A Moreno Valley man has been arrested after stealing a generator during a power outage in San Bernardino caused by a severe windstorm.
Nathan Hohnstein, 39, is accused of taking the generator from a home on Rosena Ranch Rd. on January 11, 2025. According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department (SBSD) Fontana Station, Hohnstein stole the generator while the homeowner was already dealing with the blackout. He fled the scene in a blue GMC Yukon.
The stolen generator was crucial for the homeowner to cope with the power loss. During the theft, a water line was also damaged, causing over $800 in repairs.
Authorities quickly tracked Hohnstein down. On January 13, detectives from the Fontana Sheriff’s Station linked him to the crime and, with the help of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, arrested him after a traffic stop in Moreno Valley.
Hohnstein had previously been released on his own recognizance after facing multiple felony charges in Riverside County. Following his arrest, he now faces additional felony charges related to the generator theft. He is being held at the West Valley Detention Center without bail due to a bail enhancement.
Detectives believe there may be more victims and have released photos of Hohnstein and the suspect vehicle in hopes of receiving more tips. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Fontana Sheriff’s Department at 909-356-6767.
