Riverside Independent_3/27/2023

Critical race theory workshop in Temecula Valley disrupted by critics, proponents

Family sues Riverside County, sheriff over drug overdose death of inmate

Man accused of rapes, molestation of child withdraws request for reduced bail PG

No fluctuation in Riverside County’s jobless rate in February

The family of an inmate who died while in custody at the Byrd Detention Center in Murrieta is federally suing Riverside County and Sheriff Chad Bianco over what the plaintiffs allege were civil rights violations because the defendant did not receive appropriate treatment.

The family of 29-year-old Richard Matus Jr. is seeking unspecified damage awards and other concessions from the county and the sheriff’s department stemming from his death on Aug. 11.

The plaintiffs and their attorneys plan to speak at a news conference in front of U.S. District Court in downtown Riverside Friday morning.

“This action seeks to bring to public light the deliberate disregard for safety and protection carried out by the individual defendants in this action,” according to the

50-page civil suit.

It lists a range of causes, largely based on alleged violations of the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which requires equal treatment under the law. However, there are also allegations of breaches of the California Civil Code, deprivations tied to alleged medical negligence and policy malfeasance.

Neither the county or sheriff’s officials immediately responded to a request for comment.

According to court records, Matus was awaiting adjudication of charges of attempted murder and armed robbery for a 2018 holdup at a Banning medical marijuana dispensary that left three people seriously injured. His brother and co-defendant, 23-year-old Raymond Matus, is slated to be tried in April on the same charges.

The lawsuit states Richard

Matus died from a drug overdose after suffering a “medical emergency for an appreciable amount of time” last August.

The plaintiffs allege jail staff were deficient in their response and pointed to wider, systemic problems caused by the sheriff, his administrators and the county as a whole for setting the stage for their loved one’s loss.

Matus’ death was one of 18 in-custody fatalities in 2022, and that number represents what the plaintiffs called an “alarming” spike traced to the sheriff’s department’s “unconstitutional patterns and practices.”

In the previous 15 years, prior to 2022, the highest number of documented in-custody deaths was 12, the plaintiffs said.

“Long before Richard Matus Jr.’s death, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department knew that there existed a great indifference to the safety and protection of the inmates who were in the government’s custody within the county’s correctional facilities,” according to the suit.

The plaintiffs refer repeatedly to the federal lawsuit filed by the Bay Area-based Prison Law Group on behalf of convicted felon Quinton E. Gray in 2013.

That civil action sought to remedy what the plaintiffs claimed were ongoing failures in ensuring inmates with mental health disorders received appropriate treatment. The suit culminated in a settlement between the county and plaintiffs in 2016 in which the county entered into a federal consent decree, promising to significantly expand medical resources available to detainees. The health reforms came with a $40 million price tag.

According to the Matus suit, despite the consent decree, sheriff’s administrators have “deliberately failed

to take even modest actions to prevent in-custody deaths at Riverside County correctional facilities.”

In addition to Matus, at least five other in-custody fatalities in 2022 were recorded as “drug overdoses,” according to the suit. Others included homicide, suicide and “natural causes.” However, three deaths that occurred between Oct. 13 and Dec. 12 remain under investigation and undetermined.

The losses prompted the California Department of Justice last month to announce a civil rights investigation targeting Bianco and his staff. Attorney General Rob Bonta said at the time “it is clear ... families and communities in Riverside County are hurting and looking for answers.”

“Whether you have a loved one in jail, or are worried about crime in your neighborhood, we all benefit when there is action to ensure the integrity of policing in our state,” he said.

Bianco fired back, saying publicly, “This investigation is based on nothing but false and misleading statements and straight-out lies from activists, including their attorneys. This will prove to be a complete waste of time and resources.”

He also questioned the legitimacy of the Matus family’s complaints to the DOJ, writing in an online forum, “Did they ever demand that their family members not commit crimes in the first place? Did their parents ever demand they take responsibility for their own actions?”

Along with an unstated monetary award, the plaintiffs are seeking changes in “policies, procedures and practices” that “mitigate the obvious well-known risks of harm attendant” in Richard Matus’ death.

No hearings have been set yet in the matter.

Despite growth in some sectors of the regional economy, Riverside County’s unemployment rate was unchanged last month, according to figures released Friday by the California Employment Development Department.

The countywide jobless rate in February, based on preliminary EDD estimates, was 4.5%, the same as in January.

EDD posted the data outside of its usual schedule due to an annual statistical revision process, done in concert with the U.S. Department of Labor, known as “benchmarking,” which is intended to improve accuracy of results. The January unemployment figures were published earlier this week. The benchmarking process has now ended, and EDD officials will return to regularly posting data on the third Friday of every month for the rest of the year.

According to figures, the February 2023 rate was only two-tenths of a percentage point lower than the year-ago level, when countywide unemployment stood at 4.7%.

An estimated 52,500 county residents were recorded as out of work in February, and 1,105,500 were employed, according to EDD.

See J obless rate Page 28

By City News Service By City News Service By City News Service

Bench warrant issued for man suspected in paddle beating

One of two brothers accused of beating a man with a wooden paddle over two days in Cathedral City as a form of “street justice” failed to appear in court Wednesday and had a warrant issued for his arrest.

Eduardo Luis Espinoza, 34 was due in court Wednesday for a mandatory settlement conference with his brother Carlos Jose Espinoza, 32, and Genaro Jaime Lozoya, 31, who is accused of keeping the victim from escaping, according to court records.

Due to the absence of Eduardo Espinoza in court, Riverside County Superior Court Judge Gregory Olson issued a bench warrant for his arrest and will have his bail set at $200,000.

The brothers are charged with one felony count of false imprisonment and two felony counts of assault on a person causing great bodily injury, along with sentenceenhancing allegations of using a weapon — a wooden paddle — during the commission of a felony, according to court records.

Eduardo Espinoza is additionally charged with one felony count each of robbery, criminal threats and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

Lozoya is charged with one felony count each of false

See P addle beating Page 27

Richard Matus Jr. | Photo courtesy of the Banning Police Department

Critical race theory workshop in Temecula Valley disrupted by critics, proponents

City News Service

Acritical

and school board members scrambling Friday to answer questions about their decision to ban teaching CRT in the district. During public comment at the school board meeting

Wednesday night, a Black man identified only as Deon argued that banning teaching CRT in the Temecula Valley Unified School District was unnecessary because no school in the country teaches it to kindergarten through 12th grade students. After making his comments, a woman told him to “get out of the country.”

It prompted the man to yell at the woman, saying, “My family has been here since August 16th, 1619.” The exchange was shared on social media by others

who attended the meeting. The school board president, Joseph Komrosky, warned the man he would be asked to leave if he continued to disrupt the meeting.

The workshop and meeting was attended by Melissa Melendez, former state senator, Edwin Gomez, Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Heather Williams, Riverside Assistant Superintendent, the members of the Riverside County Board of Education, members of the Temecula

City Council, Trustees from Hemet and Orange County and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.

Komrosky eventually asked the man to be removed from the meeting. People in the audience demanded the woman also being asked to be removed from the meeting.

Sheriff deputies eventually removed the woman from the meeting.

School board member Steven Schwartz said the woman was asked to leave.

“The meeting devolved

into chaos, and the board president declared a recess,” he said.

The Temecula Valley Unified School District board voted in December to stop teaching CRT, a decision that has sparked protests from students, educators and community members.

Eighteen states have imposed bans and restrictions on the teaching of critical race theory or on how teachers can discuss racism and sexism since January 2021, according to Education Week.

Man suspected of building barn without approval, stealing money for permits

A56-year-old unlicensed contractor suspected of pocketing money for building permits that he never obtained from the city of Temecula before he proceeded with building a barn for a resident was out of custody Wednesday on a $15,000 bond.

Garrett Kameo Hodson of Temecula was arrested and booked into the Byrd Detention Center in Murrieta on Monday on suspicion of theft by false

pretenses, submitting false financial statements, providing professional services without certification and driving on a suspended license.

Hodson posted bail Tuesday and was released from jail.

According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, deputies were alerted by city of Temecula building inspectors Monday morning that Hodson and another man, as yet unidentified, had allegedly

By City News Service

engaged in an unlawful construction project.

Sgt. Frank Tiburzio said inspectors and the owner of a property in the 30700 block of San Pasqual Road revealed that Hodson had constructed a barn at the location, but without adhering to municipal requirements.

