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City of Chico

Police Department Press Releases

The Press Information Office is a central location for the media and community to obtain information and press releases regarding the newsworthy events in which the Chico Police Department has played a role.
 

Road Closure: E. 20th St

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 4/17/25

ROAD CLOSURE

Chico, CA –
On the morning of 4/17/2025, a truck and trailer carrying a large piece of heavy equipment was traveling north on Highway 99. The top portion of the heavy equipment struck the bottom of the E. 20th Street overpass causing damage to the roadway. Officials from Caltrans have inspected the overpass and have closed the number one lane of eastbound E. 20th Street. The closure will be for an unknown time period. More information will be released after further inspections are completed. We ask that you avoid this area until more information can be provided.

Location: E. 20th Street / Highway 99 Overpass
Supervisor: T. Reid
Lieutenant: P. Durfee

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Stabbing: Case #25-002527

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 4-16-2025
 
Chico, CA- 

On 4-16-2025 at approximately 6:00 AM, the Chico Police Officers were dispatched to Depot Park for the report of a stabbing that had occurred. CPD Officers responded to the scene and located a male victim suffering from a stab wound to the chest. Officers began rendering aid to the victim until personnel from the Chico Fire Department and Butte County EMS arrived on scene. The victim was transported to an area hospital and underwent surgery for his injuries. The victim is currently in critical but stable condition.

During the investigation, CPD Officers developed leads and identified a suspect in the stabbing. Chico Police Detectives took over the case and continued the investigation. At approximately 12:30 PM, a Detective was in the 1200 block of Humboldt Avenue and observed the suspect sitting in an open field. Chico Police Detectives
and patrol units were requested to the area to apprehend the suspect. Upon noticing Officers entering the area the suspect attempted to flee, however, ultimately abandoned his plans of escape and surrendered to Detectives
without incident.

The suspect, identified as 35-year-old Chico resident Christian Joseph Roberts, was taken into custody for an outstanding CDCR Parole warrant and attempted murder. Roberts was booked into the Butte County Jail and the case has been referred to the Butte County District Attorney’s Office.

Anyone with information related to the stabbing is encouraged to contact the Chico Police Department Investigations Unit.

Location: Depot Park (431 Cedar Street)

Victim: Withheld

Suspect: Christian Joseph Roberts, 35-year-old Chico resident

Supervisor: Sgt. J. Nickelson

Lieutenant: Lt. B. Love
 
The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Animal Cruelty: Case #25-2279

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 4/6/25

Chico, CA –

On 04/06/2025, around 10:20 AM, Chico Police Officers responded to a report of animal cruelty in the 2600 block of Martin Luther King Blvd. A citizen saw Andrew Lambach striking a small dog. A Chico Police Department Animal Control Officer located Lambach in the area with the dog in his possession.

Lambach was arrested for intentional cruelty to an animal and outstanding warrants.
The dog had no visible injuries, but it was taken to a local vet by our Animal Control Officer. The dog had soreness but is expected to recover. The dog was released by the vet and is being held by animal control.

Location: 2600 block of Martin Luther King Blvd
Supervisor: E. Marshall
Lieutenant: M. Rodden
 
The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

**Updated** Murder / Suicide: Case #25-2210

********* Update **********
 
Date: April 4, 2025
 
The next of kin for the victim and suspect in this incident have been notified.

The victim has been identified as Athena Marie Passidakis (21 years).

The suspect has been identified as Alvin Almontelasha Wilson (25 years).

Passidakis and Wilson had previously been in a dating relationship. The Chico Police Department has not had any prior contacts with Wilson and we have not discovered any prior criminal behavior.

Date: April 4, 2025

Investigators have located supporting evidence that the male suspect kidnapped the female victim at gunpoint and fired his handgun at her while in the 2700 block of Eaton Rd yesterday morning. The suspect left with the female in his vehicle and shot the victim while he was driving. He then shot himself prior to being contacted by
law enforcement.

Law enforcement used loud distraction devices while attempting a hostage rescue of the victim, but law enforcement did not discharge any firearms during this incident.

ORIGINAL:

On Thursday April 3, 2025, at about 8:45 am Chico Police Dispatch received a report of a woman screaming that she was being taken against her will in the 2700 block of Eaton Rd., Chico. There was also a report of a possible gunshot and a vehicle leaving.

Officers were dispatched to the area and began investigating the circumstances. They located the suspect vehicle near SR 32 and Meridian Rd and attempted to initiate a traffic stop. The suspect vehicle fled from officers and a pursuit ensued. The suspect vehicle eventually stopped in the roadway in the 400 block of E. 5th
Ave.

Chico Police Officers collaborated with allied agencies from Butte County Sheriff’s Office and Chico State University Police. They utilized an armored rescue vehicle to safely approach the vehicle and contacted the occupants of the vehicle.

