MCSO investigating shots fired into two homes

MESA COUNTY, Colo - Monday at approximately 8:30 p.m., Mesa County Sheriff’s deputies responded to two separate reports of shots fired into an occupied home. The first report occurred in the area of 32 1/2 Road and C Road. The second occurred just a few minutes later in the area of 29 3/4 and B 1/2 Road. In both incidents, a single round was fired into an occupied residence and the unknown suspect(s) fled. No injuries were reported.

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help to identify the suspect(s) involved in these crimes.

If you have information or your home surveillance system captured any video between 8:25 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. in the areas of 32 1/2 Road and C Road as well as 29 3/4 and B 1/2 Road, please contact the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office at (970) 242-6707.

Reference Case #20-37336 and 20-37337

Grand Junction man arrested for multiple sexual exploitation of a child charges

Dana H Head, 60, of Grand Junction
MCSO Photo 12-22-20

MESA COUNTY, Colo – Mesa County Sheriff’s Office investigators took Dana H Head, 60, of Grand Junction, into custody Tuesday after a warrant was obtained for his arrest.

Head is facing the following charges:

• Sexual Exploitation of a Child - Creating Sexually Exploitative Material (Class 3 Felony)
• Sexual Exploitation of a Child - Distributing Sexually Exploitative Material (Class 3 Felony)
• Sexual Exploitation of a Child - Possession of Sexually Exploitative Material More than Twenty Images (Class 4 Felony)
• Sexual Assault on a Child (Class 4 Felony)

The charges stem from alleged incidents that occurred between October 13, 2020, and November 11, 2020, involving one juvenile.

This remains an active investigation.

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

Clifton man arrested for multiple counts of sex crimes involving a child

Gary Harding, 73 of Clifton
MCSO Photo 

MESA COUNTY, Colo – Mesa County Sheriff’s Office investigators took Gary Harding, 73 of Clifton, into custody Friday after a warrant was obtained for his arrest.

Harding is facing the following charges:

• 9 counts of Sexual Assault on a Child, Pattern of Abuse (Class 3 Felony)
• 3 counts of Sexual Assault on a Child, Position of Trust (Class 3 Felony)
• Indeterminate Sentence Enhancement (Jessica’s Law)

The charges stem from alleged incidents that occurred between August 1, 2009, and November 13, 2020, involving two separate juveniles.

This remains an active investigation.

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

Update: Two arrested after early morning drive-by shooting

Friday Update:

More information has surfaced in this active investigation and Mesa County Sheriff’s Office investigators have amended the charges for Justin Fowler and Trey Shriver related to Thursday's shooting.

Both are now facing two counts of Attempted Murder in the First Degree in addition to the charges previously released.

Investigators believe the residents of the home were the intended target of the shooting. The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is also following up with other residents in that neighborhood whose homes were also damaged by bullets. No injuries were reported.

The case is still under investigation.

Fowler and Shriver are currently being held at the Mesa County Detention Facility. For updated bond amounts visit our website.

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Trey Shriver, 20 of Clifton
MCSO Photo 12-17-20

MESA COUNTY, Colo - Just before 1:00 this morning, a Mesa County Sheriff’s Office deputy heard what sounded like gunshots fired in the area of Moonlight Ct. and Belford Ave.

Multiple shots were fired into an occupied home, causing an estimated $2,000 in damage. No injuries were reported.

Witnesses described a maroon Toyota pickup truck leaving the area at the time of the incident. While deputies were still speaking to witnesses, a truck matching the description of the suspect vehicle returned to the area. Deputies stopped the truck and took the two occupants into custody. Deputies found a defaced gun and spent shell casings during a search of the vehicle. There were also multiple shell casings in the road.

Justin Fowler, 21 of Grand Junction, and Trey Shriver, 20 of Clifton, were arrested and transported to the Mesa County Detention Facility.

Justin Fowler, 21 of Grand Junction
MCSO Photo 12-17-20

Fowler is facing the following charges:

• Obstructing Peace Officer (M2)
• Reckless Endangerment (M3)
• Prohibited Use Of Weapons (M2)
• Possession Of A Defaced Firearm (M1)
• Illegal Discharge Of Firearm (F5)
• Criminal Mischief $1,000 Or More, Less Than $5,000 (F6)
• Unlawful Possession <4g Controlled Substance Sch I/II, Flunitrazepam, Ketamine, Ghb (DM1)
• Possession Of Drug Paraphernalia (DPO)

Shriver is facing the following charges: 

• Reckless Endangerment (M3)
• Possession Of A Defaced Firearm (M1)
• Minor In Possession Of Alcohol
• Prohibited Use Of Weapons (M2)
• Illegal Discharge Of Firearm (F5)
• Possession Of Weapons By Previous Offenders (F6)
• Resisting Arrest (M2)
• Criminal Mischief $1,000 Or More, Less Than $5,000 (F6)
• Fugitive Other Jurisdiction Warrant
• Attempt To Influence A Public Servant (F4)

The circumstances surrounding this incident are still under investigation. At this time, investigators believe this to be an isolated incident.

Investigators are seeking video from residents in the area between D ½ to E Roads and 31 Road to Duffy Drive that may have captured the suspect vehicle on camera. If your home security system captured video between just before 1:00 a.m. and 2:30 a.m., please send an email to Jeffrey.Byrne@mesacounty.us.

Porch Pirate Bait Operation

MESA COUNTY, Colo - 'Tis the season for holiday shopping and unfortunately packages to be stolen. Historically, this time of year, the Mesa County Sheriff's Office sees an increase in these crimes. In an effort to prevent packages from being stolen from people's homes and cars, the Mesa County Sheriff's Office is conducting bait operations all this month.

The Mesa County Sheriff's Office utilizes bait operations as a proactive investigative tool to reduce property crime. Operations are conducted in areas where on-going criminal activity has been reported to specially target people breaking and entering into cars with the intent to steal property as well as those intending to steal packages off porches. Bait operations give deputies a proactive way to identify suspects without a citizen becoming a victim of a crime.

