Category Archives: Police Reports

Vol. 18, No. 06 – Dec 12 – Dec 24, 2024 – Police Reports

Incident: Stabbing Homicide

On November 28, at 1:49 am, the Ventura Police Department responded to reports of a large fight in the 300 block of East Main Street. One caller reported that an individual had been stabbed during the altercation.

When officers arrived, the fight had ended, and the crowd was dispersing. Officers located a 24-year-old male victim lying on the ground, seriously injured, with a stab wound. Despite paramedics’ efforts to provide life-saving medical aid, the victim succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Ventura Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit is actively investigating this incident. The victim’s identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Many witnesses at the scene were uncooperative and declined to provide information about the events leading up to the stabbing. We urge anyone with information regarding this crime to come forward. Please contact the Ventura Police Department at 805-650-8010.

Vol. 18, No. 05 – Nov 27 – Dec 10, 2024 – Police Reports

Graffiti Vandalism Arrests

Location: 555 E. Santa Clara Street. Date/Time Occurred: 11/12/24 @ 0103 hours. Suspect(s): Ramiro Gomez, 20; Edwin Castro, 20, Jonathan Munoz, 20, Paola Rodriguez, 22.

On the above date and time, Ventura Police Department officers responded to a report of graffiti vandalism in progress on the top level of the parking structure at 555 E. Santa Clara Street. Upon arrival, officers observed extensive gang-related graffiti on the structure’s walls. Through coordination with dispatch, officers located four suspects inside a vehicle within the parking structure. The driver, identified as Rodriguez, initially attempted to flee but stopped after nearly colliding with a police vehicle. One passenger attempted to escape on foot but was quickly detained nearby. The other three occupants were also detained, and all four were identified as the individuals responsible for the vandalism. They were arrested for felony vandalism (damage exceeding $400) and conspiracy to commit vandalism, then booked at Ventura County Jail.

Attempted Murder, Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Robbery, and Attempted Vehicle Theft Arrest

Location: Multiple Downtown Ventura locations. Date/Time Occurred: 11/23/24 @ 0704 hours. Officer(s) Involved: Ventura Police Department Patrol, Detectives. Suspect(s): Efrain Troncoso (22) vagrant.

On 11/23/2024 at about 0704 hours, the Ventura Police Department Communications Center began receiving 911 calls about multiple violent crimes occurring in the Downtown area from Ash St and Thompson Blvd to Santa Clara St and Palm St. The first call was from a victim who stated he had been stabbed in his back by an unknown male suspect on a bicycle, later identified as Efrain Troncoso, in the 100 block of S. Ash St. As officers were assisting this victim, an additional victim called 911 at about 0715 hours, stating he had been stabbed in the neck by an unknown Hispanic male around the 200 block of Chestnut St. Two minutes later, we received an additional 911 call from a victim who had been struck in the head with a metal pipe and robbed near the intersection of Oak St. and Santa Clara St. All available police units in the city rushed to the Downtown area and began searching for the suspect. While still attempting to locate Troncoso, VPD received an additional 911 call at 0730 hours from a subject who had been robbed of his keys at knifepoint in the 100 block of Palm St. As officers arrived, Troncoso was located inside a vehicle, which he had broken into, and was trying to start with the stolen keys. Officers took him into custody at gunpoint.

Troncoso has been arrested several times in Moorpark and booked at the Ventura County Jail. After his last arrest from Moorpark at the beginning of the month, he seems to have remained in Ventura, living on the streets. A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows that Troncoso has been arrested for being Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance, Arson, and Resisting Arrest causing Injury to an Officer. Troncoso was released on OR (own recognizance) from his latest arrest of Arson and Resisting Arrest causing Injury on 11/12/24. As a result of the morning’s crimes, Troncoso has been arrested for three counts of Attempted Murder, Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Robbery, and Attempted Vehicle Theft. These charges reflect the gravity of his actions and the potential danger he poses to the community.