“The homeowner built the barn with the belief Hodson submitted his building plans to the city and obtained the proper permits,” Tiburzio

said. “The investigation revealed Hodson never submitted any plans to the city, nor did he obtain the proper building permits.”

When Hodson returned to carry out a final site check of the completed barn, along with the other man, whom he introduced as a Temecula building official, city officials were waiting with the resident, according to the sergeant.

The inspectors “confirmed the building plans Hodson was in

possession of, and all related documents, were illegitimate,” Tiburzio said.

“It is believed Hodson’s motive was to pocket the costs for the building permits in lieu of paying the city,” he said.

Hodson remained at the residence after he was confronted with the evidence, Tiburzio said, but the suspect’s cohort, allegedly posing as the city building inspector, fled prior to deputies’ arrival.

“This investigation

continues, and we are working to identify all suspects involved,” the sergeant said.

There’s no record of Hodson being registered with the California Contractors State License Board.

Tiburzio asked anyone who may be aware of the suspect performing similar work throughout the Temecula Valley to contact him at the sheriff’s Southwest station, 951-6963043.

Riverside County Spelling Bee champion carries on family tradition

By City News Service

ACorona-Norco Unified SchoolDistrict

seventh grader on Thursday claimed the championship title in Riverside County’s 45th Spelling Bee, extending his family’s ownership of the local top speller mantle for the seventh time.

Avijeet Randhawa correctly spelled “forbs,” a plant species, to win the bee and advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee, where he will represent the county.

Avijeet endured multiple rounds over three hours to beat out his competition and become the third person in his family to claim top honors in the countywide bee, which was held Thursday at the Moreno Valley Conference & Recreation Center.

“One of the hardest words was ‘forbs,’ because that first sound in Greek is usually ‘ph,’” he said. “But then I remembered about five months ago, my sister quizzed me on it, and we

went over it because it was an exception.”

The Auburndale Intermediate School student said he followed his two older sisters’ advice not to feel “anxious ... to keep on breathing, focus, and no matter what, keep on going.”

“The moment when I was most nervous, I could feel my heart beating, but I took deep breaths like my dad told me, and I was able to get the spelling,” Avijeet said.

The youth said he makes it a habit to learn and repeat 500 to 800 words daily.

“I’m feeling excited and happy and can’t wait to go to the (national) competition,” he said. “This takes a lot of work, but if you keep going at it, you’ll be able to do it. I am really thankful for my parents’ and siblings’ help, and I couldn’t have done it without them.”

A total of 27 contestants took part in the county

bee, which was the first in-person competition since 2019. Fourth grader Victoria Michael-Taiwo from the Lake Elsinore Unified School District was the runner-up, followed by sixth grader Profess Adhikari from River Springs Charter School in third place.

The bees in 2021 and 2022 were all-virtual. The 2020 bee was nixed when then-County Public Health Officer Cameron Kaiser declared a coronavirus public health emergency. The 2021 and 2022 events were held online due to ongoing precautionary measures implemented by the County Office of Education.

Avijeet’s family has formed a quasi-dynasty on the academic stage in Riverside County. Last year, his sister, Lara Randhawa, claimed the county championship title after correctly spelling “cumulocirrus,” which is an upper atmo-

sphere cloud.

Lara, who previously attended Auburndale Intermediate, also took top honors in the county’s 2021 virtual bee.

Aisha Randhawa laid the groundwork for her younger

siblings’ success, winning local championship titles in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, paving the way for her to compete nationally in each of those years.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee is slated for

May 28-June 3 at Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland, according to the Office of Education. The county bees began in 1978.

From left, third place finisher Profess Adhikari, first place finisher Avijeet Randhawa, a seventh grader from Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona-Norco Unified School District, second place speller Victoria Michael-Taiwo and fourth place competitor Ryan Scott. | Photo courtesy of the Riverside County Office of Education

race theory workshop hosted by the Temecula Valley Unified School District turned contentious, with one woman escorted out of the meeting by police,

| Photo by Mint_images/Envato Elements

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Tornado sweeps through Montebello; 11 buildings red-tagged

By City News Service

The Arcadia Weeklyhas been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number GS 004333 for the City of Arcadia, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The Monrovia Weeklyhas been adjudicated as a newspaper of General Circulation in Court Case GS 004759 City of Monrovia, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The Temple City Tribunehas been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number GS 012440 City of Temple City, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The El Monte Examinerhas been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number KS 015872 City of El Monte, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The Azusa Beaconhas been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number KS 015970 City of Azusa, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The San Gabriel Sunhas been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number GS 013808 City of San Gabriel, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The Duarte Dispatchhas been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number GS 013893 City of Duarte, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The Rosemead Readerhas been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number GS 048894 City of Rosemead, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The Alhambra Press has been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number ES016581 City of Alhambra, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The Baldwin Park Press has been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number KS017174 City of Baldwin Park, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The Burbank Independent has been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number ES016728 City of Burbank, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The Glendale Independent has been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number ES016579 City of Glendale, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The Monterey Park Press has been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number ES016580 City of Monterey Park, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The West Covina Press has been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number KS017304 City of West Covina, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The San Bernardino Press has been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number CIVDS 1506881 City of San Bernardino, County of San Bernardino, State of California.

The Riverside Independent has been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number RIC1505351 City of Riverside, County of Riverside, State of California.

The Pasadena Press has been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number ES018815 City of Pasadena, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The Belmont Beacon has been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number NSO30275 City of Long Beach, County of Los Angeles, State of California.

The Anaheim Press has been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number 30-2017-00942735-CU-PT-CJC City of Anaheim, County of Orange, State of California.

The Ontario News Press has been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in court case number CIVDS 1506881 City of Ontario, County of San Bernardino, State of California. The Corona

Nearly a dozen buildings remain redtagged Thursday, one day after a rare tornado swept through the Montebello area, tearing off some rooftops and leaving one person with minor injuries.

The National Weather Service confirmed that the twister — the strength of which has not yet been measured — hit around 11:20 a.m. Wednesday. The

storm was focused generally in the area of Washington Boulevard and Vail Avenue, in a largely industrial district.

Officials said the tornado developed fairly quickly as a strong storm cell pushed through the area. One person suffered minor injuries, according to the Montebello Fire Department.

Fire officials said city

inspectors examined 17 buildings in the tornadoaffected area, and 11 of them were red-tagged, or marked unsuitable for occupation. The twister also damaged an unknown number of vehicles.

Cell phone video from the area showed portions of rooftops being ripped away from buildings, and other debris swirling in a circular pattern in the air. Other

videos showed a funnel-like cloud forming above the area as rooftops are ripped away. Additional video from the aftermath showed multiple vehicles in the parking lot of an affected building with heavy damage, including shattered windows and body damage from flying debris. Some vehicles appeared to have rear bumpers ripped away.

LA County unemployment rate rises slightly in February

By City News Service

Los Angeles County’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased slightly to 4.9% in February, up from a revised 4.8% in January, according to figures released Friday by the state Employment Development Department.

The 4.9% rate was below the 5.7% rate in February 2022.

In Orange County, where seasonally adjusted numbers were not available, the February unemployment rate was 3.4%.

Statewide, the season-

ally adjusted unemployment rate was 4.3% in February, 4.2% in January and 4.7% in February 2022. The comparable figures for the nation were 3.6% in February, 3.4% in January and 3.8% a year ago.

Total nonfarm employ-

ment in Los Angeles County increased by 41,900 positions between January and February to reach nearly 4.6 million.

The private education and health services sector led the way with 12,400 jobs gained, according to the EDD.

LA City Council seeks funds to revitalize brownfields in Council District 7

By City News Service

The Los Angeles City Council approved a motion Friday to apply for a federal grant that will redevelop brownfields in Council District 7 for the purpose of creating community gardens and programming to teach youth about urban gardening and agriculture.

According to the motion, presented by council member Monica Rodriguez, it would instruct the city’s Bureau of Sanitation to apply for the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Government-toGovernment Environmental Justice Grant. Upon being awarded funds, the Bureau of Sanitation will accept

the award and divulge any administrative and legislative requirements to accomplish the city’s project for Council District 7.

“Through work with the Bureau of Sanitation, one burgeoning opportunity is the development of community gardens that provide year-round urban greening and agriculture education and the promotion of environmental stewardship at the local grassroots levels for our youth,” according to the motion.