How it works

Deputies place tracking devices in commonly stolen items, packages, and bags, then place them in neighborhoods and in cars at local businesses where these crimes are occurring. Deputies also monitor the items with active surveillance. When the item is stolen, deputies then locate the item and the person who took it.

The decoy items look exactly like the real thing, making it nearly impossible for a would-be thief to tell the difference. This operation aims not only to identify who in our community is committing these crimes but also for criminals to think twice before taking someone's package.

Prevention Tips
Community members can help the Mesa County Sheriff's Office prevent these crimes by following these simple tips.

Shopping:

• While out shopping, keep your recently purchased items in your trunk or out of sight in your car.
• Lock your car. Remember to lock your vehicle when you are not in it, even if you are only running a quick errand. It only takes a few seconds for a thief to strike.
• If you are buying a big-ticket item, take it home and leave it in a secure place before continuing your shopping.

Package delivery:

• Limit the amount of time your package sits on your porch.
• Track your package. If you are not going to be home when scheduled to arrive, ask a neighbor to store it.
• Have the package delivered to your business instead of your home.
• Use the Amazon Locker to pick it up from a secure location.
• Hold your packages at the Post Office and pick them up.

  

SVP Community Notification - Watson

Sexually Violent Predator Address Change

Daniel Glen Watson, 49
MCSO Photo 6-11-20 

MESA COUNTY, Colo. -- This public notice is intended to make our community aware that a registered sex offender, classified as a sexually violent predator has recently changed addresses within Mesa County. Further details about these offenders can be found on our website. Click here and choose the offender's Community Bulletin. 

A 'sexually violent predator' is a term used by the Colorado Sex Offender Management Board, which classifies a convicted sex offender with this additional descriptor. 

Daniel Glen Watson, 49, of Grand Junction, has moved to a new address in Mesa County. He previously was homeless in Mesa County. Watson has served his convicted sentence as ordered by a Judge and is currently on probation. Watson registered with the Mesa County Sheriff's Office, per compliance with registration laws. 

All community notification bulletins for all current SVPs registered with our agency are on our agency website, to view them, click here. In addition, we highly recommend you watch a 12-minute video that talks about SVPs and all registered sex offenders, resources, and other useful information specific to Mesa County. For current information on all registered sex offenders in Mesa County, visit our website.

If you have information regarding the current criminal activity of this or any other offender, please call 911 for an emergency. If you observe this offender engaging in any high risk or inappropriate behavior, please contact the Mesa County Sheriff's Office, patrol units, by calling 911 or (970) 242-6707. If you have questions or need education handouts, please contact Mesa County Sex Offender Registrar at (970) 244-3206 or her direct supervisor at (970) 244-3973.

Most sex crimes are never reported and most offenders are never detected. The greatest risk of a sex offense is from people you know. The information provided herein (on the embedded community bulletin) is current and accurate as of the date but is subject to change.

The purpose of this notification is to enhance public safety and protection. Vigilantism, or use of this information to harass, threaten or intimidate anyone associated with this notification will not be tolerated. 

This law enforcement agency has no legal authority to direct where a sex offender may live (however, we make it public information so citizens can be aware and educate themselves). Unless court restrictions exist, they are constitutionally free to live wherever they choose. Sex offenders have always lived in our community, but they were not required to notify law enforcement of their residence until registration laws were implemented pursuant to the Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children and Sexually Violent Offender Registration Act. Law enforcement may now share that information with members of the community, and in the case of sexually violent predators, law enforcement must actively notify citizens. This blog posting is only one of the means we are getting this information out to citizens of Mesa County.

MCSO Investigating a morning robbery

MESA COUNTY, Colo – The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a robbery that occurred at approximately 10:45 a.m. Sunday, at the Dollar General at 607 Elberta Ave in Palisade. Witnesses tell deputies, a female and two males stole items and when confronted showed a gun. The three were seen getting into a stolen silver Kia sedan with a license plate of ZAO645, and then headed westbound on I-70 at a high rate of speed.

Suspect descriptions are as follows:

1. 
   A white male, over 6', mid-twenties, possibly has a goatee. Last seen wearing a black sweatshirt with an emblem of three females on the back of the sweatshirt, black pants, and black hat.
2. A white male, shorter than 6', mid-twenties, and last seen wearing an Adidas white sweatshirt, blue jeans, flat billed hat.
3.  A white female, mid-twenties, last seen wearing black pants, black shoes, longer white sweater and gray or white beanie hat.

The KIA was recently stolen out of Golden. No one was injured during the incident. This is an active investigation.

If seen, do not approach, and call 911. If anyone has information about this crime or these individuals, you are asked to contact the Mesa County Sheriff's Office tip line at (970) 244-3526 or Mesa County Crime Stoppers at (970) 241-STOP.

One arrested after shooting

Marcus Archuleta, 24, of Grand Junction
MCSO Photo 11-15-20

MESA COUNTY, Colo - A Grand Junction man was arrested following a shooting Saturday. At approximately 7:30 p.m., Mesa County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a report of a shooting in the parking lot of Fruitvale Liquors at 505 30 Road. Witnesses reported a person reportedly shot at a white Nissan Altima. 

Investigators located the vehicle, spoke with the owner, and confirmed no one was injured during the shooting. 

Marcus Archuleta, 24, of Grand Junction was arrested and is facing the following charges:

• Possession of Weapons by Previous Offender (F6)
• Illegal Discharge of Firearm (F5)
• Prohibited use of Weapons (M2)
• Violation of Bail Bond Conditions (F6)
• 3 counts of Violation of Bail Bond Conditions (M3)
• 2 counts of Violation of a Protection Order (M1)
• Obstructing Peace Officer (M2)

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

*Note a previous version incorrectly identified the model of car. It was a Nissan Altima

Update: COVID-19 affecting the Mesa County Detention Facility

At the request from the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, Mesa County Public Health and the on-site medical provider, NaphCare facilitated the testing of two housing units after six inmates tested positive for COVID-19.

