Thousands turn out for free summer concert as Nicole Henry kicks off the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival with powerhouse vocals and crowd connection.
REDLANDS, Calif. — Redlands police are warning the public about a recent phone scam in which a caller falsely claims to be a lieutenant with the department and attempts to solicit money from residents.
At least three reports have been made about a man identifying himself as “Lt. Tom Collins” of the Redlands Police Department. No such person is employed by the department. In one case, the caller said he was collecting payment for a delinquent loan; in another, he claimed there was a warrant and requested an in-person meeting for payment.
Police said the scammer used “spoofing” technology to make the calls appear as if they were coming from the department’s main business line.
RPD emphasized that officers will never contact residents to collect money for warrants, fines, loans or other debts. Residents are urged to report any suspicious calls and avoid sending payments or arranging meetings with unsolicited callers. More information about common scams is available on the FBI website at fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety.
Arrests in attempted vehicle theft and burglary
On Monday night, June 23, police arrested a man suspected of attempting to steal a vehicle in the 1500 block of Orange Street. The vehicle’s owner confronted the suspect after exiting a nearby business, leading to a brief physical altercation before the suspect fled on foot. Officers located the man nearby and took him into custody.
Earlier that afternoon, a man was arrested after reportedly entering a home in the 31000 block of Highview Drive and stealing clothing while partially unclothed. The homeowner chased the suspect out of the residence. Officers, with assistance from the Sheriff’s Department helicopter, searched the area but initially did not locate the suspect. Later, a resident reported a suspicious man still wearing the stolen clothing and he was arrested.
Crash involving police vehicle, Fight sends three to hospital
Also on June 23, officers were investigating a single-vehicle crash in the 2100 block of Orange Street when another car struck a Redlands Police Community Service Officer’s vehicle, which was blocking the roadway for the original incident. The CSO was not inside the vehicle at the time. Police said the elderly driver who caused the crash became confused by the flashing emergency lights. No injuries were reported.
Early Sunday morning, June 22, three people arrived at the hospital with minor injuries after a fight broke out at Citrus Avenue and 5th Street. According to the victims, they were involved in an argument with a group of six people—five men and one woman—that escalated into a physical altercation. Police are investigating the incident.
Anyone with information about these cases is encouraged to contact Redlands Police Dispatch at (909) 798-7681, ext. 1. Non-emergency crimes may also be reported online at www.cityofredlands.org/report-crime or through the City of Redlands 311 mobile app.
