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NEWS RELEASE- EL PASO COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE SPECIAL TRAFFIC INVESTIGATORS RESPOND TO DWI ACCIDENT INVOLVING CONSTABLE UNIT
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February 10, 2025
EL PASO, TEXAS – On February 8, 2025, at approximately 0244 hours, the El Paso County Sheriff's Office Special Traffic Investigators (STI) responded to a motor vehicle crash in the 5300 block of Railroad Dr, El Paso, TX 79906. The crash involved a marked El Paso County Constable’s Office Patrol Unit from Precinct 1 and a black Audi A4.
The deputy from Precinct 1 was traveling northbound on Railroad Dr., assisting with an ongoing call. The deputy was operating his unit in the #1 lane with emergency lights activated, moving at a slower pace than normal traffic. The driver of the Audi failed to observe the constable unit and collided into the rear of the vehicle, causing heavy rear-end damage to the Constable unit and significant front-end damage to the Audi. The deputy was transported to the University Medical Center for further medical evaluation but has since been released and is doing well.
The driver of the Audi, Kimberly Dominguez, 24, was placed under arrest for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) with a bond set at $2,000. She also had an outstanding warrant for driving with no license, carrying a $375 bond.
Sheriff Oscar Ugarte emphasized the dangers of impaired driving, stating, “This crash underscores the risks that intoxicated drivers pose to law enforcement officers and the public. We remain committed to keeping our roads safe and holding those who drive under the influence accountable.”
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office urges drivers to make responsible decisions, designate a sober driver, and remain vigilant, especially around emergency vehicles with activated lights. Anyone who witnesses reckless or impaired driving is encouraged to report it immediately.
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NEWS RELEASE- UNAUTHORIZED USE OF MOTOR VEHICLE- TRAVIS JAMES MCNELLIS
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TRAVIS JAMES MCNELLIS FEBRUARY 10, 2025
EL PASO, TEXAS – On February 7, 2025, Deputies from the Northwest Patrol Station conducted a traffic stop at the 7100 block of La Junta Drive. Deputies conducted a wanted persons check and were advised that the driver had an outstanding criminal warrant from the El Paso Police Department for Evading Arrest/Detention. After further investigation, it was determined that the vehicle had been reported stolen by the Las Cruces Police Department. The subject was identified as 32-year-old Travis McNellis. The subject was taken into custody and booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility on the evading arrest warrant and an additional charge for the unauthorized use of motor vehicles with a total bond of $20,000.
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NEWS RELEASE- Sheriff Oscar Ugarte Urges El Paso County Residents to Celebrate Super Bowl Weekend Responsibly: Don’t Drink and Drive
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EL PASO, TEXAS – February 8, 2025 – As Super Bowl weekend approaches, El Paso County Sheriff Oscar Ugarte reminds residents to celebrate responsibly and avoid drinking and driving. “Super Bowl weekend is a time for friends and family to come together, but it’s also one of the most dangerous weekends for drunk driving,” said Sheriff Ugarte. “If you plan on drinking, plan on a safe way home. Don’t put your life or the lives of others at risk.”
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) carries severe consequences in Texas:
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First Offense: A fine up to $2,000, up to 180 days in jail, and a loss of driver’s license for up to a year.
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Second Offense: A fine up to $4,000, up to one year in jail, and a driver’s license suspension for up to two years.
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Third Offense: A fine up to $10,000, between two and ten years in prison, and a driver’s license suspension for up to two years.
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Intoxicated Manslaughter: A second-degree felony carrying a prison sentence of two to 20 years and a fine up to $10,000.
The EPCSO Patrol Division will be out in full force throughout the weekend, actively looking for impaired drivers. To help prevent DWIs, the District Attorney’s Office is offering $20 Uber vouchers to encourage residents to use a safe, sober ride home instead of risking a DWI arrest. “There’s no excuse for driving drunk when there are safe options available,” Sheriff Ugarte added. “Use a designated driver, rideshare, or public transportation—just don’t get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking.”
Residents are encouraged to report suspected drunk drivers by calling 911. Let’s work together to keep our roads safe.