All inmates in the two affected housing areas were tested regardless of whether the individual exhibited symptoms. As of Friday, November 13, 2020, 61 inmates in the Mesa County Detention Facility have tested positive for COVID-19. Additional test results are pending. Eight employees working in the Mesa County Detention Facility have tested positive for COVID-19. Two staff members working in other divisions of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office have also tested positive.

The on-site medical provider is closely monitoring the health of all inmates and providing care for individual symptoms. Affected inmates are quarantined, and any inmates that may have been exposed remain medically isolated from the rest of the facility per public health recommendations. Each of the six housing units in the Mesa County Detention Facility are physically separated from each other. Additional measures have been put into place to limit movement in the facility and minimize further spread of illness. All inmates are issued Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Staff is screened everyday and required to wear PPE at all times. Infected staff are self-quarantining and not on duty. Employees identified through contact tracing with a possible exposure are self-isolating per public health recommendations.

“While the number of positive cases has grown, this is what we planned and prepared for. We are diligently working in coordination with Mesa County Public Health and our medical provider to provide the best care possible and implement strategies to slow the spread of the virus,” said Sheriff Matt Lewis. “I want families of those in the detention facility to know our mission has not changed. The health and safety of those in our care is our priority.”

The Sheriff’s Office has made and continues to make significant changes to operating procedures to reduce the spread of infection. If you have an emergency, please call 911. Emergency services have not been impacted. 

For more information about operational changes at the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, please visit https://sheriff.mesacounty.us/covid19/

To view, previous press releases click here.

COVID-19 affecting the Mesa County Detention Facility

With widespread community transmission and COVID-19 cases increasing at an alarming rate in Mesa County, we know the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and detention facility could not be immune from being impacted.

As of November 6, 2020, 6 inmates and 2 staff working in the Mesa County Detention Facility have tested positive for COVID-19. Affected inmates were immediately quarantined and any inmates that may have been exposed are being medically isolated from the rest of the facility. Additional symptomatic inmates are pending testing. Our on-site medical staff is monitoring everyone's condition and providing care for individual symptoms. Infected staff are self-quarantining and not on duty. Employees identified through contact tracing with a possible exposure are self-isolating per public health recommendations.

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office continues to work closely with Mesa County Public Health and our medical provider to reduce the spread of this illness. Sheriff Matt Lewis has requested additional support from Mesa County Public Health to facilitate testing of impacted areas of the Mesa County Detention Facility.

“As we work with our public health professionals, we will continue to implement strategies that put the health and safety of staff, inmates, and the community we serve first,” said Sheriff Matt Lewis. “Incarceration is difficult on families even without a global pandemic. I want to assure families with loved ones in our custody, we are taking this seriously and are working with our on-site medical provider and public health to provide the best care possible.”

During these rapidly evolving and stressful times, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office encourages people to stay in contact with their loved ones in the detention facility. While in-person video visitation remains suspended to prevent possible exposures, off-site video visitation is available as well as phone, email, and mail services. Visit Sheriff.MesaCounty.us for more information on how to utilize these services.

Operational changes

In March, Sheriff Lewis enacted emergency operating plans modifying daily operations and initiated rigorous screening and prevention measures for the Mesa County Detention Facility (MCDF) to minimize the risk of exposure to inmates and employees. These measures are still in place and include:

• All inmates are screened by on-site medical personnel before entering the detention facility as part of the normal booking process.
• 24/7 on-site medical staff continuously monitor inmates and staff’s health.
• Anyone with symptoms or is believed to have been exposed, are medically isolated until they can be evaluated further by medical staff per Mesa County Public Health procedures to include getting tested for COVID-19.
• Inmates are issued masks and have access to additional cleaning products to disinfect common areas and personal living spaces as needed. The facility is also cleaned regularly to help with prevention.
• All Mesa County Detention Facility staff are medically screened every day and are required to wear masks, wash hands frequently, and practice social distancing when possible.
• Access to the detention facility is limited to only essential personnel. All non-essential volunteer programs have been suspended.
• In-person video visitation has been suspended, off-site video visitation (still available)
• Arrest standards were modified in partnership with Mesa County criminal justice agencies to reduce the detention facility’s population and allow for more room to medically isolate and quarantine individuals as needed.

These drastic and unprecedented measures implemented early on contributed greatly to how long the detention facility has gone without COVID-19 cases. The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to monitor employees and inmates for symptoms and is committed to taking any steps possible to mitigate the risks of contracting the illness.

The threat of further infection will continue to increase over the next several weeks as we work together as a community to stem the tide of infection. We encourage the community to join us in following Mesa County Public Health recommendations to help reduce the spread.

For more information about operational changes at the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office visit https://sheriff.mesacounty.us/covid19/.

Update: Arrest made in morning stabbing

MESA COUNTY, Colo – Friday afternoon, Mesa County Sheriff’s Office investigators arrested Jonah Guerette, 40, of Clifton related to an assault that occurred in the morning on the 600 block of 33 Road.

Guerette is facing the following charge:

• Assault in the First Degree

The 42-year-old victim is recovering in the hospital. The case is still under investigation.

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

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MCSO investigating a stabbing

MESA COUNTY, Colo - At approximately 10:30 a.m. the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a stabbing on the 600 block of 33 Road. 

An adult victim was transported via ambulance to St. Mary’s Hospital with serious injures. He is expected to survive.

Mesa County Sheriff’s Office Investigators are currently interviewing potential witnesses and processing the scene. It is still very early in the investigation, the circumstances surrounding the assault are still being investigated.

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office witness tip line (970) 244-3526.

