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.

Carjacking with Arrest

On December 2, at approximately 11:30 pm, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a 9-1-1 call from a witness regarding a possible carjacking that had just occurred in the 300 block of S. Borchard Dr. The victim was reportedly laying on the ground after having been beaten by the suspects, who stole her car.

Upon arrival, officers located the victim, a 46-year-old female, who had major injuries. The victim reported that she had been parked on Borchard Drive and got out of her vehicle, preparing to make a charity donation at a nearby collection facility when another vehicle stopped near her, and several subjects got out. She was approached by 3 to 4 females who demanded money and property.

When she said she had no money, the female suspects began to beat her until she fell to the ground. At that point, a male suspect got into the victim’s vehicle, which still had the keys in the ignition, and shouted to the female suspects that they should take the vehicle. The victim got up and reached into the driver’s window of her car to attempt to grab the keys and prevent the theft. The male suspect struck her forcefully, possibly with a blunt object, knocking her down and causing a major facial injury. The suspects drove off, some in the victim’s vehicle and others in the original vehicle they arrived in.

Patrol officers searched the area and located the stolen vehicle as the suspects were driving it nearby. Officers attempted an enforcement stop, but the driver fled in the vehicle. The driver, a 17-year-old male, crashed the vehicle several blocks away. The suspect driver was seriously injured and was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. At the time of this writing, he remains in the hospital in serious condition. There was one passenger in the vehicle, a 15- year-old female. The female was identified as one of the perpetrators in the crime. She had minor injuries, was treated at the hospital, and has since been booked at the Ventura County Juvenile Justice Center for Carjacking, Attempted Robbery, and Conspiracy.

The outstanding suspect vehicle was described as a black sedan or hatchback. There are at least two suspects outstanding. They are described as appearing “young,” possibly in their late teens or early twenties. The juvenile suspects who were apprehended were residents of the city of Oxnard. The victim was transported to the hospital for medical treatment and is expected to fully recover. Anyone with information about this incident or the identities of the outstanding suspects is asked to call the Ventura Police at (805) 650-8010.

Attempted Murder Arrest

On November 18, at approximately 1:00 am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call of a subject screaming for help at California St and Thompson Bl.

Officers arrived on scene and located a male victim suffering from a single stab wound to the throat. Ventura City Fire and AMR Ambulance were summoned to the scene and the victim was transported to the Ventura County Medical Center where he underwent emergency surgery for a life-threatening injury. Ventura Police Detectives began to investigate the stabbing and took countless hours attempting to locate potential witnesses or video evidence of the crime. Based on physical evidence, witness, and victim statements investigators identified 31 year old Ventura resident Armando Garcia as the suspect.

The ensuing investigation revealed that the victim and suspect were involved in an altercation at Santa Clara parking structure when the suspect got upset and stabbed the victim one time in the neck. The suspect fled from the location as the victim ran for help.

On December 6, at approximately Ventura Police Department detectives located Armando Garcia and arrested him for an arrest warrant related to this case.

Garcia was booked into Ventura County Jail for attempted murder. The victim has since recovered from his injury.

Garcia has prior arrests for assault with a deadly weapon with gang enhancements, felon in possession of a deadly weapon, an additional arrest for assault with a deadly weapon, and possession of a stolen vehicle.

Attempted Residential Armed Robberies with Arrests

On December 6, at approximately 12:00 am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call to the 100 block of Reata Ave regarding an attempted armed robbery. Officers arrived in scene and contacted the victims who said they were unloading groceries from their vehicle when they were confronted by two suspects armed with handguns. The suspects demanded money from the victims and attempted to enter the victim’s residence. The victims did not comply with the suspects, and they fled in a vehicle parked nearby.

On December 7, at approximately 5:30 am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call in the 5000 block of Shenandoah St. regarding suspicious circumstances. Two suspects were at the victim’s residence knocking on the door stating they were security officers from the complex and they needed them to come outside. The victim called the police as the suspects remained at the front door.

