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.

Commercial Burglary

On May 23, at approximately 3:45pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call from an alert employee who saw the suspect, 21 year old Ventura resident Brian Kimball, attempting to steal money from a safe. Kimball was using a homemade device to reach into the safe and pull out money.

As officers arrived on scene they contacted the employee pointed Kimball out to them. The officers contacted Kimball who was sitting inside the building on a bench. As the officers continued their investigation it was confirmed that Kimball was stealing money from the safe. Kimball was arrested without incident and booked into the Ventura County Jail for Commercial Burglary.

Commercial Burglary Arrest

On May 26, at approximately 1:30am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call reference two subjects seen on video surveillance prowling on church property. The caller continued to monitor the video surveillance cameras and observed the suspects, two juveniles from Ventura, removing a window screen and gaining access into the building via an unlocked window. As officers arrived on scene, one of the subjects began to exit the building through the front door. The officer immediately detained the subject as additional officers arrived on scene. A few minutes later, the second subject exited the building and was also detained.

Officers searched the building and did not locate any additional subjects inside. Investigation revealed the juveniles had taken several items from inside the church and had staged the property near the front door upon being contacted by police. The juveniles were arrested, issued citations and later released to the custody of their parents.

The investigation into this incident is ongoing, anyone with information related to this crime is asked to contact the Ventura Police Department at 339-4416.

Felony Vandalism & Battery on a Peace Officer Arrest

On May 26, Ventura Police officers responded to a report of a subject breaking windows out of business in the 2500 block of Grand Avenue. Witnesses indicated the suspect was armed with a large hammer.

The first arriving officer observed the suspect, 35 year old Ventura vagrant Corrina Gutierrez, holding a hammer and standing next to several broken windows to the front of the business. Gutierrez dropped the hammer and began to walk away as the officer exited his patrol vehicle. The officer approached Gutierrez and ordered her to stop; however, she refused to comply. Gutierrez violently resisted and bit the officer on the arm when he attempted to detain her. The officer was able to take Gutierrez into custody after a brief struggle.

Gutierrez was placed under arrest and transported to the Ventura County Jail where she was booked for felony vandalism and violently resisting arrest.

The officer was treated for minor injuries and returned to duty.

Felon in Possession of a Firearm with Ammunition

On May 24, at approximately 9:45pm, a patrol officer was patrolling the area of Dos Caminos Avenue and Main Street when he observed the defendant later identified as 27 year old Ventura resident David Stratmann driving with a missing registration tab and inoperable lights. A traffic enforcement stop was conducted and the driver verbally identified himself. A records check revealed Stratmann is currently on parole for burglary with search terms.

A search of the vehicle revealed a pistol grip sawed off shotgun concealed in the backseat of the vehicle with numerous shotgun slugs nearby. Stratmann admitted to possessing the shotgun with an excuse.

Stratmann was arrested and booked into the Ventura County Jail for felon in possession of firearm, felon in possession of ammunition, and parole violation.

Theft from vehicle arrest

On May 28, at approximately 4:30am, an alert citizen called the Ventura Police Department Command Center to report that he saw a male suspect rummaging through the interior of his neighbor’s car. The suspect fled from the scene and the citizen followed the suspect until officers arrived on scene. The suspect was detained by officers and identified as 37 year old Ventura resident Jason Sevier. Sevier was found to in possession of property that was taken from the victim’s vehicle. The victim was contacted and confirmed that his property was taken from his car.

Sevier was placed under arrest for theft from an unlocked vehicle and possession of stolen property. Sevier was later booked into the Ventura County Jail for the charges.

Commercial burglary arrest

On May 29, at approximately 1;15am, an alert citizen called the Ventura Police Department Command Center to report that he saw a male suspect using bolt cutters to cut the lock off of the storage container that holds bags of ice in front of Mandell’s Liquor Store. The suspect fled the store with a bag of ice in a black pickup truck. A patrol officer spotted the pickup in a nearby business parking lot and contacted the driver identified as 56 year old Ventura resident Terry Doan. There was a bag of ice and bolt cutters located in the bed of the pickup.

Doan was positively identified as the suspect and placed under arrest for commercial burglary and possession of burglary tools. Doan was later booked into the Ventura County Jail for the charges.

Assault with a deadly weapon and child endangerment arrest

On May 3, at approximately 11:30am, the victims had just finished surfing and were walking off of the beach near Greenock Ln., when a truck drove up to them and then stopped. The suspect driver began yelling at the victims for allegedly vandalizing his vehicle. While yelling at the victims, the suspect removed a handgun from his center console and pointed it in their direction. The victims told the suspect they had been surfing and not involved in vandalizing his vehicle. The suspect set the handgun down on his center console and the victims left the area. When the victims returned home they notified the police department of the incident. Patrol officers responded and later were able to identify Carl Churchfield as the suspect.

Major Crimes Detectives began investigating the case and authored a search warrant for Churchfield’s residence. On May 30, at approximately 1pm, detectives arrested Churchfield in the 1100 block of Mariposa Rd., in Santa Paula and searched his residence. Churchfield was later booked at the Ventura County Jail for felony assault with a deadly weapon and felony child endangerment.

Stolen Vehicle Arrest

On May 30, at approximately 11:45pm, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call reference a stolen vehicle report. Officers responded to the area and began conducting their investigation. A short time later Officer Spies, who was driving eastbound Center Street, observed a suspicious vehicle quickly turn into the alleyway to the rear of the 500 block of North Ventura Ave.

Officer Spies quickly turned into the alleyway and confirmed the vehicle in question was stolen. Additional officers arrived on scene and conducted a high-risk stop on the vehicle. The driver was later identified as a 14 year old Juvenile and the front passenger was identified as a 16 year old juvenile.

The driver was arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle and booked into Juvenile hall without incident. The passenger was issued a curfew citation and released to the custody of his parents

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.

Felony Vandalism, Conspiracy, Battery on a Peace Officer & Resisting Arrest

On May 7 at 12:30am, the Ventura Police Command Center received several 911 calls from residents in the 1500 block of Echidna Place who were reporting having heard what they believed to be someone spray painting near the community pool house.

As officers arrived on scene they observed the suspect, 18 year old Ventura resident Alberto Lara, spray painting graffiti on the exterior walls of the pool house while two females stood by as lookouts. Officers approached the group, announced their presence and attempted to detain the trio. One of the females, 18 year old Ventura resident Juliana Munoz refused to cooperate with the officers and fled on foot. Munoz was taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit, yet she continued to resist by spitting and kicking at the officers.