Fire Restrictions Lifted in Mesa County

MESA COUNTY, Colo - The Mesa County Sheriff, in coordination with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Grand Junction Field Office are lifting current fire restrictions effective at 12:01 a.m. Friday, October 30, 2020. 

More mild temperatures, recent snowfall, and the shorter days of the changing seasons have helped ease the fire danger of this historic fire season. Longer and colder nights have significantly improved the moisture levels in vegetation responsible for rapid-fire growth.

Agencies implement fire restrictions based on specific criteria to include the moisture content of vegetation, weather outlooks, human risk factors, and firefighting resource availability. While conditions permit fire restrictions to be lifted, Mesa County is still experiencing extreme and exceptional drought conditions. Community members can significantly reduce the potential for human-caused fires by being proactive and cautious with activities that could ignite a wildfire.
Preventing wildfires:

• Never leave a fire unattended
• Ensure fire pits and campfires are completely out and cold to the touch
• Properly dispose of cigarettes
• When pulling a trailer, make sure the chains and other metal parts aren’t dragging
• Burning trash is NEVER permitted

Also, consider creating a defensible space around your home and take this time to update your family’s emergency kit. Even homes in urban areas are susceptible to wildfire. Learn more at www.ready.gov/wildfires

Conditions will continue to be monitored and restrictions will be adjusted should conditions change.
A reminder, fireworks are never permitted on federal land. Wood fires are never permitted anywhere on the Colorado National Monument. For the latest information about fire restrictions in Mesa County and surrounding communities, view Interactive Fire Restrictions Map at bit.ly/Fire_Restrictions. 

We thank the public for doing their part to prevent wildfires during this historic fire season.

Climber rescued after fall in Little Dominguez Canyon

Mesa County Search and Rescue
carries injured climber 

Climber rescued from fall

MESA COUNTY, Colo -  At approximately 2:45 p.m. Wednesday, the Grand Junction Regional Communications Center was notified by Delta County’s Communications Center a climber was in need of help. It had received a 911 text message about a climber who had fallen in the Little Dominguez Canyon area.

The adult male fell about 30-40 feet while repelling down a 200-foot cliff in the area of Rose Creek.

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and Mesa County Search and Rescue immediately responded to the area. The two people with the injured climber helped alert Centurylink’s helicopter to their remote location. 

Helicopter helps in rescue effort

Because the area was difficult to access, the helicopter transported search and rescue volunteers and deputies into the bottom of the canyon. Rescue crews then had to hike about a mile in steep terrain to reach the climber. The climber was carried to CareFlight waiting nearby. He was airlifted to St. Mary’s Hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

A second CareFlight helicopter transported rescue crews back out of the area. In total, the technical rescue took about 9 hours.

Do you have a COSAR card?

Search and Rescue is a free service in Mesa County. If you plan on recreating outdoors, you are encouraged to get a Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue (CORSAR) card. If you ever need search and rescue services it helps reimburse the cost to our local volunteer teams.  Learn more at https://cdola.colorado.gov/funding-programs/search-and-rescue-fund.

*video available on Facebook. 

CIRT investigation: Arrest made in connection with OIS

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following information on behalf of the 21st Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT).

Adam James Rodriguez, 29
MCSO Photo 2-4-20

MESA COUNTY, Colo – The 21st Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team made an arrest related to the incident that occurred on Sunday, October 11, 2020.

Adam James Rodriguez, 29, of Clifton was released from the hospital and taken into custody.

Rodriguez was arrested on the following charges:

• Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft (Class 4 Felony)
• 2 counts of Assault in the Second Degree on a Police Officer (Class 4 Felony)
• 3 counts of  Felony Menacing (Class 5 Felony)
• 2 counts of Vehicular Eluding (Class 4 Felony)
• Reckless Endangerment (Class 2 Misdemeanor)
• Resisting arrest (Class 2 Misdemeanor)
• Reckless Driving (Class 2 Misdemeanor Traffic Offense)
• Hit and Run (Class 2 Misdemeanor Traffic Offense)
• Hit and Run (Class 2 Misdemeanor Traffic Offense)
• Attempt to Influence a Public Servant (Class 4 Felony)
• Crime of Violence (Sentencing Enhancer)
• Crime of Violence (Sentencing Enhancer)

All documents in this case have been sealed by the court. This incident remains under investigation by the 21st Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team.

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

To view previous releases about this incident click here.

CIRT activated to investigate an officer-involved shooting

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following preliminary information on behalf of the 21st Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT).

All officer-involved shootings in Mesa County are investigated by the 21st Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team, which is comprised of representatives of the Grand Junction Police Department, Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, Fruita Police Department, Palisade Police Department, Colorado State Patrol, Colorado Department of Corrections, 21st Judicial District Attorney’s Office, and Colorado Bureau of Investigation. CIRT is activated when a law enforcement agency is involved in a critical incident to ensure an independent investigation. Because Grand Junction Police Department personnel was involved in this incident, the Mesa County Sheriff's Office is leading this investigation on behalf of CIRT.

At approximately 12:36 p.m. on Sunday, October 11, 2020, the Grand Junction Regional Communications Center received a 911 call regarding the possible location of a stolen vehicle.

A short time later, officers with the Grand Junction Police Department located the vehicle in the area of 29 1/2 Road and Parkway Drive.

While attempting to contact the driver of the stolen vehicle, the vehicle struck an officer, and an officer-involved shooting occurred.

One suspect was shot and transported to the hospital and is currently being treated for what is believed to be non-life-threatening injuries.

The Grand Junction Police officer struck by the suspect’s vehicle was treated on scene by paramedics for minor injuries.

Law enforcement continues to process the scene of this incident for additional evidence. Residents in the area may see an increased presence of law enforcement personnel over the next several hours.

Members of the Critical Incident Response Team will conduct interviews of all witnesses and involved persons in this case over the coming days. Additional details will be released as appropriate, with sensitivity to the ongoing investigation.