Officers arrived on scene and immediately detained one suspect wearing a security jacket. The second suspect was stopped in a vehicle attempting to flee the area. The ensuing investigation revealed that the suspects were the same from both incidents. The suspect that was detained in from of the residence on Shenandoah St was in possession of two loaded handguns. The suspects were identified as: 30 year old Oxnard resident Joseph Felix Damion and was arrested for two counts of attempted armed robbery and two counts of conspiracy to commit robbery. 27 year old Los Angeles resident Kang Sooyoung and was arrested for two counts of attempted armed robbery, two counts of conspiracy to commit robbery, felon in possession of a loaded handgun, and a violation of parole. No victims were injured during the commission of these crimes

Child Luring Arrest

The Ventura Police Department, in conjunction with the Ventura Unified School District, has been investigating several cases of an individual who had been on the Ventura High Campus without authorization. The subject, identified as 28 year old Ventura resident Dylan Thoele, was first contacted on November 16 by school staff and was advised he was on campus illegally and not to return while school was in session.

On November 23, Thoele returned to campus and was contacted by School staff and fled prior to being contacted by the police. Thoele returned to the campus later in the day and was arrested by School Resource Officers for misdemeanor trespassing while he was engaging school children in conversation.

On December 8, Thoele returned to campus and was seen by school staff having inappropriate conversations with students on campus. Ventura Police Department arrived on campus, but Thoele had left prior to officers arriving. The Ventura Police Department conducted an investigation with the Special Victim’s Unit that culminated in the arrest of Theole later that day at approximately 4:30 pm. Theole was booked into the Ventura County Jail for felony child luring with the intent to commit sexual acts.

The Ventura Police Department and the Ventura Unified School District maintain a strong collaborative relationship focused on the safety and security of students and staff on campus.

Stabbing with Arrest

On December 8 at approximately 7:00 pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 9-1-1 call of a disturbance inside a residence in the 3700 block of Dean Drive. Upon arrival officers located a female victim in her 20’s suffering from multiple stab wounds. Officers provided first aid to the victim and, based on the severity of her injuries, immediately transported her to a local hospital in a patrol car.

After a brief standoff at the residence, the suspect was arrested, 24 year old Ventura resident Tommy Kelley. The investigation revealed the victim and the suspect are relatives. They got into an argument, which resulted in the suspect stabbing the victim several times. Family members then called 9-1-1. The victim is currently in stable condition at the hospital. The suspect was booked at Ventura County Jail for resisting arrest (misdemeanor) and assault with a deadly weapon (felony).

Residential Burglary, Possession of Stolen Property, Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition, Possession of Narcotics and Firearm, Carrying a Loaded Firearm in a Vehicle Arrest

On November 28, at approximately 11:30am, it was reported to the Ventura Police Department that property had been stolen from a garage in the 1700 block of Daffodil Ave. The Ventura Police Street Crimes Unit was able to identify 31 year old Ventura resident Victor Michael Flores as the suspect of the burglary. On December 9, at approximately 10:00 am, detectives located Flores in the 9000 block of Telephone Rd. Flores was detained and found to be in possession of stolen property, illegal narcotics, and a loaded firearm.

Flores was arrested and booked at the Ventura County Jail for residential burglary, possession of stolen property, a prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession of a firearm and narcotics, and carrying a loaded firearm in a vehicle.

A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows that Flores has prior convictions for stealing a vehicle, DUI, carrying a loaded handgun, and has been arrested for felony evading, felon in possession of a firearm, possession of controlled substance, and elder abuse.

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.

Catalytic Converter Theft Arrests

An alert resident called 9-1-1 after witnessing the theft of a neighbor’s catalytic converter in the 2500 block of Harbor Blvd. The witness gave a suspect vehicle description and said it was last seen leaving the area onto Harbor Blvd. Ventura Police Officers responded and canvassed nearby neighborhoods. A patrol sergeant located the suspects and caught them in the act of committing another catalytic converter theft in the Portside Ventura Harbor neighborhood. The suspects failed to obey commands and fled in their vehicle at a high rate of speed. After a short vehicle pursuit, the suspect vehicle crashed when failing to negotiate the turn onto Seaward Avenue. All three suspects were taken into custody. They had minor injuries from the collision and were taken to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. The three juvenile suspects were from the Los Angeles area. They will be booked in juvenile hall for Conspiracy, Grand Theft, Possession of Burglary Tools, Vandalism, and Possession of Stolen Property. The driver will also be booked for Vehicle Evading.