The vehicle had two occupants. Both suffered from gunshot wounds and were taken to medics on-scene. The two occupants were pronounced deceased.

One of the occupants is believed to be the female who was calling for help and the other decedent is believed to be the person driving her from the 2700 block of Eaton Rd.
E. 5th Ave is currently closed between Palm Ave and Spruce Ave while investigators continue to work.

The Chico Police Department would ask the public to stay out of the area and to contact the police department if they have any information related to the incident.

Names are being withheld pending next of kin notifications.

Location: 2700 block of Eaton Rd. and 400 block of E. 5th Ave

Supervisor: J. Nickelson

Lieutenant: B. Love

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Prowling Suspect Arrested: Case #25-2231

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 04/04/2025

Chico, CA –
On April 1st, 2025, the Chico Police Department received a report of a prowling incident in the 1500 block of Palm Avenue. The victim reported unknown subjects approached the residence and shot the window of a parked vehicle. Over the next two days, the victim provided evidence that the suspect vehicle had returned on multiple occasions and subjects associated with the vehicle continued to unlawfully prowl nearby.

On April 4th, 2025, at approximately 3:30 PM, VSU detectives located the suspect vehicle in the business parking lot in the 1300 block of East Avenue, Chico, and requested assistance in a traffic stop by marked patrol units. The vehicle displayed false registration tabs. Due to suspicious movements made by occupants of the vehicle, a high-risk traffic stop technique was utilized. The occupants of the vehicle were detained without incident and weapons were located inside the vehicle.

Utilizing security camera recordings and evidence located in the vehicle, the driver, JASON HALLIDAY (19), was identified as a suspect in the prowling on Palm Avenue. HALLIDAY was unlawfully in possession of a firearm and metal knuckles. Two juvenile passengers in the vehicle were released to their parents. Face coverings and three replica firearms equipped to fire BBs were also located in the vehicle. HALLIDAY was arrested and later booked into the Butte County Jail.

Location: 1300 Block of East Avenue
Suspect: Jason Halliday
Supervisor: D. Gregory
Lieutenant: B. Love

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Community Engagement Meeting - Military Equipment Use Annual Report

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 03/18/25

Chico Police Department Hosts Community Engagement Meeting presenting its Annual Report on Military Equipment Use.
 
The Chico Police Department invites all members of the community to attend a public engagement meeting to review the Military Equipment Use Annual Report for Calendar Year 2024. This meeting provides an important opportunity for citizens to learn about the department’s inventory and use of military equipment, understand the associated policies, and engage in an open dialogue with law enforcement officials about public safety and transparency.

Meeting Details:
• Date: Monday March 31st, 2025
• Time: 6:00 p.m.
• Location: Old Municipal Building, 441 Main St. Chico, Ca

The Military Equipment Use Annual Report, required by state law, provides a detailed account of the types and amounts of statutorily defined military equipment used by the Chico Police Department during the previous calendar year. The report outlines the uses of this equipment, justification for use, compliance with relevant laws, and the department’s efforts to ensure the equipment is utilized in a manner that upholds public safety and respects community values. This meeting is held prior to the mandated hearing before the City Council, who will need to review and approve the Chico Police Department’s Military Equipment Use Policy. That hearing is set during the April 15th City Council meeting.

In addition to reviewing the Military Equipment Use Annual Report, the meeting will include a review of the proposed Policy, and an opportunity for attendees to voice their questions, concerns, and provide feedback. The proposed Policy has been posted to the City website and can be found under the Military Equipment Use tab on the Police Department page.

The Chico Police Department values community input as a crucial part of its ongoing commitment to community partnership.

The meeting is open to all community members, and we encourage everyone to attend and participate in the conversation. If you have specific questions or concerns you would like addressed, please feel free to submit them in advance to Captain Omar Peña at omar.pena@chicoca.gov, with the subject line “Military Equipment Meeting.”

Capt. Omar Peña

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

CPD Identifies Officers Involved in the Officer-Involved Shooting; Case #25-01392

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 03/13/25

The Chico Police Department is releasing the names of the officers involved in an officer-involved shooting that occurred on March 2, 2025, at The Post on Nord apartments. In accordance with our commitment to transparency and accountability, we believe it important to share these details with the public, particularly when required by law.

The officers involved in this incident are as follows:

• Sergeant Nick Bauer a 19 year law enforcement veteran
• Sergeant Alexander Fliehr a 10 year law enforcement veteran
• Officer Tyler Hernandez a 6 year law enforcement veteran
• Officer Gabriel Durney a 4 year law enforcement veteran

At this time, the Butte County Officer Involved Shooting/ Critical Incident Protocol Team is conducting the investigation into the shooting, as agencies in Butte County do not investigate their own officer involved shootings. This protocol exists to ensure a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation is conducted. The department recognizes the gravity of this incident and is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity and will cooperate fully during the ongoing investigation.

We ask for the public’s patience and understanding as the facts of this situation are carefully examined.

Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this incident, and we remain dedicated to supporting our officers, their families, and the community as a whole. We understand that events like these can raise significant questions and concerns, and we are committed to coordinating with the District Attorney’s office to provide updates as the investigation progresses.

Chief of Police Billy Aldridge

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

**Updated** Officer Involved Shooting: Case # 25-01392

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 3/02/25
 
Chico, CA – 
 
 
The Chico Police Department continues its operation to apprehend a wanted subject in the 1200 block of Nord Ave.  The subject is believed to be armed, which has necessitated the use of distractionary devices by search teams.  These devices, when deployed, emit very loud noises which may sound like explosions or gunshots. 
 
We can confirm that there have been no gunshots fired and social media narratives suggesting there was active shooting, is incorrect. 
 
At this time, we ask residents in the area to continue to shelter in place as we continue our operation. 
 
***UPDATE***
 
In the late afternoon hours of Saturday March 1st, The Chico Police Department located the wanted subject in an apartment complex in the 1200 block of Nord Ave. Police Negotiators began attempting to negotiate his surrender.  During the multi-hour negotiation, the subject exchanged gunfire with officers. Officers struck the subject, who was pronounced deceased at the scene.
 
The Chico Police Department activated the Butte County Officer Involved Shooting/Critical Incident Protocol Team to investigate the officer involved shooting. The officers who discharged their weapons have been placed on administrative leave as per Department practice.
 
Questions regarding the officer involved shooting should be directed to the Butte County Officer Involved Shooting/Critical Incident Protocol Team at the Butte County District Attorney’s Office. 
 
 
Location:        1200 Nord Ave, Chico, CA
Captain:         O. Peña
 
 
 
The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!  

**Updated** Major Injury Collision: Case # 25-1412

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: March 15, 2025

Case #25-1412

Chico, CA –
 
*********************************UPDATE***********************************
 
The decedent has been identified as Gary Hill, 75 years of age.

*********************************UPDATE***********************************
On March 14, 2025, the pedestrian involved in the below incident died as a result of the injuries they sustained from the collision. The name of the subject involved is pending per notification of the next of kin. The investigation is still being conducted by the Chico Police Departments Major Accident Investigation Team. Anyone with information regarding the collision is asked to contact the Chico Police Department Traffic Unit.
____________________________________________________________________
 
On 03-01-2025 at about 2326 hours, Chico Police Officers, Chico Fire, and Butte EMS responded to the 200 block of East Ave on a report of a vehicle versus pedestrian traffic collision. Upon arrival, first responders located the pedestrian down in the roadway. The pedestrian sustained life threatening injuries and was transported to Enloe Hospital. Due to the injuries sustained, Chico Police MAIT responded and investigated the collision. The driver involved remained at scene and was cooperative. As of now, the investigation is ongoing.

At this time, the pedestrian’s condition is listed as critical. Also, alcohol and drugs do not appear to be a factor.

The eastbound lanes of East Ave were closed for approximately 2 hours for the investigation. The Chico Police Department would also like to thank the California Highway Patrol with their assistance with the road closure.

Location: 200 block of East Ave
Victim: Withheld
Supervisor: OIC D. Ament
Commander: Lt. Rodden
 
The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Shooting Incident: Case # 25-01392

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: 03/01/2025

Chico, CA –  Shooting

On February 28th, 2025, around 6 PM, Chico Police Officers responded to report of a shooting in City Lot 1. Officers located the victim who was suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to a local hospital and is currently in critical condition.

Chico Police Officers have been working through the night to collect information and identify a suspect. We have no other information to release at this time.

Location: City Lot 1 (E. 2nd St. and Wall St.)
Suspects: Unknown
Victim: Withheld
Supervisor: Sgt. Trey Reid
Lieutenant: Lt. Mike Rodden

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Robbery: Case # 25-001376

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 02/28/25
Case Number: 25-001376

On 2/27/25 around 9:40 PM, the Chico Police Department received a report of an armed robbery of a business in the 100 block of W East Ave. The suspect entered the business, placed a handgun on the counter, and demanded the money from the register. The suspect then left with an undisclosed amount of cash before officers arrived on scene. Witnesses indicated that the suspect may have entered another nearby business.
Officers arrived on scene and conducted a search of the business and surrounding area, but did not locate the suspect. Chico Police Officers began their investigation and were quickly able to identify the suspect from the surveillance video inside the business as Maxwell Nichols. Nichols was apprehended less than two hours later. At the time of his arrest, he was in possession of a BB gun that resembled the handgun used in the robbery as well as cash.

