Several notable incidents involving the California Highway Patrol over the past couple of weeks have included a CHP dispatcher honored at a 9-1-1 For Kids Heroes Awards Ceremony, a North Sacramento officer recognized for saving a driver from a burning vehicle, and a number of traffic stops leading to arrests, with guns and drugs seized.
Heroes Ceremony
On March 11, Golden Gate Communication Center Public Safety Dispatcher Sarah Critchley received a 9-1-1 call from a distressed teenager during a domestic violence incident. Recognizing the urgency, Critchley adapted her approach to earn the teen’s trust, acknowledging his trauma as he reported his father assaulting his mother. She used closed-ended questions to gather crucial information and employed the “Rapid Deploy” geo-locating system to track their location. After guiding the teen to activate the car’s hazard lights, CHP officers located the vehicle quickly. The situation ended safely, with the father detained and medical assistance provided to the mother. Critchley’s attentive communication was vital in ensuring the well-being of all involved, leading to a resolution with minimal harm. Due to Dispatcher Critchley’s heroic actions, she was recognized with a Local Hero award.
The CHP is actively hiring Public Safety Dispatchers to join its staff at communication centers across the state. They’re looking for calm, focused individuals who can handle high-pressure situations and want to make a real impact. If you’re ready for a rewarding career with purpose, apply now on the CHP website and “Be the Voice” that helps save lives.
Officer Saves Driver
During National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 21-25, the CHP reminded the public to reduce speed, remain vigilant, and “move over” when approaching construction zones. These areas are workspaces and environments where workers’ lives are at stake daily.
Recently, in a construction zone, North Sacramento Area’s Officer Andrews exemplified extraordinary bravery by putting himself in harm’s way to save another individual’s life. A crash had occurred near the work zone he was assigned to, and without hesitation, he approached the vehicle that was on fire, forced entry, and swiftly worked to extinguish the flames mere seconds before they could reach the passenger compartment. His heroic actions saved a life and averted what could have been a tragic incident.
Firearm, Drugs Seized
A Merced CHP officer stopped a vehicle on April 15 as the vehicle was traveling southbound on SR-99 near Applegate Road due to a traffic violation. During the stop, the driver and passenger exhibited extreme nervousness and provided conflicting stories regarding their travel history. Based on these observations and the officer’s training and experience, a request for consent to search the vehicle was made, which was subsequently denied. A K9 unit from the CHP Central Division was requested. K9 “Shei” arrived to assist. Shei alerted to the presence of narcotics, establishing probable cause for a vehicle search. During the search, officers discovered approximately 20 pounds of suspected methamphetamine and an unregistered handgun. Both occupants were arrested and transported to the area office, where task force members assisted with the investigation.
Traffic Stop Arrest
On April 16, the Oroville CHP conducted a traffic stop on a speeding black Kia Optima. The driver had a suspended license from a prior DUI and was on probation for the same offense. After a DUI evaluation, officers confirmed the driver was under the influence of alcohol. A search of the Kia was completed, where officers discovered two loaded pistols in the center console, one polymer “ghost gun,” and an additional pistol that had been reported stolen. Further investigation revealed several types of illicit drugs, including methamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA (ecstasy), fentanyl, mushrooms, concentrated cannabis, and miscellaneous prescription medications. Also located were multiple digital scales and various packaging used for illicit drug sales. The driver was arrested for DUI, drug possession with intent to sell, and numerous firearm offenses.
Live Military Explosive
In late April, officers from the CHP Valley Division K9 Unit recovered a stolen vehicle, but what they discovered inside was remarkably unusual: a live military explosive.
This military-grade munition, a 60mm mortar, was not under military control and had been modified, rendering it even more hazardous. The CHP Bomb Squad responded swiftly and collaborated with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team from Beale Air Force Base to safely neutralize the device.
This incident underscores the unpredictable nature of law enforcement and exemplifies the exceptional teamwork among agencies dedicated to ensuring the safety of communities across the state.
