by Cindy Summers

Police reports are provided to us by the Ventura  Police Department and are not the opinions of  the Ventura Breeze. All suspects mentioned  are assumed to be innocent until proven guilty  in a court of law.

Contacting Minors for Sexual Purposes, Possession of Child Pornography

On March 28 at 12pm, Ventura Police Detectives received a tip from Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) and a tip from National Center for Missing and exploited Children (NCMEC) that a 14-year-old Male had requested help as he was being pressured into sending photos to a subject on Instagram.

On March 30, a detective from SVU contacted the Juvenile and learned that a subject with a female profile contacted the Juvenile and sent him nude photos of a female. The subject with the female profile was later identified to be 22 year old Travis Whitfield. Under the fraudulent female profile, Whitfield asked for nude photos from the Juvenile. The Juvenile sent a nude photo to Whitfield. Whitfield asked for more pictures, and if the Juvenile did not send photos, Whitfield would send the first photo out on the internet. The Juvenile tried to get out from sending more photos to Whitfield but feared his photo was going to be sent out to friends and family. Prior to sending Whitfield more photos the Juvenile asked for help from Instagram, ICAC, and NCMEC.

During the investigation, detectives learned through search warrants that several Juveniles were contacted by Whitfield starting in 2018. Detectives also learned Whitfield was conspiring with another subject who also lived in Oxnard. Both subjects were exchanging juvenile photos and sharing ideas on how to get juveniles to share nude photos of themselves. Oxnard Police Department was contacted and took over the investigation on the second suspect, who was later arrested on April 8.

On April 6, SVU, FBI, VCDA Investigators, and a VPD K-9 unit served a search warrant at Whitfield’s residence and recovered several pieces of evidence. Whitfield was arrested during the search warrant service and later booked at Contacting minors for a sexual purpose, Conspiracy, Dissuading a victim, Possession of child pornography, and Possession of Child Pornography with intent to distribute. Whitfield’s bail was set at one million.

Follow up into this case is still ongoing as we know there are many victims that we have not contacted. If Whitfield has contacted, you or your child under the Instagram name “Devon Bay” or the Instagram

Attempt Homicide

On April 9, at approximately 7am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a 911 call from the Manager at the Loops Motor Lodge as he had found a female subject bleeding from the head in a room.

Patrol officers arrived and learned that the victim was staying at the Lodge with her boyfriend, 31 year old Jonathan Aguirre. Both became involved in a domestic dispute and began to argue. During the argument, Aguirre strangled the victim, causing her to lose consciousness. Aguirre exited the room and picked up a rock from the planter and began to hit the victim over the head.

Aguirre fled prior to Police arrival and was later found by officers walking in a nearby neighborhood. Aguirre was taken into custody and later booked at VCJ for Attempt Homicide and a Parole Violation.

The victim has moderate to severe injuries, a laceration to the skull, fractured left hand, and visible signs of being strangled.

Aguirre is currently on parole for threats of violence, battery, and is on probation out of LA County for robbery.

Domestic Violence with SWAT Activation

On April 11, at approximately 2:30am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a 911 call of a physical domestic inside an apartment at the Peppertree Condos in the 1300 block of Saratoga Ave. The male suspect, later identified as 34 year old Ventura resident Gilbert Rivera, forced his way into his ex- girlfriend’s condo by breaking a sliding glass door and physically assaulted her once inside. The victim and three of her young children were able to leave the condo, and were met by responding officers. It was reported Rivera armed himself with a knife as the victim fled from the condo and then barricaded himself inside.

The victim received minor injuries to her arms and legs from broken glass. She was treated at the scene. None of the children were injured.

Officers attempted to negotiate with Rivera, but he refused to come out of the condo. While speaking with officers, he repeatedly threatened to assault and kill officers. Rivera also threw glass bottles, metal objects and various items at officers who were outside of the condo. He also intentionally lit two fires inside the condo, which caused minor damage.

For the safety of other residents in the building, all the occupants inside the neighboring condos were evacuated.

The Ventura SWAT team was activated and responded to the scene. Crisis negotiators also responded and after approximately 8.5 hours of negotiations, Rivera surrendered and was taken into custody without incident.

Commercial Burglary, Resisting Arrest, Felon with Ammo, Possession of Stolen Property, Possession of Controlled Substance, Wanted Felon Arrest

On March 31 at 4am, Ventura Police Department Patrol officers responded to a commercial burglary at Gracie’s Deals, located in the 90 block of W. Main St. At about 0400 hours, an unknown suspect broke into the store and stole several thousand dollars worth of t-shirts and sweatshirts. Street Crimes Detectives began an investigation and identified 39 year old Ventura resident Cano Sanchez as the burglar through security video footage.

On April 16 at 8am, Street Crimes Detectives, with the assistance of Ventura Police Patrol Officers, K9 and Ventura Police PROS Unit served a search warrant on a residence in the 40 block of Vince St. During the service of the search warrant, Sanchez fled from officers and began jumping fences in an attempt to escape. Sanchez was taken safely into custody in the 150 block of Vince St. Also, inside the residence was a wanted felon, 30 year old Ventura resident Anthony Maxwell, who was taken into custody without incident. During the search of the home, most of the stolen property from Gracie’s Deals was located, along with an illegal AR-style rifle, ammunition, and methamphetamines.

