Crime & Safety

Documented Gang Member is Accused of Injuring Officer

Manuel John Sanchez, 34, a documented Colton gang member, is in custody on suspicion of burglary and assault with a deadly weapon

A Colton man believed to be a gang member has been arrested after police say he caused a collision that sent a Redlands Police officer to the hospital.

Manuel John Sanchez, 34, a documented Colton gang member is in custody on suspicion of burglary, assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a stolen vehicle and in connection with various parole violations, police said.

Sanchez was reportedly spotted about 3:45 a.m. March 14 breaking into vehicles 600 block of Bradbury Drive. Neighbors reported the break-ins.

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As police responded, one officer saw a suspicious Chevrolet S-10 pickup pass him on Crestview Road. Before the officer could turn around, the driver jumped from the moving vehicle and ran, said Carl Baker, public information officer for Redlands.

The pickup continued to travel on Crestview toward Ford Street striking a patrol car as it arrived at the intersection.

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“The officer had a complaint of pain and was taken to the hospital for treatment,” Baker said. “He’s been released.”

Sanchez was able to escape that night and the truck he abandoned had been reported stolen from Grand Terrace, authorities said. In the vehicle officers said they found stolen property from at least two vehicles burglaries in the neighborhood.

Using countywide data from various law enforcement agencies, courts, the District Attorney’s Office, and county probation, detectives identified Sanchez, 34, as a suspect, Baker said.

Sanchez, has also failed to check in with his parole officer, in Colton, officials said.

Redlands Police officers have noticed an increase in vehicle burglaries recently in which owners are leaving items in their vehicles. Residents are advised not to leave any items in their vehicles. 


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