Category: kesq-local-news

Shay Lawson

RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif. (KESQ)  – A licensed therapist said she will visit Palm Valley School to support students following allegations that a third grade teacher and coach molested a teenager for over two years.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Stephen Spurlock, 43, was taken into custody for allegedly molesting a teenager for over two years. Investigators say the victim was just 14 when the alleged molestation began.

Spurlock is now facing several serious charges, including sodomy, lewd acts with a child and continuous sexual abuse.

School officials tell News Channel 3 the incident did not involve a Palm Valley student, and did not happen on campus.

Still, the school is planning on supporting students by bringing in Araceli Martinez, License Marriage & Family Therapist, Clinical Programs and Outreach Director with Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center. 

“We also focus on educating children about safety,” Martinez said. “Also providing the staff and parents with the same support and equipping them with the knowledge and education to answer any questions students may have about this identified situation.”

Tonight at 10 and 11, News Channel 3 is digging into how students rebuild trust in faculty — and the warning signs parents should watch for.

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City News Service

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (KESQ) – Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco tomorrow will request the Board of Supervisors’ authorization to hike the blanket rate charged to 16 cities and other contract entities for the use of patrol deputies and support services associated with operations.

The sheriff is seeking a 7% increase in the base hourly rate charged for the use of patrol personnel. The augmentation, which officials said is needed to recoup higher costs incurred by the department, would be retroactive to July 1, 2024.

Under the revised rate schedule, the cost of a sheriff’s patrol deputy would rise from $214.47 per hour to $229.55 per hour.   

“Each year, the Sheriff’s Department does an analysis of just its patrol operations and determines real costs effectively through its sheer size,” according to an agency statement posted to the board’s agenda. “The fully supported contract law enforcement rates include the entire systemic costs involving the running of the department.”  

Last year’s hike was about 2.5%, driven in part by greater “pension obligations and salary increases” obtained by the Riverside Sheriffs Association for the several thousand deputies it represents, and the costs of increased pensions and salary hikes for executive-level personnel represented by the Law Enforcement Management Unit.

In 2015, a similar 7% hike prompted an outcry from elected and non- elected officials in Indian Wells, Lake Elsinore, Moreno Valley, Palm Desert and Temecula, who challenged the justification for such a significant upward adjustment. They protested that law enforcement expenses were draining their budgets and needed to be capped.   

The objections led to a two-year assessment of sheriff’s operations conducted by Netherlands-based professional services firm KPMG, at a cost of nearly $40 million. After the company’s audit and recommendations, some sheriff’s management practices were changed, and adjustments were made to deputies’ schedules and assignments at several stations to save money.   

However, the KPMG work was criticized by the county Grand Jury and other sources, including then-Supervisor Kevin Jeffries, as excessively expensive with very limited results.  

The city of Menifee in 2020 abrogated its contract with the county for law enforcement and formed a stand-alone police department.   

Cities receive the benefit of helicopter patrols, robbery and homicide investigations, SWAT unit and bomb squad responses without having to foot the bills individually. Contracting entities are further spared the direct cost of lawsuits stemming from the actions of sheriff’s personnel, according to the agency.  

In addition to the proposal to hike patrol deputy rates, the board will also consider whether to support the sheriff’s request that the 16 municipalities under contract with the county for law enforcement services, along with two Native American tribes and three community services districts, be required to pay higher or lower sums for the sheriff’s use of facilities dedicated to servicing them.

Officials said heftier bills generally stem from county Department of Facilities Management costs to maintain stations, including lights, waterworks, landscaping and custodial operations. The sheriff initially carries the expenses, then passes them on to the contracting parties, each of which is invoiced in proportion to how much it consumes.   

The largest percentage increase in facilities costs this year would be borne by Moreno Valley, which is facing a $156,652 bill, compared to $130,198 the previous fiscal year — a roughly 20% jump.

Perris would bear the highest facilities charge in dollars and cents: $625,627. That’s a 5.3% increase from the previous fiscal year, when the city paid $593,642.

Other cities — Calimesa, Norco and Rancho Mirage — are slated to net savings in facilities charges for the current fiscal year, according to sheriff’s documents.

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City News Service

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Palm Springs International Airport will add nonstop service from Palm Springs to Austin, Texas, starting in November, airport officials announced today.

The Saturday-only Delta Air Lines flight will run from Nov. 8 through April 25, 2026, and operate on an Embraer E175 aircraft with first class, Comfort Plus and main cabin seating, officials said.

Flights will depart Austin at 10:15 a.m., arriving in Palm Springs at 11:22 a.m., with return service leaving at 12:07 p.m. and arriving in Austin at 5:07 p.m.

“Delta continues to show its confidence in the Palm Springs market, and we’re glad to see them deepen their commitment to our destination,” Harry Barrett Jr., executive director of aviation, said in a statement. “This new service to Austin builds on a solid foundation of demand, and we’re pleased to see Delta step in to bring it back.”

