Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

The Thousand Oaks Police Department will be joining law enforcement agencies throughout California stepping up DUI enforcement at the end of the summer season. During the crackdown period, there will be an increase in law enforcement presence on the roads, including additional officers and DUI checkpoints throughout the state, and those caught driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs will be arrested.

The Thousand Oaks Police Department will be joining the CHP, Avoid DUI Task Forces and police departments across the state. Specially trained officers will be on hand to detect drivers under the influence of alcohol as well as legal or illegal drugs. The Thousand Oaks Traffic Bureau will be conducting a DUI/Drivers License Checkpoint on August 24th, 2013, at an undisclosed location within the City limits between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m.

“The end of summer and Labor Day weekend is traditionally a time to have fun”, said Assistant Police Chief James Fryhoff. “Don’t let it turn into a time of tragedy or jail visit by driving impaired by alcohol or drugs. We will be out looking for those making that unwise and dangerous choice.”

In 2011, 774 California drivers with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes. During the Labor Day weekend in 2011, a total of 138 people across the country were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes involving drivers or motorcycle riders with a .08 BAC or higher. Of those fatalities, 83 percent occurred during early evening and overnight. The California Office of Traffic Safety is reminding Californians to plan ahead by designating a sober driver.

Funding for this checkpoint is provided to The Thousand Oaks Police Department by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reminding everyone to continue to work together to bring an end to these tragedies. If you see a Drunk Driver – Call 9-1-1.

Nature of Incident: Summer DUI Enforcement Mobilization
Report Number:
Location: Thousand Oaks
Date & Time: August 16th 2013 until September 3rd 2013
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police Department Traffic Bureau
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sergeant R. Harwood
Media Release Date: August 15, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Sergeant R. Harwood 805 494-8271
Approved by: Capt. Rob Davidson

 


 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On August 13, 2013, four juveniles drove a stolen Range Rover from Oxnard CA to the City of Thousand Oaks. The suspects then robbed two teenage brothers in the 1700 block of Thousand Oaks Boulevard. The juvenile suspects were arrested after a short vehicle pursuit that ended in the area of Hillcrest Drive and Marin Drive when the driver rolled the stolen car onto its side.

Sheriff’s Dispatch received a call for help from the victims on Tuesday night at approximately 11:45 PM. The victim’s reported that the suspects surrounded them on the street and demanded they empty their pockets. No weapons were displayed or used. The victims complied and gave the suspects their personal property.

The suspects fled westbound on Thousand Oaks Boulevard in the stolen Range Rover. The vehicle was later discovered to have been stolen on August 12, 2013 from Oxnard CA. Patrol officers responding to the call spotted the vehicle and attempted to stop it. The suspects refused to pull over, and a brief vehicle pursuit took place, which ended in a traffic collision in the area of Hillcrest Drive and Marin Drive.

Four juvenile suspects were arrested and evidence related to the crime was recovered. The juveniles are all being lodged in Juvenile Hall pending the review of this case by the District Attorney’s Office.

Nature of Incident: Robbery Arrests
Report Number: RB# 13-18044
Location: 1700 Block Thousand Oaks Boulevard
Date & Time: 08/13/2013 @ 11:48 PM
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police Department, Thousand Oaks Special Enforcement Unit, East County Major Crimes
Prepared by: Sergeant Alan Hartkop
Media Release Date: August 14, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Detective Mike Ferguson (805)494-8222
Approved by: Captain Mike Hartmann

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).

 


 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On 8/13/13, Jose Eduardo Martinez Jr., was arrested in Los Angeles by Thousand Oaks Detectives for Grand Theft / Real Estate Fraud.

On 5/7/13, the victim reported to the Thousand Oaks Police Department that after canceling a sale on a residence, their $10,000.00 deposit had not been refunded by the escrow company. After an investigation by Detectives with the Thousand Oaks Forgery/ Fraud Unit, it was determined that a former employee of the real estate company, Jose Eduardo Martinez Jr., had wired the deposit intended for the victim into his personal bank account.

