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.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon

On August 15, at approximately 11:45am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a 911 call of two males in a physical fight outside of Catholic Charities, 303 N. Ventura Ave. Officers arrived on scene and located the 50–year–old male victim, who was found to be suffering from a non–life threatening head injury. The suspect, later identified as 67 year old vagrant Charlie Fuller, was also detained.

During the investigation, officers learned the victim was sitting down to the front of the location when Fuller approached him from behind and began hitting in the back of the head with a bag full of rocks. The motive for the attack is not known.

The victim lost consciousness as a result of the attack, but after receiving treatment at the scene by Ventura City Fire personnel, he refused to be transported to the hospital.

Fuller was booked into the Ventura County Jail for assault with a deadly weapon.

Burglary and Conspiracy arrests

On August 4, at approximately 12pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a report of a burglary that occurred at the Saint Bonaventure High School men’s locker room. The school’s football coach reported that over $3,000 worth of football equipment had been stolen.

Officers spoke with a witness and reviewed surveillance from a nearby business, and discovered that three male juveniles had climbed over a fence into the campus near the men’s locker room. Two of the juveniles were identified from the video footage. Officers made contact with one of the suspect’s parents and confirmed their involvement in the crime. The following day, two of the suspects met with officers and a Street Crimes Unit detective. The suspects admitted to committing the burglary and returned the stolen football equipment.

On August 14, detectives concluded the investigation and spoke with the third suspect, who also confessed to the burglary. All three juveniles were arrested for burglary and conspiracy.

Stolen Vehicle Pursuit and Arrests

On August 17, at approximately 10:30am, an officer was patrolling the area of Moon Dr. and Grand Ave., when he observed a vehicle run a stop sign and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. The driver, later identified as 22 year old Port Hueneme resident Edmund Ellis, failed to yield and a pursuit was initiated. It was determined the vehicle was a reported stolen vehicle out of Oxnard.

The pursuit continued southbound on Grand Ave., during which time Ellis drove at speeds of 30- 40 mph on Grand Ave. and ran several stop signs. He then went eastbound on Ventura Blvd., where in the 6400 block of Ventura Blvd., he pulled into the parking lot of a business. Ellis stopped the vehicle, at which time he and two passengers inside the vehicle, attempted to flee on foot. The officer ordered all three of them to stop and they complied. When additional officers arrived on scene, Ellis, a female passenger later identified as 26 year old vagrant Ashley Nett, and the second passenger, a male, were taken into custody without incident.

Ellis was arrested for felony evading, driving a stolen vehicle, possession of stolen property and possession of narcotics paraphernalia. Nett was arrested for resisting arrest and two out of county felony warrants. Both were booked into the Ventura County Jail. The second passenger was released from the scene without charges..

Residential Burglary, Identity Theft, and Possession of Stolen Property Arrest

On August 16, detectives with the Ventura Police Street Crimes Unit concluded a month-long investigation by arresting Vincente Quinonez for several charges that stemmed from a residential burglary. On July 18 at approximately 3pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a report of a burglary that occurred within the 1000 block of Kingston Ln., in Ventura. The victim arrived home to find her residence ransacked and numerous belongings had been stolen. It was later determined the suspect made entry into the residence through an unlocked back door. Ventura Police patrol officers and Street Crimes Unit detectives responded to the scene and quickly learned the victim’s credit cards were used after the burglary. Detectives were able to identify 27 year old Oxnard resident Vincente Quinonez as the suspect who had used the victim’s credit cards at a nearby gas station.

On July 23, Ventura County Sheriff’s deputies arrested Quinonez after he was seen driving a vehicle that had been reported stolen out of Port Hueneme. Deputies located credit cards and other property in the vehicle which they believed could be stolen. Street Crimes Unit detectives took possession of the evidence located in the stolen vehicle and confirmed there was property taken from the residence on Kingston Ln. Additional stolen property in the vehicle was later determined to belong to victims of two separate thefts from unlocked vehicles in Ventura. Through further investigation, detectives discovered that Quinonez had used credit cards stolen from those thefts as well.

At the conclusion of the investigation, detectives arrested and booked Quinonez (who was still in custody at the Ventura County Jail for his previous arrest) for residential burglary (felony), six counts of identity theft (felony), two counts of petty theft (misdemeanor), and two counts of possession of stolen property (misdemeanor).

According to the Ventura County Superior Court Website, in 2017, Quinonez was convicted of burglary, driving a stolen vehicle, and possession of a controlled substance.

