 On Tuesday, June 24th, at 8:16am Fillmore Police and Fire, along with VC Fire Department responded to a reported house fire on Mountain View Street. Upon arrival, authorities found the house fully engulfed in flames and Fillmore resident Brandy Hollis in the backyard. With help from surrounding area police arrested the suspect and escorted her off the property. Crews responded quickly and were about to extinguish the fire, causing major damage to the residence and also damages to neighboring residences. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 27th, 2025
On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at about 8:16 A.M., deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to the 600 block of Mountain View Street in Fillmore reference a house fire. Upon arrival, deputies located a house fully engulfed in flames and an adult female, identified as 45-year-old Fillmore resident (S) Brandy Hollis, in the back yard of the property. With the assistance of diligent members of the community, Hollis was escorted off the property by deputies to a safe area where she was evaluated by paramedics. The house fire not only resulted in major damage to the primary residence but also damage to neighboring residences. Thanks to the quick response and firefighting efforts by fire personnel, the neighboring residences were saved from more extensive fire damage. Detectives with the Fillmore Bureau of Investigation arrived shortly thereafter and worked collaboratively with investigators with the Sheriff’s Major Crimes Bureau, Fillmore Fire Department, and the Ventura County Fire Department. As a result of the investigation, detectives obtained evidence linking Hollis to the fire and the fire appeared to be intentional. Hollis was arrested for a violation of Penal Code § 451(b) – [Arson of Inhabited Structure]. She was medically cleared and transported to the Sheriff’s Pre-Trial Detention Facility where she was booked pending court proceedings. Any person with information regarding the arson is encouraged to reach out to detectives and utilize the link or QR code provided below to download and submit any video footage of the incident. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories. Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote *** |
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 27th, 2025
 On Wednesday, June 11th, 2025, Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle, Trustees Scott Beylik, Lucy Rangel, Olivia Palacio, Tricia Gradias, and Sean Morris, along with new Fillmore High School Principal Cinda Francis welcomed the start of construction of the new FHS Athletic Complex with a golden shovel groundbreaking ceremony. Enlarge Photo |
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By Ventura County Sheriff Department — Friday, June 27th, 2025
On 04/15/2025, at about 2:22 P.M., deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to the 400 block of Mountain View Street in Fillmore reference several individuals fighting. Upon arrival, deputies located an adult male suffering from a stab wound. The victim was transported via ambulance to a local hospital for medical care. Additionally, a second victim suffering from a stab wound arrived at the Fillmore Police Station seeking emergency medical assistance. That person was also transported via ambulance to a local hospital for medical care. Over the next one and a half months, detectives with the Fillmore Bureau of Investigation continued to actively work the investigation calling upon public assistance and assistance from other units within the Sheriff’s Office. During this time, detectives identified (S) Nathan Alverdi as a suspect who confronted, dissuaded, and battered a diligent member of the community while they attempted to gather information and pursue official recourse during the incident. On 06/18/2025, detectives from the Fillmore Bureau of Investigation and West County Special Enforcement Unit contacted 22-year-old Nathan Alverdi during a warrant service in the 200 block of Mutau Circle in Fillmore. During the warrant service, additional evidence linking Alverdi to a criminal street gang and the stabbing incident was located. As a result, Alverdi was arrested for Penal Code § 136.1 – [Dissuading a Witness by Force or Threat], Penal Code § 186.22(b)(1) – [For the Benefit of the Gang], Penal Code § 242 – [Battery], and Penal Code § 186.22(d) – [Participation in a Criminal Street Gang] for his involvement with the incident. He was transported to the Main Jail where he was booked pending court proceedings. Any person with information regarding the stabbing is encouraged to reach out to detectives and utilize the link or QR code provided below to download and submit any video footage of the incident. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories. Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote *** Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477). |
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 27th, 2025
The Fillmore Police Department invites all members of the public to join us in a community centered event and enjoy a cup of iced coffee or iced tea with local members of public safety. This event is geared towards meeting your local police, probation, and fire department members with an emphasis on fireworks safety, with the Fourth of July around the corner. Special appearances by Fillmore City Fire Department, Ventura County Fire Department, Ventura County Probation, Sheriff’s Bomb Squad, Sheriff’s K9, Sheriff’s S.W.A.T members, and local supporters Starbucks Coffee and Roan Mills Bakery. Join us, enjoy a treat and get your public safety questions answered. We encourage you to enjoy the Fourth of July holiday responsibly and with consideration for the safety of all members of the public and their respective property. With the anticipated increase of the city’s population during the festivities, in addition to the inherent dangers associated with illegal fireworks, the Fillmore Police Department will have extra patrol deputies on patrol throughout the city of the Fillmore over the holiday weekend. The Fillmore Police Department wants to remind the citizens of the following information pertaining to illegal fireworks and the fines associated with these crimes: Violators may be cited for violating city municipal codes and are subject to a $1000.00 fine, for possessing illegal fireworks or may be arrested for more serious offenses. If you witness any illegal firework activity, please call the Sheriff’s Communication Center at (805) 654-9511 or, if there’s an immediate threat to life or property, 9-1-1. Click on the QR code below to learn more about fireworks safety. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on twitter @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories. Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote *** |