Jose Eduardo Martinez was booked into the Ventura County Jail in lieu of $10,000 bail pending his arraignment in Superior Court.

Nature of Incident: Grand Theft Arrest – Real Estate Fraud
Report Number: RB # 13-10086
Location: 2235 Hyperion Ave. Los Angeles, CA
Date & Time: 8/13/13 / 0920 hours
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Forgery and Fraud Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(S)Jose Eduardo Martinez Jr. Pasadena 38
Prepared by: Senior Deputy Britt #3572
Media Release Date: 8/13/13
Follow-Up Contact: Senior Deputy Britt – 805-494-8232
Approved by: Captain Mike Hartmann

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).

 
Santa Paula Police Department
Santa Paula Police Department

On 8/12/13 at approximately 1225 hours, SPPD Officers responded to the 300 block of E. Ventura Street for a report of a robbery, which had just occurred. When Officers arrived they were able to ascertain a suspect and vehicle description. Another SPPD Officer checking the area of Ojai Road and Orchard Street located the suspect vehicle, occupied by three Hispanic males. The driver and rear passenger were found to be the suspects in the robbery.

Christian Hurtado, the driver was identified as the primary suspect in the robbery and was later booked into Ventura County Main Jail on suspicion of 211 PC; Robbery and 422 PC; Criminal Threats. The rear passenger, a 15 year old juvenile was booked and released to the custody of his mother on suspicion of 32 PC; Accessory After the Fact. Both subjects arrested are members of a Santa Paula tagging crew, Hurtado is currently on active Ventura County Probation. All items taken during the robbery were recovered by officers when Hurtado and the juvenile were taken into custody.

Nature of Incident: Strong Arm Robbery Report number: SG1301503 Location: 300 block E. Ventura Street Date & Time: 8/12/13 1225 hours Unit Responsible: Patrol Bureau
Suspect(s): Christopher Hurtado and a 15 year old minor Victim(s): Martin Lopez
Press Release prepared by: Senior Officer Larry Johnson #1033 Date and Time release prepared: 05/12/13 1620 hours Approved By: Lt. Ismael Cordero #1038

 
Santa Paula Police Department
Santa Paula Police Department

On 08/09/13 at approximately 1719 hours, officers with the Santa Paula Police Department’s Gang Unit contacted Alex Castro who is currently on active PROS and Christopher Sigala, who is currently on active probation. A third subject, identified as Manuel Zepeda, was contacted and found to be a parolee on active CDC parole. Anaya, who attempted to leave the area as officer’s approached, was observed concealing an unknown object near shrubbery bordering the east side of the park. Officer’s searched this area and located a loaded, 9mm semi-automatic handgun. A vehicle associated with Sigala was searched, pursuant to the terms and conditions of his probation. During the search of the vehicle, 21.3 grams of suspected methamphetamine was located. Sigala was arrested for narcotic related charges; Anaya was arrested for weapons related charges and both Castro and Zepeda were arrested for violating the terms and conditions of probation by associating with known gang members. All four subjects are documented gang members.

Nature of Incident:
Gang Related Weapons / Narcotics Arrest
Report Number(s):
SG1301485
Location(s):
400 Blk N. 13th St., Santa Paula – Las Piedras Park
Dates & Times:
08/09/13 at 1719 hours
Unit Responsible:
Gang Unit, Santa Paula Police Department
Officer Preparing Media Release:
Detective Allen Macias #1020
Media Release Date:
August 10, 2013
Follow-Up Contact:
Detective Hector Ramirez, (805) 525-4474 x174

 
Santa Paula Police Department
Santa Paula Police Department

On Monday, August 5, 2013 at approximately 2031 hrs, the Santa Paula Police Department received a call of a stabbing victim in the 200 block of S. 7th Street. Upon arrival offficers located the victim who had several lacerations to his face as well as a stun gun wound. The victim related he was walking along the main bikepath just west of the 100 block of N. 7th Street when two suspects approached him from behind. Both suspects asked if he was a gang member which the victim said he was not. The suspects then demanded the victim's belongings. The victim refused and attempted to walk away. When he did so one of the suspects produced a stun gun and stunned/shocked the victim. The second suspect then produced a knife and slashed the victim several times in the face. The suspects took the victim's property, yelled a gang slogan, and then fled the area. The victim was treated on scene by emergency medical personnel then transported to the Santa Paula Hospital for non-life threatening wounds.