Possession of a Loaded Firearm in a Vehicle

On August 22 at approximately 12:30pm, an officer was on patrol in the area Telegraph Rd. and Ashwood Ave., when he observed a vehicle with expired registration. Before the officer could initiate a traffic stop, the driver of the vehicle, later identified as 20 year old vagrant Lamont Hodgins, quickly pulled into the parking lot of a nearby liquor store and went inside.

The officer made contact with Hodgins, who was uncooperative and refused to cooperate with the officer’s orders to exit the store. When additional officers arrived on scene, Hodgins was detained without further incident.

It was determined that Hodgins was driving on a suspended license. During a search, Hodgins was found to have an illegal knife concealed on his person. When officers were searching his vehicle, they found a loaded firearm.

Hodgins was booked into the Ventura County Jail for possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle, possession of a dangerous weapon, resisting arrest and driving on a suspended license.

According to the Ventura County Superior Court website, Hodgins was convicted of driving under the influence in 2017.

Fatal Hit and Run Investigation – UPDATE

On August 10 at approximately 8:30pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of a Hit and Run collision that just occurred at Ventura Ave and Prospect. As officers arrived on scene, they learned from witnesses that the victim (Michael Pedigo), walked between two parked cars and into the northbound lane of traffic on N. Ventura Avenue. A white four-door vehicle driving northbound struck Mr. Pedigo and immediately pulled over to the side of the road. Without checking on the well being of Mr. Pedigo, the driver and car left the scene. Paramedics from Ventura City Fire and AMR who also responded administered first aid to Mr. Pedigo, and transported him to VCMC.

At 4am, Mr. Pedigo succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital. This is an ongoing investigation, and anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the investigating officer Corporal Al Gomez at 805-339-4474.

On August 15, at 12:30pm, the Ventura Police Traffic Unit arrested 65 year old Ventura resident Juan Caudillo Cisneros for Felony Hit and Run and Destruction of Evidence related to the fatal collision that took place with Michael Pedigo on August 10 at approx 8:30pm at the intersection of Ventura Avenue and Prospect Street.

Through the investigation, Traffic Investigators located what they believed to be the white four-door vehicle involved in the collision. With the assistance of Ventura Police Patrol Officers, the suspected vehicle was located in Ventura. Juan Caudillo Cisneros was stopped by Investigators in the vehicle this morning and damage consistent with the collision was located. After seizing the vehicle for evidence, Traffic Investigators discovered the front windshield had recently been replaced and Juan Caudillo Cisneros was determined to be the driver of the vehicle and had the windshield repaired following the collision.

At this time, it does not appear that Juan Caudillo Cisneros was driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the collision. He was booked at the Ventura County Jail.

Vehicle Pursuit and Arrest of Wanted Person

On August 22 at approximately 7:30pm, Ventura Police Department Special Enforcement Team Detectives attempted to contact and arrest a wanted felon in the area of Ventura Avenue and Dakota Drive. The suspect, later identified as 23 year old Ventura resident Ivan Ruiz, was uncooperative and fled in a vehicle.

The detectives went in pursuit of the suspect and followed him into the area of the 500 block of West Ramona Street. The suspect stopped his car and fled on foot from the detectives into the surrounding neighborhood. Additional patrol officers and K9s arrived in the area and assisted with the search.

After approximately 2 hours of searching houses and yards, the suspect was located and arrested. The suspect sustained minor injuries during the arrest. He was treated at the Ventura County Medical Center and later booked on the charges of felony evading, resisting arrest and his outstanding felony warrant.

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.

Robbery, Theft

On August 4, at approximately 3:15pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call of a Robbery that had just occurred at the Lowe’s shopping center. As officers arrived, they were informed that as the suspect was leaving the store he activated the store security system. A store employee went to contact the suspect and when he did the suspect brandished a knife to the employee. The employee smartly allowed the suspect to leave the store and called the police department.

During a search of the area, witnesses told officers that the suspect was last seen in the parking lot of Pacific View Mall. Officers searched the parking lot however they were unable to locate the suspect. The officers contacted Mall security to see if their security cameras had recorded the suspect in the area. Mall security officers informed the officers that the suspect had committed a theft from Target . They said the suspect was last seen running from Target.

At approximately 5:30pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call of the same suspect attempting to enter occupied vehicles in the intersection of Mills and Maple. The driver of one of the vehicles pulled over while calling 911 and the suspect began to approach him. The driver asked the suspect what was going on and the suspect threw one of the items stolen from Lowes at the driver and then brandished a knife. The suspect then ran away. A search of the area including the use of a K9 was unsuccessful.

