Winco Robbery
On Thursday, February 28 at about 7:35PM, Hemet Police Officer M. Gomez responded to 4602 W Florida Avenue (Winco Foods) regarding a shoplifting incident. Officer Gomez’s investigation revealed the suspect, later identified as Salvador Barnes, entered the store with a small child and selected merchandise. Barnes exited the store without attempting to purchase the concealed merchandise. Winco Loss Prevention contacted Barnes outside the store. Barnes fought with loss prevention then said and gestured he had a gun. Loss Prevention immediately backed-off, fearing Barnes would shoot them. Barnes fled, but left an article of mail that listed a local address.
Officer Gomez checked the area listed on the mail. As Officer Gomez walked about the 1900 block of E Devonshire Avenue, he observed the small child and Barnes inside the specific address listed on the mail. Another officer responded to assist Officer Gomez. Upon knocking on the door of the residence, Barnes fled out the back door. Barnes was taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit.
Salvador Barnes, 31 years of Altadena, was arrested for robbery and an active AB109 warrant for absconding Los Angeles County Probation. The Hemet San Jacinto Gang Task Force identified Barnes as a gang member. Barnes was transported to Riverside County Jail for robbery, a post community release revocation warrant, and participation in a criminal street gang. Barnes was held without bail.