At this time the incident has been turned over to the Investigation Bureau for further investigation. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Ken Clark at (805) 525-4474 X 277.

Nature of Incident: Robbery / Assault with a Deadly Weapon (Knife)
Report number: SG1301456
Location: Bikepath just west of 100 block of N. 7th St.
Date & Time: Monday, August 5, 2013 at 2025 hrs.
Unit Responsible:

Suspect(s): Suspect # 1 - Hispanic male, 5-11, 19-20 years old, 150-160 lbs., black hoodie with white lettering on front, black pants, riding a beach cruiser bicycle. Suspect # 2 - Hispanic male, 5-5 - 5-6, 120 lbs, black hat, grey shirt, grey shorts
Victim(s): 16 year old male
Press Release prepared by: Sergeant Cody Madison #1018
Date and Time release prepared: August 6, 2013 at 0230 hrs.
Follow-up contact/investigator: Detective Ken Clark

 
Santa Paula Police Department
Santa Paula Police Department

On August 3, 2013 at approximately 2001 hrs, Santa Paula Police Department received a call of a gunshot victim in the 100 blk. of Sonoma Ln. Officers arrived on scene and contacted 40 year old Samuel Medina who told Officers he had "shot someone". Medina was taken into custody pending further investigation. 21 year old Antonio Purcallo was located on the south side of the residence with a single gunshot wound to the abdomin. Purcallo was treated on scene by emergency medical personnel then transported to the Ventura County Medical Center.
Medina was arrested for a violation of 245(a)(2) PC; Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and later transported to the Ventura County Jail. At this time the incident has been turned over to the Investigation Bureau for further investigation. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Wally Boggess at (805) 525-4474 X-220

Nature of Incident: Assault with a Deadly Weapon (Firearm)
Report number: SG1301445
Location: 100 block of Sonoma Lane
Date & Time: Saturday, August 03, 2013 at 2001 hrs.
Unit Responsible:
Suspect(s): Samuel Medina, 40 years, Santa Paula
Victim(s): Antonio Purcallo, 21 years, Santa Paula
Press Release prepared by: Sergeant Jeremy Watson #1025
Date and Time release prepared: August 3, 2013 at 2200 hrs.
Follow-up contact/investigator: Detective Sergeant Wally Boggess

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

Sheriff’s Technical Communications Specialist (STCS) II Julie Reupert will be honored for her 23 years of dedicated service to the people of Ventura County on August 3, 2013. Having started her career with Glendale Police Department as a community service officer, Julie joined the Sheriff’s Office in 1989 as a public safety dispatcher.

Over the years, Julie has worked for four sheriffs and has witnessed many changes in public safety communications. Whether it has been technology, personnel, or facilities, Julie has adapted nicely to the changes along the way. She has also handled more than her share of unusual critical incidents, always in her quiet and professional manner.

Julie is leaving the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office to continue her career with the Vacaville Police Department.

Nature of Incident: Sheriff’s Dispatcher Julie Reupert to be Honored
Report Number: N/A
Location: 800 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura
Date & Time: August 3, 2013
Unit(s) Responsible: Sheriff’s Communications Center
Prepared by: Erin Brockus, Assistant Communications Manager
Media Release Date: August 1, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Erin Brockus, Assistant Communications Manager
(805) 654-5158
Erin.Brockus@ventura.org
Approved by: Danita L. Crombach, Communications Manager

 

VENTURA, CA - Federal and local authorities this morning arrested eight individuals linked to a mortgage fraud scheme that filed loan applications on behalf of lower-income, primarily Spanish-speaking individuals, generating substantial loan fees and commissions and causing lending institutions to suffer millions of dollars in losses when homes went into foreclosure.