The motion defined brownfields as “toxic land sites” that factories left long ago. The EPA’s grant program seeks to create model government programs

that address public health risks. The grant program aims to leverage existing resources from state or local agencies that develop tools and processes that integrate environmental justice into government programs.

City staff identified three underutilized and undeveloped city-owned sites in Mission Hills, North Hills and Pacoima, and one brownfield in Council District 7, which would benefit from the federal grant program.

Screenshot of footage from the tornado. | Screenshot courtesy of @TheRedRanger23/Twitter

| Photo courtesy of Jay Morrison/Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

Judge awards $1M in attorneys’ fees to LA County worker who protested segregation

By City News Service

two causes of action for retaliation.

“While a review of billing records indicates mostly reasonable billings, there is still evidence of padding, unnecessary billings and duplicative work,” Takasugi wrote.

Lawyers for the county argued in their trial court papers that actions taken by the DPSS in connection with Young’s employment were for legitimate business reasons with no intention to retaliate. Regarding the attorneys’ fees, the county lawyers maintained Young deserved no more than just under $1.1 million.

racially segregated employees, with one unit for Latino employees and the other for Blacks, the suit alleged.

Young complained about the racially segregated units on multiple occasions, saying they caused unrest among employees and caused a heavier distribution of the workload to Black workers, according to the suit. The director acknowledged the problem, but left before he could do anything about it, the suit stated.

suit stated.

Young began experiencing retaliation for complaining about the segregation, including a 30-day suspension amid accusations that she had been “combative” and “hostile” while she and others went to the director’s office to protest the alleged segregation, according to the suit.

Ajudge has granted $1 million in attorneys’ fees to a Black former Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services employee who maintained she suffered a

backlash for speaking out against racial segregation in the workplace.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Jon R. Takasugi’s award was less than half the $3.7 million sought

by plaintiff Lorna Young’s lawyers. Young was entitled to the fees based on a jury’s Oct. 27 award to her of $3.5 million in compensatory damages after finding in the plaintiff’s favor on her

Young worked for the county for nearly two decades, most recently as a DPSS eligibility worker, the suit stated. In 2012, the director of the Southwest Family District where Young worked purposely

The new director refused to meet with Young or to desegregate the work units, the suit stated.

Young went to the Board of Supervisors with her fellow union steward to complain about her workplace conditions, but the board members did not address her concerns, the

Young was transferred to another office, where she was forced to sit under a vent, causing her to contract bronchitis, the suit states.

“Young realized that the working conditions were not going to improve and in August 2014 she was forced to resign,” the suit stated.

Young applied for reinstatement with the county the next year and was denied, according to the suit.

Fasting for Muslim holy month of Ramadan began Thursday

By City News Service

Muslimsbegan fasting after sunrise Thursday for the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, commemorating the first revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which Muslim adults fast from dawn until dusk, unless they are ill, pregnant, diabetic, breastfeeding or traveling.

Fasting is one of the “five pillars” of Islam, along with the declaration of faith, daily prayers, charity and pilgrimage to Mecca.

During Ramadan, which will last until sunset on or around April 20, Muslims

engage in increased prayer and charity, both financially and feeding and supporting the local unhoused population.

The end of Ramadan will be marked by communal prayers called Eid ul-Fitr, the Feast of the Fast-Breaking. The date is determined by the sighting of a crescent new moon. Individuals and organizations typically host iftars, the meal eaten when breaking the fast to benefit those in need.

Some of this year’s iftars will focus on those affected by the recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, according to Enjy El-Kadi, the digital communications manager for the Council on American-

Islamic Relations, California, the state’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization.

Ramadan began with prayer at sundown Wednesday.

In his message on Ramadan, President Joe Biden said, “Today especially, we remember the universal human right to practice, pray, and preach our faiths peacefully and openly. And together with our partners, the United States stands in solidarity with Muslims who continue to face oppression — including Uyghurs in the People’s Republic of China, Rohingya in Burma, and other Muslim communities facing persecution around the world.”

Photo by Queenmoonlite/Envato Elements

| Photo courtesy of joebelanger/Envato Elements

Metro votes to dedicate East LA Civic Center station to honor Gloria Molina

By City News Service

Following the county Board of Supervisors and City Hall actions to rename Grand Park in honor of her legacy, the Metro Board of Directors voted unanimously Thursday to dedicate the East Los Angeles Civic Center subway station in honor of Latina political pioneer Gloria Molina, who announced last week she is battling terminal cancer.

“Earlier this week, the Board of Supervisors took the historic step to unanimously approve a motion that I, along with my colleagues, put forward to rename the Grand Park after Gloria Molina in honor of her vision and her tenacity to create that park some decades ago,” said Supervisor Hilda Solis, 1st District council representative and member of the board.

“I would like to celebrate and honor her service and her legacy for her time that she spent, here, as a Metro board member,” she continued.

The 74-year-old Molina, who served on the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors for more than

two decades following terms in the state Assembly and on the LA City Council — and was the first Latina elected to each, announced her cancer diagnosis last week in a Facebook post.

Molina wrote that she has been receiving treatment for three years, but that, “at this point, it is very aggressive.”

“I’ve lived a long, fulfilling and beautiful life,” Molina said in the post, which is addressed to “dearest friends and beloved community.”

“You should know that I’m not sad. I enter this transition in life feeling so fortunate. I have an amazing and caring family, wonderful friends, and worked with committed colleagues and a loyal team. Throughout my life, I’ve had the support of many people.”

Molina, who grew up in Pico Rivera, was active in the early days of the Chicano movement, becoming an advocate for women’s health issues — which she continued into her elected offices. At one point, she founded a nurse mentoring program through local community colleges to address a nurse

shortage.

Solis recounted anecdotes about Molina’s time on Metro, but one that stood out was Molina’s grit and dedication for the Gold Line East Side Extension, which broke ground in 2004 and opened in 2009.

“She fought so hard to provide services to those families that were often left behind, especially those representing East Los Angeles, Boyle Heights and many surrounding communities,” Solis said.

“She fought hard to provide quality transit service, and for many of those efforts, we are now the ones that are reaping those benefits.”

Supervisor Kathryn Barger, 5th District and member of the board, described Molina as a “masterful policymaker” who had to navigate at a time when it was difficult to be a woman taking on the establishment.

“I would argue that she is the heart of the county Los Angeles, and has been for decades,” Barger said. “I cannot think of a better way than dedicated the station in her honor.”

Gloria Molina, second from left, celebrates with supporters in 1987. | Photo courtesy of Patrick Downs/Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

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Felon serving life prison terms gets nearly 3 more years for OC jail escape

By City News Service

Eric Garcetti officially sworn in as U.S. Ambassador to India

By City News Service

The man prosecutors call the mastermind of a 2016 escape by three inmates from the Orange County jail in Santa Ana was sentenced Friday to two years and eight months in prison for his conviction on felony counts of escaping custody and car theft.

Hossein Nayeri, 44, is already serving two consecutive terms of life in prison without the possibility of parole for his role in the sexual mutilation of a marijuana dispensary owner in a kidnapping-extortion scheme.

Nayeri was convicted last week of the escape and car theft charges, but jurors acquitted him of kidnapping during a carjacking and other lesser-included offenses of simple kidnapping, carjacking and false imprisonment.

Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer last week defended taking Nayeri to trial in the escape case, even though he’s already serving two life-without-parole prison terms. Nayeri was in custody awaiting trial in the kidnapextortion case when the jail escape occurred.

“This was not a waste of government resources,” Spitzer told reporters after the verdicts.

Spitzer said that given recent changes in criminal justice law in the state he fears lawmakers will scrap the term of life without parole.

“I literally have no confidence that the convictions Nayeri has already suffered will necessarily be upheld on appeal or the legislature will not change the laws and retroactively apply them to Nayeri,” Spitzer said. “So while this sentence does not add significant additional time to the time he’s already serving I want the parole board to be able to consider this additional case.”

He added: “Nayeri needed to be convicted of that escape,” Spitzer said. “He masterminded it. He was up in those plumbing tunnels for

months. He was able to get tools to cut through rebar...

Mr. Nayeri, in my personal opinion, is one of America’s most dangerous criminals. He is conniving, manipulative and a mastermind. He knows how to get inside people’s heads.”

