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.

Discharging a Firearm in Public Arrest

On July 12, at approximately 12:45 am, officers responded to a call of a gunshot fired to the front of The Tavern located at 211 E. Santa Clara Street. Officers conducted an investigation and determined the suspect was observed inside the bar with a semi-automatic pistol. Security contacted the suspect and escorted him outside. Once outside, the suspect drew the handgun, fired it in the air, and ran east on Santa Clara Street.

Officers canvassed the area and located 24-year-old Santa Paula resident Michael Zepeda, who matched the description of the suspect loitering near the parking structure located at 555 E. Santa Clara Street. Officers also recovered the handgun. Zepeda was arrested and booked in Ventura County Jail for Penal Code Sections 246.3- Negligent Discharge of a Firearm and 25850(a)- Carrying a Loaded Firearm in Public.

Prowling and Possession of a Loaded Firearm Arrest

On July 15, at approximately 3:15 am, officers responded to a call for service regarding a suspect seen trying to enter unlocked cars in the area of the 5500 block of Lafayette Street. Officers canvassed the area and located a male matching the description of the suspect and detained him. During the investigation the suspect was identified as 30 year old Juan Ortiz, and he was placed under arrest for Prowling.

Ortiz was also found to possess a loaded handgun, drug paraphernalia, controlled substances, and burglary tools. He was booked in Ventura County Jail.

Narcotics Arrest

On July 16, at 4:00 pm, members of the Ventura Police Department SCU Narcotics unit, with the assistance of patrol officers, and a Ventura Police K9 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 Elizabeth Valenzuela.

During the execution of the search warrant and the subsequent investigation, detectives recovered narcotics and evidence of narcotics sales inside Valenzuela’s vehicle.

As a result of the investigation, 39-year-old Ventura resident Elizabeth Valenzuela was arrested for possession for sales of a controlled substance.

Benjamin Acosta, 33-year-old Ventura resident, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance.

Robert Farrell, 42-year-old Ventura resident was arrested for possession of brass knuckles and a controlled substance.

Shooting

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 Av 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.

Stolen Vehicle Arrest

On July 23, at approximately 9:00 pm, a Ventura Police Officer was patrolling in the area of Victoria Av and Moon Dr. when he observed a stolen Ford Edge driving in front of him. Officers stopped the vehicle and contacted the occupants.

During the investigation, it was determined 50 year old Joseph Nichols was driving the car, and it was stolen from Thousand Oaks. Nichols also illegally possessed fentanyl and indicia of sales of the drug. He was arrested and booked in Ventura County Jail for driving a stolen vehicle, possession for sales of a controlled substances, possession of stolen property, and outstanding warrants.

The passenger, 25-year-old Dororthy Beltran, was arrested and booked into Ventura County Jail for possession of a controlled substance, possession of stolen property, and 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.

Robbery Arrest

On December 6, 2020, Officers responded to a robbery that had occurred in the parking structure at the Pacific View Mall. In this incident, the two suspects chased the victim, The victim ran to his car and was attempting to get in his vehicle when 19 year old Ventura resident James Cruz began to fight with the victim as the other juvenile suspect acted as a lookout as the crime unfolded. Cruz forcibly removed property from the victim. The two suspects fled on foot after the robbery with the victim’s property.

An additional incident occurred on March 27, 2021, as the victim was in a parking lot in the 2000 Block of Victoria Av. The victim was talking to acquaintances when Cruz drove by, displayed a handgun, and shouted vulgarities at the victim.

Search warrants were served at the suspects’ residences by Ventura Police Detectives.

On June 30, Cruz, who was already in custody, was booked on additional charges of robbery and brandishing a firearm.

The additional juvenile suspect was arrested at his residence and booked into Ventura County Juvenile Hall for receiving stolen property stemming from the robbery.

Narcotics Arrest

On June 30, at 9:30 pm, Ventura Police Department patrol officers contacted a subject, 45 year old Ventura resident Jason Quinn in the parking lot of the 76-gas station. Quinn was displaying erratic behavior consistent with being under the influence of a controlled substance.

During the subsequent investigation, officers determined Quinn was under the influence of a controlled substance and recovered a large quantity of Fentanyl and evidence of narcotics sales on Quinn’s person and inside his vehicle.