Arson Arrest

On July 18, at approximately 10:30am, the Ventura Fire Department responded to a structure fire at a residence in the 7000 block of Brannan Street. Their investigation determined the cause of the fire was arson. Ventura Police Major Crime’s detectives assisted with the investigation and determined 60 year old Ventura resident Katherine Britigan was responsible for starting the fire. On July 26, at 5pm, patrol officers located Britigan and she was taken into custody. At the conclusion of the investigation, she was booked into Ventura County Jail on the felony charge of arson.

Indecent Exposure and Parole Violation Arrest

On July 27, at approximately 5:45pm, officers responded to a call regarding a male committing lewd conduct adjacent to the businesses in the 1100 block of South Victoria Avenue. The suspect had fled prior to officers arrival, and after a searching the area, the officers were unable to locate the suspect.

At approximately 7:45pm, the Ventura Police Communications Center received information that a parolee, 51 year old vagrant Steven Perry, had just cut off his ankle monitor in the 1400 block of South Victoria Avenue. Officers checked the area and located Perry and took him into custody for the parole violation of removing the ankle monitor. Perry, who is on parole for Indecent Exposure, matched the description of the suspect from the earlier lewd conduct call in the 1100 block of South Victoria Avenue. At the conclusion of the investigation, officers determined he was the suspect from the earlier incident. He was booked into Ventura County Jail on the charges of Indecent Exposure and a Parole Violation.

Brandishing an Imitation Firearm, Violently Resisting Officers, Battery on a Police K9 and Possession of Methamphetamine Arrest

On August 8, at approximately 11:45pm, a witness called and reported a disturbance in the 2100 block of Harbor Blvd. The suspect was yelling at passing vehicles and people in the area. When the first officer arrived, they found the suspect, 35 year old Ventura resident Guadalupe Juarez Lopez,and discovered she was holding a handgun. She was waiving and brandishing the gun and was uncooperative with the officers verbal instructions. Additional officers arrived on scene and contained the suspect in a parking lot.

The suspect retreated from officers and hid near a large propane tank in the parking lot and remained uncooperative with officers as they attempted to get her to drop the hand gun. After 20 minutes of talking with the suspect, she still refused to disarm, and she threatened to shoot the nearby propane tank. At that point, officers used a less lethal projectile in an attempt to disarm the suspect and prevent her from shooting the propane tank. The K9 was also deployed. The less lethal rounds were effective, causing the suspect to fall to the ground. The K9 then apprehended the suspect, and she began battering the K9. After briefly fighting and resisting the K9, the suspect was taken into custody. As officers were approaching the suspect during the K9 apprehension, they discovered the hand gun she was holding was a BB gun.

The suspect sustained minor injuries during the incident. After she was medically cleared at the Ventura County Medical Center, she was booked into Ventura County Jail on the charges of Brandishing an Imitation Firearm, Violently Resisting Officers, Battery on a Police K9 and Possession of Methamphetamine.

Fatal Hit and Run Investigation

On August 10, at 8:37 pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of a hit and run collision that just occurred at Ventura Ave and Prospect. As officers arrived on scene, they learned from witnesses that the victim Michael Pedigo, walked between two parked cars and into the northbound lane of traffic on Ventura Avenue. A white four-door vehicle driving northbound struck Pedigo and immediately pulled over to the side of the road. Without checking on the well being of Pedigo, the driver and car left the scene. Paramedics from Ventura City Fire and AMR who also responded administered first aid to Mr. Pedigo, and transported him to VCMC.

Pedigo succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital. This is an ongoing investigation, and anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the investigating officer Corporal Al Gomez at 805-339-4474.

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.

Residential Burglary and Possession for Sales Arrest

On July 13, at approximately 10am, officers responded to a call regarding a suspicious subject knocking on multiple residences’ doors in the area of the 100 block of Gay Drive. When officers arrived, 23 year old Ventura resident Allen Minot was seen walking away from a residence. The investigation revealed he entered the house, removed property from the residence and hid it nearby. He was also found to be in possession of a large quantity of prescription drugs (Xanax). Minot’s vehicle was parked nearby, and the second suspect, 27 year old Moorpark resident Kevin McNicol, was seated in the vehicle. He was found to be in possession of heroin.

At the conclusion of the investigation, McNicol was arrested for the misdemeanor charge possession of heroin and booked into Ventura County Jail. Minot was arrested and booked into Ventura County Jail for residential burglary and possession for sales of Xanax. Officers recovered the stolen property and returned it to the victim.