Nayeri has technically already served enough time in jail to cover the sentence he was given Friday for the escape case. Orange County Superior Court Judge Larry Yellin on Friday dismissed four pending jailhouse drug cases Nayeri was facing. The defendant had asked to keep those cases pending so he could remain in the Orange County Jail while working on his appeals.

Nayeri’s co-defendant in the escape, Bac Tien Duong, 50, was convicted in April 2021 and sentenced to 20 years in prison in July. Duong, who was in custody at the time of the escape in an attempted murder case, resolved that case as well when he was sentenced.

Co-defendant Jonathan Tieu, 27, is awaiting trial in connection with the escape. Tieu was in custody in a murder case, but jurors in his trial deadlocked. A retrial was scheduled, but he was referred to juvenile court, where he was ultimately convicted of assault with a deadly weapon

because a change in state law redefined liability in murders and Tieu was not considered a major participant in the gangrelated killing.

The trio escaped from Central Men’s Jail Jan. 22, 2016, Authorities said that with the help of Loc Ba Nguyen, a longtime friend of Duong’s, the three inmates were able to obtain the supplies they needed to escape. They sawed through obstacles, wriggled through an air vent in the dormitory-style housing and worked their way through plumbing tunnels to the roof of the jail. They then rappelled down with makeshift ropes, and Nguyen picked them up and drove them to a contact of Duong’s in Westminster.

They called unlicensed cab driver Long Ma, who took them first to motels in Rosemead and later San Jose, where Duong and Nayeri got into a fight. Duong decided to part ways and brought Ma back with him to Orange County and surrendered on Jan. 29. The next day, Nayeri and Tieu were arrested in San Francisco.

Nguyen pleaded guilty in June 2017 for his role in aiding the inmates in the escape and was sentenced to a year in jail, but he served his time in home confinement because he said he had a stroke on his sentencing date.

Former Los Angeles

Mayor Eric Garcetti was sworn in as the next U.S. ambassador to India Friday, with second gentleman Doug Emhoff also attending the ceremony in Washington, D.C.

Garcetti was confirmed by the U.S. Senate last week after a nearly two-year process dogged by lingering allegations that he ignored accusations of assault and sexual harassment against a former top aide.

Seven Republicans crossed the aisle to vote in favor of Garcetti in the 52-42 vote, but three fellow Democrats voted nay.

In a statement following the vote, Garcetti said he was “thrilled with today’s outcome, which was a decisive and bipartisan decision to fill a critical post that has been vacant for far too long. Now the hard work begins.”

“I’m ready and eager to begin my service representing our critical interests in India,” he said.

President Joe Biden originally nominated Garcetti for the post on July 9, 2021. After it stalled, Biden re-nominated him in January.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said in a statement she looks forward to working with Garcetti in his new role.

“I congratulate former Mayor Garcetti on his confirmation to serve as our country’s ambassador to the world’s largest democracy. His ability to strengthen our nation’s position in the world draws from his experience leading a global city, an academic background in international affairs, service as a Navy intelligence officer and the full confidence of the President,” she said Thursday. “Los Angeles is an international hub, and I look forward to working with Eric as he represents our nation in New Delhi.”

An investigation requested by Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, last year concluded that it was “more probable than not” that former

Garcetti senior adviser Rick Jacobs “sexually harassed multiple individuals and made racist comments towards others.” It also found it “extremely unlikely” that Garcetti was unaware of the behavior, saying that “by all accounts, Mayor Garcetti is very involved in the day-today operation of his office.”

The White House blasted the report, saying in a statement, “This partisan report was a hit job from the beginning, and many of the claims have already been conclusively debunked by more serious independent reports. The president has confidence in Mayor Garcetti and believes he will be an excellent representative in India at a critical moment and calls for the Senate to swiftly confirm him.”

Garcetti has repeatedly denied any knowledge of alleged harassing behavior by Jacobs. Following the report’s release, he said in a statement that he “strongly” disagreed with its conclusions.

SCAN ME!

Hossein Nayeri. | Photo courtesy of Orange County District Attorney’s Office

Eric Garcetti. | Photo courtesy of the Office of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti/Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

The Nigerian Prince and 8 other common cybercrime characters

By Jill Jaracz, Stacker

Sound familiar? You likely have multiple versions of this email in your spam folder. As tempting as it is to think of easy money, the reality is that the Nigerian Prince is a scammer targeting you for money or personal information so they can steal your identity.

Unfortunately, internet crimes — even ones with implausible, too-good-tobe-true stories like this — often work. In 2021, the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) reported $6.9 billion in losses to cybercriminals.

Twingate compiled a list of nine common cybercrime characters encountered in criminal schemes through analysis of news reports and cybercrime statistics from the FBI, Federal Communications Commission, Federal Trade Commission, and other sources.

Cyberscammers continually adapt their schemes to evade law enforcement, with the latest scams leveraging “smishing” techniques — phishing for information through SMS/text messaging. In September 2022, RoboKiller estimated that the sheer volume of robotexts sent out is equivalent to every person in the U.S. receiving an average of 57 per day.

Another popular scam is the Business Email Compromise, in which criminals pretend they’re sending an email from a company account in order to fool an employee into thinking they’re colleagues. The victim then unwittingly transfers company funds to the criminal.

If you’ve been the victim of a cyberscam, report it to IC3. They’ll share the information with the proper authorities and alert the public. Read on to learn more about frequently encountered cybercrime personas.

The Nigerian Prince

When it comes to cyberscams, just about everyone’s been contacted by a Nigerian prince or someone similar recounting a fabulous story about a fortune that they can’t access — without your help, that is. If you just front them some money — or better yet, your bank account information — they’ll be able to get back their rightful fortune and share their windfall with you.

This type of scam is called an advance-

fee scheme — you pay a “processing fee” up front and never get the delivered goods, loan, or credit. Legitimate businesses don’t guarantee funds up front and don’t ask for your personal information over email or text.

Ironically, in 2019 a real Nigerian prince named Osmond Eweka did scam hundreds of people looking for jobs. He agreed to a plea deal that kept him out of prison but cost him $50,000 in restitution.

The Federal Student Loan Administrator President Biden barely finished announcing the government’s new initiative to cancel up to $20,000 in federal student loans before scammers ramped up efforts to bilk people out of money. With the Federal Student Loan Administrator scheme, these scammers leverage telemarketers, texts, and emails to contact people — even if they don’t have student loans — with promises of debt forgiveness if they act quickly.

The scam tries to get them to pay upfront for services (that may or may not exist) to reduce loan payments, discharge a student loan, or forgive a loan. It does so with scare tactics like saying the program window is closing, or it’s only for those who sign up right away. Scammers also try to phish for data, particularly looking for FSA ID usernames and passwords that can be used as legal

signatures.

The Federal Trade Commission tells consumers to be careful of these scams because the federal student loan payment pause and the loan forgiveness programs are actually free of charge and no service can get you into them faster.

The Phishing Boss

Phishing scammers will use public information about a company to pose as your boss to try to get money or information. The email looks legitimate because the “from” line is your boss’s name, but the actual email address will often have a discreet typo in it.

The message itself usually asks for something urgently — paying an invoice, doing a wire transfer, or buying and sending them gift cards to pay for a company party, which of course you’ll get reimbursed for as a business expense. With all of these schemes, they need to be done ASAP, and your boss is “tied up in a meeting” so you can’t call them about it. If that sounds suspicious, it likely is, but many people are still fooled by them. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center found that these types of scams bilked people out of $2.4 billion in 2021.

The IRS Agent

The IRS Agent scam has been around for a long time, with scammers trying to get your personal or financial information over

the phone or via email. Since fall 2020, this scam is more frequently perpetrated through text or SMS, also known as smishing.

One example text offers you tax relief due to a disaster. All you have to do is update your information and submit an application through the link provided. Sometimes you can find typos in the text that will be a red flag for fraud, but the easiest way to avoid being duped by this scam is to know that the IRS doesn’t ask for information verification through text or email. The IRS preferred method of communication is snail mail or a live phone call (not a recorded message).

The Vehicle Warranty Department Professional

Many people are on to the auto warranty scam — maybe because of the incessant robocalls they get. In 2021, nearly 13 billion scam calls tried to get people to purchase a service contract that costs a lot of money, but doesn’t provide much in the way of actual coverage. These scammers are crafty though because sometimes they know the actual make and model of your car, which makes the call seem more legitimate.

In 2021 this scam topped the list of customer complaints with the FCC. It proved to be such a nuisance that in July 2022, the FCC announced a new campaign to block these types of robocalls.