As a result of the investigation, Quinn was arrested for under the influence of a controlled substance and possession of narcotics for sales.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Jason Quinn has prior arrests for burglary, commercial burglary, weapons violations, conspiracy, narcotics violations including numerous arrests for narcotics sales.

Felony Assault Investigation and Arrest

On October 20, 2020, the Ventura Police Department began an investigation into an incident where a victim’s vehicle had the brake lines severed while it was parked at the Santa Clara parking structure. The victim drove away from the parking structure and the braking system of the vehicle began to fail. The victim was able to stop her vehicle before a catastrophic failure occurred.

During the investigation, it was determined that a former acquaintance of the victim, 54 year old Simi Valley resident Pedro Galindo, was responsible for severing the brake lines. A search warrant was conducted in January at Galindo’s residence in Simi Valley to seek physical evidence.

On July 1, 2021, enough information was obtained regarding the crime and an arrest warrant was issued. Ventura Police detectives located Galindo at his place of employment in Glendale and he was subsequently arrested for his outstanding warrant.

Galindo was booked into Ventura County Jail on charges of felony assault.

Robbery Arrest

On July 4, at 2:30 am, Ventura Police Patrol officers responded to a report of a robbery that had just occurred in the 1300 Block of Greenock Lane. The suspect confronted the two victims who were sitting in their parked vehicle. The suspect brandished a knife and stole watches from both victims. During the robbery, the suspect showed the victim’s a gang tattoo while also claiming to be a member of a local gang. After the robbery, the suspect fled in a dark colored sedan. The victims called 911 and followed the suspect vehicle.

Patrol officers arrived on scene and conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle around the area of Telephone Rd and Chalmette Ave. A passenger in the vehicle, 32 year old Christopher Hernandez, was identified as the suspect and placed under arrest. Officers located the knife used in the robbery and recovered the stolen watches, which were later returned to the victims.

Hernandez was arrested and booked at Ventura County Jail for Robbery (felony) and Gang Enhancement (felony).

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court website revealed Hernandez has arrests for Domestic Battery and Battery with Serious Bodily Injury.

Stolen Vehicle and Possession of Stolen Firearm Arrest

On July 7, at approximately 12:30 pm, a Ventura Police Traffic Enforcement Officer was patrolling in the area of Chestnut St. and Thompson Blvd. when he observed a stolen Mazda SUV driving in front of him. The officer initiated a traffic stop and contacted the occupants.

During the investigation, it was determined 37 year old Wyoming resident Brandi Price was driving the car, and it was stolen in Los Angeles. Price also possessed Methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. She was arrested and booked in Ventura County Jail for driving a stolen vehicle, possession of controlled substances, and paraphernalia.

The passenger, 55 year old Ventura resident Joseph Martinez, also had felony warrants for possession of narcotics and a firearm. He was placed under arrest and searched. During the search officers located a loaded stolen handgun. The gun was stolen in Santa Barbara. Martinez was booked in Ventura County Jail for possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle, possession of a stolen firearm, and his warrants.

Catalytic Converter Theft with Arrest

On the July 7, at approximately 4:00 pm, Ventura Police Officers were contacted in the parking lot of Lowes, 500 S. Mills road, regarding a theft of a catalytic converter from a vehicle. Investigating officers learned that two male suspects were seen under a pick-up truck using a saw to remove the catalytic converter. After removing the catalytic converter, the two males entered a vehicle and fled the area. The suspects were last seen traveling northbound on Mills Rd.

Responding officers searched the surrounding area and located the suspect vehicle on Telegraph Rd at College Drive. Officers initiated an enforcement stop, and three occupants were detained while officers conducted an investigation. During the investigation, officers located two catalytic converters and tools to remove them inside the suspect vehicle.

Abel Mendoza, 25 year old Bakersfield resident and 34 year old Bakersfield resident Jose Avelardes were arrested for possession of burglary tools, grand theft, vandalism, and conspiracy. In addition to the above charges, 31 year old Bakersfield resident Kristina Lavidas was arrested for outstanding warrants and providing false identification to a police 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.

Robbery, Delaying a Peace Officer, and Vandalism Arrest

On June 11, at approximately 9:00 pm, Ventura Police Patrol officers responded to a report of a theft which just occurred in the 1000 block of East Thompson Blvd. The suspect had entered the business and after a brief altercation with the employees, stole an item from the business. The suspect then left the business and was reported to be armed with a knife.