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Most Wanted Fugitives Week of February 7, 2025
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EL PASO, TEXAS – Crime Stoppers of El Paso, Inc., distributes fugitives wanted by our area law enforcement agencies every week through the Most Wanted feature. The attached fugitives are individuals, where attempts in locating them for one reason or another have been unsuccessful. The agencies submit these fugitives to Crime Stoppers of El Paso, Inc., which distributes them to the news media and offers the use of the Crime Stoppers hotline for information regarding the whereabouts of these fugitives. Anyone with information on the location of any of these fugitives should call Crime Stoppers of El Paso immediately at (915) 566-8477 (TIPS) or submit the information on-line at www.cselpaso.org. You will remain anonymous, and if your tip leads to an arrest, you can qualify for a cash reward. Crime Stoppers of El Paso, Inc., is a non-profit organization that brings together the community, law enforcement, and the media to solve crime. To access the Most Wanted page on the Crime Stoppers Website, please use the following link: https://cselpaso.org/this-weeks-most-wanted
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NEWS RELEASE - MENTORING OUR FUTURE PROGRAM- PRESENTATION AT AMERICAS HIGH SCHOOL
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EL PASO, TEXAS – On February 5, 2024, Detectives from the El Paso County Sheriff's Office East Montana Patrol Station (EMPS) delivered a presentation at Americas High School as part of the "Mentoring Our Future Program." This session was specifically requested by students from the school's criminal justice program. During the presentation, students gained valuable insight into the roles and responsibilities of Detectives within the Sheriff’s Office. The Detectives provided an in-depth explanation of investigative procedures and offered a comprehensive overview of the criminal justice system. Students were walked through the entire process, from the moment a call for service is made by the public, to the report initiated by a Deputy, the subsequent investigation led by Detectives, and the eventual court proceedings. Additionally, EMPS-CITRU Detectives engaged with students by offering guidance, answering questions, sharing personal stories, and creating an approachable and informative atmosphere. They also discussed the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office hiring process and gave students an authentic look into the life of a Sheriff’s Deputy. This initiative is part of an ongoing effort to strengthen community ties, support youth outreach, and provide mentorship to aspiring law enforcement professionals.
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NEWS RELEASE - THEFT OF FIREARM - JUAN MANUEL WILSON
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EL PASO, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 6, 2025 - On January 5th, 2025, Deputies from the Northwest Patrol Station were dispatched to the 8800 Block of De Alva Drive in El Paso County, Texas in reference to information on a Burglary of a Vehicle. Throughout the investigation, it was determined that five vehicles in the area had been burglarized. The Northwest Patrol Station Detective and TRU Team conducted several follow-ups in which they were able to positively identify the subject involved through direct fingerprint comparison, such as 47-year-old Juan Manuel Wilson. Additionally, their follow-ups linked Mr. Wilson to other theft occurrences in the area. Mr. Wilson was located and booked into the El Paso County Downtown Detention Facility on charges that included Theft of a Firearm with a $26,000 Bond and two counts of Theft Under $100.
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NEWS RELEASE - EXPLORER POST 2005 TRAINING - Empowering Women Through Strength: Physical Fitness and Resilience Training for a Brighter Future
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EL PASO, TEXAS – On February 5, 2025, Explorer Post 2005, a youth program aimed at introducing young people to the law enforcement profession, hosted a training session at 12501 Montana. The session featured a series of engaging exercises designed to develop both the physical and professional skills of future law enforcement leaders. The day began with a physical training session focused on helping the explorers progress toward their goal of completing "The Murph" workout in its entirety by Memorial Day (May 26, 2025). The explorers participated in a 30-minute workout, performing as many reps as possible (AMRAP), inspired by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office academy staff. After the physical training, the explorers received instruction on the Penal Code, with a special focus on Assault and Assault Family Violence. Following a presentation led by Explorer mentors, the explorers participated in practical scenarios to test their knowledge, officer safety skills, procedures, and other law enforcement-related functions.
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NEWS RELEASE- MISSION RIDGE AREA- THEFT OF PACKAGES AND CRIMINAL MISCHIEF
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EL PASO, TEXAS – FEBRUARY 6, 2025 - On January 30, 2025, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Montana Patrol Station responded to two separate incidents of Criminal Mischief in the 12700 block of Monmouth Ave. in east El Paso County, Texas. In both cases, a juvenile offender, identified by surveillance footage, was seen throwing rocks at residential windows, causing significant damage. The suspect was described as wearing white tennis shoes, khaki pants, and a black hoodie.
Later that same day, the popular local Instagram account “Therealfitfamelpaso” posted videos showing the same juvenile stealing packages in the same area shortly after the window damage was reported. Following an investigation, it was confirmed that the juvenile involved in both incidents was the same individual.
