During a routine safety check of the inmates on Wednesday at the John Benoit Detention Center (JBDC), staff found an unresponsive inmate with significant traumatic injuries inside a housing unit, according to the Riverside Sheriff’s Department.
Despite emergency lifesaving measures performed, the inmate succumbed to his injuries. The housing area was secured as a crime scene.
The victim’s cellmate, 42-year-old Luke Hanchette of Hemet, was identified as the suspect, according to Sergeant Ben Ramirez. Hanchette was arrested for murder and remains housed at JBDC, Ramirez said.
The victim was identified as 48-year-old John Hemmer of South Dakota.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Investigator Button with the Central Homicide Unit at 951-955-2777.