Patrol officers and a K-9 officer arrived on scene and contacted the suspect, 36-year-old Pete Holder. Holder was armed with a knife and a blunt object. Holder refused orders to drop the knife however was taken into custody. Officers on scene determined Holder had brandished the knife at an employee of the business after stealing property and threatened to stab the employee. It was also determined just prior to the robbery; Holder had slashed multiple tires at a separate business in the area.

Holder was arrested and booked at Ventura County Jail for Robbery, Delaying a Peace Officer, and Vandalism.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court website revealed Holder has arrests for Resisting an Executive Officer, Removing a Weapon from a Peace Officer, Battery with Injury on a Peace Officer, and Arson. Holder is also currently on Parole Supervision.

Stolen Vehicle Arrest

On June 6, at approximately 8:00 am, Ventura Police Officers responded to the area of Shenandoah St. and Chalmette Ave. regarding a Chevy S-10 pickup truck that had just been stolen. At approximately 3:00 pm, the truck was seen in the 1200 block of N. Ventura Ave. Patrol Officers responded and, on arrival, conducted an enforcement stop as it entered the parking lot of a business.

Carlos Martinez, 24-year-old Ventura resident, and 23 year old Ventura resident Juan Solis were taken into custody without incident. During the investigation, officers determined that the suspects had painted the vehicle to cover the original color. Martinez and Solis were arrested for the unlawful taking of a vehicle, grand theft auto, felony vandalism, and conspiracy.

The vehicle was returned to the owner.

Narcotics Arrest

On June 23, at approximately 7:00 am, Ventura Police Department patrol officers responded to a call for service of a subject passed out behind the wheel of a vehicle that was running. Officers arrived and discovered the driver, 52-year-old Ventura resident Michael Arellanes, was asleep behind the wheel and under the influence of a controlled substance.

During the subsequent investigation, officers discovered and recovered a large quantity of Fentanyl and evidence of narcotics sales inside Arellanes’s vehicle.

As a result of the investigation, Arellanes was arrested for under the influence of a controlled substance and possession of narcotics for sales.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Michael Arellanes has several prior arrests for narcotics violations including numerous arrests for narcotics sales.

Stabbing Arrest

On June 26, at 7:45am, the Ventura Police Command Center received multiple calls about a stabbing in progress in the shopping center at 1145 S. Victoria Ave. The first patrol officer arrived on scene in less than 3 minutes and was directed by witnesses to the suspect’s exact location, which was now inside Vons. The suspect (later identified as 49 year old Daniel Rodriguez) was located by officers inside Vons still holding a knife. When given verbal orders, the suspect put down the knife but would not comply with any other commands. After a brief struggle, officers were able to safely take Rodriguez into custody.

After speaking with multiple victims and witnesses, officers learned Rodriguez was responsible for stabbing one person inside Wing Stop and another person inside I Love Sushi. While walking between the two businesses, Rodriguez threatened to stab one other person in the parking lot. There was no relation between any of the victims. Both victims who were assaulted inside the restaurants received non-life- threatening injuries and are being treated at a local hospital.

After being interviewed by Detectives, Rodriguez was arrested for 3 counts of assault with a deadly weapon.

Shooting Investigation with Arrest

On June 26, at approximately 7:00 pm, hours the Ventura Police Department responded to a call of a shooting victim in the 600 block of Cedar St.

Officers arrived on scene and found the victim suffering from a single gun shot wound to his torso. He was transported to the Ventura County Medical Center for life threatening injuries.

The subsequent investigation revealed that the suspect and victim had a brief encounter while in their vehicles near Olive St and Harrison Av. The suspect followed the victim to the 600 block of Cedar St where an altercation ensued.

The suspect, later identified as James Cruz, produced a handgun, and shot the victim. Cruz fled the location in his vehicle.

Later in the evening, officers located the suspect vehicle on Victoria Av. The suspect was stopped and taken into custody without incident.

Cruz was booked into the Ventura County Jail on charges of attempted murder. The victim remains in serious condition in the hospital.

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call the Ventura Police Department.

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 Stolen Property Arrest

On May 25, a detached garage in the 300 block of Poli Street was burglarized, and an expensive and distinct bicycle was stolen. On May 30 at 1:00 pm, Patrol officers and detectives located the suspect in the Rite-Aid parking lot in the 100 block of Main St. in Ventura. The suspect, 29 year old Ventura resident Angelita Hernandez, had the stolen bicycle with her.