Arson Arrest

On July 18, at approximately 10:23am, a passerby on Brannan St. in East Ventura notified the Fire Command Center that black smoke was pouring from a window of a single story single family residence and it was unknown if anyone was inside. Fire personnel arrived on scene and forced open the door to the residence and commenced a fire attack. The fire was located in a bathroom off the master bedroom. The fire engulfed items within the bathroom and blew out the window. Firefighters knocked down the fire in approximately 12 minutes. A search of the home was made and a dog and cat were located trapped inside a room and were brought to safety. No one was home at the time of the fire.

Robbery

On July 19, at approximately 10:30pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call from the Ben and Jerry’s ice cream parlor reporting a robbery that just occurred.

The suspect, 35 year old Ventura vagrant Scott Russell, entered the business and demanded money from the clerk while claiming to be armed with a gun. The clerk gave Russell the money from behind the register. Russell then fled on foot from the business. Officers arrived on scene a few moments later and located the Russell a short distance away. After a short foot pursuit where Russell was dropping money taken from the business, he was taken into custody without incident.

Residential Burglary and Prowling Arrest

On July 20, at approximately 12:30am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call from an alarm company reporting a residential alarm at a residence in the 2200 block of Vista Del Mar Rd. Shortly after receiving the first call from the alarm company, several neighbors of the residence called 911 reporting a subject was found breaking into the same location and was being detained in the backyard. Officers responded to the scene and detained the subject, later identified as the suspect 25 year old vagrant Santos Velasquez.

During the investigation, officers learned that Velasquez had entered the garage of an additional residence in the 2200 block of Vista Del Mar Rd. and used a tool in an attempt to force his way inside. When he was unsuccessful, Velasquez forced his way into a window of the second residence and activated the alarm. Nearby neighbors heard the alarm sounding and saw Velasquez inside. He was detained by the neighbors as he tried leaving with stolen property.

Velasquez was seen prowling on the property of other residences in the area prior to the burglary.

Foot Pursuit Concealed Weapon Arrest

On July 21, at approximately 8:30pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call reporting that a wanted subject, 27 year old Ventura resident Oscar Espino, was seen walking on the Promenade going towards the Pier from Surfers Point parking lot. As the first officer arrived on scene he spotted Espino on the pier. Espino knowing that he had been seen by the officer actively tried to evade the officer.

As more officers arrived, a lengthy foot pursuit ensued that lead officers from the pier to the Harbor Blvd parking structure. During the foot pursuit Espino refused to comply with orders from the officers to stop. Espino eventually made it to the intersection of Harbor and California where he was cornered by both VPD officers and a State Parks Ranger. Again, Espino refused to comply with verbal commands and he was forced to the ground and taken into custody. A search of Espino after the arrest, officers discovered that he was carrying a concealed machete hidden inside his pants.

Espino was arrested for felony possession of the dirk or dagger and misdemeanor resisting or delaying an officer as well as his warrants.

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.

Shots Fired

On June 29, at approximately 9pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of shots fired in the 1000 Block of Kimball Rd. Officers quickly arrived on scene and were able to locate several spent shell casings in the street. A canvas of the area was completed and no victims were located. A witness told officers that a sedan (unknown make or model) was seen in the roadway as the shots were fired and that 3 males were seen running away from the area. The witness was unable to give a description of the 3 males who ran from the scene. It is unknown if the shots came from the vehicle or the 3 unidentified subjects.

It is unknown if anyone was injured as a result of the shooting. The Ventura Police Department is actively investigating the incident and anyone with information is asked to call 805-339-4488.

Stolen Vehicle Arrest

On July 1 at 8:30am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call of a suspicious vehicle parked to the rear of an apartment complex in the 3400 block of Rexford Street. A witness had observed two subjects inside who appeared to be under the influence.

Officers arrived on scene and located three occupants still inside the vehicle. As officer approached, they observed the suspects preparing to inject themselves with narcotics. Officers announced their presence and ordered the suspects to remain in the vehicle until additional officers arrived to assist in removing them. One of the suspects, 31 year old Camarillo vagrant Dani Cruz refused to comply with the officers commands and attempted to flee from the vehicle. A Ventura Police K9 arrived on scene a short time later and all three suspects were detained without incident. Officers later determined the vehicle had recently been reported stolen.

The driver, 24 year old Ventura vagrant Nicholas Gebber was placed under arrest for being in possession of stolen vehicle, possession of burglary tools and possession of a controlled substance. Cruz was placed under arrest for a parole violation and resisting arrest. The third suspect, 30 year old Ventura vagrant Dorothy Dobbin was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and two outstanding warrants. All three suspects were transported to the Ventura County Jail where they were booked for the above charges.