Vol. 18, No. 04 – Nov 13 – Nov 26, 2024 – Police Reports

VENTURA POLICE DEPARTMENT Incident:

Attempted Robbery with Arrests Location: 7800 Block of Telegraph Rd. Date/Time Occurred: 11/01/24 @ 2:39 pm Officer(s) Involved: Ventura Police Department Patrol Suspect(s): (1) Male Juvenile – 14 yrs. Ventura Resident (2) Male Juvenile – 14 yrs. Ventura Resident Victim: Male – 76 yrs. – Ventura Resident Report #: 24-71141.

Narrative: On 11/01/24, at about 2:39 p.m., the Ventura Police Department Communications Center received a call from a 76-year-old male, indicating that he was the victim of an attempted robbery in the area of the CVS store in the 7800 block of Telegraph Road.

Patrol officers responded to that area and contacted the victim. The victim stated that he exited the CVS store and was walking towards his residence, when he was approached by a male juvenile (Suspect #1) on an electric scooter just north of the CVS store. Suspect #1 used his scooter to block the path of the victim and demanded money from him. The victim attempted to walk around Suspect #1 but he relocated his scooter in front of the victim and blocked his path a second time. Suspect #1 then summoned Suspect #2 to help him. Suspect #2 then approached on an electric bicycle and assisted by helping to corral the victim and money was demanded from the victim again.

The victim was able to eventually get around the juveniles and walk away without injury. He then called 9-1-1 to report the crime. Two juveniles matching the description given by the victim were located a short distance away in the same shopping center. An officer detained those juveniles, and they were ultimately identified as the two suspects. The two suspects were cited for attempted robbery and released to their parents.

Pedestrian safety starts with you: Stay alert to protect people walking

October is National Pedestrian Safety Month

October was National Pedestrian Safety Month. The Ventura Police Department reminds drivers to slow down and be alert for people walking on our roads. By taking extra precautions, you can help protect pedestrians and reduce the risk of crashes and injuries.

Since January 1, 2023, the Ventura Police Department has responded to 2,470 traffic collisions, including 106 involving pedestrians. These incidents resulted in 915 injuries and five fatalities. Of the pedestrian collisions, three were fatal, and 99 resulted in injury. The high number of pedestrian casualties underscores the urgent need for improved awareness and safety measures for those walking in Ventura.

“Every step we take towards greater pedestrian safety is a step towards saving lives,” said Corporal David Curtis. “We remind all residents and travelers that safety begins with you, whether you’re behind the wheel or on foot. Small actions, like slowing down, putting away distractions, and yielding at crosswalks, can make a life-saving difference.”

To promote the safety of people walking, the Ventura Police Department will conduct traffic safety operations throughout this grant cycle focused on the most dangerous driver behaviors that put the safety of pedestrians at risk. These violations include speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield and running stop signs or signals.

The Ventura Police Department offers safe driving and walking tips, including staying off the phone when behind the wheel or walking.

Drivers

  • Do not speed and slow down at intersections. Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
  • Avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make a right-hand turn.
  • Never drive impaired.

Pedestrians

  • Be predictable. Use signalized crosswalks where drivers may anticipate foot traffic.
  • Watch for approaching vehicles and practice due care crossing the street. At 30 mph, a driver needs at least 90 feet to stop.
  • Make it easier for drivers to see you at night – wear bright colors, reflective material, or use a flashlight.

 

Share your thoughts about pedestrian safety by participating in the Go Safely Movement, a call-to-action traffic safety survey from the California Office of Traffic Safety. Take the survey at gosafelyca.org. Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

 

Vol. 18, No. 01 – Oct 2 – Oct 15, 2024 – Police Reports

The Ventura Police Department Conducted a DUI checkpoint

The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit conducted a DUI checkpoint on Friday, September 20 on Harbor Blvd near Schooner Drive from 9:00 pm 1:30 am.

DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring residents from driving impaired. During the checkpoint, officers look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. “Reducing the number of impaired drivers on our roads greatly enhances traffic safety,” said Corporal David Curtis. “With the increased risk of impaired driving on weekends, we encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly and designate a sober driver.”