Hernandez was arrested and booked at the Ventura County Jail for felony possession of stolen property. The bicycle was returned to the rightful owner.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Hernandez has prior convictions for theft, identity theft, burglary, and possession of a stolen vehicle.

The VPD Street Crimes Unit would like to remind everyone to register their bicycles online through the Ventura Police Department website. Also, remember to record your serial numbers on any high-end purchases and tools.

Carjacking / Felony Evading / Hit and Run Arrest

On June 4, at approximately 11:30 am, Ventura Police patrol officers responded to the Roadway Inn regarding a report of a vehicle having just been stolen. The victim reported that they attempted to stop the suspect by reaching into the vehicle and trying to remove the keys, however, the suspect started to drive off with the victim holding onto the car. The suspect was known to the victim, who identified her as 43 year old Kim Huber. Officers responding to the area located the vehicle being driven on Thompson Blvd Near Kalorama St and initiated a stop. Huber fled at a high rate of speed, driving on the wrong side of the road and side swiped another vehicle that was stopped at a traffic signal. Due to the danger to the public and other occupants in the vehicle at the time, the pursuit was terminated.

A short time later, the vehicle was found driving on Harbor Blvd at Sanjon Rd, and officers initiated a stop. Huber again fled at a high rate of speed. The vehicle was last reported driving North of Ventura Ave from Main St. A Ventura County Sheriffs Department helicopter was requested and responded to assist with locating the suspect. While officers were still in the area looking for the vehicle, a citizen reported a vehicle matching that description parked in their carport in the 100 Block of Ramona St. The helicopter responded and confirmed that it was the stolen vehicle. Patrol officers arrived at that location and found the vehicle left in that location with one occupant, but Huber had already fled the scene. The stolen vehicle was recovered and returned to it’s owner.

Approximately 40 minutes later, Huber was located walking in the downtown area and was taken into custody without further incident. Huber was booked at Ventura County Jail for Carjacking, Felony Evading, Hit and Run and a warrant.

A search of Ventura County Superior Court’s website shows Huber has lengthy criminal history with convictions for vandalism, domestic violence, violation of a domestic violence restraining order, battery on a police officer, resisting arrest, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, bringing drugs into a jail, petty theft, destroying evidence and being under the influence of drugs.

Brandishing a Replica Firearm

On June 6, at approximately 11:45 am, VPD patrol officers responded to a report of a subject brandishing a black semi-automatic style pistol during a road rage incident. The victim provided a description of the suspect and his vehicle, including the license plate. Responding officers located the suspect vehicle in the area of Telegraph Rd and Saticoy Ave. Based upon the nature of the call, a high risk stop was conducted in the 10200 block of Telephone Rd. The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, later identified as 32 year old Ventura resident Steven Infante, was taken into custody without incident.

A Ventura Police K-9 unit was used to clear and search the vehicle. A black pellet gun that resembled a semi-automatic firearm was located in the vehicle, along with narcotics and other controlled substances. Infante was arrested for Brandishing a Replica Firearm, Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Controlled Substance Without a Prescription.

Narcotics Arrest

On June 8, at 2:00 pm, members of the Ventura Police Department Street Crimes 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 57 year old Oak View resident Paul Haney.

During the execution of the search warrant and the subsequent investigation, detectives recovered narcotics and evidence of narcotics sales inside Haney’s home.

As a result of the investigation, Paul Haney was arrested for possession of methamphetamines for sales.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Paul Haney has prior arrests for narcotics possession, narcotic sales, and possession of a firearm by a felon.

Stolen Vehicle Arrest

On June 11, at approximately 8:00 am, Ventura Police Officers responded to the area of Shenandoah St. and Chalmette Ave. regarding a Chevy S-10 pickup truck that had just been stolen. At about 1506 hours, the truck was seen in the 1200 block of N. Ventura Ave. Patrol Officers responded and, on arrival, conducted an enforcement stop as it entered the parking lot of a business. Carlos Martinez, 24 year old Ventura resident and 23 year old Ventura resident Juan Solis were taken into custody without incident. During the investigation, officers determined that the suspects had painted the vehicle to cover the original color. Martinez and Solis were arrested for the unlawful taking of a vehicle, grand theft auto, felony vandalism, and conspiracy.

