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

November 12, 2011 @ 10:00 a.m. (Argentine time)

My feet hurt just thinking about it. My legs burn as I ponder the physical pain that lurks in South America less than one week away.

I understand it’s a marathon, and people run those all the time. This one, however, is in the Andes, and those are some really big mountains. This marathon involves scrambling up mountains, crossing icy streams and tackling difficult terrain. The Salomon K42 Adventure Marathon has been called “a paradise for the eyes, hell for the legs” by a past competitor. It’s the typical adventure the members of Cops Running For Charity (CRFC) live for.

Their willingness to suffer for the benefit of others has not gone unnoticed. When the runners arrive in Argentina, they will be met by the Minister of Tourism and presented with a proclamation during a private dinner party. Among those attending the party will be a general in the Argentine Army and the mayor of the town of Bariloche.

The runners at this year’s event will be Captain Randy Pentis, Captain Tim Hagel, Captain Dave Kenney, Captain Paul Higgason, Sergeant Joe Devorick, and Sergeant Frank Underlin. They will be accompanied by Assistant Sheriff Gary Pentis, who is the “team mom.”

The race will take place on November 12, 2011 at 10:00 a.m.

This year, the group has raised $40,000.00 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Children’s Hospital, Make-A-Wish Foundation, ALS Association, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County.

Anyone interested in more information about CRFC can contact Captain Randy Pentis at (805) 654-2940 or (805) 947-8067 or by e-mail at randy.pentis@ventura.org.

Location:
Patagonia, Argentina
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sgt. Eric Buschow (805) 947-8129
Media Release Date: Nov. 7, 2011
Follow-Up Contact: Captain Randy Pentis (805) 947-8067 / randy.pentis@ventura.org
Approved by: Captain Randy Pentis

 


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

The Moorpark Police Department and the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is teaming up with Ventura County Special Olympics and Wood Ranch BBQ Restaurant to present a Tip-a-Cop charity event in Moorpark. The event benefits Special Olympics of Ventura County and Southern California. The public is invited to have an enjoyable time and support a great cause by dining out and meeting local law enforcement officers who volunteer their time to serve meals.

Deputy Sheriffs and other law enforcement volunteers will participate as celebrity servers. Customers can donate tips to these servers and all of those proceeds will go directly to Ventura County Special Olympics. The mission of the Special Olympics of Southern California is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type events for children and adults with intellectual / physical disabilities. This training gives them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience joy.

Donations will help provide athletic competitions for over 700 children and adults from ages 8 years and up. The donations will assist these competitors in attending training and competition free of charge as they participate in 11 sports events at over 20 training sites throughout Ventura County.

Location:
540 Los Angeles Avenue
Moorpark, California
Date & Time:
November 16, 2011 @ 5:00 P.M. – 9:30 P.M.
Unit Responsible:
Moorpark Police Department
Deputy Preparing Media Release:
Deputy Timothy Lohman
Media Release Date:
November 6, 2011
Follow-Up Contact:
Timothy Lohman (805) 532-2700
Approved by:
Captain Ron Nelson

 


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

The West County Street Team of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Bureau completed an investigation into narcotics sales occurring in the city of Oxnard.

Narcotics detectives received information that Pena, a documented member of the South Side Chiques criminal street gang, was selling methamphetamine from a residence in the 300 block of Bryce Canyon Ave. Surveillance was conducted and Pena was seen making a narcotics sale.

On 11/2/2011, a signed Search Warrant was obtained for Pena and his residence. Pena was contacted as the passenger in a vehicle driven by fellow South Side Chiques gang member, Alfredo Canchola. During the subsequent search, Pena was found to be in possession of approximately 6 grams of methamphetamine and 2 grams of cocaine. Also found in the vehicle was a loaded 40 caliber handgun and a digital scale. The Search Warrant at the residence revealed approximately one half ounce of methamphetamine, a scale and several items of gang attire.