Maxwell was arrested and booked at VCJ for his warrant and possession of stolen property related to the burglary. Sanchez was arrested and booked for commercial burglary, possession of stolen property, resisting arrest, possession of a controlled substance, and felon in possession of ammo. A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows that Sanchez has prior convictions of assault with a deadly weapon, possession of illegal weapons, possession of drugs, resisting arrest, and a recent arrest for felony battery.

by Cindy Summers

Police reports are provided to us by the Ventura  Police Department and are not the opinions of  the Ventura Breeze. All suspects mentioned  are assumed to be innocent until proven guilty  in a court of law.

Vehicle Burglary Arrest

On March 25, at approximately 3:15am, Ventura Police patrol officers responded to a call regarding the suspect breaking into vehicles in the Santa Clara Parking Structure. When officers arrived, they found the suspect, 35 year old Bratton Smith, and attempted to stop him. He fled from them and the officers chased after him. After a brief foot pursuit, the suspect was caught and arrested. He was found to be in possession of stolen property from the burglary and the items were returned to the owners. At the conclusion of the investigation, the suspect was arrested for vehicle burglary (felony) and resisting arrest (misdemeanor). No one was injured during this incident.

A review of the Ventura County Superior Court public records reveals Smith has prior arrests over the last two years which include theft, possession of narcotics and trespassing.

Community Crime Alert – Theft of Mail

On March 29, 2020, between the hours of 1200 and 1700 hours, the Ventura Police Department received several reports from residents in the neighborhoods in the area of Northbank Dr. and Petit Ave. and Telegraph Rd. and Kimball Rd., reporting the theft of mail. This was of out-going mail placed in community mailboxes. At this time, the number of victims is not known, but residents are encouraged to check to assure they are not a victim.

The Ventura Police Department would like to remind citizens that nobody is immune to crime, but there are steps you can take to help make a difference:

• First and foremost, we urge everyone to be vigilant and responsible neighbors and community members. Please immediately report any and all suspicious activity to us at 805-650-8010 (24 hr. non-emergency number) or 911 in the event of an emergency.

• It is recommended that residents avoid putting any out-going mail in their mailboxes, and place mail directly into an official postal service mailbox or give it directly to the mail carrier.

• Install a secure or interior mailbox.

• Schedule mail or packages to be picked up at the nearest delivery location.

• Connect and keep up with our department as we issue crime alerts, press releases, crime maps, and other valuable crime and safety information by following us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/venturapd, or visit our website at: www.venturapd.org.

The investigation into these incidents is ongoing. Anyone with information related to these crimes or may possibly have video surveillance of the suspect(s) is urged to call the Ventura Police Department at 339-4389, or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. If your information leads to an arrest, you could receive a cash reward of up to $1,000.

Lewd Acts with a Child

On March 4 at 3pm, the Ventura Police Department received a call from the victim’s mother reporting her 13-year-old daughter was the victim of lewd acts and child annoyance. An officer responded and took the initial report from the victim and her parents.

The victim told the officer that she was riding a Gold Coast public transit bus from Mills Rd. and Telegraph Rd to Johnson Dr and Telephone Rd. During the transport suspect, 39 year old Anthony Ultreras, was also on the bus and sat next to the victim. Ultreras engaged the victim in a conversation and tried to lure the victim to Oxnard. The victim got off the bus at her regular stop and began walking home when the suspect followed her and began to grab her hands. After several minutes of Ultreras holding the victim’s hands, the victim was able to pull away and run home.

This case was assigned to the Special Victims Unit, where an investigation revealed Ultreras was the suspect and was positively identified. Gold Coast Transit assisted SVU by providing video and audio from the bus that Ultreras and the victim were riding. Ultreras is currently on Parole for Lewd acts on a child with electronic monitoring and is a sex registrant.

On March 31, SVU and Ultreras’ Parole Officer responded to his place of residence in the City of Oxnard and took Ultreras into custody. Ultreras was later booked at VCJ for Lewd Acts with a Child and a Parole Violation.

Follow up into this case is still ongoing. Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to call the Ventura Police Department at 805-339-4472.

Prowling Arrest

On March 15, at 8:16am, , the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a 911 of a prowler in the backyard of a residence in the 800 block of Murdoch Ln. The subject, later identified as Edgar Suarez (Ventura resident born 5-12-1997), was being physically detained by the homeowner. When officers arrived and attempted to take custody of Suarez, he resisted officers. After a brief struggled, he was taken into custody and later arrested for prowling and for being under the influence of a controlled substance.

At approximately 2000 hrs, officers responded to a call of a prowler seen in the backyard of a residence in the 1000 block of Partridge Dr., which is within a block of the call on Murdoch Ln.

Officers conducted further investigation and determined Suarez was the same suspect and arrested for an additional charge of aggravated trespassing for attempting to enter the residence on Partridge Dr.

No one was injured as a result of this incident.

Commercial Burglary and Conspiracy Arrest

On Monday, March 2^, employees of Ventura High School discovered that the school had been burglarized and over $9,000 of computer equipment had been stolen including 37 laptop computers. Ventura Police Department Patrol, CSI, and Street Crimes Unit Detectives responded to the scene and began their investigation.

