Investigators describe attack on sheriff’s patrol car during street takeover in Highland as “disturbing,” 15-year-old faces charges

HIGHLAND, Calif. (KABC) – A San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputy was attacked by a violent mob of teenagers and young adults during an illegal street occupation in Highland.

It happened on Saturday, May 11, shortly after midnight at the intersection of Highland and Victoria Avenue.

It happened when about 100 people had gathered in the area to occupy the road. One person opened a fire hydrant to flood the intersection, making it easier for cars to veer off. The officer was able to drive away from the scene of the accident and was unharmed.

A cellphone video of the incident obtained by the Criminal Investigation Department shows more than a dozen people kicking and punching the deputy’s patrol vehicle.

According to the sheriff, one of the people attempted to open the door and possibly overtake the deputy and his vehicle.

“When I saw the video, I immediately put myself in the deputy’s shoes and wondered how he was going to get out of there,” said spokeswoman Gloria Huerta. She said the deputy’s decision to drive away from the scene rather than confront the violent crowd may have prevented a confrontation involving deadly force.

“I think he made the best decision by retreating for his own safety. These individuals are not afraid of the police and their behavior is very disturbing.”

“You are actually putting yourself at risk of encountering deadly violence, and sometimes it is deadly.”

Huerta said one of the most surprising things about this violent confrontation is that one of the suspects is a 15-year-old boy from Menifee.

Authorities obtained an arrest warrant and arrested him at his home around 6:30 a.m. Thursday morning on charges of attempted car theft and vandalism.

“It is very disturbing to know that 15-year-olds are running around unsupervised in the middle of the night,” Huerta said.