle Free, age 32, of Clifton. Free's remains were found in a remote area in the Northeastern part of Mesa County.

The Mesa County Coroner’s Office has completed its examination of Free. The cause of death is gunshot wounds of neck and chest and the manner of death is homicide.

All records remain sealed by the courts. The investigation remains on-going.

To view previous press releases about this case click here. 

Thursday, December 6, 2018

Update: MCSO investigates shooting at Redlands home

Update 12/6/18

Today, the Mesa County Coroner’s Office is conducting an autopsy on the 40-year-old male who was shot yesterday. The Coroner’s office is responsible for releasing the identity of the deceased once all of the appropriate next-of-kin notifications are made.

Two people contacted during the course of the investigation were arrested on unrelated outstanding warrants.

Investigators are still reviewing evidence and witness statements to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Everyone involved in this incident is accounted for, there are no outstanding suspects.

The case is still under investigation.
-------------------------
Previous: 12/5/18

MESA COUNTY, Colo – At 2:41 Wednesday afternoon, Mesa County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a shooting at a residence at 2108 Saguaro Drive. 

One male is deceased. Witnesses are being interviewed and evidence is being collected to determined what occurred. 

At this time investigators believe everyone involved in this incident is accounted for and are cooperating with investigation.

This case is under investigation.

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

Update: Second arrest made in Free murder investigation

MESA COUNTY, Colo – Mesa County Sheriff’s Office investigators have made a second arrest in connection with the homicide of 32-year-old Kyle Free.

At 12:41 Wednesday afternoon investigators arrested Timothy Zane Russman, 28, of Clifton at 207 Plateau Drive in the town of Collbran.

Russman was arrested on the following charges.
  • Accessory to the Crime of Murder in the First Degree (Class 4 Felony) 
  • Tampering with Evidence (Class 6 Felony)
  • Abuse of a Corpse (Class 2 Misdemeanor) 
All documents are sealed by the court. The case is still under investigation. No further information will be released at this time.

Russman is currently being held in the Mesa County Detention Facility on a No Bond Hold. A booking photo was not immediately available. 

Click here to view the previous press releases.

Tuesday, December 4, 2018

Do you recognize these people?



Do you know who these people are?
MESA COUNTY, Colo – Mesa County Sheriff’s deputies are asking for the public’s help to identify suspects believed to have used stolen credit cards at local businesses.

The credit cards were stolen out of a vehicle parked at the Devils Canyon Trailhead on November 30th, while the owner was hiking. The credit cards were then used at both the North Ave Walmart and Target between 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm on November 30th.

Surveillance video from Walmart captured two people, a male and a female, using the stolen card to make several purchases. Surveillance video from Target captured a male wearing a Broncos hat using the stolen cards as well.

Total charges made on the stolen credit cards are estimated to be more than $3,500.

If you recognize these suspects or have information about this case, please contact the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office at (970) 242-6707 or send your tips to Mesa County Crime Stoppers at 241-7867. Information reported to Crime Stoppers that leads to an arrest can earn you up to $1,000 cash reward and you will remain completely anonymous.

MCSO case #18-39968

To download the video visit https://youtu.be/Wr5VW0l7sZI


Tuesday, November 27, 2018

Arrest made in missing person case

4:10 pm Tuesday Update:

Mesa County Sheriff’s investigators are now able to release the name of the of the victim related to yesterday’s arrest of Rebecca Walker.

The victim is identified as Kyle Free, 32, of Clifton. Free was reporting missing in April 2018.

Anyone with information regarding this homicide investigation is encouraged to contact MCSO Investigators at the tip line (970)244-3526 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (970) 241-STOP.

All documents related to this case have been sealed by the court.

This remains an ongoing active investigation.

------------------------------

Previous:

CLIFTON, Colo – Mesa County Sheriff deputies took Rebecca Walker, 34, of Clifton into custody this afternoon after a warrant was obtained for her arrest. She was arrested at 455 ½ Mesa Lakes Street in Clifton.

Walker is facing charges of Murder in the First Degree (Class 1 Felony), Conspiracy to Commit Murder in the First Degree (Class 1 Felony), Tampering with Evidence (Class 6 Felony), and Abuse of a Corpse (Class 2 Misdemeanor).

Walker’s arrest comes as a result of an ongoing investigation into a missing person’s report that was made in April of 2018.

All documents related to this case have been sealed by the court.

This remains an ongoing active investigation.

Walker is being held at the Mesa County Detention Facility on a No Bond Hold. For updated bond amounts for any inmate in our facility, please visit our website.

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

Scam Alert: Elaborate credit card scam includes unknowing accessories to the crime


MESA COUNTY, Colo - Mesa County Sheriff’s deputies have been made aware of an elaborate credit card scam that promises extra cash or promises future business to local hotels.