Stolen Vehicle and Felony

On July 4, at approximately 3am, officers were at the intersection of Utica Avenue and Telephone Road handling an unrelated call for service when an officer saw a stolen vehicle drive past. The officer followed after the stolen vehicle and initiated an enforcement stop. The driver, 25 year old Ventura resident Martinez, failed to stop and immediately began driving evasively. Officers initiated a vehicle pursuit and Martinez entered a nearby residential housing tract. Martinez drove at high speeds, failed to stop at numerous stop signs, and drove a circuitous route through the neighborhood for over six minutes with officers in pursuit. Martinez eventually yielded in the area of Nevin Avenue and Fairford Street and was taken into custody without further incident.

Martinez was booked into the Ventura County Jail for possession of a stolen vehicle and felony evading.

Officer involved Traffic Collision

On July 4, at approximately 10:15pm, a Ventura Police Patrol officer was dispatched to a shooting call in the 6000 block of Whippoorwill. The officer responded to the shooting by driving “code 3”, lights and siren. As the officer was enroute, a vehicle failed to pull to the right and the officer had to take evasive action to avoid colliding with the vehicle. As a result the patrol vehicle collided with a street signal and Edison light pole. The officer received minor injuries and was taken to a local area hospital to be checked out.

The Ventura Police Department would like to remind drivers that according to California Vehicle Code 21806. Upon the immediate approach of an authorized emergency vehicle sounding a siren and at least one red light that is visible, the surrounding traffic shall do the following: the driver of every other vehicle shall yield the right-of-way and shall immediately drive to the right-hand edge or curb of the highway, clear any intersection, and shall stop and remain stopped until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed.

Bank Robbery

On July 6, at approximately 1:15am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call from an employee of Chase Bank reporting that a bank robbery had just occurred at the Chase Bank branch at 2499 Harbor Blvd. Upon arrival of the officers, they determined the suspect had already fled the bank and was last seen leaving the area on foot.

During the investigation, officers learned the suspect (a Hispanic male, 25-30 years, shaved head, wearing a black hat, sunglasses, light blue button shirt, blue jeans, and tennis shoes) entered the bank and approached the counter. He handed the clerk a note stating was robbing the bank and demanded the clerk give him money. The note claimed he was armed with a gun, although no weapon was seen. The clerk gave the suspect an undisclosed amount of money, and he fled the bank.

No one was injured as a result of this incident.

The FBI was notified. The Ventura Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit will be conducting the investigation. Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to call the Ventura Police Department at 339-4488.

Residential Burglary

On July 4, at approximately 4:30am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a report of a burglary that occurred overnight at a residence located in the 9600 block of Telephone Rd. The victim discovered that his home had been ransacked and numerous belongings had been stolen. Officers responded to the home and determined the suspect made entry into the residence through an unlocked window.

Through further investigation, detectives with the Street Crimes Unit were able to identify 19 year old Ventura resident Alex Reyes as the suspect in the burglary. Detectives later served a search warrant at Reyes’ home located in the 10600 block of Veronica Lane in the city of Ventura. Detectives located numerous items in the residence that were stolen in the burglary. On 7/6/18 at approximately 1400 hours, detectives arrested Reyes and booked him at the Ventura County Jail for 459 PC- first degree residential burglary, a felony.

Residential Burglary and Possession for Sales Arrest

On July 13, at approximately 10am, officers responded to a call regarding a suspicious subject knocking on multiple residences’ doors in the area of the 100 block of Gay Drive. When officers arrived, 23 year old Ventura resident Allen Minot was seen walking away from a residence. The investigation revealed he entered the house, removed property from the residence and hid it nearby. He was also found to be in possession of a large quantity of prescription drugs (Xanax). Minot’s vehicle was parked nearby, and the second suspect, 27 year old Moorpark resident Kevin McNicol, was seated in the vehicle. He was found to be in possession of heroin.

At the conclusion of the investigation, McNicol was arrested for the misdemeanor charge possession of heroin and booked into Ventura County Jail. Minot was arrested and booked into Ventura County Jail for residential burglary and possession for sales of Xanax. Officers recovered the stolen property and returned it to the victim.

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.

Domestic Disturbance and Discharge of a Firearm into an Inhabited Building

On June 16, at approximately 8pm, patrol officers responded to multiple reports of a domestic disturbance with a gun shot heard inside of a room at a motel in the 800 block of East Thompson Blvd. When officers arrived they spoke with the victim. The suspect, 25 year old David Posey, had fled the location prior to officers’ arrival. While the initial officers investigated the incident, additional officers searched the surrounding area for the suspect and found him hiding nearby.