Pena and Canchola were arrested for possession for sale and transportation of a controlled substance, carrying a loaded handgun, possession of a controlled substance while armed, and committing a crime for the benefit of a criminal street gang. Pena’s mother, Gloria Vasquez, was arrested for possession and under the influence of a controlled substance. All 3 were booked into the Sheriff’s Main jail.

Report Number:
Location: 300 Block Bryce Canyon Ave, Oxnard
Date & Time: 11/2/2011 @ 1200 hours
Unit Responsible: Sheriff’s Narcotics, West County Street Team.
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Jesus “Scrappy” Pena

Alfredo “Wicked” Canchola

Gloria Vasquez Oxnard

Oxnard

Oxnard 31

32

61
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sgt M Horne
Media Release Date: 11/3/2011
Follow-Up Contact: Sgt M Horne
Approved by: Mike De Los Santos, Captain

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 November 2, 2011 the Ventura County Combined Agencies Team (VCAT) discovered a methamphetamine lab during the course of a narcotics investigation. The lab, located in the 1200 block of Isleton Place in the City of Oxnard was disposed of by VCAT investigators in conjunction with agents from the California State Department of Justice, Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement (BNE). Nearby neighbors were evacuated as a precaution while the lab was being processed and disposed of. Oxnard City Fire Department also responded to the scene. VCAT is the primary responder to lab investigations in Ventura County, and it is standard operating procedure that BNE will respond to assist with the processing of these sites when available. No further information is available at this time, as this investigation is continuing.

Methamphetamine labs are inherently dangerous as they pose risk to the public due to being highly toxic and potentially explosive. Anyone who suspects a lab is present, or who has information about a lab should take the necessary precautions to stay away and notify the VCAT taskforce immediately at 383-8700. If after hours, call 911. Because of the volatility of these labs, an immediate response is necessary to minimize danger to the public.

The Ventura County Combined Agencies Team is a taskforce comprised of law enforcement investigators from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, The Oxnard Police Department, The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Report Number: 11-25019
Location: 1200 block of Isleton Place, Oxnard, Ca 93030
Date & Time: November 2, 2011
Unit Responsible: Ventura County Combined Agency Team (VCAT)
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
No suspects are in custody for the suspected clandestine lab at this time. Investigation to continue. [City] [Age]
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Dwayne Heath, Sergeant
Media Release Date: November 3, 2011
Follow-Up Contact: Dwayne Heath, Sergeant 805-393-9708
Approved by: Derek West, Captain

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

The Camarillo Police Department’s Traffic Bureau is investigating an injury traffic accident involving a vehicle and one pedestrian. The collision occurred on Mission Oaks Boulevard directly in front of Adolfo Camarillo High School. A 16-year-old male juvenile was walking across the street toward the school on Mission Oaks Boulevard, near the main entrance of the front driveway, while using a hand-held device. As he walked across the street he was hit by Charles Bungert, who was driving a pickup truck northbound on Mission Oaks Boulevard. The juvenile was in the crosswalk on the eastside of the intersection when he was hit. Bungert was proceeding northbound on Mission Oaks Boulevard when the left front of his truck collided with the juvenile.

Personnel from the Ventura County Fire Department and American Medical Response responded to the scene. The juvenile was treated at the scene and then transported via ambulance to Los Robles Regional Medical Center for further treatment. The juvenile is expected to make a full recovery.

At this time alcohol or drugs do not appear to be a factor in this collision. The investigation is continuing.

Report Number: 11-24868
Location: Mission Oaks Boulevard in front of Camarillo High School
Date & Time: 11/1/11 @ 6:50 AM
Unit Responsible: Camarillo Police Department Traffic Bureau
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Male Juvenile 16
Charles Bungert
Camarillo
Camarillo 16
33
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sergeant Harold Hanley (805) 388-5132
Media Release Date: November 1, 2011
Follow-Up Contact: Senior Deputy John Popp (805) 388-5146
Approved by: Captain Bruce Macedo
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).

 
Entire incident captured on school surveillance video
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On October 24, 2011, Moorpark High School hosted a basketball tournament for local club teams. During the tournament, a group of five basketball players broke into a classroom and the student store. Several items were stolen during the burglary ranging from school apparel to electronic devices. The entire incident was captured on school surveillance video.