So far deputies have seen two versions of the multi-state scam. The first involves the scammer making a fake reservation at a local hotel or bed and breakfast. The scammer then “mistakenly” sends a package to the hotel early and asks the hotel to forward the package to an address. Deputies discovered the items in the package were purchased with a credit card stolen from a different state. The scammer sends the package to a third party (a hotel) to forward on to another location to hide where they live. The hotel loses out on the reservation and unknowingly helped facilitate a crime.

In the second version of the scam, the package full of items purchased by an out-of-state stolen credit card is sent to someone who has signed up to earn extra cash. The scammer sends the package to the “helper” and then sends a packing slip for the package to be forwarded on. In the recent report deputies took, the “helper” was paid $30 for the first package to make them think this was a real job, but then never paid again.

In both versions of the scam, the packages contain items purchased by stolen credit cards from another state. The people who forward the packages on are actually unknowingly helping to facilitate a crime.

Red Flags

The scammer has a thick foreign accent and may call from a (970) phone number or a 877 number.

You receive a package and are asked to forward it on to a different address. 

If it is too good to be true....IT IS!

What to do

If you receive a package in a similar manner, the best thing to do is return to sender and report the incident to local police.

Mesa County man arrested for sex crimes on child

James Henson, 35
MCSO Photo
MESA COUNTY, Colo – Mesa County Sheriff’s deputies arrested James Henson, 35, of Mesa County Tuesday after a warrant was obtained for his arrest.

Henson is facing the following charges:
  • 4 counts Sexual Assault on a Child Position of Trust (Class 3 Felony) 
  • 4 counts Sexual Assault on a Child Pattern of Abuse (Class 3 Felony) 
  • 4 counts Aggravated Incest (Class 3 Felony) 
The charges stem from four separate alleged incidents that occurred between May 2015 and September 2018.

Henson is currently being held in the Mesa County Detention Facility on No Bond until First Appearance. For updated bond amounts on any inmate currently in our facility visit our website.

Monday, November 12, 2018

Fruita man arrested on kidnapping charges

MESA COUNTY, Colo - At 12:37 this afternoon deputies responded to a report of an adult female being held against her will in a car.

The female told deputies her boyfriend, identified as Raymond Villarreal, 34, of Fruita, refused to let her out of the car after an argument. She said she was trapped in the car for several hours while Villarreal drove over the Mesa and into Delta County before returning to the Grand Junction area.

The female attempted to call 911 several times, but hung up before dispatchers could respond. When she was able to successfully make a call to 911, Villarreal stopped the car and left on foot in the area of Pritchard Mesa Ct and J Road.

Colorado State Patrol troopers and Mesa County Sheriff’s deputies were able to locate Villarreal walking nearby. The female was found safe.

Villarreal was arrested without incident and faces the following charges:
  • Second Degree Kidnapping (Class 4 Felony)
  • Assault in the Third Degree (Class 1 Misdemeanor)
  • Obstruction of a Telephone (Class 1 Misdemeanor)
  • Domestic Violence 
  • Drove Motor Vehicle while License under Restraint or Suspended
The case is still under investigation.

Villarreal is being held at the Mesa County Detention Facility. For updated bond amounts visit our website.

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office wants to remind the public that you can also text 911 in an emergency. If you don’t have enough cell phone reception to make a call, you may still be able to send a text message. You should continue to make a voice call to 911 whenever possible, however if you are unable, use the Text to 911 option. Learn more about text to 911 here.

Grand Junction man arrested on kidnapping charges

David Gillespie, 31
MCSO Photo
MESA COUNTY, Colo - At 2:53 this morning, Mesa County Sheriff’s deputies were called out to a report of a man breaking into a home on the 2900 block of Clarinet Lane and holding the occupants hostage.

The male victim told deputies he woke up to the suspect holding a knife to his throat. He and a woman who was staying at the home, were then held hostage in the living room for about an hour. The male victim was able to escape and run to a neighbor’s house to call 911. He suffered minor injuries.

The female victim told deputies the then suspect pushed her out of the house and they both left the area in her car. The female said she was assaulted in the process. Deputies were able to track down the vehicle to a parking lot near the Fruita Welcome Center. The suspect was arrested without further incident.

The suspect was known to the victims. He is identified as David Gillespie, 31, of Grand Junction.

Gillespie is facing the following charges:
  • 2 counts of Second Degree Kidnapping (Class 2 Felony) 
  • First Degree Burglary (Class 3 Felony) 
  • Aggravated Robbery (Class 3 Felony) 
  • 2 counts of False Imprisonment (Class 2 Misdemeanor) 
  • Criminal Mischief (Class 3 Misdemeanor) 
  • Second Degree Criminal Tampering (Class 2 Misdemeanor) 
  • Felony Menacing (Class 5 Felony) 
  • Harassment (Class 3 Misdemeanor) 
  • Two counts of Assault in the Third Degree (Class 1 Misdemeanor) 
  • Two counts of Reckless Endangerment (Class 3 Misdemeanor) 
  • Menacing (Class 2 Misdemeanor) 
  • Domestic Violence 
This case is still under investigation.

