The following is a press release issued by the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office. The information has not been proven in a court of law and any individuals described should be presumed innocent until proven guilty:
On 07-12-2021 at 11:22 P.M., Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office Deputies were on routine patrol in the area of Highway 101 and the Perkins Street off ramp when they observed a vehicle traveling southbound on Highway 101 in Ukiah, California.
The Deputies observed inoperable tail lights on the vehicle in violation of the California Vehicle Code. The Deputies effected a traffic stop on the vehicle and contacted the occupants.
The Deputies identified the front passenger as Aaron Simpson. Simpson consented to a search of his person and backpack.
During the consent search, Deputies located blank checks with the account holder being listed as Express Mart in Ukiah. Through their investigation the Deputies determined Simpson was not associated with Express Mart and had no lawful reason to possess the checks.
A California Highway Patrol Officer arrived on scene to assist and located a clear plastic bag containing a white, crystalline substance near the passenger side of the vehicle.
Through their training and experience, the Deputies identified the white, crystalline substance as suspected methamphetamine.
Simpson was arrested for 475 PC (Felony Possession of Check With Intent To Forge), 496(a) PC (Felony Possession of Stolen Property), 11377 HS (Misdemeanor Possession of Controlled Substance).
Simpson was booked into the Mendocino County Jail, to be released after the booking process on zero bail pursuant to COVID-19 bail schedule set forth by the State of California Judicial Council.
