Recently, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) made headlines with several notable incidents, including a retail crime crackdown, some high-altitude heroics, an “elite” victory, 160 cadets begin training at the CHP Academy, and a tail-wagging foot pursuit in the Central Valley.
The #ICYMI features the top CHP events from around the region.
Task Force Work
In a breakthrough against organized retail crime, the California Highway Patrol’s Valley Division Organized Retail Crime Task Force (ORCTF) recently wrapped a months-long investigation into a suspected retail theft “fence operation.” Initiated in February, the investigation led to the identification of three suspects operating in San Jose, Dixon, and Rio Linda – each found possessing stolen merchandise being resold online. In March, ORCTF investigators executed three residential search warrants and two additional warrants for storage lockers across three counties, recovering over $40,000 in suspected stolen goods. Since its launch in 2019, the CHP’s ORCTF has spearheaded more than 3,700 investigations, leading to the arrest of approximately 4,200 suspects and the recovery of over 1.3 million stolen goods valued at more than $56 million – underscoring its critical role in protecting California communities.
Air Crew Rescue
A CHP Air Operations helicopter crew responded to a request from the Amador County Fire Department on April 5 to assist in the rescue of an injured snowmobiler near Mud Lake, just outside Kirkwood, California. Launching from Auburn, the helicopter reached the remote, snow-covered location in under 30 minutes. After a brief aerial search, the crew located the victim on a ridge and successfully landed nearby despite the challenging terrain and deep snow. Once on-site, the flight crew provided emergency medical care before airlifting the patient to Sutter Roseville Trauma Center. This mission is one of the many life-saving rescues performed annually by the CHP’s Air Operations program, which operates a fleet of 15 helicopters and 14 fixed-wing aircraft throughout the state.
Lost Dog Pursuit
On April 8, a lost dog named ‘Spike’ was seen wandering along State Route 132 bypass. An officer from the Modesto Area Office tried to rescue her, but Spike had other plans; she took off running. What followed was a 90-minute foot chase. The officer ran so much that his watch even asked if he wanted to record his “workout.” Thankfully, Spike was safely caught with help from some caring community members. She’s now at the county animal shelter, waiting for her forever family to take her home.
Vegas Relay
The CHP Elite running team sprinted to a stunning first-place finish at this year’s prestigious Baker to Vegas (B2V) relay, outpacing more than 200 teams from law enforcement agencies nationwide. This iconic event, now more than 35 years strong, challenges teams to conquer 120 miles of desert terrain across 20 stages, beginning in Baker, CA and finishing in Las Vegas, NV. This B2V victory marks a significant milestone for the CHP, as it’s the first time since 2007 that the Department has claimed the top spot. Not to be outdone, the CHP’s all-women’s team, the Golden Angels, delivered an impressive performance of their own – finishing the race in 18 hours and 50 minutes to secure a proud seventh-place finish.
New Cadet Class
The CHP’s newest cadet class, CTC II-25, officially started training at the CHP Academy on April 7. This marks the beginning of a 26-week journey to become a CHP officer. On “pick-up day,” cadets meet their Recruit Training Officers, who will guide and support them throughout their time at the CHP Academy. They also received their uniforms and gear – everything they’ll need to succeed. Over the next several months, these cadets will take on tough training, challenging lessons, and realistic scenarios. They’ll learn what it truly means to serve and protect with Safety, Service, and Security.
