REDLANDS, Calif. — A 19-year-old man was arrested early Saturday, June 14, after three teenage girls reported they had been drugged and raped in a motel room in Redlands. The arrest was one of several major incidents officers responded to over the past week, including gunfire at the Redlands Mall, a robbery outside a gym, and a vandalism incident involving a man in medical distress.
19-Year-Old Arrested in Motel Assault of Minors
Police were called early Saturday morning to a motel in the 1100 block of West Colton Avenue, where three girls—ages 15 and 16—told officers they had been drugged and sexually assaulted by a 19-year-old man. A family member of one of the girls had contacted police after receiving a concerning text message.
All three juveniles were determined to have run away earlier in the day from a group home in another city. The man was arrested and taken into custody. The investigation is ongoing.
Gunfire Reported at Redlands Mall
Officers responded to reports of shots fired just before 2 a.m. Sunday, June 15, at the Redlands Mall. Witnesses said two men were involved in a verbal altercation when one of them pulled a handgun and fired several rounds into the air before fleeing in a vehicle.
Police recovered several spent shell casings in the parking lot. No injuries were reported. The investigation is continuing.
Robbery During Marketplace Meetup
Redlands police are investigating a robbery reported Saturday evening, June 14, outside 24-Hour Fitness on West San Bernardino Avenue. The victim had agreed to meet two juveniles to sell a chain necklace listed for $2,000 on a social media marketplace.
When the victim handed the necklace to one of the suspects, both teens ran. The victim pursued them along the embankment near the 210 Freeway. During the chase, one of the suspects reportedly turned and brandished a handgun, threatening to shoot the victim. Police were unable to locate the suspects.
Rock-Throwing Incident on Orange Street
On Saturday afternoon, June 14, officers responded to a report of a man throwing rocks at vehicles on Orange Street. The suspect was seen running at traffic and smashed a car windshield with a rock. Bystanders subdued the man until officers arrived.
The man was found to have multiple medical issues and was transported to a hospital. Police said vandalism charges will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office.
Fentanyl Possession Arrest at Gas Station
On Sunday morning, June 15, officers arrested a man found asleep behind the wheel at the fuel pumps at the AMPM station at 2098 W. Redlands Blvd. He was in possession of fentanyl and taken into custody.
Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to contact Redlands Police Dispatch at (909) 798-7681, ext. 1. Non-emergency reports can also be submitted online at www.cityofredlands.org/report-crime or through the City of Redlands 311 mobile app.
