A law enforcement compliance sweep targeting parolees and probationers throughout the San Jacinto Valley netted exactly 50 arrests, as well as narcotics seizures and the confiscation of other contraband, authorities said Thursday.
The multi-agency operation was conducted Wednesday at numerous locations across the valley, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.
Along with sheriff’s deputies, county Department of Probation, California Highway Patrol and Hemet Police Department officers were involved, complemented by California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation personnel — more than 60 law enforcement agents in all — according to sheriff’s Sgt. Matthew Cramer.
He said arrestees were booked on suspicion of committing various felony and misdemeanor offenses.
“Law enforcement officers located and seized a variety of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl,” Cramer said. “Several felons were also found in possession of illegal weapons, and a stolen vehicle was recovered.”
The sergeant credited voter-approved Proposition 36, which passed in 2024, with enabling deputies and other sworn personnel to pursue suspects for alleged felonious crimes that were previously categorized as misdemeanors or “wobblers.”
Prop 36 undid parts of Prop 47, passed in 2014, which reduced some drug and theft crimes to misdemeanors, removing some penalties, including incarceration.
“These (newly reclassified) felonies mean mandatory (court) appearances and are accompanied by court-ordered treatment for substance abuse,” Cramer said.
Additional multi-agency operations are planned in the coming months.