The Grand Junction Police Department will be responsible for releasing the names of the involved officers. As per their agency’s policy, the officers will be placed on administrative leave.

Investigators are seeking information and video of this incident. Anyone with information or video of this incident, please call the witness tip line at (970) 244-3526.

We thank the community for their patience and trust to allow us to ensure a thorough and complete investigation into this incident.

Priceless heirloom one of hundreds of stolen property recovered in weeks-long investigation

Samantha Berryman holds a family heirloom recovered by the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office.

Samantha Berryman first started playing the violin in middle school. It was her grandmother's idea for her to learn the string instrument. However, Samantha didn’t learn to play on just any violin, but rather a very special one with a mother-of-pearl flower inlay and a horsehair bow. The antique French violin first belonged to her grandmother's great aunt. It was passed down through generations of Samantha's family and then onto her.

Now, as an adult, the violin has become more than a musical instrument to Samantha. It became a meaningful connection to her past. Even more so, after the grandparents who raised her passed away.

In July of 2020, the priceless family heirloom was stolen—Samantha worried it was gone forever. In September, Samantha got a call from the Mesa County Sheriff's Office that her violin had been found.

"It's a part of me, part of my family, my history," said Samantha after being reunited with the family heirloom. "I thought I never would get it back."

The violin was one of hundreds of stolen property recovered as part of an extensive investigation by several Mesa County Sheriff's Office units and agency partners into recent burglaries and car thefts in Mesa County.

Weeks of investigative work led to eight arrests and the recovery of stolen vehicles, defaced firearms, and tens of thousands of dollars' worth of stolen property—items, like Samantha's antique violin.

Patrol vehicles on Mitchell Road 

Mid-July, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office began investigating a series of storage unit burglaries and auto thefts. Deputies and investigators combed through evidence, surveillance video, identified potential suspects, and developed information that ultimately led to an apartment on the 400 block of Coronado Court. There, investigators located what is believed to be stolen property and illegal narcotics.

That residence led to more potential suspects and the identification of two more homes where stolen property was stored. The properties are located on the 200 block of Mitchell Road and the 300 block of 27 ½ Road.

Investigators believe individuals would steal property or cars and take it to the identified residences and trade for service, money, or illegal drugs.

Here’s what deputies have recovered:

MCSO Deputy carries property
believed to be stolen

• 4 stolen vehicles
• 2 trailers believed to be stolen
• More than 40 unlawfully possessed guns - some of which were also identified as stolen or defaced
• Illegal narcotics - distribution amounts
• Hundreds of stolen items, including tools, solar panels, batteries, jewelry, and an antique violin.
• Evidence of illegal title transfers

Investigators so far have linked the stolen property to at least 25 cases of storage unit, residential and business burglaries, and auto thefts and car break-ins. They originated from multiple jurisdictions on the Western Slope, with one case dating back to 2007.

As a result of this investigation, eight people face various charges that range from theft, burglary, unlawful possession of weapons, and illegal narcotics.

This investigation is still active and ongoing. Deputies and investigators continue to interview involved persons and work to identify more related cases. More charges and arrests are anticipated.

A complex case of this magnitude wouldn't be possible without our partner law enforcement agencies and community members' help. Colorado State Patrol, Grand Junction Police Department, Fruita Police Department, Western Colorado Drug Task Force, Mesa County Code Enforcement, and the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office Patrol, Investigations, Crime Reduction, and Street Crime Units all worked on various aspects of this investigation.

Investigators and deputies catalog
 potential evidence 

The work isn’t over yet. Mesa County Sheriff’s Office investigators are diligently working to reunite the stolen property found with their rightful owner, people like Samantha. It’s a slow and challenging process. Investigators rely on photos, serial numbers, and identifying marks reported to law enforcement to determine the owners of the items found. Items without such documentation may never be matched with a stolen property case.

A good practice for community members is to document belongings, keep detailed records of serial numbers, identifying marks, and photos of valuable items. If your items ever get stolen, that documentation can help law enforcement return it to you if found. To report a theft, call non-emergency dispatch at (970) 242-6707 or make a report online. 

Update: Body of a child found in canal

3-year-old Adelesia
Answers to Addie Rae

#UPDATE 4:00 p.m.

Sunday, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office took the extraordinary measure to drain the Grand Valley Irrigation Company canal. As the water level dropped, Centurylink’s helicopter assisting the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office search effort, flew above the waterway to search for any sign of the missing child.

At approximately 2:15 p.m. Sunday, the search crews in the helicopter spotted something in the water. Deputies and investigators converged on the area to investigate further. The body of a small child was found in the canal near 29 Road matching the description of Adelesia. The Mesa County Coroner’s Office is working to identify the deceased and will release their name once next-of-kin is notified.

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is still seeking any video that may help investigators understand the circumstances surrounding this tragedy. If you have information, please call non-emergency dispatch at (970) 242-6707.

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank all search and rescue volunteers, Citizens on Patrol volunteers, law enforcement partners, the Grand Valley Irrigation Company, and the community for their help in this search effort. The outpouring of community support during this search effort has been unprecedented.

The family wants to thank the community for their support and compassion and has asked for privacy during this time. A Go Fund Me account has been sent up in the family’s name.

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Grand Valley Canal being drained in search for missing 3-year-old

MESA COUNTY, Colo – At 6:13 p.m. Saturday the Grand Junction Regional Communication Center received a 911 call reporting a child missing.

3-year-old Adelesia, who answers to Addie Rae, was last seen at 6:00 p.m. at a residence on Orchard Ave between 29 ½ Road and 30 Road. She was wearing a tan shirt with an orange fox and orange and blue pants. It is believed she wandered off.

Deputies and family members immediately began searching the surrounding area. GJPD officers and GJPD’s K-9 unit, CSP, and more than 20 Mesa County Search and Rescue volunteers also joined the search for the child.