Detectives, with help from Ventura High staff, identified one of the suspects, Yovanna Vaca Yovanna (DOB 8/30/2000) , from surveillance video that was captured during the commission of the crime. Detectives began investigating the suspect and were able to identify the additional suspect as the boyfriend of Vaca. On 3/11/20 Street Crimes Detectives served a search warrant in the 300 block of Cedar St at the home of the male suspect, Brayan De La Paz. ( 2-7-2000 Ventura Resident)

During the execution of the search warrant detectives were able to recover all 37 laptop computers at the residence. Both suspects were arrested and booked into Ventura County Jail for commercial burglary and conspiracy to commit burglary. The computers were returned to Ventura High School for their intended educational purposes.

Vehicle Pursuit and Arrest

On March 21, ay 6;04pm , the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department requested assistance in stopping a vehicle that was being driven by a wanted subject, later identified as Anthony Mosqueda (DOB: 03/19/89, Ventura Resident). Mosqueda had a felony warrant for evading arrest in a vehicle. A Ventura police officer saw the vehicle near Seaward Ave. and Harbor Blvd., and attempted to initiate a traffic stop. Mosqueda failed to pullover and a brief vehicle pursuit was initiated.

The pursuit continued traveling on Harbor Blvd., but was discontinued by the officer when he lost sight of the vehicle. Additional officers responded and located the vehicle abandoned in 1000 block of Cove St. After a search of the area, Mosqueda was found walking with a child and two females on Harbor Blvd. He was taken into custody without incident.

Mosqueda was arrested for felony evading arrest, felony child endangerment for having his child in the vehicle, false information to a police officer and the felony warrant. The two female passengers were released from the scene. A second male passenger had fled from the vehicle and was not located after a search of the area. No one was injured as a result of this incident.

A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows that Mosqueda has prior convictions for felony evading arrest, resisting arrest, and possession of a stolen vehicle.

by Cindy Summers

Police reports are provided to us by the Ventura  Police Department and are not the opinions of  the Ventura Breeze. All suspects mentioned  are assumed to be innocent until proven guilty  in a court of law.

Brandishing of a Replica Firearm, Battery on a Police Dog, Resisting Arrest and Trespassing

On February 25 at 3pm, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a 911 call of a subject armed and brandishing a handgun near the intersection of Thompson Blvd. and Garden St. Officers arrived and contacted the victim, who reported last seeing the subject climbing a fence and go underneath the Highway 101 overpass at Garden St. The subject, 37-year-old vagrant Jeffrey Wheelock, is known by officers to frequent the area and located him hiding in a crawl space under the overpass.

Officers gave Wheelock several commands to come out, but he refused and would not show them his hands. With reports that Wheelock was possibly armed with a handgun, a Ventura Police K-9, Miles, was deployed. Wheelock began hitting the K-9 in the head, and was able to further wedge himself into the crawl space. Officers trained in crisis negotiations responded and negotiated with Wheelock for approximately 30 minutes but were unsuccessful. Officers also deployed water using a fire hose in an attempt to flush Wheelock out, but he still did not come out. The K-9 was deployed a second time, at which time several officers approached the crawl space and were able to physically take Wheelock into custody.

During a search of his property, two replica firearms were located.

Wheelock was transported to a local hospital for treatment of his injuries as a result of the dog bite, and later booked for brandishing of a replica firearm, battery on a police dog, resisting arrest and trespassing.

Warrant Arrest

On February 26, at approximately 1pm, officers attempted to conduct a probation search on a Post Release Offender (PROS) in the 200 block of Delaware Dr. As the officers knocked on the front door, 39-year-old Steven Bohannan ran out of the rear of the house and started to jump over fences running from one yard to another. Bohannan does not live at the address and was not the subject of the search; however, the officers recognized him as being a wanted subject.

Officers quickly set up a perimeter and asked for additional resources to assist in searching for Bohannan. A short time later, a Ventura County Sheriff’s Department helicopter arrived as well as Ventura Police K9 officer and his partner Miles. After an extensive search, officers were able to narrow Bohannan’s location to an address in the 2900 block of Omaha Av. During the search of the residence, K9 Miles detected Bohannan hiding in a refrigerator in the garage and alerted officers. Bohannan was removed from the refrigerator and arrested for his warrants, delaying a peace officer, trespass, and possession of a controlled substance.

No one was injured during the incident. A review of Ventura County Superior Court records shows that Bohannan has been arrested in the past for burglary, possession of a concealed firearm and DUI.

Train vs. Pedestrian

On February 29, at approximately 5pm, the Ventura Police Command Center was notified by Amtrak dispatch regarding a pedestrian being struck by an Amtrak train on the railroad tracks west of Anacapa St., in Ventura. Officers and Ventura City Fire Personnel arrived on scene and found the victim adjacent to the railroad tracks. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to the train conductor the northbound train was traveling at approximately 50-55 mph, when he saw the victim intentionally lay down on the tracks. All emergency attempts were made to stop the train, but the train did not stop in time and struck the victim.