The Moorpark School Resource Officer began an investigation and was eventually able to identify five suspects. The five suspects were not from Moorpark, but attended a high school in Ventura County. On October 27, 2011, all five suspects were arrested and lodged into juvenile hall. Some of the stolen property was recovered and returned to Moorpark High School.

Report Number: 11-24186
Location: Moorpark High School, 4500 Tierra Rejada, Rd., Moorpark, CA 93021
Date & Time: October 24, 2011 / 2:00 PM
Unit Responsible: Moorpark Special Enforcement Unit / School Resource Officer
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(S-1) Juvenile
(S-2) Juvenile
(S-3) Juvenile
(S-4) Juvenile
(S-5) Juvenile Oxnard
Port Hueneme
Port Hueneme
Oxnard
Oxnard 17
17
17
15
15

Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sgt. J. Reilly
Media Release Date: 10/28/11
Follow-Up Contact: Deputy / Detective Starks (805) 299-1554
Approved by: Captain Ron Nelson

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

The Moorpark Police Department will be holding an Open House on Wednesday, November 9, to allow visitors the opportunity to learn more about their local Police Department. The Open House will be held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, contact the Police Department at 532-2700.

Please join us for an evening of tours, show and tell, and your local patrol officers on site for question and answers. Moorpark Volunteers in Policing, C.E.R.T. personnel, A.C.E.S.—Ham Radio personnel, Mobile Command Center, stuff for the kids, refreshments, and best of all, lots of good conversation with your local law enforcement friends.

We will be having a food drive for the Moorpark Food Pantry. Please sponsor our food drive by bringing a canned food donation.

Location: 610 Spring Road Moorpark, CA
Date & Time: Wednesday, November 9, 2011 4:00 pm to 8:00pm
Unit Responsible: Moorpark Police Department Community Services
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Senior Deputy Bob Berger
Media Release Date: Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Follow-Up Contact: Bob Berger 805-532-2700
Approved by: Captain Ron Nelson

 
Firefighters show support for cancer research

Sacramento, CA – Firefighting has long been a profession known for providing help to those in need. That’s why it wasn’t difficult for CAL FIRE’s firefighters, dispatchers and employees to decide to show their support for the battle against breast cancer by wearing modified CAL FIRE T-shirts with pink logos on them.

October 24 - 28, 2011, CAL FIRE will join over 900 fire and police departments across the nation by participating in the 2011 national “Cares Enough to Wear Pink" campaign. The campaign raises awareness and money for cancer research and is part of October’s National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, when wearing pink signifies support for breast cancer research.

“Cancer affects millions of people worldwide including firefighters,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, CAL FIRE director. There is a proven correlation between cancer and our profession, that’s why I’m proud the men and women of CAL FIRE are joining me in sending a strong message that we “Care Enough to Wear Pink.”

100 percent of the proceeds from the T-shirt sales generated by CAL FIRE’s employee's voluntary participation are being donated to cancer related non-profit organizations.

CAL FIRE is one of the largest fire departments in the nation and the over 7,000 men and women of our department have an opportunity to make a significant contribution to this worthwhile effort by voluntarily joining in on the "caring enough to wear pink" campaign. CAL FIRE is proud to help raise funds to find a cure and send a strong message of hope to those suffering from this disease.

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

On Saturday, October 29, 2011 the Camarillo Police Department, in cooperation with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will host the third annual National Take-Back Day, pharmaceutical drug collection event. Collection activities will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Camarillo Police Department, located at 3701 E. Las Posas Road in Camarillo. The National Take-Back Day provides an opportunity for the public to surrender expired, unwanted, or unused pharmaceutical controlled substances and other medications for destruction. These drugs are a potential source of supply for illegal use and an unacceptable risk to public health and safety.

