A Sheriff’s deputy accused of taking more than $3,000 from east Bakersfield residents while on duty has been charged with grand theft.

During a news conference on Friday, Sheriff Donny Youngblood says Edward Bermudez demanded the money during at least two domestic violence calls and there may be more victims. Youngblood thinks Bermudez may have targeted immigrants during his patrols.

Bermudez was caught during a sting when he did not register a supposedly stolen purse containing $1,000 with the department, which had been given to him by an undercover officer.

Kelli Forsch