A Community Notification was sent to area residents. The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office also notified local media and used social media alert features to spread the word. The circumstances of this incident did not meet the qualifications to issue an amber alert.

While searching the immediate area, deputies and search and rescue volunteers, also searched several miles of the Grand Valley Irrigation Canal. Deputies found evidence Adelesia had been near the canal.

To rule out the possibility the child may have fallen into the canal, today, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office contacted the Grand Valley Irrigation Company to begin the process of temporally draining the canal. This includes the Mesa County ditch mainline, the Independent Ranchman’s ditch, and the Grand Valley Irrigation Company’s Highline canal and Mainline. This is a temporary shutdown, so waterways can be searched for the missing child. This is a slow process; it could take 48 hours to drain enough to search.

While the canal is drained, the search in the surrounding community continues. Saturday, several miles around the canal, and the home where she was last seen, were searched extensively. Deputies and Mesa County Search and Rescue volunteers are searching again today.

Thank you to the countless community members who have shared Addie Rae’s information, called in tips, and helped with the search.

If you see Addie Rae or know of her whereabouts, please call 911 immediately.

Update: One dead in Fruitvale shooting

9/29/20 Update: The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office has completed its investigation in the August 8th, 2020 Fruitvale shooting and turned it over the 21st District Attorney’s Office for review.

On September 28th, 2020, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office received a letter from District Attorney Dan Rubinstein declining prosecution based on the Colorado "Make-my-day" statute, C.R.S. 18-1-704.5. View the letter here.

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Update: The Mesa County Coroner's Office released the following statement:

"The Mesa County Coroner’s Office has completed its examination regarding the death of Fredrick Price, a 23-year-old male resident of Grand Junction, Colorado. Mr. Price was the male involved in the shooting that occurred on August 8, 2020 in the 600 block of Grand Valley Drive Grand Junction, Colorado. The cause of death is gunshot wound of the chest and the manner of death is homicide. Toxicology is pending at this time.

The law enforcement agency overseeing this investigation is the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office. Please contact them for any further details regarding this case."

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MESA COUNTY, Colo: On 08/08/20 at approximately 2:45 am, deputies were dispatch to a residence in the 600 block of Grand Valley Drive for a shooting. 

A male was found deceased inside of the home and had suffered a gunshot wound. Initial investigation has shown the deceased male does not live at the home, forced entry was present into the home and the deceased male is not known to the people who reside there.

Investigators are interviewing the residents, speaking with neighbors, processing the scene and will work closely with the Mesa County Coroner’s Office to identify the deceased. The Mesa County Coroner’s Office will determine the cause and manner of death.

If anyone has any information about the case, please call the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at 970-244-3526.

This case remains under investigation.

Grand Junction Man arrested in connection with overnight stabbing

Thomas Dean Brown, 52
MCSO Photo 9-1-20

MESA COUNTY, Colo – Mesa County Sheriff’s investigators make an arrest related to an overnight stabbing in Grand Junction.

Thomas Dean Brown, 52, of Grand Junction, was arrested Friday on the charge of Assault in the First Degree with Intent to Cause Serious Bodily Injury.

At approximately 1:18 Friday morning, the Grand Junction Regional Communication Center received a call of an injured person bleeding from the neck who needed assistance. Mesa County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the residence on the 500 block of Placer Drive to assist medical personnel.  Deputies quickly determined an assault had occurred.

A 54-year-old man with a serious injury to his neck was transported to St. Mary’s hospital and has since been released.

Through the course of the investigation, suspect information was developed. Brown was located and arrested without incident. Brown was treated for injuries reportedly sustained during the initial incident then booked into the Mesa County Detention Facility.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation.

For updated bond amounts, visit our website.

SVP Community Notification - Privette & Gallegos

Sexually Violent Predators Move into County

Willie Privette Jr, 40
MCSO Photo 9-21-20

MESA COUNTY, Colo. -- This public notice is intended to make our community aware that a registered sex offender, classified as a sexually violent predator has moved into Mesa County. Further details about these offenders can be found on our website. Click here and choose the offender's Community Bulletin.

A 'sexually violent predator' is a term used by the Colorado Sex Offender Management Board, who classifies a convicted sex offender with this additional descriptor. 

Willie Privette Jr., 40, of Whitewater, is moving back into Mesa County after recently completing a sentence for failing to register. Privette has served his convicted sentence as ordered by a Judge. Willie Privette registered with the Mesa County Sheriff's Office, per compliance with registration laws. 

Jose Elizario Gallegos, 69, of Grand Junction, is moving into Mesa County after previously living in the City of Grand Junction.  Gallegos has served his convicted sentence as ordered by a Judge. Jose Elizario Gallegos registered with the Mesa County Sheriff's Office, per compliance with registration laws. 

Jose Elizario Gallegos, 69
MCSO Photo 9-14-20

All community notification bulletins for all current SVPs registered with our agency are on our agency website, to view them, click here. In addition, we highly recommend you watch a 12-minute video that talks about SVPs and all registered sex offenders, resources, and other useful information specific to Mesa County. For current information on all registered sex offenders in Mesa County, visit our website.

If you have information regarding the current criminal activity of this or any other offender, please call 911 for an emergency. If you observe this offender engaging in any high risk or inappropriate behavior, please contact the Mesa County Sheriff's Office, patrol units, by calling 911 or (970) 242-6707. If you have questions or need education handouts, please contact Mesa County Sex Offender Registrar LeeAnn Camp at (970) 244-3206, or her direct supervisor Sgt. Justin Bynum (970) 244-3973.

Most sex crimes are never reported and most offenders are never detected. The greatest risk of a sex offense is from people you know. The information provided herein (on the embedded community bulletin) is current and accurate as of the date but is subject to change.

The purpose of this notification is to enhance public safety and protection. Vigilantism, or use of this information to harass, threaten or intimidate anyone associated with this notification will not be tolerated.