The Ventura County Medical Examiner responded to the scene. The name of the victim was not immediately determined. Once the victim’s identity has been confirmed, the coroner’s office will notify the next of kin.

The train was delayed at the scene with approximately 100 passengers on board for about two hours while the investigation was being completed. No one else was injured as a result of this incident.

Vehicle Pursuit with Arrest

On March 3, at approximately 9pm, a patrol officer saw a vehicle driving in the area of San Nicholas Street and Coronado Street that matched the description of a suspect who has committed a vehicle burglary earlier in the evening. The officer attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver failed to yield, and the officer went in pursuit of the suspect. The pursuit continued through the Midtown area of Ventura until the suspect collided with a planter in the area of Ash Street and Front Street. After the collision, the suspect fled on foot but was caught by officers near the pier.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the suspect, 37 year old Ventura resident Steven Cossel, was arrested for possession of stolen property (felony), failing to yield to officers (felony), hit and run (misdemeanor), possession of drugs (misdemeanor) and possession of drug paraphernalia (misdemeanor).

A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website revealed that Cossel had numerous prior arrests over the past five years. The arrests include possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession of stolen property, evading police officers, obstructing police officers, under the influence of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Prowling arrests

Location #1: 6450 Auto Center Dr. (Ocean Honda) Location #2: 5455 Walker St. (Cal Coast Motor Sports)

02/16/20 @ 0160 Hours
02/16/20 @ 0359 Hours
Suspect #1: Keith Dalzell, DOB: 01/30/84 Vagrant
Suspect #2: Arturo Panchi, DOB: 06/14/95

On the above dates and time, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call from an alarm company reporting a video alarm being activated at Ocean Honda in the 6400 block of Auto Center Dr. It was also reported there was a subject on the property and checking the door handles of vehicles.

Officers responded to the call and after an extensive search of the dealership found the suspect, later identified as Keith Dalzell, hiding on the property. He was taken into custody without incident and arrested for prowling.

On the same date, at approximately 0359 hours, the Command Center received a call from an employee of Cal Coast Motor Sports in the 5400 block of Walker St. reporting a subject seen on video inside a fenced area of the business.

When officers arrived on scene, a subject later identified as Arturo Panchi, was seen running from the business. After a brief foot pursuit with officers, Panchi was caught and taken into custody. The investigation showed that Panchi was attempting to steal gas from the business. He was arrested for prowling, resisting arrest, petty theft and a warrant.

A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows that Dalzell has prior convictions for prowling, unlawful tampering of a vehicle, resisting arrest, under the influence of a controlled substance, and possession of paraphernalia. It also showed that Panchi has convictions for petty theft, possession of a controlled substance and paraphernalia, destroying evidence, and evading arrest.

Shooting

On February 22, at 2:30am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center Received several 911 calls of gunshots heard in the area of the 100 block of East Center Street in Ventura. While officers were investigating, physical evidence was found at the scene that indicated a shooting did in fact occur. Officers conducted a canvas of the area, but no victim(s) were located.

Shooting again

On February 22, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received several 911 calls of a shooting in the 100 block of Forbes Ln. Patrol officers, along with Ventura City Fire and AMR personnel, responded and found a victim suffering from a non-life threatening gunshot wound to his leg. He was treated at the scene by Ventura City Fire personnel, and immediately transported to a local hospital. The suspect was last seen by witnesses fleeing the scene in a dark colored vehicle.

The motive for this shooting is not known.

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact the Ventura Police Department at 339-4416.

by Cindy Summers

Police reports are provided to us by the Ventura  Police Department and are not the opinions of  the Ventura Breeze. All suspects mentioned  are assumed to be innocent until proven guilty  in a court of law.

Hit and Run, Wanted Person Arrest

On January 28. at approximately 7:30am, a Ventura Police Patrol Officer saw the suspect commit a traffic violation in the area of Montgomery and Newtown. When the officer attempted to stop the vehicle, the suspect failed to yield and fled. Due to the heavy traffic conditions, the officer did not pursue after the suspect and the suspect was last seen entering a nearby neighborhood.

Additional officers arrived in the area to assist. As they searched the area, the found the suspect’s vehicle had collided with a parked car, and the suspect fled on foot into the neighborhood. A police K9 and the VCSO Air Unit were used to assist with the search. After approximately an hour, the suspect, 35 year old Ventura resident Brandon Bartek, was found and arrested for misdemeanor hit and run and misdemeanor failure to yield to officers.

A records check revealed he also had an outstanding felony warrant from Los Angeles County. No one was injured during this incident.

Commercial Burglary Arrest

On February 4, at 2:00am, officers responded to an alarm activation at the business. Officers arrived on scene within four minutes of receiving the call and discovered the suspect, 32 year old Carlos Flores, was still inside actively burglarizing the business.

After several minutes, the suspect tried to escape but officers caught him. At the conclusion of the investigation, the suspect was arrested for the felony charge of Commercial Burglary. No one was injured during this incident.

Narcotics Arrests

On February 6, at 5:00am, members of the Ventura Police Department SCU Narcotics unit conducted a search warrant at the above address as a result of a month-long investigation into narcotics sales. Detectives using investigative tools were able to identify a primary suspect as Natasha Suarez.