The investigation revealed that there was a physical altercation that occurred in the room. At one point during the altercation, the suspect fired one round from a handgun into the ceiling of the room. There was an occupied room directly above the ceiling.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the suspect was booked into Ventura County Jail on the misdemeanor charge of domestic battery and felony discharge of a firearm into an inhabited building.

Felon in Possession of a Firearm

On June 16 at 6:60am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call of a possible kidnapping in progress involving a Blue Chevy Malibu vehicle.

When officers arrived on scene they contacted two 16 year old female victims. During the course of the investigation officers were able to determine that the suspect had been involved in an argument with the two victims and threatened to harm them. The suspect, 18 year old Bakersfield resident Tyequez Baker, demanded the victims get out of the vehicle or he would harm them and brandished a hand gun. The victims got out of the vehicle and one of the victims reached into the vehicle to get her cell phone, which was still inside the vehicle. As she reached through the open window the suspect rolled up the window, trapping the victim’s arm. The suspect then drove out of the parking lot into the street and through an intersection dragging the victim, whose arm was still trapped in the window. The suspect pulled into another parking lot and the victim was able to free her arm from the window. The suspect drove the vehicle from the scene and was last seen entering the 101 north bound at Johnson.

A few minutes later a member of the Ventura Police Department Patrol Taskforce that was working in the downtown area noticed a vehicle matching the description of the suspect vehicle traveling on the northbound 101 freeway at a high rate of speed and attempted to make an enforcement stop to investigate. The vehicle sped up and refused to yield. The officer along with another Ventura Police Department Patrol officer pursued the vehicle on the freeway for approximately 18 miles. During the pursuit the suspect threw several items from the vehicle including a loaded handgun. The suspect was finally stopped just north of La Conchita and taken into custody without incident. All of the items that were thrown from the vehicle were recovered, and the firearm was found to be stolen out of Bakersfield.

Vandalism to Church

On June 24, at approximately 7am, officers responded to a possible in progress burglary to the residence at the Ventura Mission. The residents were inside when they heard a loud noise at the front door. When they checked, they found the front door had been forced/ broken open and the suspect was inside. When officers arrived, the suspect, 33 year old Ventura resident Daniel Gutierrez, was uncooperative and refused to exit the residence. After numerous attempts to get the suspect to come outside, the officers deployed the K9 and the suspect immediately surrendered. At the conclusion of the investigation, the suspect was booked for vandalism to a church (felony), unlawful entry into a residence (misdemeanor), possession of methamphetamine (misdemeanor) and possession of narcotics paraphernalia (misdemeanor). No one was injured during this incident.

Why Wasn’t he in Jail?

On June 25, at approximately 10:45pm, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call of a subject on a bicycle casing vehicles near the WAV in the 100 block of S. Ventura Ave. The caller reported that the same subject, later identified as 28 year old vagrant David Kocalis, had possibly broken into his vehicle earlier in the month and returned. Officers responded to the call and detained Kocalis.

During the investigation, officers viewed a surveillance video from the previously reported burglary and positively identified Kocalis as the same suspect. He was arrested and later booked into the Ventura County Jail for burglary.

According to the Ventura County Superior Court website, Kocalis was convicted of five separate offenses in 2016: resisting arrest, petty theft, possession of controlled substance and possession of stolen property. In 2017, he was convicted of resisting arrest and petty theft. In 2018, he was convicted of resisting arrest.

Why Wasn’t he in Jail?

On June 25, at approximately 6:45pm, officers responded to a call regarding a suspicious occupied vehicle in the 600 block of Moses Lane. The vehicle was reported stolen. When officers arrived, they ordered the suspect out of the vehicle, but he did not cooperate. The suspect, 24 year old Ventura resident James Deckers, started the vehicle, rammed a nearby parked vehicle and fled from officers. Officers briefly pursued after the suspect, but they discontinued the pursuit when the suspect began driving on the wrong side of the roadway on both Johnson Drive and Telephone Road. The suspect continued to flee the area until he ultimately parked the vehicle near an apartment complex in the 8000 block of Telephone Road and fled into the nearby neighborhood. The Ventura Police Command Center then began receiving additional calls from concerned residents reporting that the suspect was running through their yards. Officers began searching for the suspect in the neighborhood, and while the suspect was fleeing from them, he forced his way into an occupied home in the 8000 block of Emerald Street and hid from officers. After a lengthy search, the suspect was located and taken into custody inside of the house where he was hiding.