Location: 100 Block of W East Ave.
Suspect: Maxwell Eugene Avery Nichols, 35 years of age
Crime(s): 211 PC, Robbery
Victim: Withheld
Supervisor: Sgt. Mike Consiglio
Watch Commander: Lt. Mike Rodden
 
The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Felon in Possession of a Firearm: Case # 25-001312

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 2/26/2025

Chico, CA –

On February 25, 2025, Officers were dispatched to the 1800 block of E 18th Street for an altercation involving a firearm. Officers responded and determined a firearm had been brandished at the reporting party during an altercation and the suspect had left the scene in a vehicle. Officers were able to determine who the suspect was and responded to his residence in the 2700 block of Native Oak Drive. Officers located the suspect, identified as Michael Sadler Jr., who after seeing the officers, fled inside a nearby residence. Sadler was contacted via telephone and voluntarily came out of the residence and spoke to Officers. At the conclusion of the investigation Sadler, along with Mariah Morris and Nicole Sadler, were arrested for the below charges:

Michael Sadler Jr - 245(a)(2) PC – Assault with a Deadly Weapon, 273a(a) PC – Child Endangerment, 29800(a)(1) PC – Felon in Possession of a Firearm, 12022.5 PC – Using a Firearm in Commission of a Felony, 32310 PC – Possession of a Large Capacity Magazine, 33215 PC – Possession of a Short Barreled Rifle/Shotgun, 30305(a)(1) PC – Felon in Possession of Ammunition.

Nicole Sadler - 273a(a) PC – Child Endangerment, 135 PC – Concealing Evidence during an Investigation, 32 PC - Accessory After the Fact in a Felony Investigation.

Mariah Morris - 273a(a) PC – Child Endangerment, 135 PC – Concealing Evidence during an Investigation, 32 PC - Accessory After the Fact in a Felony Investigation.

Anyone with further information is asked to contact the Chico Police Department and reference Case 25-001312.

Location: 1800 Block of E. 18th Street and 2700 block of Native Oak Drive
Suspects: Michael Sadler Jr, Nicole Sadler, Mariah Morris
Victim: Confidential
Supervisor: Sgt. Mike Consiglio
Lieutenant: Lt. Peter Durfee
 

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Man Arrested for Multiple Counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor: Case # 24-005441

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 2/25/25

Chico, CA –  Chico Police Department began investigating Shane Tyler Palmer (36-yrs-old) in August 2024 after receiving a complaint from the father of a victim. The victim’s father reported that his daughter may have been the victim of sexual abuse 19-years prior.

Chico Police Detectives began conducting follow-up investigation. This included interviewing the victim extensively, and interviewing family members of the victim. On 2/25/25, Detectives were able to arrest Palmer subsequent to an arrest warrant. Palmer was transported to Chico Police Department and interviewed. He was later transported to Butte County Jail. Palmer was arrested for the following California Penal Code violations:

Lewd or Lascivious Acts w/Child Under 14 Years (288(a) PC)
Lewd or Lascivious Acts w/Child Under 14 Years (288(a) PC)

If you have any further information regarding this investigation, please contact Chico Police Detective Bureau: (530) 897-5820.

Location: 600 Block of Manzanita Ave , Chico
Victims: Witheld
Suspect: Shane Tyler Palmer (36-yrs-old)
Supervisor: Sgt. Nick Bauer
Commander: Lt. Ben Love

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Robbery: Case # 25-1075

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 02/15/2025
 
Chico, CA – On Feb. 15, 2025, at approximately 3:50 p.m., Chico Police Dispatch received a call about an armed robbery at the Chevron station on Nord Ave and W. Sacramento. The reporting party witnessed a masked suspect brandish a firearm and demand money from the cash register. The suspect fled the business prior to police arrival.

If you witnessed this crime, but did not speak to a police officer at the scene, or if you have information about this crime, please contact the Chico Police Department at 530-897-4900, reference case number 25-1057.

Location: 1025 Nord Ave. Chevron Gas Station
Suspects: Unknown
Supervisor: OIC D. Ament
Lieutenant: Watch Commander Mike Rodden
 
The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Shooting Incident: Case # 25-001001

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 2/12/2025

Chico, CA – On February 12, 2025 at approximately 2:53 p.m., Chico Police Officers were dispatched to the 1800 block of Laurel Street for a report of gunshots fired from a vehicle.
 
Multiple officers arrived on scene and located evidence of a shooting in the roadway. Officers conducted multiple area checks, and it does not appear anyone was struck as a result of the shooting.
 
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Chico Police Department at (530) 895-4911 and reference case #25-01001.

Location: 1800 Block of Laurel Avenue
Suspects: Unknown
Victim: N/A
Supervisor: Sgt. K. Parsons S7
Lieutenant: Lt. P Durfee L2

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Two Arrested for Multiple Burglaries: Case # 24-009155

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 1/23/2025
 
Chico, CA – In November and December of 2024, Chico Police responded to several residential burglaries in various parts of Chico, with multiple firearms and other identifiable stolen property taken from the victims. CPD Officers responded to those reports and began their investigation. During the course of their investigations, similarities were noticed and the cases forwarded to the Chico Police Department Criminal Investigations Section.