Through a collaborative effort, including public outreach via “Therealfitfamelpaso” and assistance from the Socorro Independent School District Police Department, the juvenile was positively identified. The 14-year-old suspect was charged with Criminal Mischief in two categories: damage of $2,500 to $30,000 and damage between $100 and $750, in connection with the broken windows.
The juvenile offender was taken into custody by deputies and detectives from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office and referred to the El Paso County Juvenile Probation Department. While the victims of the package thefts have yet to come forward, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone who may have been affected by theft or criminal mischief in the area to report their incidents.
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NEWS RELEASE- MENTORING OUR FUTURE PROGRAM HOSTS LUNCH WITH COPS EVENT AT MOUNTAIN VIEW HIGH SCHOOL
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EL PASO, TEXAS – On January 24, 2024, the El Paso County Sheriff's Office (EPCSO) East Montana Patrol Station (EMPS), in partnership with the Narcotics Unit, hosted a "Lunch with Cops" event as part of the ongoing "Mentoring Our Future" program. The event featured insightful presentations from the EMPS Station Commander, Administrative Sergeant, and K9 Deputy, who highlighted the critical functions and responsibilities of the Narcotics Unit within the Sheriff's Office.
In addition to offering a deeper understanding of law enforcement operations, the guest speakers engaged with students by providing valuable guidance, addressing inquiries, and sharing personal stories from their careers. This interactive session created a supportive atmosphere, encouraging students to explore potential law enforcement careers.
The generous donation of lunch and beverages from EMPS further enriched the event, ensuring all attendees enjoyed a meal while engaging in meaningful conversations. This initiative is integral to the EPCSO's commitment to fostering stronger community ties, advancing youth outreach, and nurturing the next generation of law enforcement professionals.
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NEWS RELEASE- Dave's Hot Chicken Grand Opening in West El Paso Marks a Celebration of Community Support and Partnership
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EL PASO, TEXAS – On January 24, 2025, Deputies from the El Paso County Sheriff's Office Community Service Division and the Northwest Patrol Station attended the Daves Hot Chicken Grand Opening event in the upper valley, showing their support for the restaurant's westside debut. In a special moment during the celebration, the Sheriff's Office presented Dave's Hot Chicken with an award recognizing the restaurant's generous sponsorship of the 2024 Zombie Fun Run and Fall Festival.
The award highlighted Dave's Hot Chicken's dedication to the El Paso community and expressed sincere gratitude for the restaurant's significant contribution to the event's success. The Sheriff's Office praised Dave's Hot Chicken for its unwavering support, emphasizing the restaurant's positive impact in fostering a spirit of collaboration and corporate social responsibility. The award also underscored the importance of partnerships like these in helping to create memorable community experiences.
"We are incredibly grateful for this recognition from the El Paso County Sheriff's Office," said Jorge Frausto, owner of Dave's Hot Chicken. "It's an honor to contribute to events like the Zombie Fun Run and Fall Festival, and we are excited to continue supporting our community in meaningful ways. This partnership is just the beginning, and we look forward to what's ahead."
CLICK ON LINK BELOW FOR VIDEO
https://epsheriff.smugmug.com/2025-FILES/Daves-Hot-Chicken/i-Z5znDnD/A
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NEWS RELEASE- COFFEE WITH A DEPUTY – JANUARY 31, 2025
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EL PASO, TEXAS – El Paso County Sheriff Oscar Ugarte and Sheriff’s Office Deputies hosted a "Coffee with a Deputy" event at Whataburger, located at 13391 Gateway Blvd. W., El Paso, Texas 79928. This initiative aims to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community by providing an open and informal setting for conversation. The "Coffee with a Deputy" event fosters meaningful discussions between citizens and law enforcement, allowing residents to voice concerns, ask questions, and learn more about the role of the Sheriff's Office. Moving forward, this event will be held quarterly, reinforcing the commitment to building trust and enhancing community engagement.
During the event, Sheriff Ugarte and Deputies connected with community members, addressed their concerns, and distributed “Lock it or Lose it” and “Illegal Dumping” flyers, offering valuable tips on vehicle burglary prevention and reporting illegal dumping. Additionally, citizens were encouraged to provide feedback by completing a Citizen Survey regarding the Sheriff’s Office’s performance. The survey can also be completed online at www.epcounty.com/sheriff and submitted via email to epsheriff@epcounty.com.
