SAN BERNARDINO, CA – A deputy of San Bernardino County, California, has been arrested and is facing multiple felony weapons charges, following an investigation into his alleged ties with a local biker gang. The 45-year-old officer, Christopher Bingham, is currently being held on a $500,000 bail.
Bingham was taken into custody after an extensive search of his Twentynine Palms residence led to the discovery of 160 firearms, including a fully automatic assault rifle equipped with a grenade launcher, as reported by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
Sheriff Shannon Dicus, who also serves as the county’s coroner, expressed his disappointment and concern over the incident. “The actions of this deputy are alarming and inexcusable; he not only tarnishes his badge but also undermines the integrity and credibility of the entire department,” Dicus said. The sheriff added that criminal behavior within the department will not be tolerated, and Bingham has been placed on compulsory leave.
The investigation into Bingham’s alleged association with an outlaw motorcycle gang began in January. On March 23, Bingham was seen riding his motorcycle alongside two members of the gang. The California Highway Patrol, in collaboration with the sheriff’s department, conducted a traffic stop which resulted in Bingham’s arrest.
During the arrest, an unregistered firearm was found on Bingham. Further investigation led to the search of his residence, where the large cache of firearms, along with destructive devices, silencers, gang paraphernalia, and a stolen department shotgun were discovered.
Bingham is now facing charges of possession of a machine gun, possession of silencers, possession of a destructive device, possession of a stolen firearm, and being an active participant in a criminal street gang. This arrest comes in the wake of several recent officer-involved shootings involving the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.