Chico PD Detectives authored several search warrants based on evidence obtained from the initial investigations and identified two suspects that were responsible for the burglaries. Chico PD Detectives beganconducting surveillance on the suspects in early January and obtained warrants for their arrest.

On the afternoon of 1-23-25, Chico PD Detectives conducted an enforcement stop on the suspect’s vehicle and took her into custody without incident. The female suspect was identified as 44-year-old Chico resident Jantar Phun. Chico PD Detectives then responded to Phun’s residence to conduct a Federal Probation search with assistance from Federal Agents. At the residence, it was determined that the second burglary suspect was inside of the residence and refused to exit. Multiple Chico PD Detectives and patrol officers responded to the scene, as well as Crisis Negotiators and Unmanned Aerial System operators. After nearly an hour, the second burglary suspect was taken into custody without incident. The second burglary suspect was identified as 47- year-old Richmond resident Samay Pomsouvanh. After Pomsouvanh was safely in custody, Detectives conducted a probation search of the residence pursuant to Phun’s Federal Probation terms. During the search, multiple stolen items, to include several firearms, were located and seized as evidence.

This investigation is ongoing, with additional evidence being reviewed in an attempt to locate other items of stolen property. The Chico Police Department would like to thank our Federal partners with the assistance provided in this case.

Location: 2200 Block of Robailey Drive, Chico, CA
Suspects: Jantar Phun, 44-year-old Chico Resident
Samay Pomsouvanh, 47-year-old Richmond Resident
Victim: Multiple, Withheld
Supervisor: Sgt. John Nickelson
Lieutenant: Lt. Ben Love
 
The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Robbery: Case # 25-000480

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 01/19/2025

Chico, CA – At 6:59 PM on January 19, 2025, Chico Police Officers responded to 1414 Park Ave. for a reported robbery. Officers learned two suspects entered the business, Hi Five Tobacco, and brandished a firearm at the employee. The suspects took merchandise from the business before fleeing. Officers conducted an area check 
around the business, but the suspects were not located at the time of this press release. 

If anyone has information regarding this robbery, please call 530-897-4911.

Location: Hi Five Tobacco
Suspects: Unknown
Supervisor: Sgt. Reid
Lieutenant: Lt. Rodden

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Multiple Robberies: Case # 25-00423 & 25-00424

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 1/20/2025
 
Chico, CA – On January 20, 2025, at approximately 2:10 p.m., Chico Police responded to a reported robbery in the 200 block of Walnut Street. Officers learned a subject entered a business, brandished a firearm, and left with an undisclosed amount of cash and merchandise. Officers conducted an area check but the suspect was not 
located.
 
At approximately 3:15 p.m., Chico Police responded to a reported robbery in the 2100 block of Esplanade. Officers learned a subject entered a business, brandished a firearm, and again left with an undisclosed amount of cash and merchandise. Officers conducting an area check located a subject matching the description of the suspect.
 
The suspect fled on foot into a nearby neighborhood. A search was conducted and 
the suspect, along with three others, were arrested.This investigation is ongoing and more information will be released at a later date.
 
If anyone has information regarding these robberies, please call 530-897-4911, reference case numbers 25-00423 (Walnut Street) or 
25-00424 (Esplanade). 

Location: 200 Block of Walnut Street and 2100 Block of Esplanade
Suspects: To be released at a later date
Victim: Confidential
Supervisor: Sgt. Keith Parsons
Lieutenant: Lt. Peter Durfee

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Spoofing Phone Scam Impersonating Chico Police

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: January 16, 2025

Chico, CA – The Chico Police Department investigated a fraudulent phone call where the caller falsely identified themselves as a Lieutenant of the Chico Police Department. The caller was able to mask their number to show as 530-897-4900, which is the Chico Police Department’s phone number.
 
The caller identified themselves as a Lieutenant and provided a fake badge number. The caller claimed the victim missed mandatory jury date and needed to pay a fine. The caller continued to make false claims demanding the victim pay money to avoid jail.
 
The caller was able to provide personal information, such as past addresses, and asked the caller to look up the Chico Police Department phone number to further the belief he was a real Police Officer.

The Chico Police Department will never contact citizens to ask for any monetary compensation. Technology exits which allows individuals to “spoof” their phone number either providing a fake number or a specific phone number as in this case.
 
Please call and report any suspicious phone calls or activity to the Chico Police 
Department at 530-897-4911.

Location: Chico, CA
Suspects: Unknown
Victims: Withheld 
Supervisor: Officer T. Cox
Incident Command: Lieutenant Love

The Mission of the Chico Police Department is to create a safer Chico and improve quality of life by partnering with our community and  providing dedicated service

Vehicle vs. Pedestrian: Case # 25-000248

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: January 14, 2025

Chico, CA – On Monday January 13, 2025 at approximately 2:35 p.m., the Chico Police Department (CPD) responded to a vehicle-versus-pedestrian collision at the intersection of Nord Avenue and W. Sacramento Avenue.
 
