North San Diego Business Chamber Honors “Our region’s heroes”
On September 14th, 2023, members of the Department’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) along with one of our SRO’s and our partners at HSI, were honored for their tenacious investigation of an overdose death. Counterfeit oxycodone pills were located in the residence where the deceased was found. These fake pills often times contain deadly amounts of fentanyl.
The investigation led to the identification of a 17 year-old suspect who was believed to have sold the victim the illicit substance. The suspect’s residence was put under surveillance, a search warrant was obtained and the suspect who was taken into custody. 42 additional pills similar to the counterfeit ones located at the decedent’s residence were found on the suspect. These pills and the one that killed the victim subsequently tested positive for fentanyl. The suspect was later booked into juvenile hall for several drug charges and manslaughter. It took just over 12 hours for the suspect to be arrested after the death. This is a testament to the level of care and concern for the community of these professionals. Perhaps the most critical component of this case, is the dozens of lives they potentially saved by getting this dangerous dealer off the street and the deadly substance taken out of circulation. Outstanding work by all
Traffic Collisions remind us all to drive sober and “Go Slow in Esco”
Over the last week, we had a few traffic collisions. One of the collisions occurred near downtown when a man drove through a red flashing light without stopping. A pedestrian that was crossing the street was struck by the driver. A witness followed the driver, and officers were able to catch up to the male. He was arrested for driving under the influence of medications. The pedestrian was luckily just bruised and not seriously injured.
Another collision happened when a pickup truck drove erratically and very fast though a collision scene where officers were rendering aid and taking a report. The driver almost struck an officer and then a female pedestrian was hit by the pickup’s side view mirror. Again, luckily, the pedestrian suffered very minor injuries. The suspect fled and unfortunately was not located.
These collisions are just two incidents that remind us that when drivers don’t obey traffic laws and do not drive with care for our community, people can get seriously hurt. GO SLOW in ESCO and never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or even your prescription medications.
CONGRATULATIONS
Last week, our own Lieutenant Ryan Banks graduated from the FBI National Academy. The FBI National Academy is a professional course of study for U.S. and international law enforcement managers nominated by their agency heads because of demonstrated leadership qualities.
The 10-week program—which provides coursework in intelligence theory, terrorism and terrorist mindsets, management science, law, behavioral science, law enforcement communication, and forensic science—serves to improve the administration of justice in police departments and agencies at home and abroad and to raise law enforcement standards, knowledge, and cooperation worldwide.
Excellent work sir!
