A Southern California Sheriff’s Deputy, Christopher Bingham, has been arrested and charged with multiple felonies after being accused of living a double life as a member of an outlaw motorcycle gang. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department initiated an investigation into Bingham’s activities in January 2024, following suspicions that he had been associating with gang members.
On March 23, Bingham was apprehended while riding with two members of a local Outlaw Motorcycle Gang. During the arrest, law enforcement discovered an unloaded, unregistered firearm in his possession. Subsequently, a search warrant was executed at Bingham’s residence in Twentynine Palms, California.
The search yielded a significant arsenal of approximately 160 firearms, including a fully automatic assault rifle equipped with a grenade launcher. Additionally, police found destructive devices, silencers, paraphernalia associated with the gang, and a stolen shotgun belonging to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
San Bernardino Sheriff Shannon Dicus expressed deep concern over Bingham’s actions, stating that they not only tarnish his badge but also undermine the integrity and credibility of the entire department. Bingham has been placed on compulsory leave, and the case has been forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office, resulting in the filing of several felony charges against him.
The charges include possession of a machine gun, possession of a short-barreled rifle, grand theft of a firearm, possession of a stolen firearm, possession of a destructive device, possession of silencers, and participation in a criminal street gang. These charges carry an enhancement for being associated with a gang, as per California Penal Code 186.22 PC.
Bingham’s bail has been set at $500,000 following the discovery of his extensive arsenal. Although the specific outlaw motorcycle gang Bingham was affiliated with was not disclosed by the department, District Attorney Jason Anderson believes it to be the Mongols.
Public records indicate that Bingham owned a gun store called O’Three Tactical in Twentynine Palms, which has been closed since June 2021. Bingham cited financial difficulties as the reason for the closure, stating that the store was unable to maintain inventory and was draining his personal finances.
In a separate incident, Bingham was involved in a murder trial in 2019. He testified that he had sold a .45-caliber handgun to Rafael Aikens, who was later convicted of killing his estranged ex-girlfriend and her mother. However, it was not revealed during the trial if the gun sold by Bingham was the weapon used in the murders.
2 Responses
As a blog commenter, I would like to recommend the services of a reputable private investigator for individuals or organizations who suspect someone may be leading a double life. In cases like the one mentioned in the post, where a law enforcement officer was allegedly involved in criminal activities, it is crucial to have professionals who can uncover the truth and provide evidence. Hiring a skilled private investigator can help shed light on any suspicions and provide clarity in such complex situations. It is important to choose an investigator with a proven track record
As a blog commenter, my personal goal related to this topic is to raise awareness about the importance of integrity and ethical behavior within law enforcement agencies. It is disheartening to hear about cases like Deputy Christopher Bingham’s, where someone entrusted with upholding the law is involved in criminal activities themselves.
I plan to engage in discussions and conversations with others to understand their perspectives on this issue. By sharing my thoughts and concerns, I hope to encourage a dialogue about the need for stricter background checks, regular