The Ventura Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just caused by alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is not. Marijuana can be impairing, especially when combined with alcohol or other drugs, which can also result in a DUI. If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying safe at home. If you see a drunk driver, always call 9-1-1. Drivers charged with DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

Funding for the checkpoint was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. To learn more about the Office of Traffic Safety grant and VPD’s educational efforts, contact Emily Ayala, Communications Specialist for the Ventura Police Department, at [email protected]

Checkpoint Results:

The following is a list of the enforcement activities that took place at or as a result of the checkpoint:

  • 257 cars passed through the checkpoint. 394 drivers were contacted and screened through the checkpoint.
  • 9 Field Sobriety Tests were conducted.
  • 2 drivers were arrested for 23152(a) VC – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • 8 drivers cited for VC12500(a), Unlicensed Driver.
  • 2 drivers cited for miscellaneous violations, 1 alcohol related citation.

Vol. 17, No. 26 – Sept 18 – Oct 1, 2024 – Police Reports

First Degree Residential Burglary and Prowling Arrest
2200 Block of Anthony Dr., Ventura, 09-12-24 / 2204 Hrs.
Report #: 24-60057

On 09/12/24 at approximately 2204 hrs., Ventura Police Patrol Officers responded to an interrupted residential burglary. The subsequent investigation revealed that a tenant was inside her residence alone when she heard a noise coming from a roommate’s bedroom. When the tenant investigated she saw a subject fleeing through a window out of the bedroom. Police met with the victim a short time later, and she explained that various items in her room had been tampered with, and fresh graffiti was found on a wall inside the room.

While officers were on the scene of that burglary, additional residents called 911 to report a subject prowling on various properties. One resident in the 2100 block of Elizabeth Dr. called 911 to report that a subject had entered her residence through an open window and had fled when confronted.

Due to evidence and statements collected at the various scenes, the same individual was believed to have committed these five separate calls for service/crimes and was later identified as Jesus Martinez Garcia. Officers began searching the surrounding neighborhood for the suspect.

Shortly after midnight, the original victims from the 2200 block of Anthony Dr. called 911 to report a subject was in their backyard. The commotion alerted a nearby neighbor, who quickly responded and confronted Garcia in the rear yard, detaining him briefly until police arrived.

Garcia was taken into custody without further incident and was ultimately arrested and booked into custody at the Ventura County Jail for Frist Degree Residential Burglary and Prowling.

Vol. 17, No. 25 – Sept 4 – Sept 17, 2024 – Police Reports

Battery and Attempted Robbery Arrest

Ventura Police Report #: 24-55202

On 8/22/23 at about 7:26 pm, the suspect, later identified as 24-year-old Gabriel Lomeli, a Santa Paula resident, approached a victim who was walking in the breezeway between the Crowne Plaza and the Harbor Parking Structure.

Lomeli asked to use the victim’s cell phone, and when the victim refused and turned to walk away, Lomeli punched him several times in the head and face before walking up to an additional victim. This victim was seated in the breezeway with his cell phone in his hand. Lomeli demanded to use his phone, but the second victim refused. Lomeli attempted to take the phone by force but could not do so. Lomeli did pull the victim to the ground, but the victim was able to fight him off, and Lomeli let go of the phone and ran away. At the same time Lomeli was struggling with the second victim, a witness called 911.

Officers arrived in under five minutes, but Lomeli had already fled. Both victims were treated at the scene for minor injuries. Based on the victims’ and witnesses’ statements, officers searched for Lomeli and located him in the area. He was identified as the suspect who had battered the first victim and attempted to rob the second. Lomeli was arrested and transported to the Ventura County Jail, where he was booked for Battery and Attempted Robbery.

If you have any information about this crime, you can make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at VenturaCountyCrimeStoppers.org. If your information leads to an arrest, you could receive a cash reward of up to $1,000.

 

 

Decades-Old Mystery Unraveled: Suspect Charged in 1970s Ventura County Murders

Warren Luther Alexander, 73, was arrested and charged with the strangulation deaths of three Southern California women from 1977, following a breakthrough DNA match by cold case detectives. Authorities suspect there may be additional victims.

