Up to $60,000 Hiring Bonus for Lateral

450 E. Latham Ave.
Hemet, CA 92543

Non-Emergency:  (951) 765-2400
Emergency – Dial 911

Crime Prevention

Hemet police conduct successful retail theft operation

OPERATION HOLIDAY WATCH

During the final shopping days before Christmas, several California law enforcement agencies, including the Hemet Police Department, coordinated a successful enforcement operation targeting organized retail crime and promoting a safe shopping environment for communities throughout California. 

The collaborative statewide retail theft crackdown on Friday, December 20, 2024 resulted in 117 arrests, the recovery of over $38,000 in stolen merchandise, the seizure of two illegal firearms, and the recovery of three stolen vehicles.  The charges range from petty theft, grand theft, organized retail theft, felon in possession of a firearm and auto theft.

Hemet police conduct successful retail theft operation

Hemet Police Prioritize Community Safety This Holiday Season

The holiday season is upon us, and as your Police Chief, I want to emphasize the commitment of the Hemet Police Department, and your city leadership to ensure that our citizens feel safe and secure during this special time of year. It is our priority to be a reassuring presence in our community, particularly as families come together to enjoy the holiday activities.

This time of year marks the holiday shopping season, and we understand the importance of creating a safe environment for our citizens and businesses alike. The department will be ramping up our efforts, ensuring high visibility patrols and actively engaging with the public to promote safety in our commercial areas. 

So, while you are out there shopping and taking part in this season’s festivities and you see our Officers, please feel free to engage with them; We are here to help and support our community. Together, we can make this holiday season enjoyable and safe for all.

Hemet police conduct successful retail theft operation

Pedestrian Safety Operations

During August and September, the Hemet Police Department’s Traffic Bureau has organized several enforcement operations focusing on pedestrian safety. Motor Officers will be paying particular attention to vehicle code violations related to pedestrian safety. Additionally, they will focus on high pedestrian traffic areas such as schools and shopping plazas.

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.