On 10-09-2020 at approximately 2:55 p.m., a Mendocino County Sheriff’s Deputy was on duty and on patrol in the 33000 block of Little Valley Road in Fort Bragg, California.
While driving through that area, the Deputy observed a vehicle parked on privately owned property the Deputy knew was vacant. The Deputy also observed the vehicle was parked in a position that provided the vehicle concealment
The Deputy entered the property and upon further investigation found the vehicle was occupied by Sean Hilliard and Frankie Lemus-Cortez.
The Deputy also observed the passenger compartment of the silver 4-door Mazda CX7 hatchback was unusually overloaded with property. Upon inquiry, the Deputy learned Lemus-Cortez entered one of two residences on the property to use the bathroom. The Deputy also confirmed that Hilliard was on active misdemeanor probation that included a 4th Amendment search waiver.
Based on the above, both subjects were detained pending further investigation into their activity at the location.
After additional Deputies arrived on scene, Deputies determined that both residences had been entered, one of which the exterior door was forced open. During a search of the vehicle and residences, Deputies were able to determine that property inside the vehicle was taken from within one or both residences, as well as other outbuildings on the property.
Deputies subsequently arrested Hilliard and Lemus-Cortez for second degree burglary and conspiracy to commit a crime. Hilliard was also arrested for violating his probation.
Both suspects were transported to the Mendocino County Jail where they were booked and are being held in lieu of $50,000.00 bail.
