Tag Archive for: San Diego County

DA Weekly News with DA Summer Stephan 01-16-26: Grand Jury Indicts 21 in Illegal Street Racing Case

In this week’s DA News, District Attorney Summer Stephan discusses a case where a Grand Jury has indicted 21 defendants in a major crackdown on dangerous street racing across San Diego County. Working alongside SDPD and CHP, law enforcement is holding reckless drivers accountable and taking action to reduce traffic deaths, injuries, and illegal high-speed racing on our roads. Details in the video.

Grand Jury Indicts 21 Defendants for Conspiring to Engage in Highly Dangerous Street Racing

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced today that 21 people have been indicted by a grand jury for conspiring to engage in exhibitions of speed as well as acts of illegal reckless driving and speed contests on public highways for thrill, competition, bragging rights and purposes of gaining social media fame. The charges come as law enforcement is coordinating efforts to deter and reduce illegal speed and street racing on roadways across the county.

Twenty of the twenty-one defendants were arrested or surrendered on January 6 and arraignments are scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on January 12, 13 and 15.

“Racing down our freeways at extremely hazardous speeds with reckless disregard for other drivers and families sharing the roadways is a recipe for a catastrophe,” DA Stephan said. “This indictment is a warning to anyone even thinking of engaging in a speed contest that this illegal behavior will not be tolerated and you will be held accountable.”

The grand jury heard testimony and reviewed evidence over six days before returning the indictments. The street racing conduct occurred in March of 2025 on five separate occasions in various parts of San Diego County. Defendants communicated through social media to make plans to meet at locations where they showcased their high-performance vehicles, participated in donuts and burnouts, and conspired to engage in acts of speed exhibition on freeways.

Many of the vehicles were modified, sometimes illegally, to enhance their racing performance.  Throughout the incidents, members of the conspiracy participated in multiple races on freeways, reaching speeds over 100 miles per hour and, on some occasions, in excess of 150 to 160 miles per hour. The defendants raced through and around traffic without regard for the safety of other vehicles on the roadway. Racing took place on Interstates 8, 805 and 15 as well as SR-94, and on mountain roads winding through Pauma Valley. All members of the conspiracy participated in racing events, which were filmed by various participants and later posted on social media for the purpose of gaining attention.

Illegal speed contests are highly dangerous and have caused six fatalities and numerous injuries over the last four years, underscoring the growing danger these events pose to the public. Recent fatal crashes include:

  • The death of a 17-year-old in Chula Vista after a suspected racer lost control in July 2025.
  • The death of a Point Loma jogger, who was struck by vehicles believed to be racing in December 2024.
  • A fatal Otay Mesa crash in which a Mustang traveling at extreme speed hit and killed a spectator at an illegal drag race in October 2021.
  • The death of a teenager from a Linda Vista collision that left five others seriously injured in March 2021.
  • The death of a grandmother as a result of a Chula Vista crash where a street-racing driver ran a red light, killing the woman and injuring her grandchildren in June 2021.
  • One person was killed and two severely injured after an Oceanside crash in which the drivers were seen racing moments before impact in September 2021.

“Street racing, reckless driving and illegal takeovers put lives at risk, damage our streets, and disrupt our neighborhoods,” San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said. “This Grand Jury indictment reflects the hard work of our investigators and shows that when residents raise concerns, the City and County take action. We are grateful for our partnership with the District Attorney’s Office and our partner agencies to hold these drivers accountable, and we will continue our operations to deter these crimes from happening on our streets.”

Photo of vehicles seized.

Photo of vehicles seized.

During its investigation into the May 2025 incidents, law enforcement seized 16 vehicles, including:

  • Two Dodge Charger SRTs
  • One Dodge Charger R/T
  • One Chevrolet Camaro
  • One Ford Mustang
  • Three Dodge Challenger “Hellcats”
  • One Dodge Charger
  • One BMW 8 Series
  • One Chevrolet Corvette
  • One Honda Civic Type R
  • One Dodge Durango SRT
  • Two Jeep Grand Cherokee “Trackhawks”
  • One McLaren.

“Street racing is illegal, reckless, and deadly, and those who choose to participate or assist should expect to be identified, arrested, and criminally prosecuted,” CHP Chief Anthony Coronado said.  “The California Highway Patrol will aggressively investigate these crimes and hold drivers, organizers, and spectators accountable. Reckless use of a vehicle endangers lives and will not be tolerated.”