The National Take-Back initiative will provide those who have accumulated unwanted and unused prescription drugs a great opportunity to safely dispose of them from their homes. During the previous two take-back events, more than 300 tons of medications were collected nationwide, of which more than 24 thousand pounds were collected in the greater Los Angeles area alone. The program is anonymous. Prescription and over the counter solid dosage medications, i.e. tablets and capsules are accepted. Illicit substances such as marijuana or methamphetamine will not be accepted.

In addition to the above program, The Camarillo Police Department currently has a prescription drug drop receptacle located in the front lobby. This receptacle can be used to drop off expired, unwanted, or unused pharmaceutical controlled substances and other medications for destruction. The receptacle can be accessed Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Camarillo Police Department’s Citizen Patrol volunteers will also be at the location, conducting the Kid Print child identification and fingerprinting program during the same hours. Parents or guardians may bring their children in for this free service. Children will have their important information documented, they will have a current picture taken and have their fingerprints recorded. Parents will receive the original document, as well as a two sided color card with the photo, fingerprint and all of the child’s information included. In the event the child becomes lost or abducted, parents may supply the card to local law enforcement to significantly assist with rescue efforts.

Should you have questions about National Take-Back Day or Kid Print, you can contact Community Resource Officer Todd Eskridge at (805) 388-5129.

Report Number: N/A
Location: Camarillo Police Department 3701 E. Las Posas Rd.
Date & Time: Saturday, October 29, 2011 10:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m.
Unit Responsible: Camarillo Community Resource Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Todd Eskridge, SST II
Media Release Date: 10/20/2011
Follow-Up Contact: Todd Eskridge, SST II (805) 388-5129
Approved by: Bruce Macedo, Captain

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

On the morning of October 14, 2011, deputies responded to the 11000 Block of Elwin Lane in Moorpark regarding a stolen pick-up truck. Deputies learned from the victim that his GMC pick-up truck was taken sometime during the previous night or earlier that morning. On October 16, the victim saw his truck parked on the street in the area of Magnolia and Charles Street, in the City of Moorpark. Patrol deputies and detectives responded and initiated an investigation.

During the course of their investigation, detectives discovered evidence indicating that (A) Raymond Hinojosa, 36 years old of Moorpark was responsible for stealing the pick-up truck. On the morning of October 19, detectives from the Moorpark Special Enforcement Unit set out to locate Hinojosa as part of the investigation. At around 9:45 A.M., Special Enforcement detectives saw Hinojosa walking in the area of the 200 Block of Charles Street. Hinojosa attempted to flee from the detectives, but was arrested after being located in the rear of a neighboring yard.

During the arrest process, the detectives found that Hinojosa was in possession of several items of contraband, including weapons, drug paraphernalia and stolen property. The stolen property was linked to an unreported residential burglary in the City of Moorpark and a vehicle burglary in the City of Simi Valley.

Hinojosa was charged with multiple drug and weapons related offenses, along with auto theft and multiple counts of possessing stolen property. He is being held at the Ventura County Main Jail in lieu of $80,000.00 bail.

Report Number: RB# 11-23328 / 11-23778 / 11-23785 / Simi Valley PD # 11-40578
Location: 200 Block of Everett Street, Moorpark
Date & Time: October 19, 2011 / 9:45 A.M.
Unit Responsible: Moorpark Special Enforcement Unit and Detective Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(S) Raymond Hinojosa Moorpark 36
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Detective Kevin Lynch
Media Release Date: 10/20/2011
Follow-Up Contact: Detective Gerardo Gomez (805) 532-2715
Approved by: Captain Ron Nelson

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

On October 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public another opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. Bring your medications for disposal to any of the following sites. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked:

Last April, Americans turned in 376,593 pounds—188 tons—of prescription drugs at nearly 5,400 sites operated by the DEA and more than 3,000 state and local law enforcement partners.

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—both pose potential safety and health hazards.