This law enforcement agency has no legal authority to direct where a sex offender may live (however, we make it public information so citizens can be aware and educate themselves). Unless court restrictions exist, they are constitutionally free to live wherever they choose. Sex offenders have always lived in our community, but they were not required to notify law enforcement of their residence until registration laws were implemented pursuant to the Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children and Sexually Violent Offender Registration Act. Law enforcement may now share that information with members of the community, and in the case of sexually violent predators, law enforcement must actively notify citizens. This blog posting is only one of the means we are getting this information out to citizens of Mesa County.

MCSO investigating overnight shooting

9/21/20 UPDATE: Investigators are looking for potential witnesses to the shooting that occurred early Sunday morning outside a residence on the 3100 block of Orson Ave.

The Mesa County Sheriff's Office is asking anyone who attended the party Saturday night into Sunday morning and may have witnessed the incident to call our witness tip line (970) 244-3526. 

If you have video or information about this shooting, you are also asked to call the witness tip line (970) 244-3526. 

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MESA COUNTY, Colo – The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting that occurred at a large party early Sunday morning in the Fruitvale area.

Just after midnight, Mesa County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to the 3100 block of Orson Ave for a report of multiple shots fired outside a residence.

Within minutes, deputies arrived and secured the area. A 20-year-old male was found with a gunshot wound. He was transported to St. Mary’s Hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The investigation is still in its early stages. However, investigators believe this was an isolated incident, and there is no ongoing threat to the community. Investigators have determined a large number of people were at the party, and a fight did occur. Investigators are working to identify the individuals involved and if the fight was related to the shooting.

This remains an active ongoing investigation. The scene is still being processed and investigators are actively interviewing potential witnesses to determine the circumstances surrounding this shooting.

If you attended the party or have video related to this incident, investigators would like to speak with you. Please contact the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office by calling non-emergency dispatch (970) 242-6707.

Fire Restrictions move from Stage 2 to Stage 1 September 18th

MESA COUNTY, Colo – The Mesa County Sheriff, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Grand Junction Field Office, and the Colorado National Monument are reducing fire restrictions from Stage 2 to Stage 1 effective at 12:01 a.m. Friday, September 18th, 2020. This applies to all of Mesa County, including the Colorado National Monument and BLM administered public lands. Land managed by the U.S. Forest Service, including the Grand Mesa and Uncompahgre National Forests, remains in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions. 

Recent rain combined with shorter days and longer cooler nights have improved the extreme fire danger enough to support moving from Stage 2 Fire Restrictions to Stage 1. Agencies implement fire restrictions based on specific criteria to include the moisture content of vegetation, weather outlooks, human risk factors, and firefighting resource availability. Mesa County recently received 1.0 to 1.25 inches of precipitation. As we move into fall, the longer nights provide a better opportunity for vegetation moisture levels to recover.

Allowed under Stage 1 not previously allowed under Stage 2:

• The use of charcoal grills
• Campfires inside designated and developed fire pits or fire rings
• Smoking outside in an area free of combustible materials

While last week’s storms have helped ease fire danger, it was not a fire-season ending event. Mesa County is experiencing extreme drought conditions with no forecasted relief anytime soon. The potential still exists for dangerous wildfires this fall. Community members are asked to continue to be vigilant and remain cautious when using fire outdoors, especially in heavily grassy areas. The public can help significantly reduce human-caused fires by being proactive with activities that could ignite a wildfire.

Preventing wildfires:

• Never leave a fire unattended
• Extinguish fire pits and campfires in designated fire rings and ensure they are completely out and cold to the touch
• Properly dispose of cigarettes
• When pulling a trailer, make sure the chains and other metal parts aren’t dragging
• Check your tire pressure and brakes. An exposed wheel rim or too thin brake pads can cause sparks.

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

Conditions will continue to be monitored, and restrictions will be adjusted accordingly should it change.

What Stage I Fire Restrictions Mean

Fireworks are not allowed under Stage I Fire Restrictions. Professional fireworks shows may be allowed through the permitting process.

Campfires are ONLY allowed in designated and developed fire pits or fire rings.

Smoking in open areas is not allowed EXCEPT within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area of at least six feet diameter that is barren or cleared of all combustible material.

While the restrictions do not impact most shooting sports, explosive targets are prohibited.


Open Burning

The open burning of yard waste or fields is prohibited EXCEPT for agricultural burns with a Sheriff Issued Burn Permit. The Sheriff’s Fire Marshal will conduct an onsite inspection of each planned burn BEFORE a Permit is issued to ensure all safety precautions are met. If they are not met, and conditions do not allow for a safe burn a permit will NOT be issued and any agricultural burn will be in violation of the fire restrictions in place. Applications for a Sheriff issued burn permit can be found here.


Federal Lands

The use of fireworks, flares, or other incendiary devices, including exploding targets, are always prohibited on federal lands. Wood fires are never permitted anywhere on the Colorado National Monument.


Penalties

Causing a fire during fire restrictions can be a class 6 felony and can be punishable by fines up to $100,000 and/or imprisonment up to 18 months. Other possible charges include Fourth Degree Arson (M2) and Intentionally Setting a Wildfire (F3). You may also be held financially responsible for damage caused.

 View Interactive Fire Restrictions Map at bit.ly/Fire_Restrictions

Deputies involved in Loma officer-involved shooting identified

MESA COUNTY, Colo - The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is identifying the two MCSO deputies involved in the officer-involved shooting that occurred on the morning of August 29, 2020.

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office deputies who discharged their duty firearm during this incident are Deputy Brandon Barry and Deputy Justin Rolbiecki.

Deputy Brandon Barry is a 5-year veteran of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office currently assigned to patrol. Deputy Justin Rolbiecki is a 4-year veteran of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office currently assigned to patrol.

As per standard protocol, Deputy Brandon Barry and Deputy Justin Rolbiecki will remain on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation that takes place independently of the 21st Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) investigation.