The arrests were a coordinated effort that included the cooperation of multiple law enforcement agencies throughout San Diego County, including the San Diego Police Department, California Highway Patrol, the Narcotics Task Force, the Regional Auto Theft Task Force, Chula Vista Police Department, La Mesa Police Department, San Diego Sheriff’s Office, Escondido Police Department, and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. 

This six-month investigation began with San Diego Police Department’s Traffic Special Investigations Unit in conjunction with the California Highway Patrol in response to the string of fatalities in recent years. Collectively, these tragedies highlight the severe consequences of illegal street racing across the region and the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat this reckless and often fatal behavior.

This case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorneys Evan Andersen, Lauren Hugo, Jacob Carbajal, and Makenzie Harvey.

Operation Mic Drop Concludes with Convictions for Dozens of Gang Defendants

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced today that a complex, gang-related criminal prosecution resulting from a law enforcement operation conducted in southeast San Diego in 2022 has concluded with the conviction and sentencing of 22 defendants. The defendants were indicted by a grand jury on 221 charges resulting from Operation Mic Drop, a joint investigation conducted by the San Diego Police Department and the FBI targeting violent and drug-related criminal activity centered around Mike’s Market in the Mountain View area of San Diego. The final defendant was sentenced on October 31, closing the multi-defendant case.

In the two years prior to the Operation Mic Drop investigation, the area around Mike’s Market had experienced significant violent crime, including murders, attempted murders, assaults with firearms, robberies, and narcotics sales. There had been four homicides and 1,000 calls to the police, including 160 calls for violence that were occurring at the time. This hub of narcotics and gun activity created a flashpoint for violent crime that endangered the safety of neighborhood residents and impacted their quality of life.

In the three years following the conclusion of Operation Mic Drop, there were no homicides in the area, no robberies, a 75% decrease in calls for service per year, and a 50% decrease in arrests.

 “This prosecution demonstrates how law enforcement strategically identifies and effectively responds to public safety threats and holds organized gangs accountable for large-scale fraud, and illegal drug and gun trafficking,” said DA Stephan. “As a result, peace of mind has been restored in this neighborhood, and the community is significantly safer. It was heartbreaking to hear the voices of the great families in this San Diego neighborhood who were terrorized by crime and violence. Every child, adult and senior deserves to be safe and that’s our goal. I want to thank our law enforcement partners at the FBI and San Diego Police Department for their critical role in investigating these cases, as well as our prosecution team led by Deputy DA Miriam Hemming whose dedication saw this complex case through to the end.”

 

 “The proof is in the numbers on this case of just how effective law enforcement, working with our communities, can be in identifying a problem and bringing all of our resources together to address it,” San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said. “I want to commend the work of our investigators and the District Attorney’s Office for their tireless efforts to hold these criminals accountable. This is a win all around for violence reduction in our communities.”

Operation Mic Drop uncovered connections between the market and local gang members facilitating narcotics sales, as well as fraudulent use of food assistance benefits (EBT). A criminal street gang had taken over the location and was using it as a headquarters for narcotics sales, funded by over two million dollars in stolen taxpayer dollars perpetrated by store employees and gang members. Investigators uncovered a scheme where the store employees would illegally allow customers to use their EBT cards to receive cash, which would then be used by the customers to purchase narcotics from the gang members who both provided the drugs and vetted which customers would be allowed to engage in the EBT fraud.

The months-long investigation resulted in convictions on charges including narcotics sales, firearms-related offenses, EBT fraud, and gang enhancements. Defendants’ sentences ranged from 15 years in state prison to formal probation, as well as a court order for $2 million in restitution.

The DA’s Gangs Division prosecutes complex murder cases and other serious crimes perpetrated by violent gang members who terrorize neighborhoods. These cases are handled by one prosecutor from beginning to end – also called vertical prosecution. Cases in this division are expertly navigated by 26 prosecutors and 20 investigators to bring justice to families left in the wake of violence. In 2024, the Gangs Division conducted 23 murder jury trials, which is more than 40% of the total murders tried in the DA’s office. The division also prosecuted other cases including kidnapping for rape, assault with great bodily injury, robbery, carjacking and possession of illegal firearms, such as ghost guns, by gang members.