Lara was placed under arrest and booked into the Ventura County Jail for felony vandalism, criminal conspiracy and providing false identification to a peace officer. Munoz was booked into the Ventura County Jail for felony vandalism, criminal conspiracy, battery on a peace officer and resisting arrest. The third suspect was determined to be a juvenile and was issued a citation for felony vandalism and criminal conspiracy before being released to a guardian.

No officers were injured as a result of these arrests.

Multiple Commercial Burglaries

On May 12 at 1am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a report of multiple window smashes in the 300 block of Ventura Ave. As officers arrived on scene they detained several juveniles who were fleeing down the street. During the course of the investigation it was discovered that one of the juveniles, a 15 year old female Oxnard resident, had smashed the window to a coin laundromat and entered the business to steal property. She then moved down the street and smashed a glass door and entered into another store to steal property. When she was detained, she still had the property on her person. The other two juveniles were found not to have been involved in the burglaries, however were out past curfew and were issued citations and released to parents.

The suspect in the burglaries was arrested for two counts of felony commercial burglary and released to parents. The Ventura Police Department would like to remind parents there is a curfew for juveniles under 18 from 10 pm until 6 am.

Brandishing a Replica Firearm in a Threatening Manner, Negligent Discharge of an Air Gun and Obstructing a Police Officer Arrest

On May 17, at approximately 6:15am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call from the clerk of Motel 6, 3075 Johnson Dr., reporting that there was a subject in the parking lot armed with a handgun. It was reported the subject, later identified as 31 year old vagrant Spencer Westerberg, was standing near a parked vehicle, waving the gun around and pointing it in different directions, including in the direction of Highway 101.

When the first officers arrived on scene and attempted to make contact with Westerberg, he got into the vehicle and started the engine. Westerberg refused numerous orders by the officers to turn off the vehicle and exit the vehicle. Additional officers arrived on scene and using the Department’s armored vehicle, the officers blocked Westerberg’s vehicle to keep him from leaving the parking lot. After additional orders, Westerberg exited the vehicle was taken into custody.

During the investigation, officers determined the handgun was a BB gun, although Westerberg admitted to shooting several BB’s towards vehicles on the freeway.

Westerberg was arrested and later booked into the Ventura County Jail for brandishing a replica firearm in a threatening manner, negligent discharge of an air gun and obstructing a police officer. Westerberg received a minor injury to during the arrest, but did not require a medical clearance.

There were no other injuries as a result of this incident.

Hit and Run and Driving a Stolen Vehicle Arrest

On May 17, at approximately 10:30am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call of a none injury hit and run traffic accident that just occurred near the intersection of Loma Vista Rd. and Palomares Ave. The caller reported the suspect vehicle, a black Chrysler sedan, collided into their vehicle and was last seen fleeing westbound on Loma Vista Rd.

As officers were responding to that location, additional callers reported a second hit and run accident that just occurred at the intersection of W. Barnett St. and Snow Ct., describing that a similar described vehicle hit a parked vehicle and the driver fled on foot. Officers arrived on scene and located the suspect driver, later identified as 24 year old Ventura resident Brittany Caro, walking in the area and detained her. Shortly after being detained, a relative of Caro’s called from a residence in east Ventura to report that Caro had stolen her vehicle.

At the conclusion of the investigation, Caro was arrested for hit and run and stolen vehicle. After being medically cleared from VCMC for minor injuries she sustained during the second accident, Caro was booked into the Ventura County Jail.

No citizens were injured as a result of these incidents.

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.

Possession of Drugs while Armed with a Loaded Firearm

On April 27 at 9:30pm, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a 911call of a suspicious person in the area. Officers arrived on scene and 26 year old Santa Paula resident Mark Lugo fled behind the bushes and discarded a loaded handgun. Lugo was detained and during the course of the investigation officers found a usable quantity of narcotics on Lugo’s person. Lugo was arrested for possession of drugs while armed with a loaded firearm, a felony, and booked at the Ventura County Jail.

Brandishing a Knife and Threats Arrest

On April 30, at approximately 12:45pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of a resident brandishing a knife and making death threats at River Haven. The suspect, 55 year old Simi Valley resident Brian Fayard who is a Post Release Offender, had been involved in an argument with another resident. During the argument he brandished a knife and made death threats. Prior to the officers’ arrival, the altercation ended; however when the officers arrived, they were able to locate the suspect at River Haven. The investigation confirmed the suspect had brandished a knife during the argument and threatened to kill the victim.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the suspect was booked into Ventura County Jail on the misdemeanor charge of brandishing a knife and the felony charge of making criminal threats.

Attempt Warrant Service

On May 5, at approximately 1:30pm, the Ventura Police Department was asked to assist the Marshalls Service in apprehending a wanted subject 25 year old Ventura resident Miguel Burciaga. As Ventura Police units arrived on scene it was discovered that in an attempt to evade capture, Burciaga climb to the top of a three story apartment building refusing to surrender.

As a precaution for public safety a portion of Wells Rd has been closed between Telegraph Rd. and Loma Vista Rd.

At this time negotiators from the Ventura Police Department are attempting to have Burciaga surrender. No one has been hurt or injured during the incident.

After several hours of negotiating with Burciaga, he finally surrendered to officers on scene. He was taken into custody without incident and booked at Ventura County Jail for multiple warrants and Delaying and Obstructing a Peace Officer.

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.

Stolen Vehicle, Possession of Stolen Property

On April 5 at 7:30am, a Ventura Police Patrol Officer conducted a traffic stop on a suspicious vehicle with no license plate displayed in the area of Crescent St. and Sherwin Ave. A records check of the vehicle showed it was a reported stolen vehicle from the City of Ventura. The driver, 26 year old Ventura resident Gustavo Gonzales, was placed under arrest for driving the stolen vehicle.

During a search of the vehicle, officers located potential stolen property. Street Crimes Unit Detectives conducted further investigation and located two victims whose property had been stolen earlier that morning from their vehicle in the 100 block of Eugenia St. in Ventura. Detectives additionally found medical supplies belonging to a victim of a residential burglary in the 1700 block of Potomac St. in Ventura that occurred on February 27.

Gustavo Gonzales was booked at the Ventura County Jail for driving a stolen vehicle and additionally charged for 496(a) PC- felony possession of stolen property.