Robbery, Delaying a Peace Officer, and Vandalism Arrest

On June 11, at approximately 9:00 pm, Ventura Police Patrol officers responded to a report of a theft which just occurred in the 1000 block of East Thompson Blvd. The suspect had entered the business and after a brief altercation with the employees, stole an item from the business. The suspect then left the business and was reported to be armed with a knife.

Patrol officers and a K-9 officer arrived on scene and contacted the suspect, 36 year old Pete Holder. Holder was armed with a knife and a blunt object. Holder refused orders to drop the knife however was taken into custody. Officers on scene determined Holder had brandished the knife at an employee of the business after stealing property and threatened to stab the employee. It was also determined just prior to the robbery; Holder had slashed multiple tires at a separate business in the area.

Holder was arrested and booked at Ventura County Jail for Robbery, Delaying a Peace Officer, and Vandalism.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court website revealed Holder has arrests for Resisting an Executive Officer, Removing a Weapon from a Peace Officer, Battery with Injury on a Peace Officer, and Arson. Holder is also currently on Parole Supervision.

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 Controlled Substance, Possession of Narcotics for Sales, Possession of a Controlled Substance for Sales, Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition, and Child Endangerment Arrest

On May 20, at 9:30 am, members of the Ventura Police Department Street Crimes Unit (SCU) conducted a search warrant at the above address after an ongoing investigation into narcotics and controlled substances for sales. Detectives identified 38 year old Ventura resident Rafael Hernandez as the suspect involved.

During the search warrant, detectives recovered narcotics, controlled substances, evidence of sales, and a loaded firearm inside Hernandez’s residence. There are also young children that live in the house.

As a result of the investigation, Rafael Hernandez was arrested and booked at the Ventura County Jail for possession of methamphetamines, possession of methamphetamines for sales, possession of fentanyl for sales, felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and felony child endangerment.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Rafael Hernandez has prior convictions for Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Felony Vehicle Pursuit.

Shooting

On May 25, at approximately 10:30 pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call of shots being heard and a male subject yelling for help in the 1000 block of South Seaward Ave.

Responding officers arrived on scene to several subjects running from the area. They also located the victim who was suffering from several shotgun wounds.

The ensuing investigation revealed that numerous subjects had occupied rooms at the motel, and many were standing outside in the parking lot. Three subjects approached the group and one armed with a shotgun fired several rounds at the victim. The suspects fled the area in a vehicle parked nearby.

The victim was struck several times and was transported to Ventura County Medical Center with non-life threating injuries. There were no other victims of the shooting.

It appears that this was not a random act and may be drug and gang related. Anyone with any information is urged to contact Detective Sergeant Bill Dolan at 805-339-4444.

Burglary/Vandalism Arrest

On May 27, at approximately 9:30 am, the Ventura Police Command Center received received a call of a subject, later identified as 54 year old Orange County resident Scott Richetts, who had forced his way into an occupied building at 896 East Main St reet. Richetts reportedly used a brick to force open a door to the building, announcing to the occupants that he was “going to jail for a really long time.” The building occupants were able to exit and notify police. Richetts remained inside and barricaded himself inside an interior room.

Responding officers made verbal contact with Richetts, who was unccoperative, refused to exit, and made suicide-by-cop statements. Ventura Police Crisis Neogtiators arrived to assist and negotiated with Richetts for nearly two hours before the situation de-escalated and he surrendered. He exited the room and was taken into custody without incident.

None of the victims, officers, or Richetts were injured during this incident.

A search of the Orange County Superior Court’s Website revealed that Richetts has a lengthy criminal history with arrests f or numerous charges, including Robbery, Burglary, Criminal Threats, Use of a Deadly Weapon, Grand Theft, Vehicle Theft, among others. Richetts is currently on Post Release Community Supervision in Orange County.

Richetts was booked at the Ventura County Jail for burglary, felony vandalism, possession of drug paraphernalia, and resisting arrest.

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 Deadly Weapon-Hate Crime Arrest

On May 5, at approximately 10:30 pm, the Ventura Police Command Center received a 911 call from a victim of a stabbing who was enroute to the hospital via a private vehicle.

Officers met the victim at a local hospital and the initial investigation revealed that the victim and his girlfriend were inside a convenience store purchasing items when the suspect approached them.

The suspect confronted the victim, as he was paying for his merchandise, and told him to get out of the store and used a racial slur during the process. The clerk immediately told the suspect to leave the store and the suspect left.

