Multiple Arrests Made Following Altercation in Palm Springs Parking Structure

PALM SPRINGS, CA — “On February 1, 2025, at approximately 1:15 AM, PSPD officers responded to reports of a physical altercation near the parking structure in the 200 block of S. Indian Canyon Drive. Upon arrival, officers encountered three female individuals and one male involved in the incident.
The investigation revealed that a family dispute occurred among the suspects—a brother, his sister, and the sister’s boyfriend. The brother and boyfriend attempted to escort her into a vehicle to leave the area because she was intoxicated; however, she was uncooperative.
At this time, two women were passing by and, believing the female was being assaulted, attempted to intervene and de-escalate the situation. The suspects then turned on the victims, physically assaulting them while using derogatory language directed at one of the women, who was transgender.
Responding officers took the intoxicated female and her brother into custody at the scene, while the third suspect fled before police arrived. A few hours later, officers located the third suspect at a residence in Cathedral City, where he was taken into custody without incident.
The transgender female sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.
The suspects are residents of the state of New York and have been identified as:
• Diana Wheeler, 37
• Jonathan Wheeler, 34
• Jack Rafael, 36
All three individuals were transported to the John Benoit Detention Center in Indio, CA, and booked on the following charges:
• California Penal Code 422.6(a) – Hate Crime
• California Penal Code 242 – Battery
The Palm Springs Police Department remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of the community. Acts of violence and discrimination have no place in our city, and we will continue to take decisive action to hold offenders accountable while fostering a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. Anyone seeking behavioral health assistance please contact the diversity center and click on the link below. ”