Volume 74 | June 25 - 29, 2018
Undercover Police Operation Seizes Hundreds of Pounds of Fireworks
The Moreno Valley Police Department arrested four people and seized nearly 700 pounds of illegal fireworks as part of an undercover operation targeting the sales and distribution of illegal fireworks.

All fireworks are illegal in Moreno Valley.

Officers also seized two handguns, one assault weapon and half a pound of methamphetamine during the undercover operation.

Alberto Garibay, 26, of Moreno Valley was arrested on charges of possession of an assault weapon, possession of a large caliber magazine and possession of illegal fireworks or pyrotechnic devices. A total of 455 pounds of illegal fireworks were seized.

Nestor Ledezma, 29, of Moreno Valley was arrested on charges of possession of illegal fireworks or pyrotechnic devices. A total of 107 pounds of illegal fireworks were seized.

Victor Orozco, 31, of Moreno Valley was arrested on charges of possession of illegal fireworks or pyrotechnic devices. A total of 126 pounds of illegal fireworks were seized.

Steven Flores, 25, of Moreno Valley were arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substances for sale, felon in possession of a firearm, possession of illegal fireworks or pyrotechnic devices. A total of three pounds of illegal fireworks were seized.

Anyone with information regarding the sale or possession of illegal fireworks is encouraged to contact the Moreno Valley Police Department’s Problem Oriented Policing Team at 951-486-6700.
Commercial Cannabis Tax Measure Approved for November Ballot
The Moreno Valley City Council approved a ballot measure for the November 6 general election asking residents to tax commercial cannabis sales and production in the City. If approved by voters, the measure would generate an estimated $2.2 million annually to provide vital public safety and quality of life services.

Thousands of Moreno Valley residents participated in a recent survey, which indicated that more than two-thirds of Moreno Valley residents believe the City needs additional locally controlled funding to protect and maintain key city services. The community survey results show that Moreno Valley residents support key City services, including:

  • Maintaining 9-1-1 emergency response times
  • Maintaining robbery and burglary suppression programs
  • Maintaining safe and clean public areas
  • Repairing potholes, local streets, and roads
  • Enhancing recreation and youth programs and facilities

The Local Moreno Valley Commercial Cannabis Activity Tax Measure would authorize a tax of up to 8 percent on total sales of commercial cannabis, and a maximum of $15 per square foot of growing space for cannabis cultivation operators.

The tax would not impact any resident or business outside of the commercial cannabis industry. The recommended rate would generate an estimated $2.2 million which would be used to fund the community’s self-identified priorities, including public safety, street repair, and enhancing recreation and youth programs.

The Local Moreno Valley Commercial Cannabis Activity Tax Measure will appear on the November 6, 2018 ballot.
Residents, Officers Share Ideas at Coffee with a Cop
Residents and members of the Moreno Valley Police Department attended Coffee with a Cop on June 28 at the Cupcake and Espresso Bar.

The Department's Mounted Posse volunteers made a special appearance along with officers from the Community Services, Traffic and Patrol units.

The Police Department regularly hosts Coffee with a Cop events to encourage residents to get to know the officers who patrol their neighborhoods and to provide a relaxed atmosphere for residents to discuss concerns and share ideas.

Follow the City of Moreno Valley and the Moreno Valley Police Department on Facebook to find out about future Coffee with a Cop events and other City happenings.
Moreno Beach Drive Asphalt Improvements Completed
The City’s Public Works Department recently repaired Moreno Beach Drive, north of the 60 Freeway overpass. The repairs were completed in just two days to minimize the impact on residents and nearby businesses.

Crews used asphalt “skin patching” and “crack sealing” to improve Moreno Beach. These asphalt repair methods complement the more commonly utilized pothole patch repair, which City crews use to repair approximately 5,000 potholes annually.
Free Workshop: How to Start a New Business
If you are a new or aspiring business owner, sign up for the Small Business Development Center's How to Start a New Business workshop on August 11.

This free workshop teach you the steps you need to take to start your first business.

How To Start a New Business
Wednesday, August 11, 2018
9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
12625 Frederick Street, Suite K-3
Moreno Valley

The workshop will be presented by an SBDC Consultant and include helpful topics including:

  • Being an Entrepreneur
  • Business Planning
  • Small Business Financing
  • Legal Forms Required
  • Licensing and Permits
  • Services provided by the Inland Empire SBDC

Pre-registration is recommended. Register online at: www.iesmallbusiness.com

Moreno Valley Animal Shelter Pet of the Week
Each week the Moreno Valley Animal Shelter highlights a pet available for adoption in the hopes of finding them a forever home.


Juno (#A486340) is an incredible eleven-month-old Miniature Poodle. She wants to become best friends with everyone she meets.


Please visit the Moreno Valley Animal Shelter located at 14041 Elsworth Street to inquire about adopting Juno or other pets in search of lifelong companions.

Call the Moreno Valley Animal Shelter at 951.413.3790 or visit the City’s website for more information about adopting.
Upon request, this news release will be made available in appropriate alternative formats to persons with disabilities, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Any person with a disability who requires a modification or accommodation in order to participate in this meeting should direct such requests to Guy Pegan, ADA Coordinator, at 951.413.3120 at least 72 hours before the meeting. The 72-hour notification will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.