The victim finished purchasing his items and left the store where he was confronted by the suspect outside. Once outside the suspect again used a racial slur and presented a knife. The victim attempted to de-escalate the situation however the suspect lunged at the victim stabbing him twice. The suspect then picked up a skateboard and struck the victim while he was incapacitated. The suspect fled on foot.

During the investigation officers located the suspect near Telephone Rd and Clinton Av. The suspect fled on foot from the officers into the neighborhood. Officers chased the suspect for over 12 minutes until he was apprehended.

The victim suffered moderate to severe injuries from the attack and was treated at Community Memorial Hospital for his injuries. One officer suffered minor injuries during the apprehension.

The suspect, 33 year old Tyler Clark, was arrested and booked into Ventura County Jail for assault with a deadly weapon, hate crime, resisting arrest, vandalism, and violation of parole.

A record check of the Ventura County Superior Court revealed that Clark has priors for assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer, resisting arrest, battery on emergency personnel, and many other criminal charges.

The Ventura Police Department takes any acts or threats of violence, property damage, harassment, intimidation, or other crimes motivated by hate or bias seriously and they are given high priority. More information about hate crimes and hate incidents can be located at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/HateCrimes

Stolen Property Arrest

On April 5, a victim in the 100 block of North Olive St. had his unlocked vehicle broken into, ransacked, and his property was taken. Detectives using investigative tools were able to find a potential person of interest, 38 year old Oxnard resident Steven Cossell.

On May 6, at 11:30 am, Ventura Police Department Street Crimes Detectives (SCU) conducted a search warrant at the above address due to an investigation into property crimes. During the execution of the search warrant, detectives located stolen property from the vehicle theft.

Investigators contacted the victim, who identified his property as being stolen. As a result, Cossell was arrested for receiving stolen property, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of paraphernalia.

Michael Laser, 29 year old Oxnard resident, was arrested for flash incarceration.

A Ventura County Superior Court website review shows that Cossell has prior convictions for burglary, vehicle theft, theft, identity theft, receiving stolen property, possession of controlled substance, felony evading, under the influence of a controlled substance, hit & run, and driving under the influence.

Negligent Discharge of a Firearm, Carrying a Loaded Firearm in Public arrest

On May 6, at approximately 8:30 pm, a citizen was hiking on a trail between two neighborhoods. While the citizen was hiking, he saw a muzzle flash while also hearing a gunshot coming from below where he was hiking. He then heard a ricocheting bullet near him and fled into the adjacent neighborhood while calling 911.

Multiple Ventura PD officers responded and attempted to find the subjects involved in the shooting. They located a vehicle matching the description and contacted the occupants. One of the occupants was found to be in possession of a loaded firearm within the vehicle. That subject, 23 year old Ventura resident Manuel De La Paz, was also determined to be the subject who fired a gun in the general direction of the hiker and nearby homes.

De La Paz was arrested for Negligent Discharge of a Firearm and Carrying a Loaded Firearm in Public.

De La Paz was recently arrested by Ventura PD on 4/23/21 for Possession of a Short-Barreled Assault Rifle and also has a prior conviction for Carrying a Concealed Dagger.

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.

DUI Drugs, Possession of Controlled Substances, Commercial Burglary, Grand Theft, Identity Theft

On April 14, at approximately 1am, the VPD Command Center received a call from a security guard in the Downtown area that a glass door to a shop in the 500 block of Main St had been shattered. Patrol officers arrived and discovered the store had been burglarized. CSI processed the scene, discovering around $3,000 worth of merchandise had been stolen.

At about 7am, the VPD Command Center received a call from a victim in the 6000 block of Promontory Lane, their unlocked vehicle had been entered, and about $2500 worth of property was taken from it.

At about 9:30am, Patrol officers were dispatched to the 1900 block of Tanager St reference a subject slumped over in a vehicle with the motor running. Officers searched the area and were able to locate the car parked in the 7/11 parking lot on Bristol St. Officers contacted 29 year old Ventura County resident Whitney Byrd, who appeared under the influence, and they began a DUI investigation. During the investigation, officers located a large amount of stolen property and contacted Street Crimes detectives.