The Phone Company

the charity online to make sure it’s legitimate, or find verified charities on Charity Navigator.

The Tech Support Guy

Even if you’re tech-savvy, there’s a chance you could still get ripped off by the Tech Support Guy scheme. This scam manifests mainly through pop-up warnings or phone calls. The plan is to make you think there’s a virus on your computer or other suspicious activity, and if you click the link or call a phone number, you can get the virus resolved. This often results in paying unnecessary fees or allowing someone to access your computer remotely, which also gives the criminals access to all of your files.

Bill Collector

Of the nearly 88 billion spam texts sent in 2021, some of them look like they’re from your own phone number. In this scam, phishers pose as your cell phone company, and spoof — or disguise — the number they’re using to text. These scammers often offer a so-called reward as a thankyou for consistently paying your bill on time. But to get the reward, you’ve got to click on the link and share some information. The text may also indicate that you have to take advantage of the offer urgently because it’s only valid that day.

The Aid Worker

Scammers see global crises as opportunities to separate well-meaning people from their money. The war in Ukraine has spurred an increase in the amount of fraudulent solicitations for donations to support humanitarian aid efforts in Eastern Europe.

In this type of scheme, criminals play on people’s emotions and sympathy to support a worthy cause. They pose as an individual who needs immediate financial assistance or an organization that’s trying to raise money — except that there’s no actual humanitarian organization behind the email.

If you don’t know the individual or charity that sent an email or text, don’t respond, open attachments, click on links, or give them money. If you want to support humanitarian efforts, first research

Scammers have gotten sophisticated with this scheme, even using company logos to make their pop-ups look legit. However, legitimate tech companies won’t monitor your computer, which means they also won’t contact you or ask you to contact them about specific problems on your machine.

The Package Delivery Company

With the growth of online shopping and package delivery during the pandemic, delivery scams sprung up to trick people into giving money and information to nefarious characters. Variations of this scam happen through text, email, phone, and even fake “missed delivery” tags left on your door. They can ask you to click a link or call a number for more information.

Clicking a link in a text or email can result in malware being installed on your phone to capture your personal information. Scam calls can trick you into thinking you have to verify the credit card number you used on a purchase, which criminals can then exploit for their own purposes.

Thwart this scam by going back to your original purchase receipt and tracking packages through the retailer. Also know that major delivery companies like FedEx and UPS won’t send unsolicited communication seeking your personal payment information.

This story originally appeared on Twingate and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio. It was copy edited from its original version. Republished pursuant to a CC BY-NC 4.0 license.

| Photo courtesy of rawf8/Shutterstock/Stacker

Starting a new business?

Rosemead City Notices

CITY OF ROSEMEAD

NOTICE INVITING BIDS NIB No. 2023-08

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the CITY OF ROSEMEAD, California, will receive electronic bids through PlanetBids at: https:// pbsystem.planetbids.com/portal/54150/portal-home OR sealed bids at the City Clerk’s office, City Hall, 8838 Valley Blvd, Rosemead, CA 91770 up to 10:30 o’clock a.m. on Tuesday, the 18th day of April, 2023. Electronic and hardcopy bids will be publicly posted on PlanetBids and City’s website.

ARTERIAL STREET PAVEMENT REHABILITATION PROJECT No. 43010

The project consists of removing and replacing existing AC Pavement, adjusting manhole covers, water valve covers, and gas covers to grade. Project also includes removal and replacement of raised pavement markers, striping, and traffic signal loops to match existing, as well as miscellaneous work as indicated on the construction plans, including other incidental and appurtenant work necessary for the proper completion of the project.

The engineer’s estimate for this project is in the range of $3,500,000. The successful bidder shall have THIRTY (30) working days including material procurement to complete the work. Liquidated damages shall be $500.00 per calendar day.

Copies of the Bidding and Contract Documents, Plans and Specifications can be obtained from the City’s PlanetBid portal. Contractors can register as a vendor and download the documents by visiting the PlanetBid Portal (https://pbsystem.planetbids.com/ portal/54150/portal-home). Hard copy of the bid package will not be mailed.

SB 854 Requirements:

This project is subject to the requirements of SB 854. No prime contractor or subcontractor may be listed on a bid proposal for a public works project unless registered and qualified with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code section 1725.5. No prime contractor or subcontractor may be awarded a contract for public work on a public works project unless registered and qualified with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code section 1725.5. This project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the Department of Industrial Relations. The bid proposal must include a print out from the DIR registration website showing that the prime contractor and each subcontractor is currently registered and qualified. No bid proposals will be accepted nor any contract entered into with a prime contractor without proof of registration as required above. [Unless within the limited exceptions from this requirement for bid proposals only under Labor Code Section 1771.1(a)]

Each bid must be accompanied by a bidder’s security in an amount not less than 10% of the amount of the bid, as a guarantee that the bidder will, if awarded the Contract, enter into a satisfactory agreement and provide a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond, each not less than 100% of the total amount of the bid price.

No bidder may withdraw his bid for a period of sixty-one (61) days after the above bid opening date.

The CITY OF ROSEMEAD will affirmatively ensure the disadvantaged business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, disability, sex or national origin in the consideration for an award.

Any contract entered into pursuant to this notice will incorporate the provisions of the State Labor Code. Compliance with the prevailing rates of wage and apprenticeship employment standards established by the State Director of Industrial Relations will be required.

Bidders shall be licensed in accordance with the provision of Chapter 9, Division 111 of the Business and Professions Code of the State of California. Bidder shall have a Class “A” license in good standing at the time Bids are received.

The Council reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any informality, technical defect, or minor irregularity in any bid submitted.

An award of service shall not be final until the bids have been reviewed and a Contract Agreement with the City has been signed by the lowest responsible bidder and by the City.

Award of Contract Agreement is proposed for April 25th, 2023.

All questions regarding this bid shall be uploaded City’s portal on PlanetBids, no later than 10 calendar days prior to bid due date and time.

Dated this March 23, 2023

Ericka Hernandez City Clerk

Publish: March 27th & April 3rd, 2023. ROSEMEAD READER

Probate Notices

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF TORIBIO BAEZ A.K.A. TORIBIO BAEZ VILLA

CASE NO. 23STPB02617

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the LOST will or estate, or both, of: TORIBIO BAEZ A.K.A. TORIBIO BAEZ VILLA

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by CRISTIAN BAEZ in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that CRISTIAN BAEZ be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s LOST WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The LOST will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act with full authority . (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held on 04/25/2023 at 8:30 AM in Dept. 79 located at 111 N. HILL ST. LOS ANGELES CA 90012 STANLEY MOSK COURTHOUSE,STANLEY MOSK COURTHOUSE.

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner:

Clayton D. Wilson SB# 40339, Wilson & Wilson, 414 S. First Ave., Arcadia, CA 91006, Telephone: (626) 574-1890 3/20, 3/23, 3/27/23 CNS-3681350# AZUSA BEACON

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: FREDERICK IBARRA, JR. CASE NO. 23STPB02651

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of FREDERICK IBARRA, JR.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has

been filed by GLORIA TOMESITA CARRILLO in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that GLORIA TOMESITA CARRILLO be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/14/23 at 8:30AM in Dept. 5 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner

MARC P. GRISMER - SBN 300270, LAW OFFICE OF MARC P. GRISMER 9901 PARAMOUNT BLVD., SUITE 222 DOWNEY CA 90240 3/23, 3/27, 3/30/23

CNS-3682862# EL MONTE EXAMINER

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

SCOTT G. COYKENDALL CASE NO. 23STPB02999

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of SCOTT G. COYKENDALL.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by YOULANDA DAVIS in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that YOULANDA DAVIS be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/25/23 at 8:30AM in Dept. 29 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at

the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner THOMAS O. HOFFMAN - SBN 100881

LAW OFFICES OF THOMAS O. HOFFMAN 302 W SIERRA MADRE BLVD SIERRA MADRE CA 91024

3/27, 3/30, 4/3/23

CNS-3683182#

DUARTE DISPATCH

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF Mui Sam Pun

CASE NO. 23STPB01517

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: Mui Sam Pun

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Nam Su Hoang in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Nam Su Hoang be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act with full authority . (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held on 04/26/2023 at 8:30 AM in Dept. 11 located at 111 N. HILL ST. LOS ANGELES CA 90012 STANLEY MOSK COURTHOUSE.

