Search Warrant Leads to Fraud Ring Arrest 

February 26, 2024 – Riverside County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at 1:33 p.m., deputies assigned to the Hemet Sheriff’s Station served a search warrant regarding a fraud and narcotics investigation in the 34000 block of Lyn Avenue in Hemet. Steven Burroughs, a 35-year-old resident of Hemet, was located and detained as the primary suspect in the investigation. Kayley Lopez, a 32-year-old resident of Colton, Charles Smith, a 44-year-old resident of Hemet, and Hector Mendez, a 37-year-old resident of Hemet, were also located at the residence.

The search of the residence yielded counterfeit identifications, counterfeit checks, and the machines used to counterfeit them. Several stolen mail items, keys, passports, and credit cards were also located. The identification cards being counterfeited included state and federal military identification cards. The four subjects were determined to be involved in extensive check fraud, counterfeiting, and identity theft ring. They were also found in possession of altered tools, granting them the means to open community mailboxes. During the investigation, methamphetamine, psilocybin mushrooms, and fentanyl pills were confiscated. The four suspects were transported and booked at Cois Byrd Detention Center for several felony fraud-related charges. This is an ongoing investigation, and no additional details are available.

Anyone with information on this case is encouraged to call Deputy Roberto Valentin or Deputy Juan Montanez at the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at (951) 791-3400.

Reporting Deputy: Sergeant Matthew Cramer

File # D240550041

Source & photos: Riverside County Sheriff’s Office