After years of being closed, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD) reopened its Lake Hemet substation Dec. 3, 2020 and held the grand opening Dec. 7. RCSD personnel and community members were able to meet and see the inside of the substation.
As of Dec. 7, the substation has been fully staffed with eight deputies and two sergeants, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 
According to an agency press release, the substation was set up with computers, data lines and updated equipment.
Being stationed within the community, it has improved the agency’s relationship with other emergency response agencies including the California Highway Patrol, U.S. Forest Service (USFS), Idyllwild Fire Protection District and Cal Fire. 
Between Dec. 3, 2020 and Jan. 1, 2021 overall response times were cut in half in comparison to the month prior to the reopening. The agency responded to a total of 345 calls. Seventeen individuals were arrested and booked on various felony and misdemeanor charges which included burglary, theft, weapon, drug and other related violations. Felony crimes also reduced by 63%. 
Making sure individuals are following the laws even while out in the wilderness, RCSD works closely with the USFS assisting with Off Highway Vehicle Enforcement provided by a grant in cooperation with the California State Parks. This allows for patrolling in some areas that are harder to access without all-terrain type vehicles. 
RCSD has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to illegal marijuana cultivation and continues to enforce the laws to protect the neighboring residents from the many negative impacts it causes. 
If you see any criminal activity, you can report it through the We-Tip Crime Reporting Hotline at 909-987-5005 or https://wetip.com.