The event was met with positive feedback, as attendees expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to engage with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office in a welcoming environment.
The El Paso County Sheriff's Office extends its gratitude to Whataburger for their partnership and support in making this event possible. Their generosity and commitment to community engagement play a vital role in strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the citizens of El Paso County. For more information on future "Coffee with a Deputy" events, follow the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office on social media (@epsheriff) or visit www.epcounty.com/sheriff.
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NEWS RELEASE - EXPLORER POST TRAINING - HISTORY OF POLICING
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EL PASO, TEXAS – On January 27, 2025 – Explorer Post 2005, a youth program designed to introduce young people to the law enforcement profession, hosted a training session at 12501 Montana. The training featured engaging exercises to develop physical and professional skills in future law enforcement leaders. The day kicked off with a rigorous physical fitness challenge, where the Explorers worked toward completing "The Murph" workout by Memorial Day 2025. This workout, known for its intensity, consists of a mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 air squats, and another mile run. Explorers pushed through the challenge as part of their training to improve endurance, strength, and resilience. Following the physical training, the Explorers attended a presentation on the History of Policing, emphasizing law enforcement practices' evolution. The session highlighted key milestones such as the civil rights movement, the introduction of fingerprinting, advances in DNA analysis, and the development of modern law enforcement databases. This lesson was designed to give the young explorers a deeper understanding of how policing has evolved and how these changes could affect their future careers. The day's final segment involved practical training in burglary of building scenarios. The Explorers were given a hands-on demonstration of safe clearing procedures and contact-cover techniques, which are vital skills in law enforcement operations. Participants practiced these techniques to enhance their tactical awareness and teamwork under pressure. Explorer Post 2005 continues to provide young individuals with valuable training experiences that foster leadership, discipline, and a deeper understanding of the law enforcement profession. The group looks forward to completing their fitness goals and more training opportunities in the coming months. For more information about Explorer Post 2005 or upcoming events, please contact Sgt. Eric E Vela at Evela@epcounty.com
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NEWS RELEASE- EL PASO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE EXPLORER POST #2005 ENHANCES LAW ENFORCEMENT SKILLS THROUGH CRITICAL INCIDENT SIMULATION
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EL PASO, TEXAS – On January 15, 2025, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Post #2005 participated in a critical incident simulation to enhance their understanding of law enforcement principles and practices. This event provided an invaluable opportunity for the Explorers to engage with vital topics such as officer safety, de-escalation techniques, and the use of force continuum. The simulation was thoughtfully designed to replicate real-life scenarios that officers may encounter, allowing the Explorers to gain practical insights into the challenges law enforcement professionals face daily. As they stepped into the role of officers, the Explorers learned to analyze threats, evaluate their responses, and make informed decisions under pressure—skills that are essential for anyone considering a career in law enforcement. To prepare for this immersive experience, the Explorers underwent a physical assessment that simulated the stress and adrenaline of real-life encounters. This preparation was crucial, as it not only helped them understand the physical demands of policing but also underscored the importance of mental resilience and composure in high-pressure situations. Experiencing these scenarios firsthand taught them how to manage stress effectively and maintain control during critical moments. Throughout the simulation, experienced law enforcement officers provided mentorship and constructive feedback, reinforcing the importance of communication, situational awareness, and strategic thinking. By emphasizing these key skills, the training fostered a deeper understanding of how crucial teamwork and transparent decision-making are to successful policing. Ultimately, The simulation proved to be more than just training; it was a constructive learning experience that prepared them to navigate the complexities of real-world policing effectively.
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NEWS RELEASE- ARREST IN POSSESSION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CASE
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EL PASO, TEXAS – On December 13, 2024, Deputies from the El Paso County Sheriff's Office responded to the El Paso Multi-Use Facility located at 1650 Horizon Blvd, regarding a report of Possession of Child Pornography. Deputies met with the reporting party, who advised a subject had been found in possession of explicit images on his cellphone.
The case was then transferred to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit for further investigation. Through their efforts, Detectives determined that the subject was in possession of over 50 illicit images. Based on these findings, Major Crimes Unit Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for 31-year-old Stephen Roder.
On January 14, 2025, The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Apprehension Unit booked Stephen Roder into the El Paso County Detention Facility for Possession of Child Pornography >= Depict or Video with a $100,000 bond.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is dedicated to investigating and addressing crimes involving the exploitation of children. This investigation is ongoing, and no further details will be available at this time.