According to the Ventura County Superior Court website, in 2018 Deckers was convicted of driving under the influence and possession of narcotics paraphernalia. Additionally, he was also arrested for theft, resisting arrest and possession of stolen property.

Grand Theft, Identity Theft, Check Forgery – Arrest

In March of 2017, the victim, a private business owner from Ventura, had an audit conducted on his finances and learned that his financial assistant, 42 year old Thousand Oaks resident Sarah Coleen Peet, had stolen in excess of $100,000 from him over the course of approximately 3 years. The victim fired Peet and later called the Ventura Police Department to file a report.

Over the next several months, Major Crimes Detectives authored search warrants for bank records that revealed Peet had in fact been fraudulently transferring money from the victim’s account into her own personal account for the past several years. Furthermore, it appeared she was currently doing the same with her new employer, a business in Ventura, where she was working as an accountant. Detectives contacted her new employer, and after an audit was done, they learned Peet had stolen over $60,000 from them.

On June 27, at approximately 7am, Detectives contacted Peet near her residence in the 1700 Block of Orinda Ct., in Thousand Oaks. Peet was taken into custody without incident, and detectives executed a search warrant at her residence. Peet was later booked at the Ventura County Jail for grand theft, identity theft and check forgery, all felonies.

According to Ventura County court records, in 2003 Peet was convicted of grand theft and theft by computer access. If you have had any business interactions with Sarah Peet, and believe you may have been a victim, please call Det. Ed McCain at (805) 339-4478.

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.

Traffic Collision involving a Stolen Vehicle with an Arrest

On May 18, at approximately 4pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of an injury traffic collision at the intersection of Main and Mills. As officers arrived on scene and began investigating the collision, they learned that the driver of the vehicle, 24 year old Ventura resident Sariah Cundiff, was attempting to make a left turn from westbound Main to southbound Mills, when she struck a pedestrian who was walking in the cross walk. The pedestrian complained of pain to his back and was checked out by paramedics on scene but refused further medical treatment.

Also during the investigation it was discovered that the vehicle driven by Cundiff was a reported stolen vehicle. As a result of the investigation officers arrested Cundiff for driving a stolen vehicle.

Commercial Burglary, Possession of Stolen Property, Possession of a Controlled Substance

On May 13 at 11:40am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a report of a male subject passed out in a vehicle in parking lot in the 4000 block of E. Main St. Patrol officers contacted the occupant of the vehicle, 53 year old Ventura vagrant Andy Batey, who was in possession of property that appeared to be stolen. Through further investigation, officers learned that an iPad in Batey’s possession had been stolen from Ventura City Hall, which had been burglarized over the weekend. There was not sufficient evidence to arrest Batey for the burglary, however he was arrested for felony possession of stolen property.

On May 28 at 6:20am, a Ventura City employee called the Ventura Police Command Center several minutes after seeing a suspicious subject walk through a City Hall parking lot. The subject was carrying bags that appeared to belong to other city employees. When the officers arrived they located property stolen from inside City Hall stashed in the bushes. Officers checked the area but were unable to locate the suspect. It was discovered that City Hall had been burglarized a second time.

Ventura Police Street Crimes Unit detectives conducted further investigation and were able to identify the suspect and developed probable cause to arrest 21 year old Ventura vagrant Brian Kimball. In addition, Kimball was previously arrested on May 23 by the Ventura Police for committing a commercial burglary at the Ventura Mission located at 211 E. Main St. Kimball was released from the Ventura County Jail on his own recognizance two days later (May 25). Three days after his release (May 28), Kimball burglarized City Hall for the second time.

On May 31 at 3pm, a Ventura PD patrol officer located Kimball and placed him under arrest for commercial burglary. Kimball was found to be in possession of a controlled substance during the arrest.

I Love Breaking Glass

On June 4 at 12:45pm, the suspect broke out a large window at a business in the 500 block of East Main Street. After breaking the window, he fled on foot from the business. Officers responded but were unable to locate the suspect. On the same date at 1423 hours, the same suspect broke out another business’ window in the 1900 block of East Thompson Blvd. He again fled on foot from the second location and responding officers were unable to locate him. During the investigations, officers were able to positively identify the suspect as 39 year old Ventura vagrant Christopher Vera.

On June 5, at approximately 12pm, a Ventura Police Patrol officer saw the suspect in the area of Ramelli Avenue and Telephone Road. He was arrested for the two counts of felony vandalism. During the arrest, the suspect was also in possession of a controlled substance and narcotics paraphernalia.

