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Hemet, CA 92543

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Community News

Hemet Police Arrest Two Suspects in Citywide Graffiti Case

Hemet Police Arrest Two Suspects in Citywide Graffiti Case

The Hemet Police Department has successfully apprehended two suspects linked to a series of graffiti vandalism incidents that have plagued local businesses and public property over the past several weeks. On March 11, 2025, while conducting encampment enforcement along Florida Avenue, detectives from the AERO (Active Engagement Response and Outreach for our Community) Team obtained critical information regarding individuals responsible for the widespread “LMN” graffiti appearing throughout the city. The investigation led detectives to a local hotel, where they contacted the primary adult suspect.
During their contact, detectives discovered a significant amount of evidence directly linking him to the ongoing graffiti vandalism. Additionally, detectives seized 22.12 grams of methamphetamine and 1.84 grams of fentanyl, along with other evidence indicating narcotic sales. Initial estimates for damages caused by the tagging spree exceed $4,000 in just the past few weeks.

Hemet Police Arrest Two Suspects in Citywide Graffiti Case

Message from the Chief of Police, Hemet Police Department

As your Chief of Police for the Hemet Police Department, I want to take this opportunity to reaffirm our unwavering support for the rights of freedom of speech and the right to assemble peacefully. These rights are fundamental to our democracy and are entitled to every one of us in this great country. We encourage individuals and groups to express their views and opinions.

Hemet Police Arrest Two Suspects in Citywide Graffiti Case

HPD Supports BOYZ Summit Leadership program

On January 22, 2025, members of the Hemet Police Department had the honor of attending Rancho Viejo Middle School’s “BOYZ Summit Leadership Program” event. This exciting initiative, launched by the school’s counselors, was created to support approximately 100 at-promise male students and help them develop vital leadership skills.

Hemet Police Arrest Two Suspects in Citywide Graffiti Case

OPERATION HOLIDAY CHEER

On Tuesday and Wednesday, December 17th and 18th, over 40 law enforcement agencies from San Bernardino, Riverside, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara counties will take part in the fourth annual Operation Holiday Cheer. More than 100 peace officers, including Santa Claus, will embark on a 475-mile trek to drive by every hospital in the region, spreading holiday cheer and showing appreciation for doctors, nurses, and hospital staff who work tirelessly through the holidays to care for others.

Hemet Police Arrest Two Suspects in Citywide Graffiti Case

first annual autism acceptance and resource fair

Join us in our first ever Autism Acceptance and Resource Fair on Saturday, April 27th from 1:00PM-5:00PM at 200 N. Harvard Street (rear of the Hemet Public Library). This is a free-community event in support of Autism Acceptance, and helping the community find local resources. This event will include demonstrations, sensory activities, crafts, vendors, resources and prizes.

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

In its efforts to prevent distracted driving and save lives on our roads, the Hemet Police Department is reminding all drivers to stay focused, keep their eyes forward, and keep their hands on the wheel. Whether checking a phone, eating, or adjusting the radio, distractions can have devastating consequences.

homicide investigation

Hemet, California – On Friday, March 21, 2025, at about 2:27 am, Hemet Fire responded to the 300 block of E. Florida Avenue, Hemet in regards to an unconscious male in the parking lot.  The male subject was transported to a local trauma center for further treatment.    

At 4:02 hours, Hemet Police dispatch received a call from the hospital stating the male subject sustained major trauma to his head.  Hemet Police Department’s Investigations Bureau was notified and assumed the investigation.  Detectives determined that the victim was assaulted and left unconscious before the call for medical assistance was made.

Despite lifesaving efforts, on Monday, March 24, 2025, the victim succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the hospital.  The victim’s name is not being released at this time.  During the course of the investigation, Detectives identified Michael Martin as the suspect responsible for the homicide.  On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, Martin was arrested and transported to Hemet PD and then to Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility where he was booked for homicide and held on a $1,000,000 bail.