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Jesus Reyes

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, Calif. (KESQ) – The man convicted of starting a fire near Cabazon that killed five firefighters will remain on death row, after the California Supreme Court ruling published Monday found no validity to his arguments challenging procedural and other aspects of his trial.

Raymond Lee Oyler, 54, of Beaumont, was sentenced to death for starting the Esparanza Fire in October 2006. He was convicted of five counts of first-degree murder, 19 counts of arson and 16 counts of possessing incendiary devices.

The California Supreme Court conducted the automatic appeal of the 2009 sentence, with a majority of the Justices upholding the sentence on Monday.

“We conclude that the cumulative effect of these assumed errors does not warrant a reversal (of the death sentence),” according to the unanimous seven-judge decision. “We conclude the defendant is not entitled to relief on appeal.”

Oyler’s appeal focused on virtually every facet of his trial, challenging the fact he was not granted a change of venue due to publicity potentially prejudicing proceedings locally, the fact his trial judge was switched less than a year before the case went to a jury, the nature of prospective jurors’ responses to questionnaires, the qualifications of his lead attorney, inadequate evaluation of defense evidence and the prosecution’s use of autopsy photos.

“We find the evidence sufficient to support all of the defendant’s convictions,” the Supreme Court stated in its 162-page decision.

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The Esparanza Fire was ignited near the intersection of Esperanza Avenue and Almond Way, just south of Cabazon, in the middle of the night, during a Santa Ana windstorm. The fire spread the mountain communities of Poppet Flats, Silent Valley and Twin Pines, ultimately burning 41,173 acres, destroying 45 homes and structures. The fire also damaged a highway before it was stopped four days later. The cost of firefighting and property destruction totaled roughly $100 million.

Five firefighters were killed five firefighters who were defending a home near Twin Pines., U.S. Forest Service Capt. Mark Allen Loutzenhiser, 43, and firefighters Pablo Cerda, 24, Jason Robert McKay, 27, Jess Edward McLean, 27, and Daniel Hoover-Najera, 20.

Along with Esperanza, Oyler had lit at least two dozen other blazes from May to October 2006. However, none of those resulted in significant property damage

The man who prosecuted Oyler, now-District Attorney Mike Hestrin, described him at the time as “obsessed with fire and a fascination with starting a fire and watching it burn.”

“The enormous loss of what happened is something I carry with me,” Hestrin told City News Service on the 15th anniversary of the blaze. “It was a tough case for the community and the families involved. Those five lives were cut short. I still think about the fact that those firemen went up into that inferno, and everybody else was going down to get away. It’s such a symbol of how they were protectors.”  

Testimony showed Oyler had developed a technique of creating so-called “layover” incendiary devices, binding stick and paper matches together with rubber bands, affixing debris to them, then flinging them into brushy places to trigger fires.

Hestrin said Oyler wanted to “see that mountain burn” when he lit the Esperanza blaze.  

“You can go back and find the incendiary device left there by Ray Oyler, and it leads to the death of those men — directly,” Hestin told jurors.

As of April, Oyler was one of 588 inmates on Death Row at San Quentin State Prison.

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Luis Avila

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) – A recent robbery rattling people on El Paseo. Last Thursday, deputies were dispatched to the area of El Paseo and Larkspur Lane regarding a grand theft. Upon arrival, deputies learned multiple suspects had entered a business and fled the area with merchandise. The suspects remain at large and the investigation is ongoing.

Following this incident, neighboring business owners are staying alert but not alarmed.

“It’s very shocking to hear things like that because we actually feel very secure here and we do have a police presence.”

Kathe Reischman, Tommy Bahama design consultant

This latest incident representing a pattern of robberies along this popular shopping spot. But business owners say law enforcement has been actively working to change this.

“They do drive by every day and even come in to visit. They check up on us.”

Anne Donahue, Tommy Bahama design consultant

Business owners say officers are stationing along the street and patrolling throughout the say. Officers are also checking-in with businesses and have given owners a direct number to call and report anything.

Despite seeing positive results, some are saying officials can do more.

“I just think having the presence, maybe having more presence where they’re walking around more or maybe there’s certain days that they check in with us might help.”

Marisa Rivera, Skin Lab manager

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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Tori King

COACHELLA, Calif. (KESQ)– Today is Cinco De Mayo, a day that commemorates Mexico’s victory over the French army in 1862. It’s also a day that celebrates Mexican food, tradition, and culture. Several Latino-owned businesses say they see an uptick in customers today, wanting to support their store.

“Although it’s Monday, it will get crazy in a few more hours.,” said Miguel Molina, a Co-owner of Casa Luna Mexican & Seafood restaurant. “I’ve been getting a lot of phone calls, reservations. Everybody wants to make a reservation because they know it’s going to be busy tonight.”