Four days after the first Take-Back event in September 2010, Congress passed the Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act of 2010, which amends the Controlled Substances Act to allow an “ultimate user” of controlled substance medications to dispose of them by delivering them to entities authorized by the Attorney General to accept them. The Act also allows the Attorney General to authorize long term care facilities to dispose of their residents’ controlled substances in certain instances. DEA has begun drafting regulations to implement the Act, a process that can take as long as 24 months. Until new regulations are in place, local law enforcement agencies like The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and the DEA will continue to hold prescription drug take-back events every few months.

Location: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Stations
Date & Time: October 29, 2011 / 10:00 a.m. through 2:00 p.m.
Unit Responsible: Sheriff’s Patrol Division
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Captain Ron Nelson
Media Release Date: October 20, 2011
Follow-Up Contact: Captain Ron Nelson (805) 532-2705
Approved by: Captain Mike De Los Santos #0730

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

The 2011 marijuana eradication season has come to an end with a record size garden, record tally of plants and a significant number of arrests. On July 13th, 2011, over 40 personnel from the Sheriff’s Air Unit, Narcotics Bureau, Intelligence Unit, Oxnard Police Department, and Ventura County Fire Department, harvested a record 68,488 plants from the Pine Mountain area near the Ozena Fire Station. This was the single largest marijuana cultivation in Ventura County history.

On October 4th, U.S. Forest Service Special Agent Grand Ealy notified Sheriff’s Narcotics that the Ventura County Sheriff's Office led the Southern Zone in total arrests with 22 subjects in custody. The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) computes the arrest and eradication numbers for the 2011 marijuana season occurring in National Forests in the State of California. For tracking purposes, the USFS divides the state into the Northern and Southern Zones. The dividing line is roughly the northern boundaries of Monterey and Fresno Counties, through Mono County, and all counties south of this line; the Southern Zone accounts for 17 counties in all.

More than a third of these arrests occurred during the month of September 2011, when narcotics detectives eradicated seven marijuana grows in the Los Padres National Forest. There were a total of 21,862 plants eradicated, 16 pounds of processed marijuana was seized, and eight persons were arrested. Over the course of the season, detectives eradicated over 153,000 marijuana plants from the Los Padres National Forest, an increase of 27,000 plants over last year’s record haul. In all, 22 suspects were arrested for cultivation of marijuana. These suspects were from as close by as Ventura, and as far away as Visalia to the north, and Riverside County to the south.

Also, the discovery of increased numbers of marijuana gardens in our National Forests over the last few years has brought to the forefront another dangerous aspect of outdoor marijuana cultivation, i.e., the non-regulated use of poisons and the environmental damage associated with it. In practically every marijuana garden eradicated by narcotics detectives, large stores of agricultural related chemicals were found. The unregulated use of commercial fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides used by marijuana growers has severely impacted not only the environment near the grow site, but the environment and much of the habitat further down stream.

In several grow locations this year, narcotic detectives found illegal poisons that were manufactured outside the United States which have been banned in our country. Additionally, detectives received reports from other county narcotic task forces that point to the discovery of some of these banned poisons found in undiluted states. Exposure to these banned poisons, absent any safety precautions, could have perilous affects similar to that of nerve gas on humans.

The above information is a reminder to those using the Ventura County backcountry to be on the lookout for marijuana growers and grow sites. As always, if suspicious activity is found, please notify law enforcement as soon as possible.

Location: County of Ventura – Los Padres National Forest
Date & Time: October 13, 2011
Unit Responsible: Sheriff’s Narcotics
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Captain Derek West
Media Release Date: October 13, 2011
Follow-Up Contact: Captain Derek West
Approved by: Captain Mike Aranda

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 10-15-11, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office conducted 37 compliance checks of registered sex offenders as part of the Sexual Assault Felony Enforcement (SAFE) grant. Section 290 of the California Penal Code requires persons convicted of specified sexual assault crimes to register with the agency where they reside.

27 of the 37 registered sex offenders were in compliance with their registration requirement. 10 of the registrants were not home or moved and detectives will follow-up to determine if the registrants are out-of-compliance. During the compliance checks, one adult male was arrested for unrelated charges.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting similar sweeps randomly throughout the county to verify registered sex offenders are living at their reported residence along with conducting probation and/or parole searches of registered sex offenders who are on probation and/or parole.

