By Gina Yarbrough
Santee, CA–A suspicious backpack left outside the Santee Sheriff’s Station prompted a law enforcement response Friday afternoon, authorities said.
Staff at the station, located at 8811 Cuyamaca Street, noticed a camouflage backpack, just before 12:30 p.m., placed near the front entrance. Surveillance footage showed an adult white male arriving on a bicycle, leaving the backpack by the door, and then riding southbound on Cuyamaca Street.
Deputies quickly secured the area and called in Sheriff’s Bomb/Arson detectives due to the suspicious circumstances. Patrol units searched the surrounding area for the individual while a Sheriff’s helicopter broadcast a description of the subject over a public address system.
Bomb/Arson detectives examined the backpack and observed what appeared to be military-style equipment inside. As a precaution, authorities temporarily closed nearby streets and sidewalks surrounding the station.
The backpack was later rendered safe, and investigators determined there was no ongoing threat to the public. A search of the bag revealed multiple rounds of high-powered ammunition.
Authorities said the individual who left the backpack has since been identified. Investigators determined that no crime had been committed and that there is no danger to the community.
The Sheriff’s Office reminded the public that anyone wishing to turn in property should first contact station personnel to ensure it is handled safely and appropriately.