During the execution of the search warrant, SCU detectives found and detained 40 year old Ventura resident Natasha Suarez, 55 year old Ventura resident William Kemp, and 38 year old Ventura resident Stephen Williams inside the apartment. During the subsequent investigation, it was discovered that Kemp and Williams had active felony warrants for which they were arrested. A large quantity of narcotics and narcotics paraphernalia was also found inside the apartment.

As a result of the investigation, Natasha Suarez was arrested for possession of narcotics for sales. William Kemp was arrested for an outstanding warrant for possession of narcotics.

Stephen Williams was arrested for a PROs warrant.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Natasha Suarez and William Kemp have prior arrests for narcotics-related crimes including sales of narcotics. Stephen Williams has numerous prior arrests and convictions for drug-related crimes. All subjects have prior arrests for property crimes.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon Arrest

On February 7, at approximately 10:30pm, officers were patrolling the area of the 100 block of N. Olive St., when they heard a female calling for help. The officers located the 50 year old female who reported that her boyfriend, later identified as the suspect 56 year old vagrant James Willet, was disturbing and armed with a knife. Officers located Willet nearby and detained him. The officers also contacted two other individuals, including a 42 year old male victim.

During the investigation, officers learned that Willet and the female were staying in a parked motorhome and got into verbal argument. The female left the motorhome and contacted the male victim who was just a passerby, and asked him for help. Willet exited the motorhome and threatened to harm the male. He then went back into the motorhome and armed himself with a knife. Willet exited from the motorhome and began swinging the knife at the male. The female began yelling, and got the attention of the officers. Willet discarded the knife when he saw the officers approaching.

At the conclusion of the investigation, Willet was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon. No was injured as a result of this incident.

by Cindy Summers

Police reports are provided to us by the Ventura Police Department and are not the opinions of the Ventura Breeze. All suspects mentioned are assumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm Arrest

On January 14, at 9:45pm, Ventura Police patrol officers received information that 23-year-old Reymon Young, who was a guest at the hotel, was in possession of a gun. The suspect is prohibited from possessing any firearms. He also had active felony warrants out for his arrest. After several hours, patrol officers were able to make contact with the suspect in the parking lot area of the hotel and arrested him for the outstanding warrants. After the arrest, officers were able to search his room where they found and recovered the firearm. The additional charge of felon in possession of a firearm was added to his arrest.

Burglary, Possession of Stolen Property, and Felon in Possession of Ammo Arrest

On November 30, at approximately 3am, an unknown suspect broke into multiple locked garages and stole a large amount of military-issued property and construction equipment. Ventura Police Patrol identified three separate victims of the burglary.

During the investigation, Ventura Police Department Street Crimes Detectives identified a suspect, 33 year old Santa Paula resident Vicente Flores, as a person involved in the crime. On January 15, SCU served a search warrant at Flores’ residence in Santa Paula and located property stolen from the burglaries. Detectives also found ammunition and narcotics during the search. Flores is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing ammunition.

A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows that Flores has been convicted of narcotics offenses, theft, forgery, burglary, vehicle theft, possession of a stolen vehicle, assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer, and felony resisting arrest.

Narcotics Arrests

On January 17 at 2pm, Ventura Police Department SCU Narcotics unit was conducting proactive enforcement in the downtown area of Ventura.

Detectives were monitoring the area using various surveillance tools. Investigators identified behavior consistent with potential narcotic sales, recognizing a habitual narcotic offender Whitney Byrd. Investigators contacted Ventura Police patrol units patrolling in the area who conducted an enforcement stop on two subjects. The two subjects were detained and arrested for narcotics-related offenses.

Robert Farrell, 41-year-old Ventura resident, was arrested and booked into Ventura County Jail for possession of narcotics for sales and an outstanding warrant for narcotic sales.

Whitney Byrd, 30-year-old Ventura resident, was arrested for an outstanding warrant for possession of narcotics and booked into Ventura County Jail.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Whitney Byrd and Robert Farrell both have numerous prior arrests and convictions for drug-related crimes, including narcotics sales.

Residential Burglary, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle

Sometime between the dates of January 15-19, when the owner of the residence was not at home, an unknown suspect(s) entered the victim’s house and stole property and car keys and then took the victim’s car. Ventura Police Patrol responded and placed the vehicle in the stolen vehicle system, and the Lojack system was activated.

On January 20, a Ventura Police Street Crimes Detective found the stolen vehicle utilizing the Lojack system. This detective is also a member of VenCATT. Detectives observed the suspect, 23 year old Jared Russell, enter the car and drive away. A Ventura Police Department K-9 unit assisted SCU and VenCATT in stopping the stolen vehicle and taking Russell into custody. While taking Russell into custody, the detectives located stolen property from the residential burglary as well as illegal narcotics.

Russell was arrested and transported to the Ventura County Jail, where he was booked for burglary, possession of a stolen vehicle, possession of stolen property, possession of methamphetamines, and a felony warrant.

A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows that Russell has been convicted of narcotics offenses and domestic violence offenses. Russell also has multiple out of state felony warrants.