Arrest for: Attempt Theft from unlocked vehicle, Resisting Arrest, Active Warrants

On April 6 at approximately 1am, a resident in the 3000 block of Foothill Rd. observed two subjects on Foothill Rd outside of his parked vehicle. Concerned about theft, the resident watched from inside his home. While observing the two, one of the subjects, later identified as the suspect 48 year old Ventura vagrant Richard Hunt, entered the victim’s unlocked vehicle and began rummaging around in it. The other subject was described as a white male in his 20’s stood outside of the vehicle. The resident shouted at the subjects and the unknown white male entered into a gray 2000 Volvo parked nearby and fled the area. Hunt, left behind by his accomplice, fled on foot. The victim followed Hunt while calling the Ventura Police Department Command Center 911 emergency line.

With the description given by the caller, officers arrived on scene and saw Hunt running south on Dos Caminos Ave. When Hunt saw officers, he began to flee through yards and crossed over onto Estrella St as officers gave chase. Hunt attempted to hide in several backyards and continued to flee from officers, but was ultimately detained as he attempted to flee through an alleyway off of Dos Caminos Ave.

Hunt was positively identified as the subject who had entered the victim’s unlocked vehicle. Hunt also had 4 outstanding warrants. Hunt was transported to the Ventura County Jail and booked for an attempt theft, resisting arrest, and his warrants.

Suicidal Subject

On April 9, at approximately 8am, officers were dispatched to a call of a theft of services that just occurred at the Crowne Plaza in the 400 block of Harbor Blvd. An officer responding to the call saw the suspect, later identified to be a 28-year-old male, walking on the California St. overcrossing at Highway 101 and attempted to contact him. As the officer was approaching him, the subject climbed over the security fencing of the overpass and stood on the outside railing. He began making suicidal statements and threatening that he was going to jump. The officer, who is trained in crisis intervention, began attempts to negotiate with the subject, although he almost immediately jumped from the railing and landed on the shoulder of the freeway which was approximately 20 feet below. The subject was not hit by any passing vehicles. Upon landing, the subject sustained a severe lower leg injury and rendered immobile.

Officers immediately stopped the southbound lanes of the highway to allow Ventura City Fire personnel to respond and start rendering medical aid. The subject was treated at the scene and ultimately transported to VCMC for treatment of his injury. He will undergo a mental health evaluation when released.

Recovered Stolen Vehicle Arrest

On April 9, at approximately 12:30am, an alert citizen called the Ventura Police Department to report a suspicious occupied vehicle in the area. Officers arrived at the location and one of the officers recognized the vehicle as the same vehicle that was reported stolen and recovered at the same location on April 4, and detained two males in the vehicle.

While officers were conducting the investigation they learned that the vehicle had been taken from the owner’s residence without their permission. The suspect, 22 year old Ventura resident Jesus Alvarez, was found to be in possession of the vehicles keys and other evidence belonging to the victim and was arrested.

Alvarez was arrested and later booked into the Ventura County Jail for possession of a stolen vehicle and possession of drug paraphernalia. The vehicle was returned to the owner.

Maintaining a Place for the Purpose of Selling a Controlled Substance, Illegal Sales of Marijuana, and Possession of Marijuana for Sales

On April 12 at 11am, Ventura PD Detectives and members of the Ventura PD Traffic Unit served search and arrest warrants at an illegal marijuana dispensary business called “Canna Nuts” located at 5755 Valentine Rd in Ventura.

With the passage of Proposition 64, titled “The Adult Use of Marijuana Act”, possession and use of recreational marijuana became legal in California for people over 21-years-old beginning January of 2018. However, the commercial sale of recreational marijuana now requires both a state license through the Bureau of Cannabis Control and a city business license. The commercial sale of marijuana remains illegal within the Ventura city limits in accordance to our municipal laws.

The Ventura Police Department began the 4-month long investigation after receiving numerous citizen complaints regarding illegal sales of marijuana from the “Canna Nuts” business. Detectives learned that the sole proprietor of the business was the suspect, 54 year old Ventura resident Janice Stabile, who blatantly advertised the sale of marijuana despite not having a state or city business license. Further investigation revealed that Stabile was actively and routinely selling marijuana.

Detectives detained Stabile at her business and placed her under arrest. Search warrants were then served at Stabile’s business and residence in Ventura. Detectives seized over four pounds of marijuana, two firearms, and approximately $128,000 in cash. Stabile was booked at the Ventura County Jail for Maintaining a Place for Selling a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana for Sale, and Illegal Sale of Marijuana.

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.

Sexual Battery Arrest

On March 26, at approximately 3pm, the female victim was walking in the area of the 3500 block of East Main Street. The suspect, 23 year old Ventura vagrant Dylan McTaggart, approached her, yelled lewd comments and sexually battered her. The suspect fled prior to officers arriving; however he was located by officers. The investigation revealed he committed the sexual battery and that he is a registered sex offender. He was booked into Ventura County Jail for misdemeanor sexual battery.

Recovered Stolen Vehicle Arrest

On March 30 at 1am, while patrolling in the area, patrol officers saw a reported stolen vehicle drive past them. The officers followed the suspect vehicle to where it pulled into the 7-11 parking lot on Bristol Rd. The officers contacted the driver of the vehicle, 42 year old Ventura vagrant Manuel Alamillo, and took him into custody without incident.

Alamillo was arrested and booked into the Ventura County Jail for possession of a stolen vehicle.

Hit and Run, Driving Under the Influence, Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and Felony Resisting Arrest

On April 2, at approximately 7am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call of a hit and run traffic accident that just occurred in the 900 block of Woodstock Ln. The caller reported the suspect vehicle, a black Ford pickup, struck a fence and pole before fleeing the scene.

As officers were responding to that location, additional callers reported a second hit and run accident that just occurred in the area of Harbor Blvd. and Seaward Ave., describing that a similar vehicle hit another motorist and fled. The driver of that victim vehicle followed the suspect, later identified as 36 year old Ventura resident Caden Everett, and caught up to him at the intersection of Seaward Ave. and Thompson Blvd. The victim tried to stop Everett by pulling in front of him and using his vehicle to block him from driving a way. At that point, Everett used his vehicle and starting forcefully pushing the victim’s vehicle out of the way. He then continued, being chased again by the victim and a witness. At the intersection of San Nicholas St. and Evergreen Dr., the victim and witness used both their vehicles to block Everett in until officers arrived. Chances are high that a hit and run accident lawyer will become involed in the case.

When the first officer arrived and contacted Everett, he was uncooperative and refused to exit his vehicle. Everett started fighting with the officer as he tried to remove him from the vehicle. He was taken to the ground and arrest.

After being medically cleared from VCMC for an injury he sustained during the arrest, Everett was booked into the Ventura County Jail for Hit and Run, Driving Under the Influence, Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and Felony Resisting Arrest.