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner: Cindy Nguyen, Esq., 273886

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: HARALD GANSERT; AKA HARALD ALBIN GANSERT; HARALD A. GANSERT; HAROLD A. GANSERT; HARALD ALWIN GANSERT CASE NO. 23STPB02804

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of HARALD GANSERT; AKA HARALD ALBIN GANSERT; HARALD A. GANSERT; HAROLD A. GANSERT; HARALD ALWIN GANSERT.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act with limited authority. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval.

Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows:

04/21/23 at 8:30AM in Dept. 11 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner

LINDA ESHOE - SBN 159481, PRINCIPAL DEPUTY COUNTY COUNSEL, OFFICE OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY COUNSEL 500 W. TEMPLE STREET, SUITE 652 LOS ANGELES CA 90012 3/23, 3/27, 3/30/23 CNS-3682166# TEMPLE CITY TRIBUNE

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF TAM MA

Case No. 23STPB02818

To all heirs, beneficiaries, cred-itors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of TAM MA

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Tri Huu Ma in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Tri Huu Ma be ap-pointed as personal representa-

names listed above on (date): 03/2023. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on (Date) 03/22/2023. NOTICE: This fictitious name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411 et seq. Business and Professions Code). Publish: 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023.

ARCADIA WEEKLY. AAA1113192.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023 054410 NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as A.B 24/7 LOCKSMITH, 254 N Market St C109, Inglewood, CA 90301. This business is conducted by a individual. Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on March 2018. Signed: Aviv Bimru, 254 N Market St C109, Inglewood, CA 90301 (Owner). The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 13, 2023. NOTICE:

This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code). Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

SC

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023 054388

NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as HAIR DESIGNS BY LORENZO, 1252 Havenhurst Dr #4, West Hollywood, CA 90046. This business is conducted by a individual. Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on January 2018. Signed: Larry M. YanezDagon, 1252 Havenhurst Dr #4, West Hollywood, CA 90046 (Owner). The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 13, 2023. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023 SC

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023 0054428

NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as PARADISE POOLS, 9541 Alexander Ave, South Gate, CA 90280. This business is conducted by a individual. Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein.

Signed: Michael Rios Fernandez, 9541 Alexander Ave, South Gate, CA 90280 (Owner). The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 13, 2023. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023 SC

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023 054402

NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as VIJI RECORDS, 18014 Sherman Way 149, Reseda, CA 91335. This business is conducted by a individual. Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on August 2008. Signed: Lakshminarayana Subramani, 18014 Sherman Way 149, Reseda, CA 91335 (Owner). The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 13, 2023. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

SC

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023 054394 NEW FILING. The following person(s) is (are) doing business as WRANCH STUDIOS, 1320 W El Segundo Blvd Unit D, Gardena, CA 90247. This business is conducted by a individual. Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on May 2018. Signed: Kevin Gerard Giffen, 4550 Overland Ave 108, Culver City, CA 90230 (Owner). The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 13, 2023. NOTICE:

This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023 SC

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023064460 NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as RICH AYALA CONSULTING, 826 S 1st St, Alhambra, CA 91801. This business is conducted by a individual. Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. Signed: Richard Ayala, 826 S 1st St, Alhambra, CA 91801 (Owner). The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 23, 2023.

NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023036184 NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as AROMAS PERFUMES, 338 Stonewood St, Downey, CA 90241. This business is conducted by a individual. Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. Signed: Youssef al rida, 1128 S Bristol St, Santa Ana, CA 92704 (Owner). The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on February 16, 2023. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023060875 NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as SLICK WIT IT BARBER SHOP, 12266 Ramona Blvd, El Monte, CA 91732. This business is conducted by a individual. Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. Signed: Yessenia Lorraine Morgan, 990 N Shaver St, La Puente, CA 91746 (Owner). The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 20, 2023. NOTICE:

This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code). Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023064310 NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as HUATL MARKETING CONSULTING, 10529 Glenfair st., El monte, CA 91731. This business is conducted by a individual. Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on March 2023.

Signed: Francisco Alejandro Balseca Vivanco, 10529 Glenfair st., El monte, CA 91731 (Owner). The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 23, 2023. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date.

LEGALS

or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023063580 NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as CNS NOTARY & TAX SVCS, 3226 Santa Anita Ave Suite A, El Monte, CA 91733. This business is conducted by a general partnership. Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on March

2023. Signed: (1). LIZBETH FLORES

PORTILLO PORTILLO, 559 Homerest Ave, Azusa, CA 91702 (2). ADRIANA VAZQUEZ FLORES, 559 Homerest Ave, Azusa, CA 91702 (General Partner).

The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 22, 2023. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023057762

NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as MASTER ASSET RECOVERY, 4811 1/2 N Rimhurst Ave, Covina, CA 91724. This business is conducted by a limited liability company (llc). Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. Signed: Samantha Iloh LLC (CA-922937454), 4811 1/2 N Rimhurst Ave, Covina, CA 91724; Samantha Iloh, President. The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 15, 2023. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023062738 NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as MORE THAN MOVEMENT, 2211 E Washington Blvd apt 50, Pasadena, CA 91104. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on March 2023. Signed: Illvibe Global (CA-4535261), 2211 E Washington Blvd apt 50, Pasadena, CA 91104; Ritajean Peterson, Vice President. The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 21, 2023. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023059327 NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as LALA’S THAI MASSAGE, 2718 N Kenneth Rd, Burbank, CA 91504. This business is conducted by a individual. Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on July 2013. Signed: Thanawan Cheewarotjalek, 2718 N Kenneth Rd, Burbank, CA 91504 (Owner). The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 17, 2023. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023051771 NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as (1). PACIFIC HEAVEN LOGISTICS (2). TRANSCENTRAL LOGISTICS , 341 e puente st apt 4, Covina, CA 91723. This business is conducted by a individual. Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on October 2017. Signed: Arianna Cristina Lopez Gomez, 341

e puente st apt 4, Covina, CA 91723 (Owner). The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 8, 2023. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023034261 NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as BELLA MONELLA, 2121 W 11th St, Los Angeles, CA 90006. Mailing Address, P.O. Box 33132, Los angeles, CA 90033. This business is conducted by a individual. Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on February 2023. Signed: Rocio L Cawthon, 2121 W 11th St, Los angeles, CA 90016 (Owner). The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on February 14, 2023. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023062345 NEW FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as (1). CAPOLI, CAPOLI & ASSOCIATES (2). CORRY ADAMS & ASSOCIATES (3). INVESTIGATIVE SOLUTIONS GROUP (4). LAMBERT, LEWIS & ASSOCIATES (5). LEGAL COMMUNICATION SERVICES (6). LEGAL INVESTIGATION SERVICES (7). LEGAL NOTIFICATION SERVICES (8). M D TIFFANY & CO. (9). MAD ENTERPRISE (10). MC MURPHY & ASSOCIATES (11). STERN & LOMELI GROUP (12). TELE TOUCH SERVICES (13). ZAM ENTERPRISE (14). A & A GENERAL HOME REPAIRS (15). JOE’S HANDYMAN SERVICES , 3579 E Foothill Blvd, #153, Pasadena, CA 91107. This business is conducted by a corporation. Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on May 2013. Signed: Mack, Davis & Associates, Inc (CA-C3558237), 3579 E Foothill Blvd, #153, Pasadena, CA 91107; Hovsep Joe Karapetyan, President. The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 21, 2023. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2023 056905

FIRST FILING.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as TIPPY TOES AND COCO BEANS, 17175 Tribune Street, Granada Hills, CA 91344. This business is conducted by a individual. Registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on February 2023. Signed: JUSTINE WU, 17175 Tribune Street, Granada Hills, CA 91344 (Owner). The statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on March 15, 2023. NOTICE: This fictitious business name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the County Clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed prior to that date. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state or common law (See Section 14400 et seq., Business and Professional Code).

Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME 2023054091.

The following person(s) have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name: LIFE LETTERS, 6770 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90042. The fictitious business name referred to above was filed on: November 30, 2020 in the County of Los Angeles. Original File No. 2020200193. Signed: Claudia Pasillas Delgadillo, 6770 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90042 (Owner). This business is conducted by: a individual. This statement was filed with the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder on March 13, 2023. Pub. Monrovia Weekly 03/27/2023, 04/03/2023, 04/10/2023, 04/17/2023

Starting

Glendale City Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF GLENDALE

PROPOSED PHA ANNUAL PLAN FY 2022-2023

In accordance with Section 5A of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (USHA), as amended by Section 511 of the Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act of 1998, the Housing Authority of the City of Glendale (Housing Authority) has prepared a draft PHA Annual Plan for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 for public review and comment.