Eleven catalytic converters were located in the suspects’ possession, along with car jacks and burglary tools used to remove car parts. Investigators are processing the evidence and hope to return the catalytic converters to their owners. As of now, we have only identified three catalytic converter theft victims in the City of Ventura. All eleven converters appear similar to those of a Toyota Prius. If you have any information about this crime or are a victim of a similar, recent catalytic converter theft, please call Detective Karl Reyes at 805-339-4476.
Armed Robbery with Arrests

On Nov.27, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call regarding an armed robbery at Wild Tobacco & Gift Shop, 9493 Telephone Rd. Two suspects entered the establishment wearing facemasks, pointed firearms at the victim, and tied him up. They then took an undisclosed amount of money and fled the store into an awaiting vehicle. The clerk was able to free himself and call 911.

Ventura Police Department Patrol officers located the vehicle and initiated a high-risk stop. Two subjects fled from the scene, Jason Hoyland and one other white male. Two other subjects, Angel and Patterson, were detained at the vehicle and taken into custody without incident. One firearm was found in the car and was determined to be a replica rifle. A search was initiated using Ventura Police Department, Ventura County Sheriff’s Office K9s, and the VCSO’s Air Unit. After a search, Jason Hoyland was taken into custody without incident. The remaining suspect is still at large and was described as a white male with tattoos on his head and neck.

Rae-Ann Patterson was arrested for robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery, and possession of controlled substances. Manuel Angel was arrested for robbery and conspiracy to commit robbery. Jason Hoyland was arrested for robbery, false imprisonment, and conspiracy to commit robbery.

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 Pursuit with Arrest

On Nov.6, at 8:56 am, Ventura Police Officers responded to a domestic disturbance in the 100 Block of N. Evergreen Dr. Before officers arrived, the disturbing party, Gloria Kapp(06/28/74, Ventura Resident), was reported to be driving erratically in the area. As Officers arrived, Kapp committed a traffic violation, and a patrol corporal attempted to stop Kapp. Kapp failed to stop her vehicle, and a pursuit was initiated. Officers pursued Kapp for a distance of about 5 miles with speeds reaching up to 50 mph. As Officers pursued Kapp, she committed multiple traffic violations.

The pursuit was terminated as Kapp entered the Ventura College Campus. Officers remained in the area of the college and observed Kapp stop on West Campus Way. Officers positioned their police vehicles to block Kapp’s vehicle and prevent her from continuing due to several pedestrians in the area. Kapp intentionally drove her vehicle into an officer’s patrol car at a slow speed while the officer was inside, striking the patrol car. Kapp exited her vehicle, and officers took her into custody. There were no injuries to any officers.

Kapp was arrested for domestic battery, felony evading, and assault with a deadly weapon.

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.

Armed Robbery

On October 21, at approximately 10:00 pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call reference an armed robbery that had just occurred at the Wild Side Smoke Shop. The suspect was described as a Hispanic male, 20-30 years of age.

During the robbery, the suspect revealed a gun that was in his waistband to the clerk while demanding money. The clerk gave the suspect an undisclosed amount of cash, and the suspect fled the scene.

Patrol officers arrived at the Smoke Shop in two minutes and conducted a search with a police K9; however, the suspect was not located. No one was injured during this incident. The Ventura Police Department is actively investigating this crime. If anyone has any information about this robbery, please call (805) 650-8010.