Upon arrival, CPD Traffic Officers learned that a mother and her three children (ages 3, 5, and 6) were crossing the roadway in a marked crosswalk with a green light. Two of the children were in a stroller, while the 6-year-old walked alongside.

A pickup truck, also proceeding on a green light while turning left, struck the mother and all three children. The driver stopped, remained at the scene, and cooperated with officers. The family was transported by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment. While most sustained minor injuries, one child was kept overnight for observation and did receive some sutures for a laceration. 

Investigators determined the driver of the truck was distracted, reading a text message, and failed to see the family in the crosswalk. The driver was cited at the scene and released. 

We want to remind the public that using a cell phone at a red light can still be a violation and contributes to distracted driving.

Pedestrians: Names withheld
Driver: Milo Conlin, 48-yr old from Chico
Supervisor: Sgt. Todd Lefkowitz
Acting Lieutenant: Scott Harris
 
The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within! 

Vehicle vs. Pedestrian: Case # 25-000160

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: January 9, 2025
 
Chico, CA – On Thursday, January 9, 2025, at approximately 2:07 a.m., the Chico Police Department responded to a vehicle-versus-pedestrian collision near the intersection of Esplanade and Mission Ranch Boulevard.
 
Upon arrival, officers discovered a pedestrian in the roadway with severe injuries. The pedestrian, who did not have any identification, was pronounced deceased at the 
scene, and his identity remains unknown at this time.

The driver of the vehicle, a 21-year-old Chico resident, remained on the scene and cooperated with authorities. The Chico Police Major Accident Investigation Team (M.A.I.T.) is conducting the investigation. Preliminary findings suggest the pedestrian was skateboarding in the middle of the roadway when he was struck.

The Butte County Sheriff’s Office is working to identify the pedestrian. If you witnessed the collision, please contact the Chico Police Traffic Division at (530) 897-4970.

Pedestrian: John Doe, unknown age.
Driver: 21-year-old female from Chico
Supervisor: Sgt. Todd Lefkowitz
Lieutenant: Lt. Peter Durfee

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Shooting Incident: Case # 25-000073

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Date: January 6, 2025
 
Chico, CA – On January 5, 2025, at approximately 10:10 p.m., the Chico Police Dispatch Center received multiple reports of gunshots heard in the area of Montecito Avenue and Mission Santa Fe Circle. Officers responded to the scene and located witnesses and evidence confirming a shooting occurred.
 
The Chico Police Department is still actively investigating the incident. Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to call the Chico Police Department.
 
Location: Montecito Avenue and Mission Santa Fe Circle
Suspect: Withheld
Supervisor: Sgt. Mike Consiglio S3
Lieutenant: Lt. Mike Rodden C6
 
The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!
 

Stolen Vehicle Recovery: Case #25-00042

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: January 3, 2025
 
Chico, CA – On January 3, 2025, at 8 p.m., Chico Police Officers located a stolen Cadillac Deville near 3156 Esplanade. The vehicle was originally reported stolen out of Butte County.
 
The suspect failed to yield when officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop. A pursuit was initiated as the vehicle fled onto Eaton Rd and south on Highway 99. The suspect drove back to the area where the pursuit began and then surrendered.
 
Leon Bedford Ward was arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle and a parole warrant. 

There were no collisions or injuries reported with this incident. 

Location: North Esplanade
Suspect: Leon Bedford Ward (age 47) of Chico
Victim: Withheld
Supervisor: Sgt. Alex Fliehr
Lieutenant: Lt. Mike Rodden

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Suspect Arrested for Numerous Sexual Assault Violations: Case # 24-006081

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Date: January 1, 2025
 
Chico, CA – The Chico Police Department began investigating Robert Allen Smith (55-yrs-old) in August 2024 after receiving a complaint from a victim. The victim reported to a school counselor that Smith was involved in numerous molestation incidents when they were 4-6 years old. 

Chico Police Detectives began conducting numerous interviews. They discovered that Smith was the suspect in approximately five other sexual assaults of children and adults as far back as 1996. 

After obtaining enough probable cause to arrest Smith, Detectives obtained a warrant for Smith’s arrest. He was located at the Chico Pallet Shelter. Detectives took Smith into custody without incident. Smith was in possession of methamphetamine during his arrest. 

While interviewing Smith at Chico Police Department Temporary Holding Facility, Smith attempted to assault a Chico Police Officer. He was detained in a full body restraint device that protects both Smith and Officers from incurring any additional injuries. While in this full body restraint device, Smith continued to try to assault 
Officers by spitting on them. Smith was subsequently transported to Enloe Hospital for a medical clearance for incarceration. 