The public hearing on the PHA Annual Plan will be held before the Housing Authority of the City of Glendale. The public may be present in person or watch and participate from the safety of their homes. Meetings are broadcast live on Glendale TV, viewable on Spectrum Cable, channel 6, and AT&T U-verse, channel 99. Meetings are also streamed live in high definition (HD) on the city’s webpage, glendaleca.gov/live, on YouTube.com/myglendale, and on Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire devices using a free app called Screenweave and choosing “Glendale TV” from the menu.

Tuesday, May 9, 2023, time is TBD

COUNCIL CHAMBERS

613 E. Broadway, 2nd Floor Glendale, CA 91206

The proposed plan is available during a forty-five day public review and comment period, from March 27, 2023 to May 9, 2023 and may be viewed online at the following location: https://www.glendaleca.gov/government/departments/community-development/housing/ plans-reports-and-loan-forms You may also obtain a copy of the plan via email. The public is invited to submit written comments concerning the Plan to: City of Glendale, Department of Community Development, Attn: Arthur Bolbolian, 141 N. Glendale Avenue, Room 202, Glendale, CA 91206 or via email abolbolian@glendaleca.gov or fax at 818-548-3724 .

Publish March 27, 2023

GLENDALE INDEPENDENT

Probate Notices

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: BARBARA MCCLURE

CASE NO. 23STPB02698

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of BARBARA MCCLURE.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by JOHN SCOTT MCCLURE AND LESLIE R. MCCLURE in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that JOHN SCOTT MCCLURE AND LESLIE R. MCCLURE be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/18/23 at 8:30AM in Dept. 11 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file

with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner LINDA MCLARNAN-DUGAN - SBN

169190

LAW OFFICES OF LINDA MCLARNAN-DUGAN 150 N SANTA ANITA AVE., STE 300 ARCADIA CA 91006 3/20, 3/23, 3/27/23

CNS-3680952# PASADENA PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: BEATRICE VITERI CASE NO. 23STPB00285

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of BEATRICE VITERI.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by VANESA Y. HOLSTEIN in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that VANESA Y. HOLSTEIN be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.)

The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 06/14/23 at 8:30AM in Dept. 9 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal

representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner

E. GRANT HARDACRE - SBN 160332

BLUM, PROPPER & HARDACRE, INC. 23586 CALABASAS ROAD, STE. 200 CALABASAS CA 91302 3/20, 3/23, 3/27/23

CNS-3680971# BURBANK INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF NORMAN EDWARD LUND

Case No. 30-2023-01311721-PR-LACJC

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of NOR-

MAN EDWARD LUND

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Karen A. Ferguson in the Superior Court of California, County of ORANGE.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Karen A. Ferguson be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.)

The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held on April 19, 2023 at 1:30 PM in Dept. C10. located at 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701.

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for petitioner: JOSHUA R. ENGLE

SBN 249871

PROMINENT LAW GROUP, APC

333 CITY BLVD, WEST SUITE 1700 ORANGE, CA 92868

(714) 236-9330

MARCH 20, 23, 27, 2023

ANAHEIM PRESS

ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: JOSEPH HARVEY LOURENCO CASE NO. PRRI2300499

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of JOSEPH HARVEY LOURENCO.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by MELISSA LOURENCO in the Superior Court of California, County of RIVERSIDE.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that MELISSA LOURENCO be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.)

The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 05/12/23 at 8:30AM in Dept. 11 located at 4050 MAIN STREET, RIVERSIDE, CA 92501

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner KARIANN M. VOORHEES - SBN 295290, VOORHEES LAW GROUP 13831 ROSWELL AVE., SUITE D CHINO CA 91710 3/20, 3/23, 3/27/23 CNS-3681247# CORONA NEWS PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

RICHARD L. MARTINEZ

CASE NO. PRRI2300454

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of RICHARD L. MARTINEZ.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by RICHARD P MARTINEZ in the Superior Court of California, County of RIVERSIDE.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that RICHARD P MARTINEZ be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act with limited authority. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval.

Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 05/10/23

at 8:30AM in Dept. 11 located at 4050 MAIN STREET, RIVERSIDE, CA 92501

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner PEILIN NGO - SBN 303829 DEBORAH COEL - SBN 262306 NGO LEGAL GROUP 4255 CAMPUS DR., STE A100, 5582 IRVINE CA 92616 BSC 223060 3/23, 3/27, 3/30/23 CNS-3681831# CORONA NEWS PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: GARY P. RICHARDI CASE NO. 23STPB02619

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of GARY P. RICHARDI.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by FRANK GALUPPO in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that FRANK GALUPPO be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act with limited authority. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/14/23 at 8:30AM in Dept. 11 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section

1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner ZACHARIAH N. HAYDT ESQ.SBN 331769, MATTHEW STIDHAM ESQ. - SBN 316304, THE LEGACY LAWYERS, PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION

18872 MACARTHUR BLVD., SUITE 300 IRVINE CA 92612 BSC 223078

3/23, 3/27, 3/30/23

CNS-3682783# BURBANK INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: FAE R. SHEPARD CASE NO. 23STPB02964

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of FAE R. SHEPARD.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by JENNIFER LAMBRIGHT in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that JENNIFER LAMBRIGHT be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.)

The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/24/23 at 8:30AM in Dept. 4 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner

JENNIFER N. SAWDAY - SBN 228320

TREDWAY LUMSDAINE & DOYLE LLP

3900 KILROY AIRPORT WAY, STE 240 LONG BEACH CA 90806 BSC 223086 3/27, 3/30, 4/3/23

CNS-3683192# WEST COVINA PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

KIERAN ANTHONY TREHY CASE NO. 23STPB03032

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of KIERAN ANTHONY TREHY.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by LEBARON ANDERSON in the Superior Court of Califor-

nia, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that LEBARON ANDERSON be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/26/23 at 8:30AM in Dept. 9 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner

TALINE PANOSSIAN, ESQ. - SBN

332654

LAW OFFICES OF TALINE PANOSSIAN, APC 301 E. COLORADO BLVD., SUITE 510 PASADENA CA 91101 3/23, 3/27, 3/30/23

CNS-3683207#

GLENDALE INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF FIRST AMENDED PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

LOUISE MOORE

CASE NO. 22STPB01518

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the lost WILL or estate, or both of LOUISE MOORE.

A FIRST AMENDED PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by JOYCE BEVERLY MOORE in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE FIRST AMENDED PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that JOYCE BEVERLY MOORE be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE FIRST AMENDED PETITION requests the decedent’s lost WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The lost WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE FIRST AMENDED PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the

court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 06/01/23 at 8:30AM in Dept. 29 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner

KAHLIL J. MCALPIN, ESQ. - SBN 199512

LAW OFFICES OF KAHLIL J. MCALPIN 8616 LA TIJERA BLVD., STE 305 LOS ANGELES CA 90045 3/27, 3/30, 4/3/23

CNS-3683242# PASADENA PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

IKUKO SHIMADA

CASE NO. 23STPB00551

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the lost WILL or estate, or both of IKUKO SHIMADA.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by KEIKO SHIMADA STEARNS AND KARL SHIMADA in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that KEIKO SHIMADA STEARNS be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s lost WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The lost WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.)

The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/26/23 at 8:30AM in Dept. 2D located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012-3117

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in

Felon charged with stealing a half-dozen travel trailers in Temecula area

By City News Service

Aconvictedfelon accused of stealing multiple travel trailers from businesses in southwest Riverside County was charged Friday with a half-dozen counts of receiving stolen vehicles.

Jessie Villalpando of Lake Elsinore was arrested Tuesday night following a sheriff’s department investigation.

Along with the theft counts, Villalpando is charged with a sentence-enhancing

allegation of causing damage during a felony theft.

The defendant, who is being held in lieu of $40,000 bail at the Byrd Detention Center, was slated to make his initial court appearance Friday afternoon at the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta.

According to sheriff’s Sgt. Josh Hephner, on March 8, deputies were sent to a storage facility in the 44600 block of Pechanga Parkway in Temecula to investigate

the theft of a 2021 Forest River travel trailer.