Elder Fraud Prevention: Spot the Red Flags Before It’s Too Late

Elders in our community are being targeted by scammers — from fake tech support to imposters pretending to be loved ones. If your money is involved and you’re told to keep it secret, it’s a scam. In just one year, seniors in San Diego County lost more than $130 million to scams. Watch this video to learn the warning signs and how to protect yourself and your loved ones from becoming victims. Stop. Hang Up. Tell Someone. Report scams at IC3.gov. Click here to protect yourself and your loved ones from scams targeting the elderly: https://www.sdcda.org/preventing/Elder-Scam-Prevention-Campaign-Materials

 

LIVE STREAM: Senior Scam Stopper Summit in Vista

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan joins local law enforcement and government leaders for the Senior Scam Stopper Summit — sharing the latest updates on scams targeting older adults and how to prevent them. Hosted by Assemblywoman Laurie Davies and Vista Mayor John Franklin, the event brings together over 100 North County residents to learn how to spot red flags and protect loved ones. Last year alone, San Diego County seniors lost more than $130 million to scams. Learn how to stay alert, informed, and safe.

DA Opens One Safe Place South in National City

The San Diego County District Attorney’s Office proudly announced the opening of One Safe Place: The South County Family Justice Center in National City — a new, state-of-the-art facility that brings hope, healing, and justice to victims of crime in South San Diego County. District Attorney Summer Stephan was joined by community leaders, advocates, law enforcement, and healthcare partners to celebrate this major step forward in making comprehensive victim services accessible to all South County residents. Watch this video below to see how One Safe Place South is transforming lives through collaboration, compassion, and care.

Meet Senior Human Resources Officer Desiree Gonzalez

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15, we are highlighting stories from DA employees and what inspired them to pursue a career in public service. Meet Senior Human Resources Officer Desiree Gonzalez.

Desiree has worked for the County for 24 years, of which 22 of those years have been at the DA’s office. She started off as a student worker and worked her way up to Senior Human Resources Officer for the Human Resource Management Unit. Her wide range of duties include position management, recruitment, transfers, human resources policies and procedures, Covid management, workplace accommodations, workers’ compensation, leave administration, benefits administration, employee relations, performance appraisals and appeals, discipline, and performance management.

When she’s not busy working, she spends her free time with her family and two little dogs, a Yorkiechon and a Pomapoo.  She also loves travelling because it gives her the opportunity to discover and appreciate different cultures. Read more about what inspired Desiree to pursue a career in public service, below.

Why did you choose a career in public service/what inspired you to pursue this career?

“My grandmother impressed upon me the importance of giving back to the community.  My mother had a career in public service as a public-school teacher for 32 years and my aunts and uncles also retired from careers in public service. They were excellent role models.  I could see how much happiness they derived from serving the public and that inspired me to follow that same path.”

What is your favorite part of the job?

“My favorite part of the job is being able to interact and engage with employees at all levels and being able to positively impact people’s careers. I also love the variation of the work; no two days look the same.”

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you/why is it important?

“It is a time for me to connect to my heritage and honor the accomplishments and contributions of Latinos to our community. I was raised to be proud of my heritage and celebrate our cultural holidays. It is important to recognize where you come from and encourage others to achieve their goals.”

Read more Hispanic Heritage Month stories from the DA’s Office, here.

DA Weekly News Update with DA Summer Stephan 09-12-25

In this week’s update, DA Summer Stephan spotlights the Economic Crimes and Consumer Protection Division — the team working hard behind the scenes to take down fraudsters, protect your wallet, and hold corporations accountable. From identity theft to financial scams and shady business practices, learn how our office is standing up for justice and ensuring a fair marketplace for all

DA Announces $13.6 Million in Consumer Protection Judgments Against Three Companies

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan today announced key updates to the way her office is protecting consumers from fraud and abuse, including a modernized online reporting tool on its public website and increased access for the public to make complaints in person. The expanded consumer protections come amid news of stipulated judgements involving the San Diego District Attorney’s Office to settle civil law enforcement complaints against three companies: HelloFresh, Walmart Corporation, and Attractive Gems.

Over the past 10 years, the San Diego DA’s consumer protection filings have led to 87 civil judgments, resulting in court-ordered statewide penalties totaling more than $134 million.

“The civil actions we file protect the consumer and hold corporations accountable when they fail to follow the laws in place to ensure the public is getting accurate and fair pricing information on products they purchase, as well as making sure companies aren’t using fine print to trigger costly automatic renewals that take advantage of unsuspecting consumers,” said DA Stephan. “Our Economic Crimes and Consumer Protection Division is committed to holding retailers accountable for meeting their obligations under the law and we work with our colleagues across the state of California to accomplish that.”

In what is believed to be one of the largest such judgments ever ordered in California, it was announced today that HelloFresh, the world’s largest meal kit delivery company, will pay $7.5 million to settle a civil lawsuit alleging the company violated California’s Automatic Renewal Law by deceptively enrolling consumers into auto-renewing subscription plans without proper disclosure or consent. The lawsuit alleged that HelloFresh misled California consumers into ongoing subscription charges without adequate notice or authorization.