The three victims, Kimberly Fritz, 18, Velvet Sanchez, 31, and Lorraine Rodriguez, 21, were all sex workers in Ventura County. Fritz was found dead in a motel room in Port Hueneme on May 29, 1977. Sanchez was discovered at the Villa Motor Court in nearby Oxnard on September 8, 1977. Rodriguez’s body was found on December 27, 1977, on a bridge in an unincorporated area. All three women were killed by “ligature strangulation,” said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko.

“While investigators believed these crimes were connected, leads ran cold, and detectives were unable to identify who was responsible for these horrific murders,” Nasarenko said.

The Ventura County cold case unit revisited the murders last year, uploading DNA evidence into a national database. Although a 2006 search had yielded no results, this time, they found a match.

Investigative genealogy linked Alexander to the 1992 killing of 29-year-old Nona Cobb, whose body was found along Interstate 77 in North Carolina.

Alexander had lived in Oxnard during the late 1950s and 60s, attending local schools, and returned to the area in the 1970s, Nasarenko said. From the 1970s through the early 1990s, he worked as a long-haul, cross-country truck driver, leading authorities to suspect there may be more victims in other states as well.

“This investigation is ongoing, and we will continue to pursue all leads. This case is far from closed,” Nasarenko emphasized.

Alexander’s case has been assigned to the county public defender’s office, which has not yet commented on the case.

Alexander pleaded not guilty to all charges at his August 21 arraignment, a spokesperson for the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office said. He is being held without bail, according to county jail records. Alexander’s defense attorney, Rebekah Mathis, told CNN on August 21 she had “no comment at this time.”

The killings happened over the span of seven months in three different jurisdictions of Ventura County, according to the news release.

Prosecutors have decided not to seek the death penalty against Alexander due to the age of the witnesses and evidence and in an attempt to move through the trial process more quickly and efficiently.

Vol. 17, No. 24 – Aug 21 – Sept 3, 2024 – Police Reports

Attempted Kidnapping Arrest

On August 7 at about four-thirty in the afternoon, the victim was walking
west on Ramona St near the intersection of Olive St when a vehicle drove past her, made a U-turn, and the driver got out of the car. The driver, later identified as Diago Jimenez, 20-year-old Oxnard resident, walked up to the victim and grabbed her by the shirt. The victim, who does not know Jimenez, shouted for help. Jimenez then released her,
returned to his vehicle, and fled the area. The victim called 911. During
the investigation, Jimenez’s vehicle was located on security footage, and he was identified as the person who had attempted to kidnap the victim.

On 8/8/24, Ventura Police Department detectives took Jimenez into custody. Jimenez was later transported and booked at the Ventura County Jail for Attempted Kidnapping.

Vol. 17, No. 20 – June 26 – July 9, 2024 – Police Reports

On June 15 starting at 10:23pm, the Ventura Police Department received multiple calls related to a group of juveniles disturbing while riding electric bicycles (e-bikes) on the west end of the city. At 10:23pm, the juveniles were reported to have attacked a 66-year-old homeless woman by stepping on her and kicking her while she was laying in a sleeping bag near the intersection of Main Street and Peking Street. A second adult, female victim near the same location reported that the juveniles had thrown rocks at her, and she was struck by a small rock. At 10:34pm, another caller reported a group of juveniles (believed to be the same group) was disturbing while riding e- bikes near the Crown Plaza Hotel. The group was reportedly spitting at people as they passed on their bikes.

While Ventura Police Officers were speaking with the victims near Peking Street and Main Street, the juveniles returned to the area on the e-bikes and the victim pointed them out to officers. When the juveniles saw the police officers they quickly began to ride away. Officers successfully detained two juveniles, a 13-year-old male e-bike rider and his juvenile female companion who was riding on the back of the bike. The other juveniles fled from the area and have not been identified. The 13-year-old male was identified as one of the juveniles who threw a rock at a victim. He was arrested for battery and later released to his mother.

The investigation into these cases is ongoing. The juveniles who attacked the elderly homeless woman have yet to be identified. If you have any information about their identity or were a witness to these crimes, please contact the Ventura Police Department at 805-650-8010.