Witnesses described a heavyset man in a white pickup hitching up and driving away with the trailer, Hephner said.

He said that investigators soon learned of similar thefts over the previous month at the same site, resulting in the three other travel trailers being taken.

“Through investigative leads and video surveillance, (investigators) positively

identified the suspect in each incident as Villalpando,” Hephner said. “The suspect vehicles primarily utilized during the thefts were determined to be a 2022 Dodge Ram pickup with Florida plates and a 2020 Toyota Tundra pickup with California plates.”

The sergeant said that the defendant was located Tuesday night in the 30600 block of Briggs Road in Menifee, where he was taken into custody without

Paddle beating

imprisonment, assault on a person causing great bodily injury and assault with a deadly weapon.

On June 17, 2021, when arguing that bail should remain at $1 million for both defendants, Deputy District Attorney Jeffrey Mendoza shed new light on the nature of the alleged crimes in order to convince the judge to grant his request.

Mendoza said the victim — identified in court papers only as 36-yearold “Matthew H.” — was zip-tied and locked in a closet measuring 4 feet wide by 2 feet deep for two days before he was able to escape and seek refuge at a nearby business.

Eduardo Espinoza told detectives following his arrest that the victim broke

into his apartment in the 37000 block of Bankside Drive on or around May 30, 2021, and, in response, he and his brother delivered a type of “street justice” common in Mexico, Mendoza said. Lozoya’s role was allegedly to watch the victim and keep him from escaping. The man suffered serious bruising to much of his backside, according to

incident.

“He was in possession of two additional stolen trailers ... a utility box trailer and a 28-foot travel trailer,” Hephner said, noting that a total of seven stolen trailers were seized.

Sheriff’s personnel served search warrants at multiple storage units in Villalpando’s name and seized more stolen property, Hephner alleged.

Investigators believe the defendant may be responsible for thefts going back

to November, according to Hephner.

“It is believed there are additional victims who have not yet been identified,” he said.

Anyone with information was asked to contact the sheriff’s Southwest Station at 951-696-3032.

According to court records, Villalpando has prior convictions for spousal abuse, possession of controlled substances and driving on a suspended driver’s license.

A40-year-old Banning man accused of raping two women who visited his home on separate occasions when they were intoxicated, as well as molesting a 12-year-old girl, withdrew a motion for a bond reduction Wednesday, leaving him held in jail in lieu of $500,000.

Steven Roy McElroy was arrested last week following a Banning Police Department investigation into the alleged assaults on the women in the previous decade.

McElroy is charged with two counts each of rape and aggravated assault, and one count each of lewd acts on a minor and sexual battery of a child.

The defendant made his initial court appearance on the new charges last Thursday, at which time his public defender submitted a motion to Riverside County Superior Court Judge Mark Singerton, asking for a bail-setting conference to determine whether the $500,000 bond requirement was justified.

Mendoza.

After escaping, the victim called 911 to report the beating and directed police to the Bankside Drive address, where unspecified evidence was collected that backed up his claim, according to Sgt. Larry Sanfillippo of the Cathedral City Police Department. The Espinoza brothers were arrested that same day.

Man accused of rapes, molestation of child withdraws request for reduced bail

The attorney, however, withdrew the motion Wednesday, declining to argue for a reduction.

McElroy is being held at the Smith Correctional Facility.

He’s scheduled to appear for a felony settlement conference on April 7 at the Banning Justice Center.

The defendant was arrested and arraigned on the charges connected to the girl roughly a year ago, pleading not guilty. He had been released from custody at that time after posting a $55,000 bond.

Banning police detectives received information afterward concerning two women, identified in court documents as “A.S.” and “M.H.,” who alleged they had been sexually assaulted on different occasions in 2015 and 2016.

According to an arrest warrant affidavit filed by Detective Jack Loera, A.S. and M.H. came forward after hearing about the charges related to the 12-year-old girl.

By City News Service

Loera said A.S. alleged she was attacked sometime in 2015, though she couldn’t identify a specific date due to faded memory and other unstated issues.

The woman told the detective she had engaged in consensual sex with the defendant on prior occasions and didn’t think authorities would take her seriously regarding the alleged rape, so she waited for M.H. to make her allegations before disclosing her own, according to the affidavit.

The affidavit stated that A.S. recalled having a fight with her husband and asking McElroy for help, prompting him to take her out for drinks at a pub near his residence, which was then in Grand Terrace.

The woman and McElroy returned to his house later that night, and the victim told him she “was intoxicated and tired and wanted to go to sleep, at which time McElroy told her she could lay down on his bed in his room,” the

affidavit stated.

Loera said the woman alleged McElroy climbed on top of her, and despite being told “No! and fighting him,” the defendant pinned her arms down, pulled off her pants and forcibly sexually assaulted her.

M.H. told the detective she briefly rented a room from the defendant in April 2016, and after the two of them went out for drinks, she returned home “intoxicated (and) went to her room and laid down,” according to the affidavit.

“The (victim) said moments later McElroy walked into her room uninvited,” court papers stated. “She told McElroy, ‘No, Steve, go to your room.’”

However, the defendant forced himself on her, raping her “for approximately three to four minutes,” in spite of her shouting “’no’ at least six times,” Loera wrote.

The alleged molestation of the 12-year-old girl occurred on Dec. 26, 2021, in Banning, but the

Eduardo Espinoza has prior felony convictions including for grand theft, and has failed to appear for court hearings several times in the past, officials said. Carlos Espinoza has no felony convictions in Riverside County. Lozoya has a felony conviction for receiving stolen property. The three defendants were free on bail.

child’s relationship to the defendant, if any, were not disclosed in court docu-

ments. McElroy has no

Steven Roy McElroy. | Photo courtesy of the Banning Police Department

Eduardo Luis Espinoza. | Photo courtesy of the Cathedral City Police Department

City officials plan road closures in Indio to prepare for festivals in April

By City News Service

Riverside County gas prices declining

By City News Service

For the first time in its history, road closures will be in effect ahead of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, as well as Stagecoach to allow for set up, city officials said Friday.

A road closure will be in effect on Avenue 50 between Monroe Street and Madison Avenue from Monday to May 8, according to a statement from the city of Indio. More closures and access routes will be announced next week.

“This is the first year Avenue 50 has been closed in advance of the events to allow for pre-show setup, so we wanted to let residents and businesses know in advance about alternate routes,” said Indio’s Community Services Manager Jim Curtis. “The road closure is necessary to protect the safety of workers, residents and commuters.”

City officials said that residents can take alternate routes through Highway 111, Dr. Carreon Boulevard, Avenue 48 and Avenue 52.

The festivals will be held Friday to Sunday each weekend from April 14 to April 30, with the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival the first two weekends and Stagecoach the last weekend. Both festivals will be held at the Empire Polo Club, at 81800 51st Ave.

The average price of a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline in Riverside County dropped four-tenths of a cent Friday to $4.782.

The average price is 4.9 cents less than one week ago, 3.9 cents more than one month ago, and $1.135 lower than one year ago, according to figures from the AAA and Oil Price Information Service.

It has dropped $1.591 since rising to a record $6.373 on Oct. 5, 2022.

The national average price rose three-tenths of a cent to $3.441. It is 1.6 cents less than one week ago, 5.6 cents more than one month ago, and 79.5 cents less than one year ago. The national average price has dropped $1.575 since rising to a record $5.016 on June 14.

Jobless rate

Mecca had the highest unemployment rate countywide last month at 11.1%, followed by Cherry Valley at 8.2%, Coachella at 7.7%, Rancho Mirage and Hemet at 6.5%, and East Hemet at 6.3%.

The combined unemployment rate for Riverside and San Bernardino counties in February was also 4.5%, up from 4.4% in January, according to figures.

Bi-county data indicated payrolls expanded by the widest margin in leisure and hospitality, which added 3,200 positions.

The construction, health services, manufacturing and professional business services sectors altogether increased by 6,600 jobs, figures showed.

Miscellaneous unclassified industries also grew by 1,600 jobs, while the information technology, mining and public sectors were unchanged.

The EDD said the agricultural, financial services and retail trade sectors shed 5,100 positions last month.

Data indicated that the statewide non-seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate in February was 4.8%.

Photo by molenira/Envato Elements

Photo by Erik Mclean via Pexels

Sunset over Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. | Photo by musicisentropy (CC BY-SA 2.0)