This morning’s arrests are the result of a grand jury indictment that charges the eight defendants in a conspiracy to commit bank fraud and wire fraud. The investigation, which was started by the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office, determined that members of the scheme generated dozens of mortgage loans for unqualified borrowers. The indictment specifically outlines a series of allegedly fraudulent loans worth more than $11 million.

The federal investigation that resulted in the indictment unsealed this morning was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Federal Housing Finance Agency, Office of Inspector General; the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of the Inspector General; and the United States Secret Service.

The indictment details a scheme led by Camarillo resident Jose Garcia and run out of an Oxnard-based company called New Concepts Home Loans (NCHL), where members of the alleged conspiracy prepared mortgage applications that contained false information about borrowers’ income, employment and assets. As part of the scheme, according to the indictment, Jose Garcia’s wife and others obtained bogus “CPA letters” from tax preparers that falsely stated the mortgage applicants were engaged in a particular business.

The defendants in these cases generated huge commissions and fees through the mortgage application process – typically at least $10,000 per mortgage.

The victim lenders CONTINUED »

 

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - Attorney General Kamala D. Harris announced a 42-year prison sentence for a Northern California man who ran a Ponzi scheme that defrauded more than 400 investors, most of them elderly, out of more than $90 million.

James Koenig, 60, of Redding, owned Assent Real Estate Corporation (AREI) from 1999 to 2008. The company specialized in the acquisition, management and resale of commercial property and elder care facilities. Most victims of his Ponzi scheme were elderly individuals from the Bay Area.

In May, Koenig was found guilty of 35 felony counts, including conspiracy, use of a scheme to defraud in connection with sales of securities, sales of securities by means of false statements, and residential burglary relating to the sales of fraudulent investments. The jury also found special enhancements for “great takings” because of the large amount of loss involved.

“This individual ran a ruthless Ponzi scheme that robbed investors, including vulnerable elderly people, of their life savings,” said Attorney General Harris. “The 42-year prison sentence represents justice given the severity of this crime and the deep impact on victims. I commend the work of the Department of Justice attorneys and support staff who worked on this complex case.”

Koenig did not inform CONTINUED »

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On 07/24/2013 at about 1235 hours, Amtrak Passenger Train #14 en-route from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo was traveling westbound through Moorpark at about 70 MPH. The train struck a male juvenile pedestrian who was walking westbound on the railroad tracks approximately two thousand feet east of Spring Rd. The train came to an emergency stop just east of Spring Rd.

Moorpark Police, Ventura County Fire, and AMR personnel responded to the scene. The juvenile was treated at the scene by Paramedics and transported by Ambulance to Los Robles Hospital, Thousand Oaks. The juvenile’s mother was notified and she responded to the Hospital. No passengers or crewmembers were injured on the train from this incident and/or from the emergency braking. The train and all passengers and personnel on-board were allowed to continue on to San Luis Obispo after the investigation was concluded at the scene.

The train consisted of two (2) lead engines, one (1) baggage car, and twelve (12) passenger cars. Two hundred and ninety two (292) passengers and a crew of twenty (20) were on board the train. The railroad tracks were shut down in both directions for about one and one half hours during this investigation. Representatives from the City of Moorpark, Metrolink, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (who provides Metrolink security) were also on scene providing assistance.

This incident is being investigated by the Moorpark Police Department. The Moorpark Police Department would like to remind the public how active the rail line is through the City of Moorpark. It is extremely dangerous to walk on or near any railroad tracks. The Moorpark Police Department would also like to advise the public that it is a crime to trespass on railroad property by walking on the tracks or any railroad right-of-way. The Moorpark Police Department does enforce railroad trespassing violations.