Gillespie is being held at the Mesa County Detention Facility. For updated bond amounts visit our website. 

Monday, November 5, 2018

Law Enforcement Records Personnel Week


Join us in recognizing the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office records personnel for their crucial role in the criminal justice system.

Governor John Hickenlooper declared November 5, 2018 through November 9, 2018 the first ever Law Enforcement Records Personnel Week to honor the vital service this dedicated group of individuals provide.

Records personnel assist law enforcement by helping with identifying suspects, relaying vital information from other criminal justice agencies, as well as processing and maintaining the agency’s criminal justice records.

Mesa County Sheriff’s Office records personnel also provides the public with a number of vital services. If you ever need a background check for a new job, or a concealed hand gun permit, this is the group of professionals who are happy to assist you. Services also include criminal fingerprinting, releasing arrest records and case reports, civil actions, maintaining the sex offender registry, and processing bonds and warrants for individuals.

You can learn more about what services are offered in our Records Lobby on our website.

If you get the chance, please stop by this week and thank our records personnel for their continued hard work and service to our community.

Wednesday, October 31, 2018

Tips help link 11 burglary and theft cases to Grand Junction man

Shaun Crowell, 40
MCSO Photo
MESA COUNTY, Colo - Tuesday, October 30th, 2018 Shaun Crowell, 40, of Clifton was taken into custody after a warrant was obtained for his arrest in connection to multiple recent burglaries and thefts.

Crowell is facing the following charges:
  • 7 counts of Second degree Burglary (F5) 
  • 2 counts of Theft $750-$2,000 (M1) 
  • Theft $50-$300 (M3) 
  • Theft $20,000 - $100,000 (Class 4 Felony) 
  • 2 counts of Criminal Mischief, less than $300 (M3) 
  • Criminal Mischief $1,000 or more less than $5,000 (F6) 
  • Aggravated Motor vehicle theft $20,000 or more (F4) 
  • Second Degree Criminal Trespass (M3) 
  • 2 Counts Possession of Burglary tools (F5) 
The joint investigation with Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and Grand Junction Police Department investigators revealed at least 7 burglary cases and 4 theft cases, totaling $80,000 in stolen goods and $12,000 in property damage linked to Crowell. The crimes took place at several businesses in Grand Junction, unincorporated Mesa County and one residence between September 4th, 2018 and October 18th, 2018.

Investigators recovered several stolen items while executing a search warrant of Crowell’s property. So far, over $28,000 worth of stolen property has been recovered. Investigators are in the process of contacting the owners of the recovered property.

Surveillance photo
The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the public for sending in tips and their help in identifying the suspect through published surveillance photos.

The case is still under investigation. Investigators are reviewing evidence and interviewing potential witnesses to determine if anyone else was involved.

Stolen trailer
Investigators are still looking for a trailer believed stolen from a residence on the 3100 block of Chipeta Ave. It is described as a black metal 10 x 4.5 trailer with red wheels and a red tongue and ball hitch.

If you have seen this trailer or have information about this case contact the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office at (970) 244-3267.

Crowell is currently being held in the Mesa County Detention Facility. For updated bond amounts visit our website.


Tuesday, October 23, 2018

One arrested after early morning shooting

Photo of MCSO Patrol Car
involved in incident
CLIFTON, Colo – At 2:07 Tuesday morning, Mesa County Sheriff deputies initiated a traffic stop on a white GMC truck in the area of 30 Road and D Road. The vehicle did not stop and jumped a curb in a nearby neighborhood. Deputies continued to follow the vehicle as it traveled through Clifton.

A short time later, deputies attempted to stop the same vehicle in the area of Lombardy Lane and it failed to stop. Deputies pursued. The driver of the vehicle fired several rounds at the pursuing deputies while driving.

A bullet went through the windshield of a Mesa County Sheriff patrol vehicle and hit the dashboard on the driver’s side. The deputy sustained a minor injury.

Deputies performed a tactical vehicle intervention (TVI) to bring the vehicle to a stop in the area of 33 ½ Road and D ½ Road. Less lethal rounds were deployed. A female passenger was detained and sustained minor injuries. She was treated on scene by medical personnel.

The male driver fled on foot. As a result, a community notification was sent out to 224 homes in the area of 32 ½ to 33 ½ road and D ½ to E Road with instructions to shelter-in-place. Members of the Mesa County Sheriff and Grand Junction Police SWAT Teams responded to help search for the suspect. Colorado State Patrol, Fruita Police Department and Palisade Police Department also assisted.