Arrest for: Attempt Theft from unlocked vehicle, Resisting Arrest, Active Warrants

On April 6, at approximately 1am, a resident in the 3000 block of Foothill Rd. observed two subjects on Foothill Rd outside of his parked vehicle. Concerned about theft, the resident watched from inside his home. While observing the two, one of the subjects, later identified as 48 year old Ventura vagrant Richard Hunt, entered the victim’s unlocked vehicle and began rummaging around in it. The other subject was described as a white male in his 20’s stood outside of the vehicle. The resident shouted at the subjects and the unknown white male entered into a gray 2000 Volvo parked nearby and fled the area. Hunt, left behind by his accomplice, fled on foot. The victim followed Hunt while calling the Ventura Police Department Command Center 911 emergency line.

With the description given by the caller, officers arrived on scene and saw Hunt running south on Dos Caminos Ave. When Hunt saw officers, he began to flee through yards and crossed over onto Estrella St as officers gave chase. Hunt attempted to hide in several backyards and continued to flee from officers, but was ultimately detained as he attempted to flee through an alleyway off of Dos Caminos Ave.

Hunt was positively identified as the subject who had entered the victim’s unlocked vehicle. Hunt also had 4 outstanding warrants. Hunt was transported to the Ventura County Jail and booked for an attempt theft, resisting arrest, and his warrants.

The second subject was not located.

The Ventura Police Department would like to remind citizens to remove all valuables from inside of your vehicles and keep the doors locked.

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.

Pursuit

On March 9, at approximately 11:15pm, the Ventura Police Traffic Division was conducting a DUI Checkpoint at the intersection of Harbor Blvd. and Schooner Dr when the suspect, 26 year old Ventura resident Reuben Torres, entered the tapered lanes to the checkpoint, and then began to back out, passing on-coming traffic. Motor Officers staged at the intersection witnessed Torres traveling the wrong way and attempted to conduct an enforcement stop.

Torres failed to yield to the Motor Officers, entered the 101 southbound on-ramp, and accelerated to 100 mph on the freeway. After a brief pursuit, Torres exited the freeway at Telephone Rd. and surrendered to the pursuing officers.

Torres was found to be under the influence of alcohol and on parole for 212.5 (c) PC – Robbery.

Assault w/a Deadly Weapon, Criminal Threats Arrest

On March 10, at 2:30am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call reference a male suspect, 21 year old Ventura resident Conner Steven, who had pointed a handgun at an Uber driver and threatened him. According to the Uber driver, after pointing the gun at him Stevens went into a house in the 900 block of Sharon Ln.

Responding units contacted numerous subjects in the street and eventually were able to talk Steven out of the house. During the investigation it was discovered Steven and the Uber driver had gotten into an argument when Steven armed himself, pointed the gun at the driver and threatened to kill him.

Stolen Vehicle, Possession of Drugs and Warrant Arrest

On March 11, at approximately 9am, a patrol officer working in the area saw a suspicious vehicle driving through the neighborhood. A records check revealed it was a reported stolen vehicle. As the officer attempted to turn around and stop the vehicle, the vehicle drove away at a high rate of speed. The officer was able to catch up to the vehicle as it stopped and the suspect was getting out in an attempt to run away. The suspect, 39 year old Ventura resident Richard Medina, stopped and was taken into custody.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the suspect was booked into Ventura County Jail for an outstanding misdemeanor warrant, possession of methamphetamine and possession of a stolen vehicle.

Vehicle Tampering

On March 13, at approximately 5:30am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call from a resident in the 1000 block of Bangor Ln. reporting that a subject, later identified as 27 year old Ventura resident Robert Miranda, was tampering with a neighbor’s parked vehicle and trying door handles. Miranda was last seen leaving the area on a bike westbound on Pierpont Blvd.

With the description given by the caller, officers arrived on scene and saw Miranda several blocks away near Pierpont and Monmouth Way. He was detained.

During the investigation officers found that Miranda was in possession of several items of property, but could not confirm the items were stolen. He was positively identified by a witness as tampering with a parked vehicle and arrested.

Attempt Child Molestation

On March 12, at approximately 5pm, Ventura Police Dispatch received a call from the mother of a 13 year old female who advised that the suspect, 21 year old Ventura resident Kevin McCarty, had been following her daughter around the book store and attempting to commit lewd acts. The mother was able to take a photo of McCarty’s license plate as he left the area. After a full investigation by Patrol Officers; McCarty was identified as the suspect.

On March 14, at 9pm, McCarty was seen at the Ventura County Medical Center for an unrelated incident. Officers contacted McCarty Interviewed him, arrested him and later booked him at Ventura county Jail for attempt Lewd Acts on a Child, a felony.

Lewd Acts with a Minor Arrest

In August of 2017, the Ventura Police Department received a courtesy report from an outside agency reporting that a 17 year old female had been the victim of a sexual assault in the City of Ventura. Ventura PD Major Crimes Detectives began investigating. Over the course of the investigation, Detectives learned that the suspect, 26 year old Ventura resident Christian Galindo, began corresponding with the underage victim on a dating website. Eventually, Galindo convinced the victim to meet up with him at his residence in Ventura. Over the course of the next few months, Galindo engaged in sexual acts with the victim.

On the morning of March 20, at 8:30am, Detectives arrested Galindo and served a search warrant at his residence. Detectives recovered evidence linking Galindo to the sexual assault described by the minor. Galindo was transported to the Ventura County Jail where he was booked for several felonies related to lewd acts with a minor.

Residential Burglary, Elder Abuse, and Conspiracy

On January 10 Ventura Police Patrol Officers responded to a report of residential burglary in the 100 Block of S. Ventura Ave. The victim of the burglary was an elderly woman with physical disabilities. The victim and her caretaker, 39 year old Oxnard resident Elva Sandoval, went shopping in the afternoon. They returned home and found the victim’s residence ransacked with multiple valuables taken. Officers were able to review video surveillance surrounding the victim’s apartment, which showed Sandoval prop open a secure door to the building before leaving with the victim. Seconds later, a male suspect entered the victim’s apartment and is later seen exiting with stolen items in hand.

During the investigation, detectives identified 41 year old vagrant Lee Sivoraraj as the male suspect seen on the surveillance video. Additionally, detectives found further evidence that showed Sandoval and Sivoraraj conspired together to commit the residential burglary.

On March 22, detectives conducted surveillance in an attempt to locate both suspects. At approximately 6:30pm, detectives and patrol officers located and arrested the caretaker, Elva Sandoval, at the Pacific View Mall. Approximately two hours later, detectives located and arrested Lee Sivoraraj. Both suspects were arrested and booked at the Ventura County Jail for residential burglary, elder abuse, and conspiracy.