Nature of Incident: Pedestrian Struck by Train
Report Number: 13-16300
Location: Union Pacific Railroad Tracks east of Spring Rd. Moorpark, Ca. 93021.
Date & Time: 07/24/2013 @ 12:35 PM
Unit(s) Responsible: Moorpark Police Traffic Bureau
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(V)Male Moorpark 15
Prepared by: Senior Deputy Nolan Stoyko #2979
Media Release Date: 7/24/2013
Follow-Up Contact: Senior Deputy Nolan Stoyko 805-947-8217. nolan.stoyko@ventura.org
Approved by: Stephen Wade, Captain #1269

 

SACRAMENTO, CA - Attorney General Kamala D. Harris today announced the arrest of three individuals who allegedly engaged in fraud against the State of California by taking bribes, misappropriating taxpayer money and forging documents.

The complaint alleges that Michael Mathison, owner of Veteran Toners Services, supplied inflated quotes to the Department of Fish and Wildlife and the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) for office supplies. Mathison then produced counterfeit quotes from non-existent competitors with even higher prices. As a result, Veteran Toners Services was awarded the office supplies business at the original inflated price and two department employees – in return for giving Veteran’s the contract – received kickbacks in the form of money orders, gift cards and vacations.

“These workers conspired to defraud taxpayers for personal gain,” said Attorney General Harris. “We take government fraud very seriously. I thank our state partners for working closely with Department of Justice agents on this case.”

Stephanie Clark, 42, of Fair Oaks, Danny Gray Compson, 62, of Yuba City and Mike Mathison, 50 of San Pedro, were arrested today and face charges of bribery, conspiracy and misappropriation of state funds. Clark and Compson also face charges of embezzlement by a public officer.

Clark and Compson were booked into the Sacramento and Sutter county jails, respectively, on $75,000 bail each, while Mathison was booked into the Los Angeles County Jail on $250,000 bail.

The arrests came after a year-long investigation by the California Attorney General Office’s Bureau of Investigation after the office received an anonymous tip. The arrests followed the service of six search warrants on Monday and Tuesday, including some at state office buildings. All agencies involved cooperated with the investigation once they were made aware of it.

Clark, who works for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, took more than 50 bribes for a total of $23,800 over the course of five years, the complaint alleges. Agents discovered more than 50 postal money orders deposited to Clark’s bank account. The agents also uncovered more than 200 separate purchase orders for office supplies and a sampling of 13 of those showed approximately $50,000 in over-charges.

Compson, who works for the California Department of Transportation, also accepted bribes from Mathison. The complaint alleges he submitted invoices worth as much as $5,000 a week to be paid, but he never received the product.

The investigation into any further wrongdoing is ongoing.

The Attorney General works to protect the state against fraud and other financial misconduct through the enforcement of the California False Claims Act. Investigations and prosecutions brought pursuant to the Act have resulted in the recovery of hundreds of millions of dollars in wrongfully obtained public funds. The False Claims Unit of the Corporate Fraud Section investigates alleged violations of the Act based upon referrals from state, federal and local agencies, tips from members of the public and qui tam complaints, otherwise known as whistleblower complaints.

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

Ventura County communities have seen an increase in thefts of third row seats in full-size sport utility vehicles. The thieves are targeting Chevy and GMC vehicles, although other vehicles with third row seats may be targeted. The thefts have occurred at shopping centers in Thousand Oaks, Camarillo and Moorpark during the daytime or early evening hours.

Thieves are targeting the seats because they are a popular commodity on the resale market. The third row seats can be removed in just a few seconds and resale can yield a profit upwards of around $1,500 per seat. Thieves resale these seats using craigslist, eBay or local swap meets. The replacement cost of a third row seat is around $4,000.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would recommends the following safety measures to prevent you from becoming a victim:

• Secured the third row seat using a cable lock
• Engrave the vehicle identification number (VIN) on a location on the seat. (This will help with identification purposes or decrease their resale value)
• Remove your seat when not in use.
• Lock your vehicle and activate your vehicle alarm system.