In a separate action, Walmart Corporation was ordered last week to pay a $5.6 million stipulated judgement to settle a civil law enforcement complaint that alleged that the retailer unlawfully charged customers prices higher than their lowest advertised or posted price.

And in a settlement announced last month, a $500,000 judgement was ordered against the San Diego-based jewelry store Attractive Gems Jewelers and its two owners, resolving allegations that the company engaged in deceptive lending practices. A joint investigation by the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office and California Department of Justice found that Attractive Gems misled consumers by falsely promoting a store credit line to build credit. The company also failed to provide required credit disclosures and used unlawful arbitration clauses in installment contracts with military service members in violation of the federal Military Lending Act.

The DA today also announced an updated online reporting tool on its public website, which allows the public to file a complaint if they are aware of a fraudulent or unlawful business practice taking place in the county. Consumer protection-related criminal or civil cases are developed in several ways, including information from law enforcement and regulatory agency investigations, referrals from consumer protection prosecutors in other areas of California, and complaints from the citizens of San Diego through the DA’s Consumer Complaint Form process.

“My office is committed to supporting the San Diego community and providing a means of reporting individuals and businesses engaged in unlawful business practices,” DA Stephan said. “We want to streamline the reporting process as much as possible and want consumers to know where they can go to more easily report suspected fraud or unlawful business practices.”

The DA is making consumer protection experts available at two locations in the county, allowing the public a more accessible way to report suspected consumer fraud, make consumer complaints, and receive consumer protection advice in person. These specialists will be on-site every week, part-time at the DA’s CARE Center located at 12 North Euclid Avenue in National City, as well as One Safe Place:  the North County Family Justice Center located at 1050 Los Vallecitos Boulevard in San Marcos.

The San Diego County District Attorney’s Economic Crimes and Consumer Protection Division, brings civil and criminal actions to protect San Diego County consumers. The division investigates and prosecutes fraud and unlawful business practices in the marketplace. The division includes a team of experienced attorneys, investigators, and other professional staff who investigate and evaluate reports of fraudulent and unfair business practices and determine appropriate action.

Last year alone, the DA’s Consumer Protection Unit filed several civil actions related to unfair or deceptive business practices that netted a total of $14,652,500 in civil judgments. The cases involved illegal automatic renewals, improper pricing policies and pricing inaccuracies. Companies that reached settlements with the DA’s Office include Thrive Market Technologies; Albertsons, Vons, and Safeway grocery stores; Travelers Insurance and Lamps Plus

Residents are encouraged to follow the DA’s Office on social media for information and updates on consumer protection efforts. For more information on consumer protection resources and how to report fraud, visit the DA’s website.

Deputy District Attorneys Kathryn Turner, Stephen Spinella, and Tom Papageorge are prosecutors who specialize in consumer protection and handle these complex cases.

 

Public Encouraged to Follow the District Attorney’s Office on Social Media

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan is reminding the public they can follow the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office on multiple social media platforms, reinforcing the DA’s commitment to transparency, public safety, education, and to building strong partnerships with the communities it serves.

“Our partnership with the community is strengthened through direct and transparent communication using our social media. It is critical to our mission of pursuing justice and protecting victims,” said DA Stephan. “The DA’s social media shares groundbreaking crime stories and jury trial outcomes, new laws that impact public safety, the latest consumer fraud and scams, victim resources and latest tips to keep you and your family safe. We believe knowledge is power and we want our community to be informed and empowered to live with dignity and safety. Join us.”

The public can follow the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office on all its social media platforms for updates on criminal justice initiatives, victim services, high-profile prosecutions, public safety warnings, crime prevention campaigns, and community events. Users can scan a QR code or [click here] to get all the social media links directly.

The District Attorney’s Office uses social media to keep the public informed about:

  • Major criminal case announcements
  • Consumer alerts and warnings
  • Crime prevention tips
  • Resources for victims of crime
  • Community outreach events
  • Legislative efforts impacting criminal justice reform

The DA’s Office is active on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, BlueSky, and X (formerly Twitter), with tens of thousands of followers staying connected through updates and stories from our multiple office locations across San Diego County. The office also has a presence on LinkedIn, sharing professional milestones and job opportunities.

The public can follow the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office on:

For more information about the District Attorney’s Office and the resources it provides, visit: www.SanDiegoDA.com. News videos about the DA’s Office can be found on  DAnewsCenter.com and residents can get DA news updates directly via email by signing up to receive the DA’s weekly updates, here.