Smith was placed under arrest for the following criminal violations. Several of these violations included multiple counts:
  • Lewd or Lascivious Acts w/Child Under 14 Years (288(a) PC)
  • Lewd and Lascivious Acts with Child Under 14 Years (288(b)(1) PC)
  • Obstruct or Resist an Executive Officer (69 PC)
  • Possession of Controlled Substance (11377(a) HS)
  • Violation of the Treatment-Mandated Felony Act (11395(b)(1) HS)
  • Battery on Peace Officer (243(b) PC)

If you have any further information regarding this investigation, please contact Chico Police Detective Bureau at (530)897-5820.

Location: 2280 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, Chico
Victims: Witheld
Suspect: Robert Allen Smith (55-yrs-old)
Supervisor: Sgt. Nick Bauer
Commander: Lt. Ben Love

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

*UPDATED* Reckless Driver Identified: Case # 24-009176

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: December 20th, 2024

Chico, CA – On Friday, December 20, 2024, Chico Police Traffic Investigators arrested Jeremy Jurek at a local hospital. Jurek had been receiving treatment since the collision occurred. Upon his release, officers were present and placed him under arrest. Jurek was medically cleared for incarceration. Jurek was arrested for Driving Under the Influence 23152 (g) CVC, Reckless Driving 23103 (a) CVC and Violation of Probation 1203.2 (a) PC.
 
================
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: December 19th, 2024

Chico, CA – On Wednesday December 18, 2024 at approximately 12:18 p.m., Chico Police responded to a multiple car collision involving high speed. The crash occurred in the 1000 block of East Ave, just east of North Avenue. The driver was later identified as 42-year-old Jeremy Jurek from Oroville.
 
Jurek was reportedly driving near 100 MPH on East Ave and rear ended an unoccupied parked vehicle. The force of the collision pushed the parked vehicle into a tree and sheered it into two pieces. Jurek’s vehicle overturned several times, and he was ejected. Jurek was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
 
The Chico Police Department Major Accident Investigation Team (M.A.I.T.) was on scene and took over the investigation. This investigation is still ongoing. No further information will be released at this time.

Driver: Jeremy Jurek, 42-year-old male from Oroville, CA
Supervisor: Sgt. Todd Lefkowitz
Lieutenant: Lt. Terry Tupper
 
The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!

Suspect Arrested for Battery: Case # 24-008907

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 12/06/2024

Chico, CA – On Friday December 6, 2024, around 10:05 p.m., Chico Police Officers responded to the area of Bruce Road and Highway 32 for a report of battery. A taxi driver reported he was battered by a customer and the customer possibly fled in his taxi. Upon arrival, officers discovered the taxi was still in the roadway, but the suspect had fled on foot into a large open field at the northwest corner of Bruce Rd. and Highway 32.

Officers utilized a drone to locate the suspect. The suspect was uncooperative when officers attempted to detain him, but he was detained after a brief struggle. He was later booked into Butte County Jail for battery and resisting arrest.

During this incident officers blocked traffic along Highway 32 between El Monte Avenue and Bruce Rd. The roadway was re-opened within 30 minutes.

Suspect: Darren Ferguson (40) of Forest Ranch
Supervisor: Sgt. A. Fliehr
Lieutenant: Lt. Mike Rodde

Assault with a Deadly Weapon: Case # 24-008418

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 17, 2024

Chico, CA – On November 16, 2024, around 11:00 A.M., Chico Police Officers responded to 101 Silver Dollar Way for a reported stabbing. Officers located the victim on the north side of Silver Dollar Way. The suspect, David Saunders, age 55, was located nearby and arrested without incident.

The victim was taken to a local hospital and is in stable condition.

Saunders was booked into Butte County Jail for Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

Suspect: David Samuel Saunders of Chico (age 55)
Supervisor: OIC J. Ditty
Lieutenant: Lt. M. Rodden

Robbery Arrest: Case # 24-008226

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 11/9/2024

Chico, CA – On November 9, 2024, at 11:50 AM, Chico Police were dispatched to the Chico Mall for a report of a subject who had pointed a firearm at a person and took property from him. The suspect then fled into the mall. As officers were enroute to the scene the suspect, later identified as Adrian Gallardo, had exited the mall and was contacted by officers on Forest Avenue a short distance from the scene. Gallardo was taken into custody without further incident. During the investigation a firearm was located in a bag belonging to Gallardo.

Gallardo was arrested for the following violations:
  • 211 PC – Robbery
  • 25850(a) PC – Possession of a loaded firearm in public
  • 30605(a) PC – Illegal possession of an assault weapon
  • 25400(a)(2) PC – Carrying a concealed weapon on person
  • 24610 PC – Possession of an undetectable firearm (Ghost Gun)
  • 32310(a) PC – Possession of a large capacity magazine
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the Chico Police Department at 530-895-4911 and reference case # 24-008226.

