Corona, CA: Corona man arrested after alleged extortion attempt in Victorville

A Corona man was arrested by San Bernardino County sheriff's deputies at his home Wednesday on suspicion of burglary and extortion.

Authorities said Dennis Jackson, 61, went to the Pick and Pull Automotive posing as a state occupational safety and health administration inspector under the alias of Tim Peters.

Jackson also claimed to be a retired FBI agent and showed employees a badge, the sheriff's department said in a news release.

He told the owner he needed to inspect the business and during the inspection, he told the owner he was going to fine him for a violation.

Jackson told the owner he could settle the fine by paying him cash, authorities say.

The owner learned in a phone call to Cal OSHA that Jackson was not an employee.

Investigators identified Jackson after the business owner provided them with his car license plate.

On Wednesday a search warrant was served at Jackson's Corona home in the 24000 Block of Fawnskin Drive and he was arrested for entering a business with the intent to commit theft.

He was booked at West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga. He posted bail Wednesday night and was released from custody.

Investigators also believe that Jackson may have attempted to or been successful in extorting money from other businesses.

Investigators ask anyone with information, or who believe they may have been a victim to contact Detective White at the Victorville Sheriff's station at 760-241-2911. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may contact the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME or leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com