At approximately 4:00 a.m. the male suspect was located in a garage on the 3300 block of D ½ Road and was taken into custody without incident.

The shelter-in-place was lifted at 4:05 a.m. D ½ Road remained closed for several hours between 33 and 33 ½ Road while the incident was investigated and evidence was collected. It is now open.

The 28-year-old female passenger is cooperating with the investigation. She was interviewed by investigators and has been released.

The male driver is identified as 26-year-old Gabriel Milligan of Grand Junction. Milligan was arrested on the following charges:
  • Criminal Attempt to Commit First Degree Murder (Class 2 Felony) 
  • First Degree Assault on a Peace Officer Threatening with a Deadly Weapon (Class 3 Felony) 
  • Second Degree Assault with Injury with a Deadly Weapon (Class 4 Felony) 
  • Felony Menacing (Class 5 Felony) 
  • Possession of a Weapon by a Previous Offender (Class 6 Felony) 
  • Vehicular Eluding (Class 5 Felony) 
  • Illegal Discharge of a Firearm into an Occupied Vehicle (Class 5 Felony) 
  • Trespassing related charges 
  • Traffic related charges 
This case is still under investigation.

Milligan is currently being held in the Mesa County Detention Facility. For updated bond information on any inmate currently in our jail, visit our Inmate Locator.

A booking photo will be released when available.

Monday, October 22, 2018

MCSO investigates escape attempt from Mesa County Detention Facility

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo – Saturday evening, October 20, 2018, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office received information about a possible escape attempt at the Mesa County Detention Facility.

Deputies investigated and discovered one four-person cell had been damaged in an apparent attempt to escape. Inside the cell, deputies found a bunk leg had been broken off and used to chip away at the concrete floor and the ground underneath.

All four inmates who occupied the cell were immediately secured and are now being housed in another part of the facility.

The compromised area has been sealed off from the rest of the facility while this incident is being investigated. Repairs to the damaged cell are already scheduled. The Mesa County Detention Facility remains secure.

This is an ongoing and active investigation. Investigators are still interviewing witnesses and evaluating evidence. The appropriate charges are still being evaluated for those involved.

Friday, October 19, 2018

Deputy involved in officer involved shooting identified

Deputy Troy Jones
The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is identifying the deputy involved in the officer involved shooting that occurred in the early morning hours of October 18, 2018.

The deputy involved in the shooting is Deputy Troy Jones. Deputy Jones is a five-year veteran of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, who has worked as a detentions and patrol deputy. During the incident, Deputy Jones sustained injuries to his hand, for which he was treated at the hospital, and released.

As per standard protocol for these type of incidents, Deputy Jones remains on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation that takes place independently of the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) investigation.

The officer involved shooting remains under investigation by the Critical Incident Response Team. For the latest information about the CIRT investigation click here.

Tuesday, October 16, 2018

Join Mesa County Search and Rescue!!

MESA COUNTY, Colo -  The Mesa County Search and Rescue Ground Team is looking for new members and is currently accepting applications.

The highly trained nonprofit professional rescue organization is looking for outdoor enthusiasts available to volunteer during the workweek. Members must be able to carry a 40lb pack over mountainous terrain and be willing to learn. All required skills will be taught during a 5 week course.

On average the Mesa County Search and Rescue Ground Team receives anywhere from 55 to 60 search and rescue missions a year throughout the Western Slope. From safely carrying out injured mountain bikers to finding lost individuals in the mountains, members are on call 24/7 to support the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office with any and all search and rescue efforts free of charge.  

If you love the outdoors and want to make a difference in people's lives and the community, this could be the organization for you!

All prospective members must first complete an application. Applications can be picked up at the front counter of the Sheriff’s Office during business hours or downloaded off our website.

Please note, anyone interested in becoming a new member must pass a background check and will have to go through an interview process. The deadline for turning in applications is Friday, December 29, 2017.

Completed applications can be emailed to Bernice.Stogsdill@MesaCounty.us (subject line: SARC Application);

or, dropped off at the front counter of the Sheriff's Office, Attention: Bernice

The front counter at the Sheriff's Office is open Monday through Friday (holidays excluded), from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., located at 215 Rice Street, Grand Junction;

or, mail your completed application to:

Mesa County Sheriff's Office
Attn: Bernice
215 Rice Street
Grand Junction, CO 81501
(Make sure we receive it by Dec. 31st)

For more information, questions or inquiries, please contact Doug Sieckert by calling (970) 234-0763 or email dls63@yahoo.com

Learn more about the Mesa County Search and Rescue Ground Team's website and Facebook page.