The officer-involved shooting remains under investigation by the 21st Judicial District Critical Incident Response Team. For information about the CIRT investigation, click here.

11/9/2020 Update:

The CIRT investigation was completed and turned over to the Mesa County District Attorney’s Office. District Attorney Dan Rubinstein has completed his review of the investigation, and his findings can be reviewed here. 

Two Hunters rescued from snowstorm on the Uncompahgre

MESA COUNTY, Colo - At approximately 12:30 Tuesday afternoon, the Grand Junction Regional Communication Center received an SOS message from a satellite emergency notification device.

Dispatchers determined a 50-year-old hunter and his 27-year-old son were lost in the snowstorm on the Uncompahgre.

Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and the Mesa County Search and Rescue Team immediately responded to their GPS coordinates in the area of Kelso Point. Due to the remote location, an outfitter in the area was also called to help reach the two hunters quickly.

Both were found very cold but safe. With rapidly changing weather conditions, rescue crews attribute their safe return to the GPS emergency notification device they were carrying.

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind anyone recreating or hunting in the wilderness to prepare for extreme temperature conditions, especially this time of year. Even if you are only going out for a short time, always be prepared with extra water, food, and clothes. GPS devices are an excellent tool to help navigate. Make sure you are familiar with the technology and using it before going out.

Man arrested after overnight crime spree

Jorge Robledo-Aispuro, 25 MCSO Photo 9-3-20

MESA COUNTY, Colo – Mesa County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested Jorge Robledo-Aispuro, 25, Thursday after an overnight crime spree involving stolen cars and theft.

At approximately 6:15 a.m., deputies were notified a red 1999 Chevy Tahoe was stolen from a residence on the 2800 block of Lexington Lane.

About two hours later, deputies located the stolen Tahoe along with a stolen trailer and other stolen property near where a second vehicle was reported stolen.  Witnesses reported seeing a man push the broken down Tahoe from Highway 50 to the area of the 700 block of Siminoe Road, then proceed to steal a blue Ford F150 at a nearby residence.

Mesa County Sheriff’s Deputies alerted the Delta County Sheriff’s Office about the stolen Ford F150, possibly headed in their direction. A short time later, the F150 was spotted by Delta County Sheriff’s Deputies driving on Highway 50. When they attempted to pull the vehicle over, the driver fled at a high rate of speed. The vehicle came to a stop at the parking area of Escalante Canyon, in Delta County. Delta Sheriff’s Deputies were able to take the male, identified as Jorge Robledo-Aispuro, into custody.

Upon further investigation, deputies discovered additional crimes, including vandalism at a residence on the 200 block of Snyder Creek Road.

Robledo-Aispuro is facing the following charges:

• 2 counts of 1st Degree Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft F4

• Vehicular Eluding F5

• 1st Degree Criminal Trespass F5

• Theft $5000-$20000 F5

• Criminal Mischief $750-$1000 M1

• Theft $750-$2000 M1

• Obstructing a Peace Officer M2

• Criminal Mischief $300-$750 M2

• 2nd Degree Criminal Trespass M3

• Criminal Mischief less than $300 M3

• 2 counts of 3rd Degree Criminal Trespass

• Driving Under Restraint

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank community members who shared their home surveillance video on the Neighbors App. This information was able to help deputies identify additional crimes related to this crime spree. This is a perfect example as to why residents are encouraged to report all crime, no matter how small. It could be a key piece to solving a much larger crime.   

Robledo-Aispuro is currently being held in the Mesa County Detention Facility. For the latest bond amounts, visit our website.

Early morning shooting in the desert

8/31/20 Update: Upon further investigation, Mesa County Sheriff’s Office investigators have identified a second shooting victim related to Saturday's incident. Both shooting victims have sought medical attention and are expected to recover.

Investigators continue to interview witnesses to determine the circumstances around the shooting. It is believed the incident happened during a late-night party in the desert area of 27 1/4 Rd near the dam.

The case is still under investigation.

If anyone has information about this crime, please contact the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office at (970) 242-6707. 

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MESA COUNTY, Colo – At approximately 3:15 a.m. Saturday, Mesa County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to St. Mary’s Hospital to investigate a possible shooting.

The adult male arrived at the emergency room conscious and breathing with a gunshot wound. Upon investigation, it was determined the man was shot in the desert area of 27 1/4 Rd near the dam.

Investigators are interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence. The circumstances surrounding the shooting are still under investigation.

If anyone has information about this crime please contact the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office at (970) 242-6707.

MCSO joins Neighbors App

MESA COUNTY, Colo – The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office has joined the Neighbors App to engage with community members and improve safety in Mesa County. The Neighbors App is free a social media platform designed for neighbors to share information about local crime and safety incidents to keep fellow residents informed. The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office is utilizing this new platform to connect with residents and work in partnership to reduce crime in local neighborhoods.

Neighbors App users can share photos and videos directly with the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office to help solve local crimes. Deputies can directly inform community members of recent crimes, offer safety tips, and issue safety alerts specific to their neighborhood. Deputies may also ask community members to share relevant video surveillance to help solve crimes. Residents can then choose to share video directly through the Neighbors App. It is important to note, it is the resident’s choice on whether or not to share video with deputies. This app does not give deputies access to home security systems.

Anyone with a smartphone can download the Neighbors App to receive updates and have the option to post photos or videos from any device. You do not need a Ring device to join Neighbors. Neighbors is not proprietary to Ring and will accept all brands of video systems, cell phone video, and images.

We know when communities work together safer neighborhoods are the result. This new community partnership gives residents the ability to take a more active role in reducing crime in their neighborhood.

Neighbors App is not a replacement for 911. If you have an emergency, please call 911. To report a crime call (970) 242-6707 or visit https://sheriff.mesacounty.us/how-do-i/report-a-crime/.