Carrying a Loaded Firearm, Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition,

On January 19 at 7:30pm, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call of a suspicious subject loitering near a parked vehicle in the 1200 block of Conway Ave. Officers responded to the call and contacted the subject, later identified as 25-year-old Ventura resident Erik Lopez.

During the investigation, officers learned that Lopez was on probation and conducted a search of his vehicle. As a result of the search, officers found a loaded handgun concealed near the driver’s seat, ammunition, body armor and property which belonged to a state law enforcement agency that was possibly stolen. Officers also found a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.

Lopez was arrested for multiple charges including carrying a loaded firearm, prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition, felon in possession of body armor, possession of a controlled substance and paraphernalia.

A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows Lopez has prior convictions for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant, false imprisonment, possession of a controlled substance, and disobeying a court order.

by Cindy Summers

Police reports are provided to us by the Ventura  Police Department and are not the opinions of  the Ventura Breeze. All suspects mentioned  are assumed to be innocent until proven guilty  in a court of law.

Narcotics Operation and Arrests

On January 2, from 9:00am – 2:00pm, Ventura Police Department SCU Narcotics and PTF units conducted an operation in the downtown area of Ventura. The operation’s primary objective was to combat narcotics sales in the downtown area parks.

Detectives and PTF Officers monitored the parks for several hours, using various surveillance tools. As a result, three subjects were arrested for narcotics-related offenses.

Karl Muniz, 56 year old Ventura resident, was arrested and cited and released for possession of narcotics.

Jack Crosby, 36 year old Ventura resident, was arrested and cited and released for possession of narcotics.

Lydia Corona, 51 year old Ventura resident, was arrested and booked into Ventura County Jail for possession of Methamphetamine for sale.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Karl Muniz and Lydia Corona all have numerous prior arrests and convictions for drug-related crimes. Karl Muniz has numerous arrests for property related crimes.

Commercial Burglary and Vandalism Arrest

On December 25 at 2am, the owner of Gracies’ Deals discovered the store had been broken into, items had been stolen and the store had been vandalized. The owner contacted the Ventura Police Department.

Ventura Police Street Crimes Detectives began investigating and using surveillance video were able to tentatively identify 25 year old Moroni Peters as the subject who had entered the store. Peters was in custody at the Ventura County Jail on an unrelated auto theft case out of Oxnard. On January 6, Detectives spoke to Peters, who admitted to entering the store, stealing merchandise, starting a warming fire, and spray-painting the walls. Detectives arrested Peters for commercial burglary and vandalism.

According to Peters, he came here from Orange County and is currently homeless. A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows that Peters has prior convictions for prowling, petty theft, possession of a concealed knife, possession of drug paraphernalia, and previous arrests for possession of a stolen vehicle and narcotics-related offenses.

Vehicle Pursuit with Arrest

On January 7, detectives with the Ventura County PROS unit were patrolling the area of the 2100 Block of East Thompson Blvd looking for wanted PROS offenders. The PROS unit is responsible for monitoring known offenders on county probation. The detectives observed a vehicle in the parking lot of a motel, and a check of the license plate revealed the car was recently reported stolen. The driver of the vehicle, 27 year old Christopher Mejia, then drove out of the motel parking lot.

Detectives followed and attempted to stop the vehicle; however, Mejia fled and began driving erratically. Detectives followed and initiated a pursuit. Mejia drove at high rates of speed and attempted to lose the detectives by driving through alleyways. While trying to escape, Mejia pulled into a parking lot and was trapped. Additional patrol units, Street Crimes Detectives, and a K-9 Unit assisted in taking Mejia into custody without any further danger to the public.

Mejia was arrested for Felony Evading, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, and Addict Driving a Vehicle. No one was injured during the pursuit.

A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows that Mejia has prior convictions for providing false information to a police officer and a narcotics-related offense.

by Cindy Summers

Police reports are provided to us by the Ventura  Police Department and are not the opinions of  the Ventura Breeze. All suspects mentioned  are assumed to be innocent until proven guilty  in a court of law.

Grand Theft Arrest

On July 15, the owner of Hat’s Unlimited contacted the Ventura Police Department reference their bookkeeper, 40 year old Ventura residen Andrea Galindo, who had been fraudulently cashing company checks for the past year. Her primary duties for the company was to manage the company’s finances and bills. During a company audit, they noticed significant discrepancies in their billing process and realized that Galindo was cashing checks without their permission.

The Ventura Police Street Crimes Unit began a financial investigation, and it was discovered that Galindo had embezzled over $50,000 from Hat’s Unlimited and had also fraudulently paid herself for vacation time.

On December 16, Galindo was arrested and booked at the Ventura County Jail for grand theft.

Residential Burglary and Stolen Vehicle Arrest

On November 4, at approximately 11am, the victim reported a residential burglary and a theft of two of their vehicles, a pickup truck and a motorcycle. Ventura Police Patrol officers located the stolen motorcycle and contacted the Ventura Police Street Crimes Unit VenCATT liaison to begin an investigation. On November 5, KernCATT found the stolen pickup truck outside the city of Bakersfield.