Detectives were able to link Whitney to the earlier burglary and theft from an unlocked vehicle. Detectives also located evidence of Identity Theft. Whitney was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of a Drug, Possession of Controlled Substances (methamphetamine and fentanyl), Commercial Burglary, Grand Theft, and Identity Theft.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows Whitney has prior arrests for being Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Petty Theft, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, and Burglary.

Narcotics Arrest

On April 7, at 11:00am, Ventura Police patrol officers contacted 39 year old Ventura resident Elizabeth Haberstich in the 100 block of Santa Clara St. During the detention, officers conducted a probation search.

Officers located narcotics on Haberstich’s person, members of the SCU Narcotics unit responded and assisted with the investigation.

During the subsequent investigation, detectives recovered fentanyl, methamphetamines, cocaine, and evidence of narcotics sales on Haberstich’s person, vehicle, and hotel room.

As a result of the investigation, Elizabeth Haberstich was arrested for possession for sale of controlled substances.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Elizabeth Haberstich has prior arrests for numerous narcotics violations, including several previous arrests for possession for sales of controlled substances.

Stolen vehicle recovery with arrest

On April 24, at approximately 1am, a Ventura Police patrol officer observed a possible stolen vehicle in the 1300 Block of Saratoga Ave. A records check confirmed that the vehicle was stolen from Thousand Oaks. The patrol officer conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and safely detained the driver, 28 year old Oxnard resident Paul Coronado with the assistance of additional officers.

Coronado was found to be in possession of burglary tools and was driving on a suspended license as a result of DUI offenses. He was arrested for unlawful driving of a stolen vehicle, possession of burglar’s tools, and driving on a suspended license for DUI offenses.

Conspiracy, Prowling, Possession of a Switchblade, Possession of Burglary Tools Arrests

On April 24, at approximately 3:45am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of a subject casing residences in the 400 Block of Howard. Ventura PD patrol officers responded and detained a subject matching the description. The investigation showed he was prowling on multiple residences. This subject was found to be on probation with search terms and was carrying various burglary tools and a switchblade knife. This subject was identified as 22 year old Ojai resident Wyatt Revard.

Officers observed a subject in a nearby vehicle waiting in the area and contacted him. The subject in the vehicle, 36 year old Ojai resident Christopher Grant, was determined to be the getaway driver for Wyatt.

Wyatt was arrested for Conspiracy to Commit a Crime, Prowling, Possession of Burglary Tools, and Possession of a Switchblade Knife. Grant was arrested for Conspiracy to Commit a Crime.

Residential Burglary Arrest

On April 24, at approximately 2:30am, the Ventura Police Command Center received a call of an unknown subject inside the victim’s home. The caller indicated the subject was going toward the children’s room. The father of the children confronted the victim and a fight ensued. Multiple Ventura PD officers arrived and were able to safely detain the suspect, identified as 38 year old Arizona resident Roman Salas.

The investigation showed that Salas had forced his way into the home by kicking in a door at the back of the home. Salas was unknown to the residents and was arrested for Residential Burglary.

The residents and officers were unharmed. Salas was treated for minor injuries sustained from the altercation with the father of the children.

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.

DUI Drugs, Possession of Controlled Substances, Commercial Burglary, Grand Theft, Identity Theft

On April 14, at approximately 1am, the VPD Command Center received a call from a security guard in the Downtown area that a glass door to a shop in the 500 block of Main St had been shattered. Patrol officers arrived and discovered the store had been burglarized. CSI processed the scene, discovering around $3,000 worth of merchandise had been stolen.

At about 7am, the VPD Command Center received a call from a victim in the 6000 block of Promontory Lane, their unlocked vehicle had been entered, and about $2500 worth of property was taken from it.

At about 9:30am, Patrol officers were dispatched to the 1900 block of Tanager St reference a subject slumped over in a vehicle with the motor running. Officers searched the area and were able to locate the car parked in the 7/11 parking lot on Bristol St. Officers contacted 29 year old Ventura County resident Whitney Byrd, who appeared under the influence, and they began a DUI investigation. During the investigation, officers located a large amount of stolen property and contacted Street Crimes detectives.

Detectives were able to link Whitney to the earlier burglary and theft from an unlocked vehicle. Detectives also located evidence of Identity Theft. Whitney was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of a Drug, Possession of Controlled Substances (methamphetamine and fentanyl), Commercial Burglary, Grand Theft, and Identity Theft.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows Whitney has prior arrests for being Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Petty Theft, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, and Burglary.

