County Sheriff and BLM Rangers arrest 6 in OHV enforcement operation

Jef Harmatz Jef Harmatz Send an email May 9, 2026

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Morongo Basin Off Highway Vehicle Team, U.S. Rangers from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and officials with the City of Twentynine Palms teamed up for the enforcement effort in the Sunfair Dry Lakebed area. The enforcement operation was held on April 25 between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

More than 180 people were contacted as part of the operation. A total of 30 citations were issued during the 10 hour operation. Deputies say they made six arrests, and towed seven vehicles. 

BLM rangers said they contacted a man they said was illegally shooting in the desert. They say the suspect was found to be a convicted felon and in possession of 18 firearms, many of which were either reported stolen or had altered/obliterated serial numbers. The suspect was arrested, and his home in Fontana was searched by law enforcement. They said they found additional firearms and illegal firearm manufacturing equipment.

The other arrests included possession of controlled substances, active warrants and driving on suspended licenses.

Still, with arrests and citations, deputies and rangers made more than 140 contacts with OHV operators that did not yield punitive consequences. Deputies say they prefer to emphasize education and compliance rather than enforcement during these operations, and issue citations as a last resort. 

The BLM reminds visitors to public lands that compliance with all state and federal laws, including those governing firearm use and possession, is required. The BLM encourages all OHV riders to stay on designated routes, follow posted rules, and help protect the desert environment so it remains healthy for generations to come. 

Deputies ask anyone with information related to illegal OHV activity is to contact the Sheriff’s Non-Emergency Line at (760) 956-5001.

Jef Harmatz Jef Harmatz Send an email May 9, 2026
Jef Harmatz

Jef Harmatz

Jef Harmatz is the co-host of Z107.7’s “Morning Show with Cody and Jef” and Z107.7’s News Director. He has worked as a journalist, cartoonist, chef, and delivery driver. He is known nationally for his writing and comics in publications like TimeOut, Popula, Roadtrippers, Solrad and Spiralbound, and for his album covers for Third Eye Blind and Sir Sly. He is known locally for his pop-up barbecue restaurant Hot Dog Panic. He remains unknown in the field of beekeeping, because he is too afraid of being stung to try it. When not on the radio, he draws comics and self-publishes little books. He lives with his partner and his dog Sunday in Yucca Valley, where he cooks them both elaborate meals.