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.

Commercial Burglary Arrest

On February 24, at approximately 9pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received an alarm call reference a window smash at Cal Coast Motorsports. Officers arrived on scene and located one of the south facing windows had been smashed. As officers were approaching the location a male subject later identified as 19 year old Ventura resident Hunter Fox was seen running from the area. Fox was contacted and detained while officers continued their investigation. A search of the area where Fox was initially seen prior to running revealed a 2018 Honda CRF 110 that was later confirmed to be stolen from Cal Coast Motorsports.

Officers reviewed the video surveillance cameras from inside Cal Coast Motorsports and were able to identify Fox as the suspect.

Brandishing a Firearm, Criminal Threats Arrest

On February 25, at approximately 12:15am, patrol officers responded to a disturbance at a residence in the 200 block of West Barnett Street. When officers arrived, they found several people involved in the incident in the front yard. The suspect, 22 year old Ventura resident Danny Bamford, was in possession of a concealed handgun.

At the conclusion of the investigation, it was determined the suspect had brandished the firearm and made criminal threats. He was arrested and later booked into Ventura County Jail.

Crime Spree: Residential Burglary, Attempt Residential Burglary, Prowling and Theft

On March 2, at approximately 6:30pm, the Command Center received a 911 call from a resident in the 300 Block of Myrtle Ave reporting that they confronted a female suspect in their home and were currently chasing her down the street. Officers arrived on scene and took the suspect, 33 year old Ventura resident Jeanette Jason, into custody.

During the investigation, including using multiple home security cameras in the area, it was discovered that Jason had been in the neighborhood since around 1700 hours. She was captured on a video walking up to front door of a home on Beechnut St and opening the door to enter the home. She did not make entry into that home, possibly because people were there. She then walked across the street and went into a neighbor’s back yard, possibly looking for a way to enter that home. From there, she stole a child’s bicycle from the side yard of an additional neighbor’s home before entering the home on Myrtle Ave.

It was discovered after she was taken into custody that Jason was in the home on Myrtle Ave for almost an hour and had ransacked a child’s room and had hidden the child’s clothing on her person. The clothing was discovered after Jason was arrested.

Jason was transported and booked into the Ventura County Jail for First Degree Residential Burglary, Attempt First Degree Residential Burglary, Prowling and Petty Theft.

Anyone with information or any additional victims or witnesses to these crimes is asked to contact the Ventura Police Department at 339-4325.

Commercial Burglary

On March 2, at approximately 4:30pm, a loss prevention officer for a store located in the Pacific View Mall called the Ven Command Center to report he was following three suspects who had just committed a theft from the store. During the incident the loss prevention officers watched as the three suspects worked together to steal over $2900.00 worth of merchandise.

As the suspects left the store the loss prevention officer followed the suspects from a safe distance and stayed on the phone with the Command Center. The loss prevention officer watched as the three suspects entered a vehicle. The description of the vehicle was given to responding units and an officer responding to the call saw the vehicle drive past him in the opposite direction. The officer quickly coordinated with other officers in the area and a stop of the vehicle was made at the Mobil gas station at Mills and Main.

During the investigation all of the property taken from the store was recovered. The suspects (21 year old Marco Villarroel, 24 year old Jose Lopez and 23 year old Jose Jara – all from the Republic of Chile) were all arrested for Felony charges of Commercial Burglary and Conspiracy.

Robbery, Kidnapping, Assault w/a Deadly Weapon, Felony Evading, Resisting a Peace Officer Arrests

On March 5, at approximately 8:15pm, the Command Center received a call reference an armed robbery in progress at McDonalds on Main St. Responding units observed a vehicle fleeing the area at a high rate of speed without its headlights on. Officers initiated a traffic stop and the vehicle failed to yield and subsequently began running red lights and not stopping for stop signs. The vehicle reached speeds of approximately 70mph before coming to a stop in the 4800 block of Colt St. Both suspects ran from the vehicle as officers established a perimeter. With the assistance of the police K9, the suspects were located hiding inside a dumpster enclosure. 19 year old Oxnard resident Freddy Tavares complied with the officer’s orders to surrender, however 19 year old Oxnard resident Augustin Martinez did not and the police K9 was deployed. Both suspects were eventually taken into custody.

Tavares and Martinez were identified by several witnesses as suspects from the McDonalds robbery. There were also (5) patrons inside McDonalds that were robbed at gun point. During the incident, Martinez physically moved an employee around the business in an attempt to find more cash. VPD Major Crimes Detectives and VPD CSI responded to assist with the investigation. After Martinez was medically cleared for a minor injury, he was booked for robbery, kidnapping, conspiracy, assault with a deadly weapon, felony evading and resisting arrest. Tavares was booked for robbery, conspiracy and resisting arrest.

Elder Abuse and Trespassing Arrest

On March 8, at 6:15am,, the Department Command Center received a 911 call from a resident in the 100 block of N. Dos Caminos Ave. reporting that her husband was struggling with a subject that came into their residence. The subject, later identified as 56 year old vagrant Rickey Badger, the 77-year-old husband was trying to get him out. Prior to officers arriving on scene, Badger fled from the residence on foot and was last seen westbound on Martha Dr. Officers arrived and detained Badger in the area.

During the investigation officers learned that Badger entered the residence through an open front door. Badger struck the victim several times, before fleeing on foot.

The victim received minor injuries as a result of the altercation and was treated on scene by Ventura Fire personnel.

Pursuit

On March 9, at approximately 11:15pm, the Ventura Police Traffic Division was conducting a DUI Checkpoint at the intersection of Harbor Blvd. and Schooner Dr when the suspect, 26 year old Ventura resident Reuben Torres, entered the tapered lanes to the checkpoint, and then began to back out, passing on-coming traffic. Motor Officers staged at the intersection witnessed Torres traveling the wrong way and attempted to conduct an enforcement stop.

Torres failed to yield to the Motor Officers, entered the 101 southbound on-ramp, and accelerated to 100 mph on the freeway. After a brief pursuit, Torres exited the freeway at Telephone Rd. and surrendered to the pursuing officers.

Torres was found to be under the influence of alcohol and on parole for 212.5 (c) PC – Robbery. Torres was booked at the Ventura County Jail for Felony Evading and Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol.