Thursday, October 11, 2018

Crime Stoppers: Crime of the Week


GRAND JUNCTION, Colo - This week the Grand Junction Police Department needs your help in locating the suspects involved in a theft from auto.

At 10:50 p.m. on Monday, August 6th an Officer was dispatched to the 300 block of Myrrh Street where the victim reported that his black sports bag and blue sports bag had been removed from the bed of his truck. These bags contained 8 Rawlings baseball bats, 6 Rawlings baseball gloves, 2 sets of shin guards, a chest protector and a few softballs. This equipment was used to coach Special Olympic teens. The total estimated property loss is over $700.

If you know the identity or whereabouts of the suspects involved in this crime, please contact Crime Stoppers at 241-7867. Information reported to Crime Stoppers that leads to an arrest can earn you up to $1,000 cash reward and you will remain completely anonymous. For more information, visit www.241stop.com.

GJPD# 2018-45952

Thursday, September 27, 2018

Missing 61-year-old man

Missing
Darrell Pottratz, 61
Missing
Darrell Pottratz, 61
CLIFTON, Colo – The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating Darrell Pottratz, 61, of Grand Junction.

He was last seen yesterday morning at 10:30 leaving his home on the 3200 block of Lorene Drive wearing blue pants and a green zip-up sweater. He typically leaves his home to visit a nearby friend but has not been seen at the friend’s home.

Pottratz is described as a white male, 5’11, 205lbs with blonde hair and blue eyes. He suffers from dementia and Parkinson’s. Pottratz also cannot speak due to a previous stroke.

He was reporting missing by family members.

If seen please call 911 or the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office at (970) 242-6707.

Friday, September 21, 2018

No Fire Restrictions, but fire danger still high


MESA COUNTY, Colo – In light of changing fire restrictions in surrounding counties, the Mesa County Sheriff, Bureau of Land Management Grand Junction Field Office, and Grand Junction Fire Department want to remind the public while there are no fire restrictions in place, fire danger remains high. Mesa County continues to experience extreme and exceptional drought conditions and fuels that support rapid fire growth remain very dry.

The public is asked to remain cautious with activities that could ignite a wildfire. A small spark has the potential to spread very quickly in current conditions. People should continue to use caution when burning or using fire outdoors, especially in heavily forested and grassy areas. Remember to discard cigarette butts safely and not throw them on the ground or outside of your car. If you choose to have a campfire, always have a way to quickly extinguish it and never leave an open flame unattended.

At this time, there are no fire restrictions in place for Mesa County, and land managed by the BLM Grand Junction Field Office.

“We continue to closely monitor fire and weather conditions across the area and want to ensure everyone understands that although we are not currently in fire restrictions, fire danger remains very high. As cooler fall temperatures begin, we will continue to work with other fire agencies to evaluate local conditions and the need to re-enter restrictions” said Mesa County Sheriff Matt Lewis.

While fuels are continuing to dry out, the shorter days and longer cooler nights are likely to bring some relief. The longer nights are also allowing relative humidity to better recover. This trend is expected to continue as the season changes.

If you are planning to travel outside of Mea County to enjoy the outdoors, it is your responsibility to know what the local fire restrictions are. Several areas on the Western Slope are under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions. You can find the latest information about fire restrictions at http://www.coemergency.com/p/fire-bans-danger.html or by viewing the interactive Fire Restrictions map.

A reminder, fireworks are never permitted on public land. Wood fires are never permitted anywhere on the Colorado National Monument.

The Mesa County Sheriff, BLM, and other agencies in Mesa County would like to thank the public for their cooperation in doing their part to prevent wildfires during a very long and active fire season.

Monday, September 17, 2018

One arrested in Sunday morning shooting

MESA COUNTY, Colo – A man believed to be involved in the Sunday morning incident where a person was shot and killed was arrested in Garfield County this afternoon.

Eric Julian Martinez, 30, was arrested for Assault in the First Degree (Class 3 Felony), and Criminal Extortion (Class 4 Felony).

Investigators believe Martinez entered a residence on the 3100 block of Chipeta Ave with a 26-year-old male Sunday morning. Martinez is believed to have assaulted a 27-year-old male living at the address. The 27-year-old male was taken to an area hospital for his injuries.

A 34-year-old female was present for the assault and grabbed a gun from the residence. Investigators believe a confrontation happened and the gun fired. The circumstances around this confrontation are still being investigated. The 26-year-old male suffered a gunshot wound, and died of his injuries. His identity will be released by the Mesa County Coroner’s office once an autopsy is completed and next of kin is notified.

Investigators continue to conduct interviews and evaluate evidence collected regarding the incident. The case remains under investigation.

Martinez is currently being held in the Garfield County Detention Facility on a No Bond Hold until first appearance.

To view the previous press release click here.

