Deputies Discover Incarcerated Man with Medical Ailments Who Later Dies at Hospital 

May 13, 2025 – San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department officials report that on May 8, 2025, at about 6:13 a.m., deputies at the West Valley Detention Center observed inmate Phillip Lester walking with difficulty.  Lester also had trouble breathing and deputies assisted him to an area inside the housing unit to be evaluated by medical personnel. During the evaluation, an ambulance arrived, and Lester was transported to a hospital where he was admitted for various serious illnesses.  

On May 11, 2025, Lester was pronounced deceased at the hospital.  The Specialized Investigations Division responded and assumed the investigation.  

Lester turned himself in on March 17, 2025, for an assault warrant and remained in custody until his death.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Specialized Investigations Division at 909-890-4904.  Callers wishing to remain anonymous should contact We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or go to www.wetip.com.   

DATE: May 11, 2025

INCIDENT: In-Custody Death Investigation

LOCATION: West Valley Detention Center, 9500 Etiwanda Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga

DECEDENT(S): Phillip Lester, 66-years-old, Resident of Moreno Valley

Refer: Detective T. Gagne

Station: Specialized Investigations Division

Phone No. 909-890-4904

Case No.  DR# 602500036  H# 2025.033

Source: San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department