Authorities in San Bernardino County announced Monday that Darryl and Shelley Martin, leaders of a local faith group, face murder charges tied to a 2010 child death and a 2023 disappearance.
The Arrests
Darryl and Shelley Martin were arrested Monday in connection with two separate homicide cases. They head the Hemet-based organization “His Way Spirit Led Assemblies.” The charges bring new scrutiny to the group’s leadership.
The 2010 Child Death
The first case involves 4-year-old Timothy Thomas, who died in 2010. Timothy’s parents relinquished temporary custody to the Martins just one month before the boy’s death. Andre Thomas, Timothy’s father, was also arrested for murder.
Police Chief Anthony Vega said: “Shelley and Darryl took an active role in preventing Timo from getting medical treatment, and his father Andrew Thomas was complicit,” Vega added. He further noted: “Timo’s death could have been prevented had he been allowed to get attention for his appendicitis.”
The 2023 Disappearance
Authorities also link the Martins to the disappearance of Emilio Ghanem. Ghanem vanished in Redlands in May 2023 after leaving the faith group. Video captured Ghanem driving a rented Frontier in Grand Terrace.
The truck was found abandoned in the Mojave Desert, burned, and contained evidence with homicide. Redlands Police Chief Rachel Robler said: “Video captured the rented Frontier he was driving in Grand Terrace, and the truck was located abandoned in the Mojave Desert, burned and contained evidence with homicide.”
Statements from Law Enforcement
San Bernardino County District Attorney Jason Anderson said people close to the cases recently came forward. Anderson said: “The cooperative investigation of many who knew things then are coming to us now.”
Police also noted a fourth person was arrested after weapons were found during a search warrant. The additional arrest underscores the breadth of the investigation.
Conclusion
The arrests bring new developments to two long-standing investigations. The case remains under active investigation by county authorities. The community awaits further updates as the legal process unfolds.
Key Takeaways
- Darryl and Shelley Martin face murder charges linked to a 2010 child death and a 2023 disappearance.
- Police Chief Vega highlighted the Martins’ role in preventing medical treatment for Timothy Thomas.
- Redlands Police Chief Robler confirmed evidence of homicide in the abandoned truck.
The case underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the ongoing pursuit of justice in San Bernardino County.