Assault w/a Deadly Weapon, Criminal Threats Arrest

On March 10, at 2:20 am, the Command Center received a call reference a male suspect, 21 year old Ventura resident Conner Steven, who had pointed a handgun at an Uber driver and threatened him. According to the Uber driver, after pointing the gun at him Stevens went into a house in the 900 block of Sharon Ln.

Responding units contacted numerous subjects in the street and eventually were able to talk Steven out of the house. During the investigation it was discovered Steven and the Uber driver had gotten into an argument when Steven armed himself, pointed the gun at the driver and threatened to kill him.

Steven was arrested and booked for Assault with a Deadly Weapon as well as Criminal Threats.

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.

Criminal Threats, Assault with a Firearm

On January 24, at approximately 2pm, the victim was at 10 W. Harbor Bl. (Ventura Fairgrounds) selling items as a vendor at the swap meet. The suspect, later identified as 29 year old Ventura resident Salvador Gutierrez, was also a swap meet vendor, asked the victim to meet out in the parking lot of the Fairgrounds. The victim agreed and met up with Gutierrez, the victim and Gutierrez got into an argument. Gutierrez pulled a handgun from his waistband and demanded money from the victim. He did not have any money to give Gutierrez, so Gutierrez told him he would collect the money later. Out of fear, the victim did not immediately report the incident to the police.

On January 31, the victim called the Ventura Police Department and reported the incident. VPD Detectives began investigating and identified Salvador Gutierrez as the suspect. On February 14, Gutierrez was arrested near his residence in the 200 Block of E. Warner St. During his arrest, Gutierrez was in possession of about one half ounce of suspected methamphetamine. Gutierrez was later booked at the Ventura County Jail for the above listed charges.

Structure Fire with Brush Involvement

On February 21, at approximately 2:45am, Ventura City Fire and Police Departments responded to a reported fire in the Santa Clara River area. Upon arrival of the Police Department, 3 tent homes in River Haven were found to be on fire with the fire spreading to the surrounding brush. There were reports of occupants that were unaccounted for.

Firefighters performed fire attack on the tent structures and initiated a search. Following extinguishment, a fatality was identified in one of the tent structures.

Three tents were destroyed and a fourth sustained damage from the fire.

Commercial Burglary

On February 21, at 7:30pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call of a window smash to Cal Coast Motorsports where an unknown race male subject wearing a hooded sweatshirt broke through the window and made off with two dirt bike style motorcycles. The witness last saw the suspect fleeing north along a bike path pushing one of the dirt bikes.

Officers arrived on scene and began searching for the suspect and the missing property. They were able to locate a stolen dirt bike in the area of Cypress Point Lane and Telephone Rd, but were unable to locate the suspect or the additional stolen dirt bike.

The additional dirt bike style motorcycle that has not been located is a yellow 2018 child-size Suzuki DRZ 70.

Threats to “BHS” High School

On February 22 at 7:15pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received numerous calls reference a possible threat to “BHS” students via Snapchat. The Snapchat stated that the writer was going to bring an AR-15 to campus and threatened, “all BHS students prepare to see my wrath tomorrow”. While conducting the investigation it was discovered that the original threat came from Belen New Mexico just outside of Albuquerque.

Ventura Police spoke with Belen City Police who confirmed that on February 21, they investigated the Snapchat threat that was directed towards Belen High School “BHS”. Based on the threat they wrote a search warrant for the Snapchat account and were able to identify the IP address where the threat originated from. Their investigation revealed that a 16 year old student, who attended Belen High School, sent the Snapchat. Before the start of school Belen Police Officers contacted the 16 year old and took him into custody for the threats. During an interview with the juvenile, he admitted to making the threats via Snapchat. According to the Belen Police, Ventura is the 3rd California Agency to contact them today reference this incident.

Based on the investigation the Ventura Police Department has determined there is no credible threat to Buena High School students. Ventura Police and Ventura Unified School District officials are continuing to work together to ensure the safety of all students and faculty throughout the district. In an effort to remain vigilant the Ventura Police Department will have extra SRO’s at Buena High School.

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 and Arrest

On January 29, at approximately 12pm, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call of vehicle burglary that just occurred in the 2100 block of Channel Dr. The victim reported seeing the suspect, later identified as 18 year old Ventura resident Ruben Garcia, enter his vehicle and remove property. Garcia was seen fleeing on a skateboard northbound on San Clemente St.

Officers responding to the call saw Garcia several blocks away and detained him. Garcia was positively identified by the victim and arrested. The property that was taken from the victim’s vehicle was found in Garcia’s possession and returned. He was found to have additional items of property in his possession that officers suspected was stolen, but could not locate any victims.

Several minutes prior to receiving the call, an additional call was received of a subject possibly casing in the area of Thompson Blvd. and Catalina St. Garcia matched the description of that subject.

Garcia was later booked into the Ventura County Jail for burglary, possession of stolen property, and possession of a controlled substance.

The Ventura Police Department asks that if you are a victim of a crime, please contact the Command Center at 650-8010.

Prowling, Vehicle Tampering, Possession of a Controlled Substance and Resisting Arrest

On January 31, at approximately 5:30am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call from a resident in the 1100 block of Bath Ln. reporting that a subject, later identified as the suspect 38 year old vagrant Dylan Merry, was breaking into a neighbor’s parked vehicle. Merry was described as wearing a beanie, mask and a hooded sweatshirt.

With the description given by the caller, officers arrived on scene and saw Merry walking away from the area and attempting to contact him. Merry began running and officers chased him on foot. After a foot pursuit that ended the next lane over on Montauk Ln., Merry was taken into custody as he attempted to climb a fence of a residence.

During a search, officers found that Merry was in possession of a controlled substance.

Merry was transported to the Ventura County Jail and booked for prowling, vehicle tampering, possession of a controlled substance and resisting arrest.

No one was injured as a result of this incident.

Merry was found to have been looking for unlocked vehicles. The Ventura Police Department would like to remind citizens to remove all valuables from inside of your vehicles and keep the doors locked.

Disturbance Arrest

On February 1 at 3:30pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of a disturbance at Buena High School. The caller said that the suspect, 28 year old Ventura County resident Michael Flint, was screaming at passerby’s and making lewd gestures. the caller told dispatchers that Flint was running towards the CVS Drug store across the street from the school. As officers arrived on scene, Flint saw them and attempted to run away. the arriving officers were able to catch Flint in the parking lot of CVS and began their investigation.