In the wake of this recent increase, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind residents to be watchful of suspicious persons or vehicles. If you see any suspicious activity, contact the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office at (805) 654-9511 or
9-1-1 for an emergency.

Nature of Incident: Increased Thefts of Vehicle Third Row Seats
Location: County Wide
Date & Time: July 23, 2013 / 9:00 am
Unit(s) Responsible: Sheriff’s Administration
Prepared by: Senior Deputy Timothy Lohman
Media Release Date: July 23, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Captain Don Aguilar (805) 797-7349
don.aguilar@ventura.org
Approved by: Captain Don Aguilar

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).

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

A 3 month investigation into marijuana cultivation has led to the arrest of 3 suspects and the eradication of over 55,000 marijuana plants.

In May 2013, members of the Sheriff’s Aviation Unit and Sheriff’s Narcotics Detectives located multiple large-scale marijuana cultivation operations in the Los Padres National Forest, along the north slope of Pine Mountain, north of the city of Ojai. For many years, this area has produced several large illegal marijuana gardens.

During one late night surveillance, 2 suspects were observed walking from an identified marijuana garden. Suspect Jorge Pucnetapi was contacted by detectives and subsequently arrested for marijuana cultivation. The second suspect fled and has not yet been arrested. During this incident, a vehicle arrived in the area and the driver was contacted by investigators. The driver, Alfredo Sanchez, was found to be in possession of large stores of food and plant fertilizers. Detectives believe Sanchez was making a supply drop to those working in the marijuana garden and was arrested. Follow up investigation led detectives to a residence in Bakersfield where Jose Figueroa was contacted and arrested after being seen dropping off workers for the marijuana garden. A Search Warrant conducted at his residence revealed one pound of processed marijuana, a handgun, and equipment used in marijuana production.

Since May, over 55,000 marijuana plants from 7 illegal marijuana growing operations have been eradicated from the north slope of Pine Mountain. Estimated street value for the seized marijuana is $165,000,000.00. Eradication teams included the Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit, Sheriff’s Mountain Marijuana Eradication Team, Sheriff’s Aviation Unit, and the California Department of Justice - Campaign Against Marijuana Planting (CAMP), and the United States Forest Service.

The grow sites contained elaborate irrigation systems that carry water to the plants. Several large reservoirs were cut into the mountain sides and miles of irrigation hose crisscross the slope over hundreds of acres. Hundreds of pounds of fertilizers, pesticides, and animal repellants are used throughout the gardens, creating a dangerous environment for wildlife and any unfortunate hikers who happen to stumble into the growing areas.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to caution those who frequent backcountry locations to be aware that there is still illegal marijuana growing operations that have not yet been identified by law enforcement. Those involved in the illegal activity can be dangerous, as well as the chemicals they use in the marijuana growing process. If you see any suspicious activity, quietly leave the area and notify law enforcement immediately.

Nature of Incident: Marijuana Cultivation Eradications and Arrests
Report Number: 13-15416
Location: Pine Mountain
Date & Time: July 15, 2013
Unit(s) Responsible: Sheriff’s Narcotics bureau, Sheriff’s Aviation Unit, California Department of Justice – Campaign Against Marijuana Planting (CAMP)
Prepared by: Sergeant Mike Horne
Media Release Date: July 18, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Captain Don Aguilar
805-797-7349
Approved by: Captain Don Aguilar

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).

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On July 17, 2013, the Ventura County Interagency Pharmaceutical Crimes Unit completed a two week investigation into three Simi Valley residents selling Oxycodone. William Payne, Ivan Sauer, and Gary Thompson were arrested for conspiracy to sell Oxycodone after detectives obtained information the three were actively involved in selling the drug. Search warrants were served at Payne and Sauer’s residence in the 5300 block of Willow Oak Street in Simi Valley and Thompson’s residence in the 700 block of Chantry Circle in Simi Valley. Evidence related to the sales was recovered at the residences, as well as a shotgun, rifle, apparent steroids and human growth hormone.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s East County Narcotics team and Simi Valley Police Department’s Narcotics Unit also assisted in the investigation.