Battery on Police Officer Arrest

Based on community complaints regarding criminal activity and quality of life issues, on October 23, at approximately 9:30 am, a Ventura Police Officer was patrolling the Ventura Beach Promenade near Paseo de Playa. The officer contacted a person who was blocking an access gate to a private apartment complex. During the contact, the suspect, 53 year old Nevada resident Lewis Lloyd, approached the officer and began to interfere with the investigation. The officer told the suspect several times to back away, or he would be arrested for interfering. The suspect refused the officer’s orders and continued to interfere by yelling at the officer and physically aggressing towards the officer. The officer attempted to place the suspect under arrest, and the suspect violently resisted and struck the officer in the face with a closed fist and kicked him.

Within a few seconds of the attack, another officer arrived to assist and was struck on the head by Lloyd. The officers wrestled the suspect to the ground, and he continued to fight. Additional officers arrived, and after a lengthy struggle, the suspect was taken into custody. As this incident unfolded, two uninvolved bystanders loudly jeered and criticized the officers.

The suspect was arrested for the following felony charges: resisting an officer by violence; battery on a police officer, and resisting an officer causing injury. The officers were treated at a local hospital for moderate injuries. Lloyd was treated for minor injuries.

Robbery and Attempt Murder Arrest

On October 24, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of a robbery that had just occurred at House of Smokes, 105 South Oak Street. The reporting party stated that the suspect fired a shot while in the business and fled in a vehicle. Ventura Police Officers arrived at the business within 3 minutes of the call, obtained information about the suspect and the vehicle, and broadcasted the information to other responding officers.

At approximately 5:30 pm, a Ventura Police Patrol Corporal observed a car matching the description broadcasted by investigating officers exit the 101 Fwy at Harbor Blvd. The driver of the vehicle also matched the suspect’s description. The vehicle was followed into the Harbor Blvd parking structure, 529 E. Harbor Blvd., and an enforcement stop was initiated. The driver, 19 year old Bakersfield resident Anthony Sierra, was taken into custody without incident. As officers took custody of Sierra, an unregistered firearm was found concealed in his waistband.

During the investigation, officers learned that Sierra entered the House of Smokes, brandished a handgun at the clerk, and removed cash from the register. As Sierra was exiting the business, another employee attempted to stop him. Sierra fired one shot at the employee, nearly striking him, and then fled the area. The employees were not injured during the incident.

Sierra was arrested for attempt murder, robbery, possession of a firearm with intent to commit a felony, and possession of an illegal firearm concealed in public.

Stabbing

On October 15, at approximately 5:00 pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call of a stabbing in progress near W. Main St and Garden St.

Responding officers arrived on scene within one minute of the call and located the crime scene in the parking lot of 96 W. Main St. Witnesses indicated that the victim had been transported in a private vehicle.

The victim, a 34-year-old male Ventura resident, was located at the Ventura County Medical Center suffering from a single stab wound to the torso.

The investigation into this incident led to the identification of the suspect as 26-year-old Bradley Decker. An arrest warrant was issued on October 19. On that date a Ventura Police Officer located Decker on the promenade. Decker violently resisted arrest and fled from the officer into the Ventura River bottom. A search was conducted of the area, but he was not located.

On October 26, at approximately 4:00 am, patrol officers were searching encampments in the Ventura River bottom and located Decker. He was arrested without incident and transported to Ventura County Jail.

Decker was booked on felony charges of attempted murder, violently resisting a police officer, and additional charges stemming from an unrelated domestic dispute of domestic violence causing injury and false imprisonment.

Decker is being held at the Ventura County Jail in lieu of $500,000 bail.

The victim remains hospitalized in serious condition.

Shooting victim

On Nov.30, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of a shooting victim outside of the Ventura Beach Club at 281 W. Main. Multiple officers responded and located a victim suffering from multiple gunshots to one of his legs. Paramedics transported the victim to a local hospital for treatment. His wounds do not appear to be life-threatening, and his status is unknown currently.

During the investigation, officers learned that approximately five males were involved in a fight in a parking lot near the club. During the altercation, one of the involved parties fired a gun at the victim. There is no suspect description at this time.

While officers were tending to the victim and conducting an initial investigation, multiple fights were occurring in the area, and patrons from the club were hostile towards officers. Deputies from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department responded to assist.