Whitewater man wanted after running from deputies

Ryan Sanchez, 27
MCSO Photo 3-5-18
UPDATE: 1:30 p.m.

Ryan Sanchez, 27, was arrested and taken into custody after deputies spotted him near 32 Road and Patterson.

Previous:

MESA COUNTY, Colo - The Mesa County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public’s help in locating a wanted person.

Ryan Sanchez, 27, has three active warrants for his arrest:
  1. No Bond Felony warrant out of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office for Failure to Comply 
  2. $3,000 Bond warrant out of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office for Failure to Appear 
  3. $1,000 Bond warrant out of Colorado State Patrol for Failure to Appear 
He was last seen Monday morning running from deputies in the area of F ¼ Road and Irwin St.

Sanchez was last seen wearing a white t-shirt with black stripes on the back, a gray baseball hat, and washed out jeans or gray pants.

If seen, do not approach, call 911 or the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office at (970) 242-6707.

Sunday, September 16, 2018

MCSO investigating a deadly shooting

3:30 pm Update:

A 27-year-old male sustained serious bodily injuries as a result of an assault associated with this incident. They were taken to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The case is still under investigation.

Previous:

MESA COUNTY, Colo – At 8:59 am Sunday deputies responded to reports of a shooting on 3100 block of Chipeta Ave.

When deputies arrived, they found a 26-year-old male with a gunshot wound. He did not survive.

Investigators are interviewing witnesses to determine what occurred. This is believed to be an isolated incident.

The case is still under investigation.

Tuesday, September 11, 2018

Grand Junction man arrested in connection with 2-month-old's death

MESA COUNTY, Colo - The Mesa County Sheriff’s deputies have arrested Shaun Obyrne, 31, of Grand Junction, in relation to the death of his 2-month-old child.

Obyrne is facing one count of Child Abuse Resulting in Death (Class 2 Felony), and three counts of Child Abuse causing Serious Bodily Injury (Class 3 Felony).

On 8/27/18 at 5:17 a.m. deputies responded to a home on the 100 block of 29 ¾ road for a report of a 2-month-old boy who was not conscious and not breathing.

The infant was taken to St. Mary’s Hospital and later transferred to Children’s Hospital Colorado. The baby succumbed to his injuries two days later.

Multiple medical professionals reviewed the baby’s injuries and determined they were the not the result of accidental trauma. Older partially healed injuries on the child were also discovered and believed to have occurred on three separate occasions between 6/25/18 and 8/29/18. At the time of death, the infant had at least 17 broken ribs at three various stages of healing.

The Mesa County Coroner’s office has ruled the cause of the baby’s death as blunt force chest injuries and the manner of death as homicide.

As a result of the baby’s death, the Coroner's Office will be re-reviewing the death of a 2-year-old child that was also in Obyrne’s care. The manner of child’s death on May 6, 2018 was ruled as natural.

Both cases are still under investigation.

To report suspect child abuse in Mesa County, call 911 or the Child Protection Hotline at 242-1211. For information on any inmate in our jail facility, visit our Inmate Locator System webpage.

Thursday, August 30, 2018

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Lifted

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Lifted

MESA COUNTY, Colo - The Mesa County Sheriff and City of Grand Junction, in coordination with the Mesa County Fire Chief's Association, are lifting Stage 1 fire restrictions effective at 12:01 AM Friday, August 31, 2018.  The Bureau of Land Management, Grand Junction, Field Office, has also announced that Stage 1 and Stage 2 fire restrictions will be lifted on public lands in Mesa and parts of Garfield Counties.

Recent rains, shorter days and cooler overnight temperatures have helped ease the fire danger caused by this year's extremely hot and dry summer.  The moisture level in vegetation that supports rapid fire growth has recovered to seasonally appropriate levels.  

While this is encouraging news, wildfires this fall are still a possibility in Mesa County.  The public is asked to remain cautious with activities that could ignite a wildfire.  People should continue to be vigilant and use caution when burning or using fire outdoors, especially in heavily forested and grassy areas. 

Conditions will continue to be monitored and restrictions will be adjusted accordingly if conditions change.

Please visit https://mcgis.mesacounty.us/fireban for the latest fire restriction information for surrounding counties and public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Forest Service, and National Park Service.  

A reminder, fireworks are never permitted on public land.  Wood fires are never permitted anywhere on the Colorado National Monument.

Representatives from the Mesa County Sheriff's Office, Bureau of Land Management and the Grand Junction Fire Department will be available for comment at 11:00 AM on Thursday, August 30th at the Grand Junction Air Center.  The Air Center is located at 2774 Landing View Land, Grand Junction, CO  81506.

The Mesa County Sheriff, BLM, and other agencies in Mesa County would like to thank the public for their cooperation in doing their part to prevent wildfires the last few months during fire restrictions.