All three individuals were booked into the Ventura County Jail in lieu of $50,000 bail.

Nature of Incident: 3 Arrested for Oxycodone sales
Report Number: 13-15237
Location: Simi Valley, CA
Date & Time: July 17, 2013 at 6:30 p.m.
Unit(s) Responsible: Ventura County Interagency Pharmaceutical Crimes Unit
Prepared by: Sergeant Victor Fazio
Media Release Date: July 18, 2013
Approved by:
Follow-Up Contact: Captain Curt Rothschiller
Victor Fazio
victor.fazio@ventura.org

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On the evening of 6-23-13, Kenneth Baron was driving his gray Ford Crown Victoria on Smoketree Ave. in Oak Park when he stopped two juveniles who were walking in the area. Baron activated a flashing red and blue light on the dashboard of his car, and yelled at the juveniles to stop. He then directed the two juveniles to come over to his car, had them empty the contents of their pockets and searched them. Baron then allowed the juveniles to leave. At the time of this incident Baron was wearing clothing and gear similar to those worn by legitimate peace officers, and made statements that led the two juveniles to believe he was a law enforcement officer.

The incident was reported to the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, who began a criminal investigation. Investigators learned Baron had a history of similar incidents in both Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. On 7-18-13, Kenneth Baron was arrested for false imprisonment and impersonating a peace officer.

Based on the circumstances of this case, investigators have reason to believe Baron was involved in similar, unreported incidents. Anyone with information about this, or similar instances, is asked to contact Detective Roger Kelley at (805) 494-8216.

Nature of Incident: False Imprisonment and Impersonation of a Peace Officer
Report Number: 13-15118
Location: 100 Block of Smoketree Ave. Oak Park, CA
Date & Time: 6-23-13 / 11:15 PM
Unit(s) Responsible: East County Major Crimes / Thousand Oaks PD Special Enforcement Unit
Prepared by: Detective Roger Kelley
Media Release Date: 7-18-13
Follow-Up Contact: Det. Roger Kelley 805-494-8216
East County Investigations 805-494-8201
Approved by: Captain Mike Hartmann

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).

 
Police ask anyone with information to contact them
Santa Paula Police Department
Santa Paula Police Department

On Wednesday, July 18, 2013 at approximately 2311 hours, officers responded to the 600 block of Ojai Road for a gunshot victim. Upon arrival officers located a 33 year old female with a single gunshot wound. The female was transported to the Ventura County Medical Center however she sucummbed to her injury and passed away. As of this time there is no suspect information/description and detectives are investigating leads. Anyone who has information on this incident is urged to contact Detective Spencer at 525-4474x221

Nature of Incident: Homicide
Report number: SG1301338
Location: 600 Block of N. Ojai Rd.
Date & Time: Wednesday, July 17th at 11:11pm
Unit Responsible:
Suspect(s): 1
Victim(s): 1
Press Release prepared by: Sergeant Cody Madison # 1018
Date and Time release prepared: 07/18/13 at 0600 hours
Follow-up contact/investigator: Detective Paul Spencer
Approved By:

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

A Newbury Park woman was attacked in her residence Thursday afternoon after arriving home from work. Deputies were called to the 500 block of Canyon Vista Drive in Newbury Park after a woman called police and reported she was attacked and her car stolen. The suspect surprised the woman in the hallway of her home, grabbed her and demanded the keys to her car. After the woman gave the suspect the keys, he drove off in her vehicle.

The victim’s vehicle was located in a parking lot near the Los Robles Hospital. Donald Kelly was sitting in the driver’s seat of the vehicle. When patrol units attempted to “box” in the vehicle, Kelly sped off. A pursuit followed that traveled about eight miles along surface streets in the city of Thousand Oaks.