The investigation into this shooting is ongoing. Any witnesses or persons with information about this incident are asked to contact the Ventura PD Major Crimes Unit at 805-339-4444.

by Cindy Summers

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

Vehicle Burglary Arrest

On October 5, at approximately 2:45 pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call regarding a female suspect using a rock to try and break the window of a parked car at Barranca Vista Park. As the caller was on the phone with Ventura Police Dispatchers, she watched the suspect successfully break the window on the victim’s vehicle, and then remove property from inside. Patrol units were on-scene in less than 5 minutes, but prior to their arrival, the suspect fled on foot.

With the assistance of detectives who were in the immediate area, the suspect (identified as 41 yrs old vagrant Jessica Hayes) was detained without incident in the 7000 block of Wren Ct. Hayes was positively identified by the witness caller and was in possession of items belonging to the owner of the parked vehicle. The stolen items were returned to the victim, and Hayes was arrested for felony Burglary.

Student with Gun on Campus Arrest

On October 11, at approximately 9:00 am, Pacific High School administrators received a call just after the start of school from a concerned community member regarding a student who had been posting on social media about possessing a gun. Pacific High School administrators immediately contacted the School Resource Officer assigned to that campus and within minutes the SRO met with administrators. As soon as the student arrived at school, the student (a 16-year-old male juvenile) was detained by the school administration and the school resource officer. The student was found to be in possession of a handgun.

He was subsequently arrested for possession of a firearm on school grounds and was booked into Ventura County Juvenile Hall.

Prowling, Vandalism Arrest

On October 12, at 8:30 pm, Ventura Police patrol officers responded to a report of a suspicious subject on the roof of a residence in the 200 block of South Santa Cruz St. While officers were responding, a citizen reported to the communications center that the suspect was shooting a firearm while running down the street. Officers arrived on the scene, established a perimeter around the area, and began searching for the suspect.

During the search, 23-year-old Ventura resident Isaac Alcocer was located on the roof of a small back house to the rear of a residence on Anacapa Street, and he fled from officers. Officers pursued him and he was apprehended on Santa Cruz Street. There were no injuries to the involved officers or Alcocer as a result of the incident. No weapons were located and there was no evidence found indicating any firearms had been fired. Instead, it appeared the suspect was breaking glass bottles. Alcocer was arrested for prowling and vandalism and was booked at the Ventura County Jail.

Narcotics Arrest

On October 13, at approximately 4:45 pm, members of the Ventura Police Department SCU unit, in conjunction with PTF, conducted a two-location search warrant at the above addresses due to an investigation into narcotics sales. As a result, detectives using investigative tools were able to identify a primary suspect as 47-year-old Ventura resident David Tannenbaum.

During the subsequent investigation, detectives recovered a large quantity of methamphetamines, heroin, and some fentanyl. Also found was a large amount of U.S. currency and evidence of narcotics sales in Tannenbaum’s home and storage.

As a result of the investigation, David Tannenbaum was arrested for possession for sale of controlled substances.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that David Tannenbaum has prior arrests for numerous narcotics violations, including several arrests for sales of narcotics, DUI, and hit & run.

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.

Terrorist Threats – Update with Arrest

On September 15, at 8:00 am, Ventura Police Officers responded to a report of a female suspect following and threatening a juvenile who was walking to school.

Patrol officers responded and contacted the victim. Their investigation revealed that the victim was walking to school when an unknown woman approached her from behind. As the victim continued to walk away, the woman started yelling threats at her. In fear for her life, the student ran from the suspect.

Patrol and School Resource Officers searched the area and were unable to locate the suspect. The victim, who was not injured, left with her parents.

The suspect is a white female with dark hair and dark clothing. She was last seen in the area of Thompson Blvd. and San Jon Rd. At the time of this press release, the suspect has not been identified.

The Ventura Police Department and the Ventura Unified School District continually work together to ensure our student’s safety. This incident remains under investigation. Anyone with more information about this incident or any similar crimes in the area is asked to call the Ventura Police Department at 805-650-8010.