During the investigation, detectives identified the suspect, 47 year old Bakersfield resident Aaron McIntosh, as the person who entered the residence and stole the vehicles. On December 17, detectives from SCU, VenCATT and KernCATT located McIntosh in Bakersfield. They requested the assistance of a CHP K9 unit to help take McIntosh into custody.

McIntosh was arrested and transported to the Ventura County Jail where he was booked for residential burglary and possession of a stolen vehicle. A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows that McIntosh has been convicted of possession of a stolen vehicle and participation in a criminal street gang.

Robbery Arrest

On December 5 at 9:45pm, VPD Patrol units responded to De Anza Middle School in reference to an armed robbery that had just occurred. Upon arrival, officers spoke with (2) victims who told them they were sitting on a bench in the quad area of the school when the suspect approached them, brandished a firearm and demanded their property. The suspect then fled the area with the victim’s property. Officers canvassed the area but were unable to locate the suspect.

VPD Detectives later identified the suspect as 19 year old Ventura resident Adrian Riggs. On December 18 at 10:15am, Riggs was taken into custody in the area of Seaward Ave and Harbor Blvd. Detectives executed search warrants in the 100 block of James Dr. and the 70 block of Franklin Ln. Detectives recovered evidence related to the robbery.

Riggs was booked at Ventura County Jail for Robbery. This investigation is on-going; anyone with information is asked to call Det. Reginato at 805-339-4466.

Felony Animal Abuse

On December 24, at approximately 12:30pm, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a 911 call from a Gold Coast Transit bus driver reporting a male subject beating a dog with a lock near the Bus Depot in the 3300 block of Telegraph Rd. It was also reported several passersby confronted the subject, later identified as 26 year old vagrant Ezekiel Heterwegscheider, who then left the area on foot. Officers responded and located Heterwegscheider at a gas station near the intersection of Telegraph Rd. and Mills Rd.

During the investigation officers found several witnesses who saw Heterwegscheider attacking and hitting his dog, a mixed breed puppy, with a large master lock that was attached to a rope. He left with the dog when confronted by others waiting at the bus depot.

Heterwegscheider was arrested for felony animal cruelty. Officers with Ventura County Animal Services responded and took custody of the dog. The dog will be evaluated for injuries.

Train vs Vehicle Traffic Collision

On December 27, at approximately 7pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received multiple 911 calls of a train versus a vehicle collision. As officers arrived at the scene and started to investigate, they learned that the 79-year-old driver of the vehicle was driving south on California and had stopped on the railroad tracks when he became confused as the railroad crossing lights came on, and the crossing arms came down.

The Union Pacific freight train was traveling east on the tracks. The engineer attempted to stop the train, however, he was unable to stop it in time, and it collided with the vehicle on the passenger side front corner panel. There were four occupants inside the car during the collision. All four were taken to local hospitals to be checked out. One of the four occupants, a 37-year-old male, suffered major injuries during the collision. His status is unknown at this time. No one on the train was injured.

It does not appear as if drugs or alcohol were involved in the incident. This is an ongoing investigation and anyone who may have witnessed the collision is asked to call the Ventura Police Traffic Investigation Unit at 805-339-4451.

by Cindy Summers

Police reports are provided to us by the Ventura  Police Department and are not the opinions of  the Ventura Breeze. All suspects mentioned  are assumed to be innocent until proven guilty  in a court of law.

Arrest of San Diego County Homicide Suspect

On November 28, at approximately 8am, the San Diego Police Department Communications Center received a call of an injured man in the 3100 block of Sports Arena Boulevard in San Diego. When the officers arrived, they found a man with significant trauma to his neck. The man was transported to the hospital, but unfortunately did not survive his injuries.

The investigation revealed the victim had an altercation with the suspect, identified as 38-year-old Forrest Robert Brantley. At some point in the altercation, Brantley used a weapon to cause traumatic injuries to the victim’s neck area. After the homicide, detectives received information that Brantley was in the City of Ventura, but there was no information available about his specific whereabouts. Officers with the Ventura Police Department and Ventura County Community College Police were sent to multiple locations where possible sightings had occurred, but Brantley was never found.

On December 4, at approximately 10am. officers with the Ventura Police Patrol Task Force saw Brantley walking near Junipero Street and Santa Clara Street in Ventura. He was detained and arrested for a parole violation and the San Diego County homicide.

A review of superior court data bases show Brantley has been arrested thirty-four times since 2000. The charges included burglary, robbery, elder abuse, drug related offenses and property crimes. At the time of his arrest on December 4, he was on active parole for attempted robbery, burglary, elder abuse and assault with a deadly weapon.

Stolen Vehicle Pursuit and Arrest

On November 29, from 6:45pm to 8pm, officers responded to a call of a stolen vehicle. Once on scene, the victim informed the officers that she had parked her SUV in the driveway of her home around 6:45pm when she came out of her house around 8pm she noticed that the SUV was gone. The officers completed a stolen vehicle investigation, and a report was filed.

At approximately 10pm a Ventura Police Sergeant saw the SUV driving westbound on the 126 Freeway passing Victoria Av. traveling at over 100 MPH. He began following the SUV as it continued on the 126 freeway to northbound 101 Freeway, and eventually exiting at Seaward Av. As the SUV exited the freeway, other VPD units arrived to assist, and a pursuit of the vehicle was started.