 Get ready! Fillmore 4th of July is near. Fireworks booths are up around town, with sales starting on Saturday, June 28th, 2025, noon to July 5th. Local non-profit organizations will begin Safe & Sane Fireworks sales, a long-time tradition. Above is Saint Francis of Assisi’s Church booth from past years. Photo credit Gazette staff. Enlarge Photo By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 27th, 2025
Courtesy https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=226 Safe & Sane Fireworks sales officially begin in Fillmore on June 28th! Celebrate responsibly while supporting a great cause! Every firework purchased at an officially permitted booth helps fund local nonprofit organizations, with all proceeds going directly back into our community. Let’s work together to make this 4th of July safe, fun, and meaningful for everyone in Fillmore! Click here: https://www.fillmoreca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1059/Fireworks-Edu-Info--... Keep it Legal • Safe and Sane fireworks are legal within the city limits of Fillmore beginning June 28th,12:00 P.M.- July_5th, 12:00 P.M. Discharging Safe & Sane fireworks in Fillmore outside the permitted dates and times specified is illegal. • Fireworks not displaying the State Fire Marshall’s safe & sane logo are illegal year-round in all California cities. • A citation will be issued to those found engaged in the sales/ discharge/possession of non-approved fireworks. The fine for this is $1,100 and may result in jail time. • To report illegal activity please call the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office at 805-524- 2233. • Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks. • Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully. • Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap. • Do not ignite fireworks if you are consuming alcohol. • Nearly half of all firework’s related injuries are from sparklers. • 51% of fireworks related injuries involve individuals 18 years of age or younger • Do not discharge fireworks near dry weeds, brush or other fire prone areas. Negligent discharge of fireworks can result in fines or jail time. • Fireworks purchased in the City of Fillmore are only legal here. Fireworks are illegal in all other Ventura County Cities. • Visitors to the City of Fillmore are encouraged to visit a public park to discharge their fireworks. |
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 27th, 2025
 Fillmore Unified School District has selected Cinda Francis as new principal and Erin Sebek as assistant principal of Fillmore High School for the 2025-2026 upcoming school year. Full bios in article. Enlarge Photo Fillmore Unified has announced new Principals and assistant principals for multiple school throughout the district, read full bios below and stay tuned next week for two more new additions to Fillmore Unified: Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2... Cinda Francis Selected New Principal, Fillmore High School Degrees and Certifications/Credentials: “I am honored to serve as the new Principal of Fillmore High School, beginning next school year. My journey in education spans nearly three decades, all dedicated to serving the students and families of the Fillmore Unified School District since 1998. My administrative career began in August 2019 when I transitioned to serve as Assistant Principal at Fillmore Middle School. In August 2021, I moved to Fillmore High School as Assistant Principal, and since 2022, I have specialized as the Assistant Principal over Curriculum and Instruction, focusing on academic excellence and instructional innovation. My foundation in education was built in the classroom as a Social Studies teacher, where I developed a deep understanding of student learning and engagement. I proudly served as the Social Studies Department Chair. Throughout my career, I have been committed to supporting diverse learners and developing fellow educators. I served as the AVID Coordinator, helping students develop college and career readiness skills. As the English Learner Site Lead, I championed programs to support our multilingual learners. My passion for educator development led me to serve as a New Teacher Mentor and as a PAR (Peer Assisted Review) Support Provider, working with teachers across K-12 to enhance instructional practices. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies from Westmont College, where I developed my foundational knowledge in history, government, and social sciences. Recognizing the importance of educational leadership, I pursued and completed my Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Claremont Graduate University, preparing me for the administrative roles I have embraced. *** Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2... Erin Sebek Selected Assistant Principal, Fillmore High School Degrees and Certifications/Credentials: Bachelor’s Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Political Science – International Relations from the University of California, San Diego Master’s Degree: Master of Arts in Education from Pepperdine University Ms. Sebek brings over two decades of exceptional educational leadership to this role, having served the Fillmore Unified School District since 2006. As Fillmore High School Department Chair for Social Studies, she has led a dynamic team of five educators while implementing professional learning communities and innovative curriculum strategies that have elevated student achievement across the department. A respected educational leader, Ms. Sebek currently serves on Fillmore High School’s Guiding Coalition, where she works on implementing comprehensive Multi-Tier Systems of Support in partnership with Solution Tree. Her commitment to educational excellence earned her recognition as Fillmore High School’s Teacher of the Month in May 2023. Ms. Sebek’s passion for curriculum development shines through her work designing and implementing instruction for AP Psychology, World History, and AP European History. Her dedication to student success is further demonstrated by her role as AVID Site Coordinator from 2006-2016, which significantly increased Fillmore High School’s acceptance rates to four-year colleges. Her global perspective was enhanced when she was selected by the Transatlantic Outreach Program to represent California in Germany, bringing international educational insights back to our community. Currently pursuing her Doctorate in K-12 Educational Leadership at California Lutheran University, Ms. Sebek holds a Master’s in Education from Pepperdine University and a Bachelor’s in Political Science with an emphasis in International Relations from UC San Diego. She has recently completed her Administrative Services Credential and holds certification as a Trauma Informed Specialist. energetic puppy, Reggie. “I look forward to building strong relationships with our students, families, and staff. I’m truly proud to be part of the Fillmore Unified family and can’t wait for the great work we’ll do together.” |