Jose Delatorre says they look forward to the rush every year because they get to introduce people to authentic Mexican flavors, made by recipes that have been passed along through generations.

“We come from Guadalajara, and that’s our food,” said Jose, also known as ‘Pepe’. “But we also have some recipes from Puebla. We have the Chile Nogara is one of our signatures items.” Although Cinco de Mayo is an isn’t traditionally celebrated widely across Mexico, many owners say they’re happy to use the day to educate customers on Mexican culture and traditions.

“As Mexicans, we must take that upon ourselves to have the opportunity to show Americans that Mexico has a lot of great things,” said Molina. “Great culture, great food.”

Another local group agrees. Escaramuzas Charras, an all-female equestrian group also spent the morning with seniors at the Caleo Bay Memory Care and Assisted Living Center in La Quinta. The group treated seniors to special traditional Mexican dances like Foclorico. They also performed a synchronized equestrian routine, sharing their rich traditions, while also providing some relief and company to folks living at the home.And over in Coachella, Absolute Dollar, a Latino-owned dollar store, hosted a Cinco de Mayo party and giveaway for its customers.

“Today we’re giving out free tacos to the first 200 people,” said Gladys, the store’s general manager. “We’re also raffling off a Stanley cup, a small grill, and a cleaning basket.” In addition to the free tacos was drinks, music and fun for the entire family. Absolute Dollar is also having a fundraiser in partnership with the Coachella Valley Youth Soccer Academy on May 18th. The entire store will be 10% off and they will be raffling off a 55 inch TV to customers. All of the proceeds will go to a local food bank.

All of the business owners that News Channel Three spoke with say they are proud represent the Latino community, and that they get to share it by celebrating Cinco de Mayo with the Coachella Valley.

“Cinco de Mayo is for everybody,” said Molina. “All Americans. It gives them the opportunity to learn a little bit more of what Mexico is all about. It’s not just, you know, drinking and sombreros. It’s deeper than that.”

Several Cinco de Mayo celebrations are taking place across the Coachella Valley on Monday.

Here are some of the events that are happening:

The healing power of animal therapy takes center stage this Cinco de Mayo at Caleo Bay Memory Care and Assisted Living located at 47805 Caleo Bay Drive in La Quinta, where seniors living with Alzheimer’s and dementia will experience the joy, stimulation and emotional connection that only animals and community can bring. Residents and guests of Caleo Bay will be treated to a stunning and culturally rich performance by the Escaramuzas Charras, a traditional all-female Mexican equestrian team that is part of Mexico’s national sport. Dressed in elaborate traditional attire, the riders will perform synchronized, high-speed routines that are as emotionally moving as they are visually breathtaking. This celebration goes deeper than spectacle because it’s rooted in care and connection. The event offers a unique therapeutic experience. Animal-assisted activities, particularly involving horses, have been shown to reduce anxiety, improve mood and promote memory recall, offering a powerful emotional boost to both residents and their loved ones. In addition to the special performance, guests will be treated to a wonderful Cinco de Mayo fiesta spread complete with Esquites (corn in a cup), Jarritos (non-alcoholic drinks), ice cream Mexican Paletas, and a Churros Bar.

Absolute Dollar, your local family-owned discount store in the Coachella Valley, will be hosting a Block Party on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at 50249 Harrison St. Coachella, CA. There will be free tacos, refreshing drinks, fun, music, and community vibes

News Channel 3’s Tori King will be speaking with businesses about how Cinco De Mayo can bring an economic boost to Latino owned businesses.

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Jesus Reyes

Update 5/5/25

A second show has been added at Acrisure Arena due to popular demand.

blink-182 will now close out their “Missionary Impossible Tour” on Oct. 4 and Oct. 5 at Acrisure Arena in the Greater Palm Springs area.

Tickets for the October 5 show go on sale Friday, May 9 at 10am local at Ticketmaster.com.

Original Report:

COACHELLA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) – The legendary blink-182 is coming to Acrisure Arena in the Greater Palm Springs area later this year.

The multi-platinum, award-winning band is set to perform at Acrisure Arena on Saturday, October 4.

Mark Hoppus, Tom DeLonge, and Travis Barker’s Missionary Impossible Tour follows the release of their latest album One More Time …, the first album in over a decade with the original trio back in the studio.

Organizers said the upcoming shows will lean into blink-182’s punk roots, with a setlist packed with classics spanning their entire catalog. Special guests Alkaline Trio will join on all dates.

Tickets go on sale starting Friday, April 11 at 10am local time on ticketmaster.com.

PRESALE: Citi is the official card of the Missionary Impossible Tour. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets beginning Tuesday, April 8 at 12pm ET until Thursday, April 10 at 1pm local time through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com.

