Vandalism of Emergency Mesh Network could face federal scrutiny amid City partnership talks

A deliberate act of sabotage against a local emergency communication network early Saturday morning may carry federal legal consequences, as the organization behind the equipment is currently in negotiations to formalize a partnership with the City of Temecula. Two radio repeaters belonging to the Temecula Wireless Emergency Mesh (TWEM) were destroyed between 7:15 a.m. and 7:40 a.m. on Jan. 3 at a cul-de-sac on the north end of Camino Gatillo. Two suspects, caught on surveillance footage, utilized a gold 2004-2007 Toyota Corolla with a distinctive mismatched black front fender to flee the scene.A Critical Turning Point for TWEMThe timing of the destruction is particularly sensitive. TWEM is currently drafting a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the City of Temecula. The agre