Sunday, August 19, 2018

Man arrested after domestic violence incident

MESA COUNTY, Colo -  At about 11:30 Saturday night, deputies responded to a report of an injured woman outside of the Bradley Sinclair Gas Station at 3218 F Road.

Deputies quickly learned the 32-year-old female had been assaulted with a knife during a domestic violence incident that occurred earlier in the evening in a vehicle. The female, along with other family members including two children, exited the vehicle at the gas station. The suspect drove away.

The female was transported to the hospital, was treated and released.

The suspect’s car was located at a residence on the 3200 block of Columba Drive. A warrant for his arrest was obtained. The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team assisted in checking the residence for the suspect. He was not found.

A few hours later the suspect, 34-year-old Estaban "Steven" Olivas, turned himself into the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office.

Olivas is being charged with one count of Assault in the First Degree with intent to cause serious bodily injury with a deadly weapon, one count of Assault in the Third Degree, two counts of Child Abuse Injury non-serious bodily injury prior convictions acts knowingly and reckless, and one count of Domestic Violence.

He is currently being held at the Mesa County Detention Facility. For updated bond information on any inmate currently in our jail, visit our Inmate Inquiry System webpage.

The case is still under investigation.

Monday, August 6, 2018

Arrest made in Orchard Mesa Shooting

MESA COUNTY, Colo – Mesa County Sheriff’s deputies arrested a juvenile Friday for charges relating to the drive-by shooting in Orchard Mesa.

Around 3:00 the morning of July 30th, residents reported hearing gunshots in the area of Unaweep and 28 1/2 Road. Deputies found a home on Dartmouth Lane with bullet holes. No injuries were reported.

Deputies arrested a juvenile for the following charges:
  • 3 counts of Felony Menacing (Class 5 Felony)
  • 4 counts of Illegal Discharge of a Firearm (Class 5 Felony)
  • 3 counts of Reckless Endangerment (Class 3 Misdemeanor) 
  • 1 count of Criminal Mischief (Class 2 Misdemeanor)
  • 1 count of Possession of a Handgun by a Juvenile
The juvenile was booked into the Division of Youth Corrections (DYC) facility in Grand Junction.

The case remains under investigation.

Saturday, August 4, 2018

MCSO Investigates shooting

MESA COUNTY, Colo – The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a drive-by shooting that occurred Saturday morning.

Around 5:00 am, deputies responded to a report of a shooting on the 450 block of Countryside Lane.

Deputies located a house with multiple gunshots to the garage area. An 18-year-old male inside of the home was injured. He was taken to a local hospital by private vehicle prior to the arrival of deputies. The male sustained a gunshot wound to the upper body, and while a serious injury, not considered life threatening at this time.

Investigators continue to collect evidence related to this crime and interview witnesses. Countryside Lane at D ½ Road remains closed while deputies investigate.

At this point of the investigation, authorities believe this to be an isolated incident.

Tuesday, July 31, 2018

Crime Stoppers: Crime of the Week

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo - The Grand Junction Police Department needs your help to identify and locate a theft suspect.

Just after 5: 30 p.m. on Thursday, May 10th, the victim left her black leather wallet at the customer service counter at Walmart located at 2881 North Avenue. A credit card from the stolen wallet was used by a male subject at Maverik gas station on Patterson Rd.

Security cameras captured a White or possibly Hispanic male with dark hair wearing a plaid black and white long sleeve shirt with jeans. The suspect was last seen leaving in a silver Dodge Ram truck.

If you know the identity or whereabouts of the suspects involved in this crime, please contact Crime Stoppers at 241-7867. Information reported to Crime Stoppers that leads to an arrest can earn you up to $1,000 cash reward and you will remain completely anonymous. For more information, see us at www.241stop.com.

GJPD# 2018-26775

Monday, July 30, 2018

Inmate Found Unresponsive

Update: The Mesa County Coroner's Office has identified the inmate found unresponsive in his jail cell in the Mesa County Detention Facility Friday as 39-year-old Carlos Lopez-Martinez. According to the Coroner's Office his cause of death was hanging and the manner of death was suicide.

7/27/2018 Previous:

MESA COUNTY, Colo – At approximately 11:40 this morning a male inmate in the Mesa County Detention Facility was found unresponsive in his cell by staff during routine security checks. Deputies and nursing staff immediately rendered aid and performed CPR. Emergency medical services (EMS) were also dispatched.

Multiple attempts at resuscitation by jail staff and EMS personnel were unsuccessful. He was later pronounced deceased.

At this time, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and Mesa County Coroner’s Office are investigating.

The Mesa County Coroner’s Office will determine the cause and manner of death. The Coroner’s Office will also release the inmate’s identity after next of kin has been notified.

Tuesday, July 24, 2018

Do you know who this is?