Don’t Leave Good Stuff in your Vehicle

On June 6, at approximately 1:15pm, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a 911 call from a resident in the 1700 block of Topaz, reporting that her husband was chasing after a subject who had stolen his wallet. The suspect, later identified as 25 year old Ventura resident Esteban Cervantes, was seen climbing over fences into the backyards of some neighboring residences.

As the first officer arrived on scene and started speaking to the husband, the officer saw Cervantes and attempted to contact him. Cervantes saw the officer and fled on foot. The officer chased after Cervantes and after a brief foot pursuit, he gave up and was taken into custody without incident.

During the investigation, officers discovered the victim witnessed Cervantes closing the door of his parked vehicle that parked outside of his residence. Cervantes had taken the victim’s wallet, so he chased him.

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

Robbery

On June 6, at approximately 3:30pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call of four loss prevention officers at Target involved in a fight with a male suspect, 26 year old Oxnard resident Fernando Suarez. Prior to officers arriving on scene, the loss prevention officers were able to subdue Suarez and walked him back to their loss prevention office.

As officers arrived on scene they were informed that Suarez was using a magnetic tool to defeat security tags and remove electronic items from the shelves. Suarez then concealed the items and left the store without paying. When loss prevention officers tried to stop Suarez outside the store, he tried to run away from them. Once caught, Suarez started to fight with them. During the fight Suarez bit one of the loss prevention officers and kicked another. Suarez claimed to be injured during the incident, but refused any medical treatment.

Suarez is a PROS offender and had outstanding warrants for his arrest. Suarez was taking to Ventura County Jail where he was booked for Robbery, Possession of Burglary Tools, Commercial Burglary and his PROS warrants.

Why Are These People not in Jail?

On June 12, at 7:45am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of a subject observed sleeping in a vehicle in front of a residence in the 5900 block of Eight St. Officers responded to the call and found 27 year old Ventura resident Angel Esparza sleeping in the front seat, and could see illegal narcotics in plain view.

During a search of his vehicle, officers found that Esparza had a large amount of methamphetamine and heroin packaged for sales. There was also a loaded handgun located under the car seat. It was later revealed that the handgun found in the vehicle was reported stolen out of a residential burglary in Simi Valley.

Esparza was arrested and later booked into the Ventura County Jail for being a felon in possession of a firearm, felon in possession of ammunition, possession of a loaded firearm with narcotics, possession of illegal narcotics for sales, possession of stolen property, possession of narcotic paraphernalia, and a parole violation.

According to the Ventura County Superior Court website, in August and November of 2012, Esparza was convicted twice of being in possession of a stolen vehicle and being involved in a criminal street gang.

Arrest for Possession of Dirk or Dagger and Brandishing

On June 13, at approximately 12:45pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of a subject stumbling in traffic in the area of Victoria and Valentine. Officers arrived in the area and made contact with the suspect, 59 year old Ventura vagrant Michael Throneberry.

As officers approached Thorneberry he took and aggressive stance towards them while holding two sticks, one in each hand. The officers ordered Thorneberry to drop the sticks and sit down on the ground. Thorneberry eventually complied with the officers and sat down on the sidewalk.

As the investigation continued the officers learned that Thorneberry had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. During a search of his person for any weapons, officers found two knives concealed on Thorneberry. Thorneberry was arrested and booked into the Ventura County Jail for possession of a dirk or dagger, brandishing and his warrant.

According to the Ventura County Superior Court website, Thorneberry was arrested December 2014, for possession of a Billy club, in May 2016, for possession of a dirk or dagger and resisting a peace officer and March 2018, for exhibiting a deadly weapon.

Assault With A Deadly Weapon and Gang Enhancement

On May 6, at approximately 1am, the victim was attending a Cinco De Mayo gathering in Ventura when he was confronted by party goers who did not feel he was welcome. The victim was attacked by several assailants. The victim was able to break free and retrieve a firearm for self- defense. The assailants successfully disarmed the victim and fled with the firearm as police were summoned.

The Special Enforcement Team began investigating the case and obtained a search warrant for Piceno’s residence. On June 14, at approximately 11:30am, detectives arrested 39 year old Ventura resident Juan Piceno in the 1100 Block of North Ventura Avenue for his involvement in this crime. Soon after, detectives served a search warrant at his residence and located various evidence including approximately one ounce of suspected methamphetamine.

In the evening hours of June 14, a Ventura PD patrol officer located 22 year old Ventura resident Thomas Hernandez in the area of Ocean Ave Park. Hernandez was detained, arrested and interviewed by an SET detective.

Piceno was ultimately booked for assault with a deadly weapon, theft from a person, possession of methamphetamine, and commission of a gang crime.

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.