Update:
During this investigation, the suspect was identified as 63 year old Leticia Rojas. On September 29, at approximately 1:15 pm, an officer involved in the investigation located Rojas as she drove in the area of Main St. and Cabrillo Dr. The officer conducted a traffic stop on Rojas.

As a result of the investigation, Rojas was arrested and booked into Ventura County Jail for felony Criminal Threats and Felony Child Abuse.

Anyone looking for more information about safety resources for students can find various safety tips and videos on the Ventura Police Department website at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/SchoolResourceOfficers.

Stabbing

On October 3, at 3:45 am, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a call regarding a stabbing in the 6300 Block of Bristol Road. Ventura Police Patrol Officers responded and located the victim with stab wounds to the chest and arm.

Investigating officers learned that the victim, a 33-year-old male, and the suspect got into an altercation that resulted in the suspect stabbing the victim. After stabbing the victim, the suspect fled on foot eastbound on Bristol Road. Officers searched the area, but he was not located. The suspect was described as a Hispanic male, 20-30, 5-04/150, and wearing a gray tank top and blue jeans.

The victim was transported to a local hospital. His condition is unknown at this time.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Ventura Police Major Crimes Detectives, (805) 339-4444.

by Cindy Summers

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

Brandishing, Criminal Threats Arrest

On September 12, at 2:15pm, Ventura Police Patrol Officers responded to a report of an interrupted car burglary in the 200 block of North Garden St. The victim reported that he confronted a group of juveniles attempting to gain entry into his vehicle. One of the juveniles brandished a knife at the victim and threatened to stab him. Patrol officers arrived on scene within four minutes of the call and located the suspect in the area of South Garden St. and South Olive St. The suspect, a 15- year-old male, was taken into custody without incident.

The suspect was arrested for brandishing, criminal threats and gang enhancement. A second juvenile was also arrested for gang enhancement.The victim was not injured.

Woman Assaulted on Bike Path – UPDATE with Arrest

On September 1, at approximately 12:30 pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call of a female who had been attacked while walking on the bike path near Kimball Park

On September 5, an alert community member saw a subject riding on a bicycle near Johnson Dr and Thille St. He recognized the person from the photographs and the artist’s rendering from a prior press release.

The community member called the police and responding officers contacted the subject who was identified as 28 year old Martin Arias. Detectives were contacted and the investigation continued.

On September 7, Detectives searched Arias’ residence and located evidence that linked him to the original incident. Arias was subsequently arrested and booked into Ventura County Jail for felony false imprisonment with violence, attempted sexual battery, and a violation of parole.

Arias has prior convictions for attempted robbery, multiple counts of sexual battery and multiple counts of indecent exposure.

Narcotics Arrest

On September 8, at approximately 1:45 pm, members of the Ventura Police Department SCU unit conducted a search warrant at the above address due to an investigation into narcotics sales. Detectives using investigative tools were able to identify a primary suspect as 62 year old Ventura resident Donald Adams.

During the subsequent investigation, detectives recovered large quantities of methamphetamines, fentanyl, heroin, and evidence of narcotics sales in the motel room and vehicle.

As a result of the investigation, Donald Adams was arrested for transportation and possession for sale of controlled substances.

Joseph Nichols, 50 year old Ventura resident, was arrested for possession for sale of controlled substances.

Vincent Hernandez, 33 year old Ventura resident, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and an out-of-county warrant.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Donald Adams has prior arrests for numerous narcotics violations, including transportation and sales of narcotics, DUI, domestic violence, resisting arrest, and providing false information to a peace officer.

Joseph Nichols has prior arrests for numerous narcotics violations, including narcotic sales, DUI, forgery, and theft.

Vincent Hernandez has prior arrests for numerous narcotics violations, theft, vehicle theft, residential burglary, robbery, possession of burglary tools, resisting arrest, and providing false information to a peace officer.

Guns and Narcotics Arrest

On September 11, approximately 4:45 pm, a Ventura police K9 Officer and Patrol Officer conducted proactive enforcement in the 3000 block of E. Main St. for ongoing narcotics activity.