As officers began to investigate, they learned that flint was on the Buena High School campus near the tennis courts and was seen moving bags belonging to students. The students confronted Flint and he took off running towards Victoria crossing the street going towards CVS. While in the parking lot of CVS, Flint started chasing a group of female students who were in the parking lot. In fear of their safety the students ran back to the campus with Flint following them. Once back on the campus Flint stop chasing the group and went towards an occupied vehicle in the school parking lot. At the vehicle he attempted to open the door and then hug students who were sitting inside. An alert parent saw this and yelled at Flint to leave the students alone. Flint stopped what he was doing and started back towards Victoria, where he crossed the street and went back into the CVS parking lot.

It was at this time that Flint was seen by the responding officers who contacted him. Flint was arrested for child endangerment, vehicle tampering and disrupting presence on a school grounds. No one was injured during the incident.

Probation Search Arrests

On February 2 at 7am, Ventura Police Department Street Crimes Unit Detectives conducted a probation search in the 100 block of James Dr after receiving several complaints of possible narcotic sales taking place at this location. One of the residents, 43 year old Ventura resident Victor Leon, is on probation for maintaining a residence for narcotic use.

Detectives located over an ounce and a half of suspected methamphetamine and a half ounce of suspected heroin in 52 year old Ventura resident Jose Leon’s room. Victor Leon was found in possession of narcotic paraphernalia and two bikes that had their serial numbers ground off.

Detectives also contacted two subjects sleeping in a vehicle parked in front of the targeted residence, 29 year old Ventura resident Robert Barreto and 31 year old Oxnard resident Stephanie Baca.

Barreto was found in possession of a switchblade-type knife and possession of a concealed firearm in a vehicle after an unloaded shotgun was located in the back seat where he was sleeping.

Baca was found to have outstanding warrants on narcotic related charges.

All suspects were interrogated and later booked at the Ventura County Main Jail on the following charges:

• Jose Leon was booked for felony possession for sales.
• Victor Leon was booked for possession of narcotic paraphernalia and possession of property with obliterated serial numbers, both misdemeanors.
• Robert Barreto was booked for possession of a switch-blade knife and possession of a concealed firearm, both misdemeanors.
• Stephanie Baca was booked on her outstanding warrants.

This investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information related to this crime is urged to call the Ventura Police Department Street Crimes Unit at 339-4325, The Narcotics Hot-Line at 339-4331, 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.

Conspiracy to commit a Battery

On February 2, at approximately 8:30pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of a subject with a gun. As officers arrived on-scene they discovered that the victim was walking from his garage to front door of his home when the two suspects approached him asking his name. The victim told them his name and the two suspects, later identified as 40 year old Ventura resident Joseph French and 49 year old Ventura resident James Solis, immediately attacked the victim, punching him in the face. As the suspects battered the victim all three ended up inside the victim’s house. During the attack the victim asked why they were attacking him and one of the suspects yelled at the victim, accusing him of having an affair with his wife.

During the commotion and in fear for her husband’s safety the victim’s wife retrieved a handgun to protect her husband. After retrieving the gun the wife returned and fired two rounds at the suspects. Neither of the suspects was struck and both took off running away from the house. The suspects fled the scene in a white pickup truck. As the suspects were driving away the victim called 911 and a description was broadcast to surrounding Ventura Police units. A Ventura Police Motor unit was in the area and saw the suspect’s truck as it was driving away. Once additional units arrived to assist in stopping the truck, a high risk stop was conducted and the two suspects were detained.

The investigation revealed the two suspect’s conspired to commit a battery on the victim. However during the incident they discovered that the victim was not their intended target and had misidentified him. The victim sustained minor injuries but refused medical treatment. The suspects were arrested and booked and Ventura County Jail for Conspiracy and Battery.

Registered Sex Offender Compliance Sweep

On February 2 at 8am, officers from multiple allied agencies including the Ventura Police Department, Ventura County Sheriff’s Department, Port Hueneme Police Department, Simi Valley Police Department, FBI, Homeland Security, State Parole, Ventura County District Attorney’s Office, Ventura County Probation, and the High-Tech Task Force conducted a citywide compliance check of registered sex offenders.

Officers inspected thirteen locations that resulted in six arrests:

• Michael Baltazar 23, Felony Violations of Probation, Possession of sexually explicit material, Possession of narcotic paraphernalia.
• James Call 55, Felony Violation of Probation, Possession of technology devices*.
• Jack Rickman 51, Felony Violations of Probation.
• David Floyd 62, Felony Violations of Probation, Possession of sexually explicit material and Possession of ammunition.
• Edward Rosales 43, Felony Violations of Probation, Possession of sexually explicit material and Possession of technology devices.
• David Potter 53, Felony Violations of Probation, Possession of sexually explicit material, Possession of technology devices, and Possession of Narcotic Paraphernalia.

Just to reiterate when it states that sexually explicit content was found it does not necessarily mean child pornography, a sex offender is prohibited from having any type of pornography even adult pornography like videos that can be seen on websites such as https://www.hdpornvideo.xxx/?hl=es which is completely legal for anyone over the age of 18 to view unless you are on the sex offender registry.
All six suspects were later transported and booked into the Ventura County Main Jail.

Officers located violations at several other locations and additional arrests are anticipated after detectives conclude their investigation into these crimes.

*A general term to describe any device capable of accessing the internet such as smart phones, tablets, computer systems.

Armed Robbery

On February 7, at approximately 1am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call of male subject disturbing inside the Chevron Station, located at 2199 S. Victoria Avenue. A short while later, a second call was received from an alarm company who was reporting the business’s hold up alarm had been activated. Officers arrived on scene within minutes of the initial call and detained the suspect, 26 year old Oxnard resident Geovanny Gonzalez-Avitia, as he was exiting the store with a large amount of merchandise.

During the investigation, officers learned Gonzalez-Avitia had entered the store and began to argue with the clerk after he was told the business was closing. Gonzalez-Avitia forced his way behind the sales counter where he obtained a screwdriver and threatened to harm the clerk. Fearing for his safety, the clerk fled the store leaving Gonzalez-Avitia inside. Gonzalez-Avitia proceeded to open the cash register but was unsuccessful in obtaining any money. Gonzalez-Avitia then filled a large bag with snack food and exited the store.

Gonzalez-Avetia was placed under arrest and transported to the Ventura County Jail where he was booked for armed robbery. The property taken during the robbery was recovered and returned to the business.

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.

Felony Hit & Run with Arrest

On January 14, at approximately 5:30pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received several 911 calls reporting a traffic collision on Valentine Rd. in front of Tommy’s Hamburgers. Moments later, callers reported a vehicle involved was leaving the scene. Arriving officers, along with Ventura City Fire and medical personnel, attended to the three occupants of the victim vehicle.