During the incident, the juvenile driver drove erratically and made multiple vehicle code violations. Eventually, the driver drove south on Norwich Ln, which deadends at the beach. Having nowhere to go, the driver exited the SUV and ran onto the beach. The SUV came to a stop when it ran into a brick wall at the end of the lane. Two other male passengers also exited the SUV and ran in the opposite direction of the driver and were not chased.

After running from the vehicle and onto the beach, the driver went back into the neighborhood to try and get away from officers. After an extensive search, he was found in a backyard on Martha’s Vineyard by a Ventura Police K9 “Jag” and taken into custody. During the incident, the juvenile suffered a minor injury to his hand and was treated at a local hospital. He was arrested for felony possession of a stolen vehicle and evading.

Carjacking and Resisting Arrest

On December 1, at approximately 6:30pm, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a 911 call from a victim reporting that his vehicle was in the process of being stolen. The victim said he was sitting in his vehicle with the engine running, when the suspect approached it and started banging on the passenger’s window. He confronted the suspect, later identified as 28 year old Michael Pacella, who aggressively approached him and made threats to harm him. Pacella then got into the victim’s vehicle and started driving off, when he realized the victim’s dog was in the backseat. Pacella stopped the vehicle, just as a Ventura Police K-9 officer arrived on scene.

When additional officers arrived, Pacella was ordered out of the vehicle and physically resisted attempts to take him into custody. The K-9 officer deployed his dog, which allowed officers to arrest Pacella without further incident.

Pacella was treated at the scene by Ventura City Fire, before being transported to VCMC for treatment of his injuries. After being medically cleared, Pacella was arrested for carjacking, resisting arrest and driving under the influence.

No one else was injured as a result of this incident.

Felony Domestic Violence Incident with Arrest

On December 10, at approximately 11am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a 911 hang-up call from a residence in the 200 block of Burl Ave. On callback, the female victim reported she was involved in a physical domestic with her boyfriend, later identified as 19 year old Ventura resident Daniel Vargas. When officers arrived on scene, Vargas was reportedly inside the residence and when contacted by phone, said he was not going to cooperate with officers. Vargas also threatened officers and said he was armed with a knife.

As officers continued to negotiate with Vargas on the phone, it was determined he had left the residence prior to officers arriving on scene and was on foot in the area.

Ventura Police motor officers began helping with the search and located Vargas on the bike path near the Community Park on Kimball Rd. Vargas, who was still armed with the knife (see attached), displayed the knife in a threatening manner towards the officers and fled onto Highway 126. Additional officers responded and attempted to detain him. At one point, Vargas raised the knife up and while advancing towards officers, threatened to harm them if they did not shoot him. Officers continued to give Vargas orders to drop the knife, but when he refused to comply, officers deployed a taser. The taser was not effective in stopping Vargas, who continued to advance towards the officers. A Ventura Police K-9 officer then deployed his K9 (Bolt), which allowed officers to take Vargas into custody without further incident.

Vargas was treated at a local hospital for his injuries. After being medically cleared, Vargas was arrested for attempted murder, felony domestic violence, false imprisonment, assault with a deadly weapon on a police officer, and felony resisting arrest.

The female victim received non-life threatening injuries as a result of this incident and treated for her injuries. No officers or the K-9 were injured.

Train Boxcar Vandalism Arrest

On December 11, at approximately 4pm, Ventura Police Cadets monitoring security cameras for the Ventura City Maintenance Yard observed three male suspects spray painting a boxcar on the railroad tracks south of the yard. The cadet notified the Ventura Command Center Supervisor, and officers were dispatched to the location. Through a coordinated effort, the officers were able to surround the area and stop 20 year old Ventura resident Vincent Saucedo as he attempted to run away. The two other suspects separated and were able to getaway. During the investigation, officers found graffiti paraphernalia on Saucedo as well as paint on his hands matching that found on the boxcar.

Saucedo was arrested for felony vandalism, misdemeanor obstructing a peace officer and trespassing on railroad property. No one was injured during this incident, and Saucedo was booked at the Ventura County Jail.

Addict in Possession of a Firearm Arrest

On December 12, a Ventura Patrol Officer saw the suspect, 27 year old Ventura resident Jose Crespin, driving in the area of Main St. and Emma Ave. Crespin is known to the officer from prior contacts and the officer was aware that Crespin was driving on a suspended driver’s license. The officer made a traffic stop on Crespin in the parking lot of Smart and Final.

During the stop, the officer asked Crespin to exit the vehicle and asked if there was anything illegal inside the car. Crespin told the officer that there was an unloaded gun in his backpack. Based on this information, the officer continued his investigation and found the unloaded handgun, ammunition and drug paraphernalia. Based on his investigation, the officer asked a DRE officer to assist and conduct an evaluation to determine if Crespin was under the influence of an illegal substance.

Upon completion of the DRE evaluation, Crespin was arrested for felony possession of a firearm by an addict, possession of ammunition by an addict, carrying a concealed firearm in a vehicle, and being under the influence of a controlled substance. No one was injured during this arrest, and Crespin was booked into Ventura County Jail.