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By Ventura County Sheriff Department — Friday, June 20th, 2025
 Above is evidence collected by the Ventura County Sheriff’s during their search warrant. Photo credit Ventura County Sheriff’s Office. Enlarge Photo During the first week of June 2025, detectives assigned to the Camarillo Special Enforcement Unit (SEU) began an investigation into a possible illicit firearms dealer operating out of the City of Fillmore. SEU Detectives identified the illicit firearms dealer as, City of Fillmore resident, (S) Timothy Padilla. During the investigation, SEU Detectives developed probable cause to arrest Padilla for a violation of California Penal Code Section 27545 – [ Unlawful Transfer of a Firearm]. During the second week of June 2025, SEU Detectives obtained a Ventura County search warrant signed by a Magistrate of the Ventura County Superior Court. The search warrant ordered detectives to search Padilla’s person, residence, vehicles, and property. On 06/13/2025, at approximately 0700 hours, detectives assigned to various units and bureaus within the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office served the signed Ventura County search warrant at Padilla’s residence located in the 800 Block of Santa Clara Avenue, Fillmore. Padilla was contacted and swiftly taken into custody for the aforementioned violation. Detectives began a search of Padilla’s residence. During the search detectives located firearms and ammunition strewn throughout the residence. Detectives ultimately located a total of 137 firearms, hundreds of firearm magazines, and approximately 100,000 rounds of various caliber ammunition. A lengthy examination of the evidence ensued and detectives began categorizing the firearms. During the categorization process detectives identified multiple assault style firearms to include, a Fabrique Nationale Herstal 7.62 x 51mm NATO Assault Rifle, a Mac-10 style pistol with a vertical foregrip, and a Beretta 9mm Pistol with a threaded barrel capable of accepting a suppressor. Additionally, detectives located an M1919 Browing belt fed Machine Gun chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO. Detectives also located linked .50 BMG (Browning Machine Gun) rounds. Through the investigation it was learned Padilla had been unlawfully transferring and selling assault weapons and other firearms to the residents of the County of Ventura. Padilla was ultimately arrested for California Penal Code Section 30605(a) – [ Possession of an Assault Weapon] and California Penal Code Section 27545. Padilla was ultimately booked into the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility. Based on the investigation and evidence located as a result of the search, detectives believed more likely than not any monetary funds possessed by Padilla would have been the proceeds of illicit firearm sales. On 06/17/2025, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office elected to file the following charges against Padilla: 10 counts of California Penal Code Section 27545, five counts of California Penal Code Section 30600(a) – [ Felony Transportation of Assault Weapons], and two counts of California Penal Code Section 30605(a). The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on Twitter @VENTURASHERIFF, Facebook, Instagram @ VCSHERIFF, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories. Prepared by: Senior Deputy Frank W. Corona *** |
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 20th, 2025
 At last Tuesday’s Fillmore City Council meeting the City of Fillmore recognized the Fillmore High School Boys Baseball team (left) for their CIF Championship, and the Fillmore Middle School Girls Soccer team (right) for earning Middle School League Champions. Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle, said, “Congratulations students and coaches for all of your athletic accomplishments!” Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/6/11/city-of-fillmore-recognize-student-athletes-and-coaches. Enlarge Photo |
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 20th, 2025
 On Saturday, June 14th, at 12:43 p.m., the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, Fillmore City Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a vehicle versus motorcycle crash at Ventura Street and Olive. Arriving firefighters found a black Ford Explorer and a motorcycle with two riders. One patient was located underneath the passenger side of the vehicle, while the second patient was treated by firefighters. A second ambulance was also requested. Both riders were taken to a local hospital, Condition Unknown. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
 Fillmore Fire Department was one of several agencies that took part in a controlled burn on Thursday, June 12th. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. See more photos online. VCFD & LAFD crews in training. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 20th, 2025
VCFD along with firefighters from Ventura City Fire, Oxnard Fire, LAFD, and Fillmore Fire conducted a controlled burn in Fillmore on Thursday, June 12th, 2025. The controlled burn operation was part of the S219 Firing Operations class led by instructors from VCFD. This training provides firefighters with hands-on experience using strategic burn operations as part of their firefighting tactics. The burn also provided hands-on training for newly hired VCFD hand crew members in an active but controlled fire environment. Controlled burns like this also allow firefighters to remove fuels when conditions are favorable, and are an important part of wildfire preparedness. |