Location: 1900 Block of E. 20th Street
Suspects: Adrian Gallardo (36 years old)
Victim: Confidential
Supervisor: Sgt. Ed Marshall
Lieutenant: Lieutenant Peter Durfee

Halloween 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 11/3/2024 
 
Chico, CA – The Chico Police Department prepared for the 2024 Halloween weekend by once again increasing the police presence particularly in the south campus and downtown area. Historically, this weekend is filled with large crowds, large parties, and out of town partygoers. To ensure uninterrupted service to the rest of the city, extra 
Chico Police Officers were required to work during the Halloween operational period that began Thursday, October 31 and went until Sunday, November 3 at 7:00 A.M. 

It should be noted that the weekend prior to the operational period showed an uptick in crowds and activity in the south campus and downtown area. 

During the operational period, Chico Police Officers took the following enforcement actions:
  • 3 Citations
  • 21 Misdemeanor Arrests
  • 11 Felony Arrests
  • 5 DUI Arrests
  • 8 Assault / Battery Investigations
Event Commander: 
Lieutenant Peter Durfee

Suspect In Multiple Juvenile Sex Assaults Arrested: Case # 24-004234

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 10/31/2024
 
Chico, CA – A collaborative investigation conducted by the Chico Police Department and Butte County Sheriff’s Office Investigation Divisions developed probable cause that ANTHONY SERMENO (32) of Chico had committed multiple unlawful sexual acts upon multiple juvenile females.  After an extensive investigation, detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Sermeno.
 
On Thursday, October 31, 2024, detectives from the Chico Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Section and Violence Suppression Unit observed Sermeno loading a moving truck at a residence in the north Chico area.  As the detectives approached Sermeno, he fled on foot, running into the residence.  Investigators pursued Sermeno and took him into custody without incident. Sermeno was booked into Butte County Jail with a request for complaint of multiple violations of 287(b)(1) of the California Penal Code and an additional request for complaint for 148(a)(1) for delaying a peace officer.
 
The Chico Police Department is requesting anyone with further information regarding these or additional incidents contact the Chico Police Department Detective Bureau at (530) 897-5820.
 
Location: Chico, CA
Suspects: ANTHONY LEE SERMENO
Victims: Confidential
Supervisor: Sergeant N. Bauer
Incident Command: Sergeant D. Gregory

Son Stabs Mother During Family Violence Incident: Case # 24-007989

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 10/31/2024
 
Chico, CA – On October 31, 2024, at approximately 10:40 a.m., Chico Police Dispatch received a report of a female crying and her adult son yelling at her. The reporting party observed the son kicking near the victim. Chico Police Officers responded to the area and contacted the suspect, Justin Stephens (46-years-old). Stephens was uncooperative initially with responding Officers, however, they were able to take him into custody. During the apprehension, a Chico Police Officer suffered minor injuries to his throat.

Officers observed that the victim had suffered numerous stab wounds to her head and neck. The victim was treated at a local hospital, and then transported to an undisclosed medical facility for more advanced treatment. At the time of this Press Release, the victim is still in critical condition. Stephens was transported to Butte County Jail. Stephens was placed under arrest for the following criminal violations:
  • Attempted Murder (664/187 PC)
  • Elder Abuse (368 PC)
  • Violence Against a Peace Officer (69 PC)
If you have any further information regarding this investigation, please contact Chico Police Detective Bureau: (530)897-5820.

Location: 2900 Block of San Verbena Way, Chico
Victim: Witheld
Suspect: Justin Matthew Stephens (46-yrs-old)
Supervisor: Sgt. Nick Bauer
Commander: Sgt. Dane Gregory

Child Pornography Suspect Arrested: Case # 24-007592

Chico, CA – In October of 2024, Chico Police Detectives received information that David Valdovinos (26 years old) was in possession of child pornography at his place of residence in Chico. Detectives confirmed this information and obtained a search warrant for Valdovinos’ residence, vehicle, and person.
 
On October 23, 2024, Detectives executed this warrant at Valdovinos’ place of residence in the 700 block of San Antonio Drive in Chico. Electronics belonging to Valdovinos were seized and later searched by detectives where child pornography was located. During the investigation, detectives also discovered Valdovinos had been contacting minors under the age of 18 for a lewd purpose through the social media platform called Snapchat.
 
Valdovinos was arrested on October 30, 2024, for possession of child pornography, 311.11(a) PC, distribution of child pornography, 311.10(a) PC, and two counts of contacting a minor for a lewd purpose, 288.3(a) PC. Valdovinos was later transported and booked at Butte County Jail.
 
The Chico Police Department would like to remind parents to be aware of and closely monitor any social media or online websites that are used by children to protect against the threat of online child predators.
 
Location: 700 block of San Antonio Drive, Chico CA
Date/Time: 10/30/2024
Victim: State of California
Suspect: David Valdovinos (26 years old)
Supervisor: Sgt. Nick Bauer
CIS Lieutenant: Lt. Ben Love
 
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