Officers located the suspect, 38 year old Ventura resident Tanisha Washington and her vehicle at her residence. A witness to the collision reported Washington was driving reckless at the time of the collision and had a small child in the vehicle. Officers confirmed there was a 3 year old child in Washington’s vehicle at the time of the collision and the child was found to be uninjured from the collision.

Officers suspected Washington was under the influence of alcohol and drugs and she was placed under arrest. Washington was arrested for felony hit and run causing injury, felony driving under the combined influence of alcohol and drugs, and child endangerment.

Residential Burglary with Arrest

On January 15, at approximately 5:30pm, the victim saw the suspect break into her residence through the window. The victim confronted the suspect, and the suspect fled. The responding officers searched the area and located the suspect, 19 year old vagrant from Ventura Christian Garcia, in the area of Montauk and Pierpont. The investigation confirmed the suspect had entered the residence and fled when confronted by the victim.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the suspect was arrested and booked into Ventura County Jail on the charge of residential burglary. No one was injured during this incident.

Trespassing, Felony Resisting Arrest

On January 15, at approximately 11pm, Ventura Police officers were dispatched to the Travelers Beach Inn to investigate a report of illegal lodging. Upon arrival, officers met with the property manager who informed them they had observed two subjects enter a room without paying, or obtaining a room key.

Investigating officers knocked on the hotel room in question and made contact with the suspect, 38 year old Ventura vagrant Brian Higbie. Officers informed Higbie he was trespassing in the room and requested he step outside. As officers were attempting to determine how Higbie gained access to the room, they were informed Higbie was on probation for violently resisting arrest. Officers attempted to check Higbie for weapons and he began to violently resist their efforts. A Ventura Police K9 was deployed and Higbie was eventually taken into custody after a lengthy struggle.

Arson and Vandalism Arrest

On January 20, at approximately 6am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call of a subject setting fire to a bench on the Ventura Pier. Ventura City Fire personnel arrived and extinguished the fire quickly before it spread. Officers arrived and contacted 38 year old vagrant Elisabeth Vera, who was still on the Pier. Investigation revealed that Vera broke a portion of a sign on the pier and then set fire to a bench. She was also found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. Vera was arrested and booked at the Ventura County Jail for arson, vandalism, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Recovered Stolen Vehicle Arrest

On January 23, at approximately 6:30am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call from an employee of California Well Services, 1536 Eastman Ave., reporting that one of the company’s work trucks had been stolen during the night. Shortly after the initial call, the employee called back to advise he had located the vehicle with a tracking device and that another employee was following the vehicle on Johnson Dr. While officers were enroot it was reported the vehicle had stopped at Lark Ave. and Falcon St., and the employee following it had detained one of the occupants, later identified as 25 year old vagrant Aaron Pezzuto. Pezzuto was being uncooperative and attempting to flee from the employee. Officers arrived on scene and took custody of Pezzuto.

A second occupant of the vehicle, later identified as 24 year old vagrant Chance Daugherty, had fled on foot prior to officers arriving on scene. Officers began checking the area and located Daugherty several blocks away.

of a stolen vehicle.

Stolen Vehicle and Warrant Arrests

On January 23 at 3:30pm, Street Crimes Unit detectives saw a suspicious vehicle driving in the 9900 block of Las Cruces. The passenger in the vehicle, 50 year old Ventura resident Michael Holladay, had an outstanding felony warrant for violating his Post Release Offender Status. By the time the officers caught up to the vehicle, it had parked and Holladay had entered a nearby residence. Additional officers were called to assist and officers attempted to serve the arrest warrant at the house.

Holladay did not cooperate with officers and hid inside of the house. A Ventura Police K9 was used to assist with the warrant service, and prior to the K9 entering the house, Holladay surrendered to officers. The second person from the vehicle, 29 year old Ventura resident Charlotte Bauer, also came out of the house. She had an outstanding warrant for her arrest as well. Further investigation revealed the suspicious vehicle they had been initially seen in was reported stolen.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon

On January 24, at approximately 5:30pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of a disturbance inside the Red Barn Liquor store. Officers arrived on scene and discovered that the suspect, 37 year old Ventura resident Elisabeth Vera, was in the store causing a disturbance. When a store employee approached her, Vera struck the employee on the head with a glass vodka bottle. As the employee moved away, Vera threw the bottle at the employee. A customer entering the store saw the incident and detained Vera until police arrived.

The store employee received minor injuries and refused medical attention. Vera was arrested and booked at Ventura County Jail for Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

Stolen Stuff for Sale on our Facebook

On January 25, at 7:30pm, Ventura Police Department Street Crimes Unit Detectives located two suspects who burglarized a Ventura residence on Christmas day. The detectives had been investigating this crime for several weeks and were able to identify some of the victim’s property being offered for sale online. Detectives also located stolen items that had been recently pawned by the suspects.

Detectives kept the two suspects under surveillance until their identities were confirmed at which time uniformed officers moved in and took the two suspects, identified as Torrey Stokes and Karyn Peterson (both of Ventura), into custody without incident.

Detectives searched Stokes’ truck and located additional stolen property from the Christmas day burglary. A search warrant was later executed at Peterson’s grandmother’s residence in the 1000 block of Portola Rd where she and Stokes had been storing some property.

Stokes, who has prior arrests for burglary, identity theft, and narcotic crimes, and Peterson, who has prior arrests for theft and is currently on probation for narcotic related offenses, were interrogated by detectives and later booked into the Ventura County Main Jail. Stokes was booked for felony residential burglary and Peterson was booked for felony possession of stolen property.

Mobile Trailer Fire in East Ventura

Ventura County, Ventura City, and Oxnard City Fire were dispatched to the area of North Bank Drive and Johnson Drive at 10:21 Wednesday night for a reported trailer on fire.

Although there was a large amount of smoke in the surrounding area, there was nothing visibly burning and firefighters searched businesses and parking lots to find the source. Approximately 7 minutes after fire crews were on scene, a 25’ travel trailer was located and had light smoke coming from the inside of the trailer.

Firefighters forced entry into the trailer and found light fire and dense smoke inside. They performed a search while mitigating the remaining fire, and found a male in his late 50’s unconscious and unresponsive. It was apparent that a ‘flash-over’ fire ignited and consumed many items and part of the structure of the trailer, but then became oxygen controlled based on the limited air available and smoldered until fire crews arrived.

Crews immediately pulled the man from the vehicle and fire paramedics initiated advanced cardiac life support. Fire crews and AMR personnel performed life-saving efforts for approximately 30 minutes with ultimately no success. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.