Narcotics Arrest

On April 7, at 11:00 am, Ventura Police patrol officers contacted 39 year old Ventura resident Elizabeth Haberstich in the 100 block of Santa Clara St. During the detention, officers conducted a probation search. Officers located narcotics on Haberstich’s person, members of the SCU Narcotics unit responded and assisted with the investigation.

During the subsequent investigation, detectives recovered fentanyl, methamphetamines, cocaine, and evidence of narcotics sales on Haberstich’s person, vehicle, and hotel room. As a result of the investigation, Elizabeth Haberstich was arrested for possession for sale of controlled substances.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Elizabeth Haberstich has prior arrests for numerous narcotics violations, including several previous arrests for possession for sales of controlled substances.

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 March 21, at approximately 4:00 am, Ventura Police Patrol Officers responded to a call of an armed robbery that just occurred in the 900 block of E. Thompson Blvd. Investigating officers learned that the suspect, 39 year old Ventura resident Leland Tanner, approached the victims as they sat in a vehicle, brandished a handgun, and demanded cash. After giving Tanner an undisclosed amount of cash, the victims fled the area and contacted police.

As patrol officers arrived, an officer saw Tanner entering a taxi. The Officer ordered Tanner out of the vehicle, and upon exiting, Tanner fled. Officers set up a perimeter, and with the assistance from Ventura PD K-9’s and a Ventura County Sheriff’s K-9, Officers searched for the suspect. Tanner was located in the rear yard of a residence in the 900 block of E. Thompson Blvd. Tanner was taken into custody without incident. Tanner was arrested for Robbery and Resisting Arrest.

A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows that Tanner has prior arrests for identity theft, vehicle burglary, receiving stolen property, and resisting arrest.

Narcotics Arrest

On March 26, at 10:00 am, 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 38 year old Ventura resident Celia Ramirez.

During the execution of the search warrant and the subsequent investigation, detectives recovered fentanyl, methamphetamines, and evidence of narcotics sales in Ramirez’s motel room. As a result of the investigation, Celia Ramirez was arrested for possession for sale of controlled substances.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court shows that Celia Ramirez has no prior arrest.

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 Arrest

On March 9, at approximately 7:00 pm, a Ventura Police patrol officer saw a reported stolen vehicle driving in the area of Mills Rd and Main St. The officer initiated an enforcement stop on the vehicle and the driver, 23 year old Ventura resident Audrey Githens, was arrested for grand theft of a vehicle, as well as an outstanding warrant.

A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows that Githens has prior arrests for disturbing the peace, being under the inf luence of a controlled substance, prowling, and battery.

Narcotics Arrest

On March 5, at approximately 5:00 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 David Moreno. During the execution of the search warrant and the subsequent investigation, detectives recovered narcotics, evidence of narcotics sales, and a loaded firearm inside Moreno’s residence.

As a result of the investigation, David Moreno was arrested for a felon in possession of a firearm, ammunition, and possession of methamphetamines, Nathan Scheibelhut was arrested for transportation and possession of methamphetamines for sales.

A search of the Ventura County Superior Court’s shows that David Moreno has prior arrests for robbery, narcotics sales, and street terrorism. Nathan Scheibelhut was prior arrests for vehicle theft, possession of narcotics for sales, and under the influence of a controlled substance.

Vehicle Pursuit / DUI Arrest

On March 14, at approximately 8:15 pm, the Ventura Police Communications Center received a citizens report of a possible DUI driver in the area of Harbor Blvd and Seaward Ave. The reporting party said the driver of the vehicle was veering out of his lane and almost struck several other vehicles on the roadway as he crossed the double yellow lines into oncoming traffic.

Ventura Police Patrol Officers located the vehicle driving in the area of Main St. and Donlon St. and attempted a traffic stop. The vehicle failed to yield and continued to drive onto the 101 freeway Southbound from Main St. Officers pursued the vehicle at speeds up to 60 mph until it exited the freeway at Victoria Ave. The vehicle stopped in the area of Sperry Ave. South of Valentine Rd., where the driver was taken into custody without further incident.

During a subsequent investigation, it was determined that the driver of the vehicle, 32 year old Oxnard resident Saul Avalos, was driving under the influence of alcohol. Avalos was arrested for Misdemeanor evading, driving under the influence and driving under the influence with a BAC of .08% or more.