VIP:  The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, invitation to the pre-show hospitality lounge, specially designed merch item & more. VIP package contents vary based on the offer selected. For more information, visit vipnation.com.

BLINK-182: MISSIONARY IMPOSSIBLE 2025 TOUR DATES:

*With Support from Alkaline Trio^Festival Performance

Aug 28 – Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live*

Aug 29 – Tampa, FL – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre*

Sep 1 – Charleston, SC – Credit One Stadium*

Sep 3 – Raleigh, NC – Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek*

Sep 4 – Virginia Beach, VA – Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach*

Sep 6 – Bethel, NY – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts*

Sep 7 – Saratoga Springs, NY – Broadview Stage at SPAC*

Sep 9 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion*

Sep 11 – Buffalo, NY – Darien Lake Amphitheater*

Sep 13 – Pittsburgh, PA – Four Chord Music Festival^

Sep 14 – Ashbury Park, NJ – Sea Hear Now^

Sep 16 – Cincinnati, OH – Riverbend Music Center*

Sep 17 – Noblesville, IN – Ruoff Music Center*

Sep 21 – Atlanta, GA – Shaky Knees^

Sep 22 – Huntsville, AL – The Orion Amphitheater*

Sep 24 – Rogers, AR – Walmart AMP*

Sep 26 – St. Louis, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheater*

Sep 27 – Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center*

Oct 2 – Sacramento, CA – Aftershock Festival^

Oct 4 – Greater Palm Springs, CA – Acrisure Arena*

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Gavin Nguyen

THOUSAND PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) – Drought conditions are an area of concern for many Californians as we begin our transition to the hot and dry summer months.

Rain over the weekend was a late-season treat for the Coachella Valley, though rainfall totals weren’t anything impressive for most of the valley.

Palm Springs saw just over a tenth of an inch. South Palm Desert was the wettest spot in the valley and clocked in just under half an inch. Our friends to the west, in Banning, saw the highest rainfall totals in our immediate area at around 1.51″ of rain.

NWS Weather & Hazards Data Viewer

According to drought monitoring data from the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), over half of California’s population – over 22 million people – is in a drought area.

This data is updated weekly, so any changes from this weekend’s rain event has not yet been reflected.

News Channel 3 is speaking with forecasters about how this rain affected drought conditions – if at all – in our region. Stay with us for the latest.

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Allie Anthony

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) — Today marks Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Awareness Day, an observance drawing attention to the ongoing crisis of violence against Native communities.

Monday morning, a group of tribal members, local leaders, and community allies gathered in downtown Palm Springs at The Center for a march aimed at raising awareness and demanding change.

The event called for justice, reform, and recognition of the thousands of Indigenous people who have gone missing or been murdered.

Many of those missing and murdered are lost to the shadows of underreporting and systemic neglect. Organizers hope today’s march will highlight the urgent need for stronger legal protections, improved data collection, and increased resources for families still seeking answers.

The crisis is deeply rooted in disturbing statistics. According to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, 5,712 Indigenous women and girls were reported missing in 2016 alone, yet only 116 of those cases were logged in federal databases. Indigenous women face violence at 1.7 times the rate of white women, and homicide is the third leading cause of death for Native women. Native American women are murdered at nearly ten times the national average, according to the California Courts Newsroom.

Stay with News Channel 3 to hear from event organizers about how they are raising awareness and calling for change.

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Athena Jreij

RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif. (KESQ) — “He was a top cop writer,” that’s how Dee Wambaugh describes her husband, Joseph Wambaugh, the late author often hailed as the inventor of true crime.

Dee and his son David, sat down with News Channel 3’s Athena Jreij two months after his passing from esophogeal cancer.

“His character was, so strong and devoted and gave love, unconditional love,” David said.

Wambaugh’s work spanned nearly 40 years, drawing from his own experience as a homicide detective with the Los Angeles Police Department. As he led the way in true crime, he also humanized those in the profession.

His third novel, The Onion Field, a nonfiction retelling of two LAPD cops kidnapped and taken to Bakersfield, would catapult the Wambaugh’s to new heights.

“He became kind of a celebrity. And he couldn’t do his police work anymore. People would want his autograph instead,” Dee said.

It was that story and its eventual film adaption that pushed Joseph to become a full-time author.

Twenty-one novels, 12 screenplays, and several Johnny Carson interviews later, David jokes the trick to a new book? Moving cities.

“My dad would have these these creative ideas. Only one book for one house.”

Despite the legacy, his family says they question if all of Wambaugh’s success would have been possible in today’s modern age where cultures and opinions around policing are changing.

“The culture of cops being human and being of service to society and cleaning the bad guys away to protect people like us is gone. Now, they’re scrutinized and they’re judged and they’re persecuted and not seen as human beings,” David said.

Now, as the world changes, they hope Joseph’s legacy will continue inspiring others.

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