During their crime suppression efforts, officers contacted and detained 48 year old Ventura resident Christian Montijo with two other subjects. Officers discovered and recovered fentanyl, evidence of narcotics use, and two loaded unserialized firearms (commonly referred to as ghost guns). Narcotics detectives responded and assisted in the investigation.

As a result of the investigation, Christian Montijo was arrested for felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, furnishing illegal drugs, and possession of narcotics paraphernalia.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Christian Montijo has prior arrests for numerous narcotics violations, DUI, theft, burglary, identity theft, and providing false information to 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 and Burglary

On August 25, at approximately 7:15 am, officers responded to the Business Park located at Goodyear Avenue and Market Street regarding a vehicle being stolen. It was reported that a suspect had just entered a business at the location and stolen a car.

While responding to the location, officers saw the stolen car turn onto Copland Drive from Telephone Road. They attempted to stop the vehicle on the dead-end street to avoid the likelihood of a pursuit, but the driver tried to flee by driving through a fence on the north end of Copland Drive. The car became disabled and the driver, identified as 31 year old vagrant Kashe Vargas, was arrested.

Vargas was booked for Burglary, Driving a Stolen Vehicle, Vandalism, and Evading. No one was injured during this incident.

Narcotics Arrest

On August 27, at 3:30 pm, members of the Ventura Police Department SCU Narcotics unit conducted a search warrant at the above address due to an investigation into narcotics sales. Detectives using investigative tools were able to identify a primary suspect as 46 year old Ventura resident Matthew Maxfield.

During the subsequent investigation, detectives recovered methamphetamines, cocaine, and evidence of narcotics sales at the residence.

As a result of the investigation, Matthew Maxfield was arrested for possession for sale of controlled substances.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Matthew Maxfield has prior arrests for numerous narcotics violations, kidnapping, theft, vandalism, resisting arrest, and providing false information to a peace officer.

Vehicle Pursuit, DUI and Evading Arrest

On August 28, at approximately 11:30 pm, a Ventura Police Department Sergeant initiated a traffic stop on a white SUV that was driving recklessly southbound on Victoria Ave. The vehicle did not yield and continued northbound on the 101 freeway at a high rate of speed. The vehicle exited the freeway at Telephone Rd and then collided with a tree at Telephone Rd and Copland Dr.

The driver and solo occupant, 29 year old Oxnard resident Felipe Perez eventually exited the vehicle uninjured and was taken into custody without further incident. Officers conducted a DUI investigation and determined that Perez was under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested for felony evading and misdemeanor driving under the influence.

by Cindy Summers

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

Brandishing and Possession of a Loaded Firearm in a Vehicle Arrest

On August 10, at approximately 9:45 am, officers responded to a call of a subject brandishing a gun from the parking lot of Enterprise Rental Cars. An employee from the business advised the subject, later identified as 30 year old Port Hueneme resident Michael Guerrero, was pointing the weapon randomly at vehicles driving by. Several Ventura Police officers responded to the location.

Officers located Guerrero in the parking lot of Enterprise. He matched the description of the suspect and was detained. During the investigation, it was determined Guerrero was brandishing a taser at people and he had a loaded concealed 9mm handgun in his vehicle. Guerrero was told he was under arrest and began challenging officers to fight. Fortunately, officers were able to de- escalate the situation and took Guerrero into custody without incident.

Guerrero also had additional firearms located at his residence in Port Hueneme. Major Crimes detectives obtained a search warrant for the firearms to prevent Guerrero from using them to endanger the community again. Detectives located and seized eight additional guns, one of which was an assault rifle. Guerrero was booked in Ventura County Jail.

Narcotics Arrest

On August 12, at approximately 8:00 am, members of the Ventura Police Department SCU unit conducted a search warrant at the above address due to an investigation into narcotics sales and operating a drug house. Detectives using investigative tools were able to identify a primary suspect as Michael Nelson.

During the execution of the search warrant, investigators located evidence of narcotics use. Detectives also recovered several forms of narcotics, including heroin, methamphetamines, suboxone, and oxycodone.