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo -  The Mesa County Sheriff's Office is looking for a suspect believed to have stolen American Flags from residences in Orchard Mesa overnight Thursday. 

This morning deputies took a report of USA flags stolen from three different homes on the 2800 block of Newport Cir. The flags had been mounted on the side of the homes on a flag pole. 

One home's surveillance video captured an image of a male carrying a flag down the street at 1:45 a.m. Friday morning. He is described as a white male, about twenty years of age, average height (5’5’ to 6’), and thin build. The male was last seen wearing shorts and a cutoff shirt.

If you have information about this case or know who the person in the photo is, please contact the Mesa County Sheriff's Office at (970) 242-6707 or Mesa County Crime Stoppers at 241-STOP (7867).  Information reported to Crime Stoppers that leads to an arrest can earn you up to $1,000 cash reward and you will remain completely anonymous.

#MCSO 18-24160

Crime Stoppers: Crime of the week




GRAND JUNCTION, Colo - The Grand Junction Police Department needs your help to identify and locate a theft suspect.

About 9:50 p.m. on Sunday, June 24th at the Self-Checkout register in City Market, located at 630 24 Road, an unidentified male suspect took the victim’s wallet that was left on top of the register. Security cameras captured a white male in his mid-20’s with brown hair wearing plaid Bermuda shorts and a printed black t-shirt. The surveillance photo of the suspect and the white female with green hair he was traveling with can be viewed at www.241stop.com.

If you know the identity or whereabouts of the suspects involved in this crime, please contact Crime Stoppers at 241-7867. Information reported to Crime Stoppers that leads to an arrest can earn you up to $1,000 cash reward and you will remain completely anonymous. For more information, see us at www.241stop.com.

GJPD# 2018-36368

Wednesday, June 27, 2018

Technical Rescue Team to Climb Independence Monument

Technical Rescue Team to Climb Independence Monument

Mesa County, Colo: For the 28th consecutive year, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office Technical Rescue Team will climb Independence Monument, on July 4th, to raise an American flag in recognition of the birth of our nation. 

This year a total of 15 climbers, ten team members and five guest climbers (four of which are military veterans) will scale the monument. The climbers will begin their hike at 6:00 am, are expected to begin their ascent of the Monument at 7:00 am and will be raising the flag between 10:30 and 11:00 am. 

The climb is sponsored by Summit Ridge Guides, LLC and Rocky Mt. Orthopaedics, who will provide the equipment and logistics. All donated proceeds will go Search and Rescue Control, Inc. for the purchase of equipment and future training. 

 

Monday, June 25, 2018

Scam Targeting Sex Offenders


Scam Targeting Sex Offenders

MESA COUNTY, COLO:   A new scam that is targeting registered sex offenders has been reported to the Mesa County Sheriff's Office. The scam involves individuals calling the sex offender and informing them they have a warrant for their arrest. Although similar to previous scams, this particular scam goes on to tell the offender that if they pay a specific amount of money, they can be removed from the county and state registry.

Be aware of the scam and know law enforcement agencies will not call to inform you of an active warrant, law enforcement will not request you pay a fine or for a warrant over the telephone, and the only entity that can legally remove someone from the sex offender registry is the courts.

Monday, June 18, 2018

Overall stats for Country Jam 2018

MESA COUNTY, Colo - The following statistics are from all four days of Country Jam 2018

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of Colorado State Liquor Enforcement Officers patrolled the four-day festival and made 158 arrests: 158 summons were issued for alcohol violations.

A full breakdown of the underage liquor infractions are listed below.

 Country Jam Stats                                    
2018
2017
 2016
Total                     
 158
186
182
                                                              

Minor in Possession/Alcohol Offenses                          
 149
179
155  
Procuring Alcohol to a Minor      
 6
8
14
Fake ID                                           
 8
4
10
False reporting        
 2
4
1
Possession of another’s ID                               
 1
1
0
Possession of Marijuana
 0
1
0
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
 0
1
0
Resisting Arrest           
 0
1
0
Obstruction                   
 1
0
1
Assault on a peace officer                                 
 0
0
1
Attempt to purchase Alcohol                         
 0
0
2
Disorderly conduct           
 0
0
1
Warrant
 1
0
0

Mesa County Sheriff's Deputies also made several arrests during the four-day festival and responded to reports of involving intoxicated subjects, two reports of sexual assault, a golf cart crash (no injuries), a fight, vandalism, hit and run (staff parking lot, no injuries), domestic violence, a report of a stolen gun (from a vehicle at the public parking lot), and a stolen car (keys left in vehicle).

Deputies also responded to a report of a 37-year-old male with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was transported to St. Mary's Hospital and is expected to be OK. The case is still under investigation. Click here for more information. (Note, in previous press releases his age was reported incorrectly. He is 37, not 30.)