This past week, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) made headlines with several notable incidents, including a freeway memorial dedication ceremony for a fallen officer, a CHP K-9 locating $227,000 worth of methamphetamine, officers arresting suspects in an illegal street takeover, a “pick-up” day for a new class at the CHP Academy, and a Grumpy Cat lookalike being rescued after running on the freeway.
Memorial Dedication
On December 2, the CHP hosted a Freeway Memorial Dedication Ceremony at the Highlands Church in Palmdale in honor of Officer Andy Ornelas. Officer Ornelas was riding his departmental motorcycle when he was involved in a crash on November 23, 2020. Despite life-saving efforts by medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries on December 2, 2020. Located along State Route 14 near Avenue M, this stretch of highway now stands as a reminder of Officer Ornelas’s ultimate sacrifice.
Methamphetamine Seized
A Coastal Division K-9 Team conducted a traffic stop on a pickup for speeding on US-101 near King City. During the recent traffic stop, the canine handler observed indicators of criminal activity. The officer’s K-9 partner was deployed and alerted to the presence of drugs at one of the doors of the vehicle. The K-9 handler subsequently searched the vehicle. During the search, approximately 25 pounds of bulk-packaged methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of $227,000, was located in the passenger compartment of the truck. The driver of the vehicle was taken into custody for possession of methamphetamine for transportation and sales.
Illegal Street Takeover
During the weekend following Thanksgiving, a driver of a stolen, red Dodge Challenger was observed participating in an illegal street takeover within an unincorporated portion of Los Angeles County. CHP South Los Angeles Area officers, with the assistance of CHP Air Operations, responded to the area to disperse the illegal activity. The driver of the Challenger failed to yield, and a pursuit ensued. The driver later abandoned the Challenger on surface streets and was assisted by the driver of a Prius. Both were later located and taken into custody.
Academy Class Welcomed
On December 2, the CHP welcomed 160 new cadets to the Academy as they began training to become officers. Known as “pick-up day,” it is the cadets’ first encounter with the CHP Academy’s recruit training officers, who will help guide them during their 26 weeks of training. All CHP cadets undergo the same intensive training covering academics, exercise, high-speed driving and self-discipline to prepare cadets for a career of service. During this time, cadets form connections, learn from each other and build a foundation for long-lasting friendships through these shared experiences.
Rescue Of “Grumpy Cat”
Officers from CHP Hayward responded to a unique call recently that deviated from the conventional traffic stop. An agitated cat, remarkably reminiscent of popular culture’s Grumpy Cat, was observed recklessly navigating through heavy traffic on Interstate 880 at Lewelling Boulevard, seemingly oblivious to vehicular rules and regulations. Exhibiting prompt action, CHP officers effectively managed the traffic flow while ensuring the safe retrieval of the disoriented cat from a potentially hazardous situation. Lookalike Grumpy Cat is being fostered by an officer until they are able to find her a permanent home.