As a result of the investigation, 41 year old Ventura resident Michael Nelson was arrested for possession of a controlled substance. Travis Harkey, 37 year old Ventura resident, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance. Charlotte Bauer, 32 year old Ventura resident, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Michael Nelson has prior arrests for property crimes, narcotics violations, including arrests for possession for sales of a controlled substance. Travis Harkey has a previous arrest for public intoxication. Charlotte Bauer has prior arrests for resisting arrest, narcotics violations, identity theft, vehicle theft, theft, and burglary.

Sex Offender Compliance Sweep

On August 11, the Ventura Police Department in partnership with the Ventura County Probation and State Parole conducted a series of sex offender compliance checks within the City of Ventura. The offenders searched were on active CDCR State Parole and/or Probation in the County of Ventura. Compliance checks are done regularly to ensure high risk offenders are following their court ordered restrictions.

Officers visited 15 offenders’ residents and of those four arrests were made:.

• James Robles, 51 years old, was arrested for felony possession of a controlled substance and possession of tear gas
• Steven Perry, 54 years old, was arrested for a felony violation of parole
• Joseph Hooton, 27 years old, was arrested for felony possession of a controlled substance and felony violation of parole.

• Michael Lievre, 39 years old, was arrested for an outstanding warrant for lewd conduct and a felony parole warrant

Stolen Vehicle and Drug Sales Arrest

On August 17, at approximately 2:45 pm, a Ventura Police Department patrol officer saw a stolen vehicle in the area of Telegraph Rd. and Ashwood Ave. The officer followed the vehicle, stolen in Santa Barbara County on July 27, and initiated an enforcement stop. The vehicle yielded in a parking lot in the 5100 block of Telegraph Rd, and patrol officers took 29 year old Goleta resident Christian Juarez into custody without incident. Investigating officers searched the vehicle and located methamphetamine, heroin, and evidence of narcotics sales.

Juarez was arrested for unlawful taking of a vehicle, possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine for sale, possession of a controlled substance, and three outstanding 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.

Stabbing with Arrest

On July 26, at approximately 7:00 pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call of a stabbing victim in the 7800 block of Telephone Rd.

Responding officers arrived on scene within one minute of the call and located the suspect, 19 year old Oxnard resident Edward Larios, standing near the victim who was suffering from several stab wounds.

The ensuing investigation revealed that that the victim had driven to the 600 block of Providence Av at the request of a female who indicated she was being physically abused by Larios.

Once the victim arrived, he broke up a domestic violence incident between the female and Larios. As the victim was leaving in his car Larios confronted the victim and stabbed him twice in the legs. The victim fled in his car.

The victim who was feeling the effects of being stabbed pulled over into the gas station at Telephone Rd and Kimball Rd. He called the female to come help him. She arrived along with the Larios and Larios stabbed the victim an additional time in the abdomen.

The victim was taken to the Ventura County Medical Center where he remains in stable condition.

Larios was arrested and booked for assault with a deadly weapon causing serious injury and domestic violence.

Shooting with Arrest

During the investigation, the Ventura Police Department had processed the crime scene for evidence and had served numerous search warrants which led to the development of the suspect in this case. Brian Torres , 38 year old Ventura resident, was linked to the crime and a warrant was sought for his arrest.

On July 29, the Ventura Police Department was notified by the Laramie Police Department in Wyoming that they had apprehended Torres after they had received a call of a suspicious subject at a laundromat. He was subsequently booked into Laramie County Detention Center in Wyoming awaiting extradition back to California.

On July 21, at 3:30 am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call of a shooting victim at Simpson St and Ventura Av. Responding officers arrived on scene and located a 20-year-old male victim lying on the sidewalk suffering from a gunshot wound.

Ventura Fire and AMR ambulance arrived and transported the victim to the Ventura County Medical Center.

The ensuing investigation revealed that the victim was east of Ventura Ave on Simpson St when he was shot at numerous times and was struck once in the torso.

The victim is currently at the Ventura County Medical Center in critical condition. Anyone with information about this shooting is asked to call Detective Espinosa at 805-339-4497.