During the pursuit, Kelly traveled at speeds of up to 80 mph, drove on the wrong side of the road and collided with at least four vehicles. Two of the vehicles Kelly collided with were Sheriff’s patrol units.

The vehicle Kelly was driving came to a stop after he veered off the roadway and collided with a large rock. Kelly attempted to elude deputies on foot but was quickly apprehended.

The victim did not suffer serious injury. One deputy suffered a minor injury as did Kelly. The deputy and Kelly were treated at the Los Robles Hospital. The deputy was later released.

Kelly was booked at the Pre Trial Detention Facility in Ventura for residential burglary, home invasion robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer (2 counts), felony evading and hit and run (2 counts). Kelly’s bail is preliminarily set at $2,000,000 pending judicial review and approval.

Nature of Incident: Carjacking suspect arrested after high speed chase
Report Number: 13-15301
Location: 500 block of Canyon Vista / surface streets of Thousand Oaks
Date & Time: 7-11-13 @ 5:35 pm
Unit Responsible: East County Major Crimes Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(S) Donald Anthony Kelly Transient 31
Prepared by: Detective Todd Welty
Media Release Date: 7-12-13
Follow-Up Contact: Detective Todd Welty (805) 494-8224 / (805) 947-8288
Approved by: Captain Dave Wareham

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).

 
Santa Paula Police Department
Santa Paula Police Department

On Monday, July 8, 2013 at approximately 2109 hours, Officer Joash Rothermel observed a subject, Raul Moreno age 36 of Santa Paula, known to him to have a suspended license riding a motorcycle. Officer Rothermel attempted to stop the subject for the license violation however Moreno fled from him. After a short pursuit Moreno drove down the driveway of a residence and attempted to flee on foot. Moreno was taken into custody and was found to be in possession of a loaded handgun. In addition the handgun had a modified ammunition magazine as well as a homemade silencer. Moreno was charged with possession of a loaded concealed firearm, possession of a modified ammunition magazine, possession of a silencer, and reckless driving. Moreno was transported to Ventura County Jail with a bail amount of $50,000.

Nature of Incident: Subject in Possession of a handgun and silencer
Report number: SG1301273
Location: 900 Block of E. Pleasant St.
Date & Time: Monday, July 8, 2013 at approximately 2109 hours
Unit Responsible:
Suspect(s): 1
Victim(s):
Press Release prepared by: Sergeant Cody Madison
Date and Time release prepared: 07/09/13 at 0200 hours
Follow-up contact/investigator:
Approved By:

 

Riverside – CAL FIRE Fire Apparatus Engineer/Paramedic Christopher Douglas, 41, of Temecula was fatally injured while responding to a traffic collision along Interstate 10 near the Thousand Palms area in Riverside County. He was an eight year veteran of CAL FIRE.

Engineer Douglas is survived by his wife, Amy, and two year-old son, Samuel "Sammy". Christopher is also survived his siblings, Martin Douglas and family of Colorado Springs, Heather Douglas of Denver, mother, Rose Porter of Colorado Springs, and his in-laws, Ronald and Sheryl Aitken of Newport Beach, and sister in law Jessica Carroll & her family of Costa Mesa, and sister in law Veronica Herrington and family from Newport Beach.

Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today issued the following statement regarding the death of Engineer/Paramedic Christopher Douglas:

“Anne and I were saddened to learn of the death of Engineer Christopher Douglas. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and fellow state firefighters.”

Below are some links to photos of fallen firefighter Christopher Douglas

Photo of Christopher Douglas - www.fire.ca.gov/communications/images/ChrisDouglas.jpg

Photo of Christopher Douglas, his wife Amy and their son, Sammy - www.fire.ca.gov/communications/images/ChristopherDouglasFamily.JPG

His career spanned over 9 1/2 years with eight years service credit as a veteran firefighter for CAL FIRE.

Cards can be sent to the family in care of:
CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department
c/o Douglas Family
210 W. San Jacinto Ave
Perris CA, 92570