Nature of Incident: 290 Compliance Checks
Report Number:
Location: City of Fillmore and unincorporated area of Piru
Date & Time: 10-15-11
Unit Responsible: Fillmore Station Deputies and Major Crimes Detectives
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sergeant Ian Laughlin
Media Release Date: 10-17-11
Follow-Up Contact: Sergeant Ian Laughlin (805) 477-7000
Approved by: Captain Brent Kerr

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

At 1:32 this morning, the Thousand Oaks Police Department responded to a reported vehicle fire on north Moorpark Road. This section of Moorpark Road is commonly referred to as the Norwegian Grade and it connects the northern portion of Thousand Oaks with the Santa Rosa Valley. Upon arrival at the scene, deputies determined that the vehicle on fire had been involved in a collision prior to catching fire.

The investigation revealed that Alejandro Gomez was driving his 2008 Volkswagen Passat northbound on Moorpark Road at a high rate of speed when he lost control of the car and left the roadway. Gomez’s car collided head on into a tree on the west side of the road and came to rest a short distance away. Gomez was helped out of the car by other motorists who drove up shortly after the accident occurred.

Gomez suffered serious injuries as a result of this collision. He was transported by ambulance to Los Robles Hospital where he was admitted for treatment. The cause of this collision is still being investigated, but accident investigators believe the consumption of alcohol and excessive speed were both contributing factors.

Gomez was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and later released due to his hospitalization.

Report Number: 11-23325
Location: Moorpark Road (Norwegian Grade)
Date & Time: October 14, 2011 @ 1:32 AM
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police Department Traffic Bureau
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Gomez, Alejandro Guillermo Camarillo 23
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sgt. Rick Harwood
Media Release Date: October 14, 2011
Follow-Up Contact: Sgt. Rick Harwood / (805) 494-8271
Approved by: Capt. Bill Ayub

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

During the week of September 5, 2011, Moorpark Detectives were contacted by retail loss prevention investigators from TJ Maxx retail stores and informed about a group of suspects who had passed counterfeit American Express (AMX) Travelers Checks to several of their retail stores throughout Southern California, including the Moorpark location. In every instance, the suspects would purchase a single piece of clothing valued at around $10.00. They would pay for the purchase using a counterfeit $100.00 AMX Travelers Check and receive around $90.00 in change.

Moorpark Detectives conducted an investigation and identified the suspects as Julius Williams and Kenneth Blanton, both of Los Angeles. The investigation revealed that Williams and Blanton were responsible for passing the counterfeit checks at numerous different retail establishments throughout Southern California. The total dollar loss is unknown but estimated to be several thousand dollars. Detectives learned through the investigation that both suspects were on parole from state prison for similar crimes and arranged to have them arrested during a routine visit with their parole officers.

Both suspects were arrested without incident and are currently incarcerated at the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility, awaiting court proceedings. Both suspects are charged with forgery and commercial burglary and are being held in lieu of $10,000.00 bail. They are also being held on suspicion of violating the conditions of their parole.

Report Number: RB# 11-20794
Location: 800 block New Los Angeles Avenue, Moorpark CA
Date & Time: October 13, 2011 / 12:30 PM
Unit Responsible: Moorpark Station Detectives
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(V) TJ Maxx Retail Store
(S) Jullius D. Williams
(S) Kenneth R. Blanton Moorpark
Los Angeles
Los Angeles
33
35
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Detective Kevin Lynch
Media Release Date: October 14, 2011
Follow-Up Contact: Detective Kevin Lynch (805) 532-2714 or (805) 947-8222
Approved by: Captain Ron Nelson

 
Ventura County law enforcement to discuss impact
Sheriff Geoff Dean
Sheriff Geoff Dean

THOUSAND OAKS, CA - Ventura County law enforcement representatives will discuss the impact of the realignment act that addresses overcrowding in California’s prisons from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, at California Lutheran University.

Sheriff Geoff Dean, Public Defender Steve Lipson, Chief Probation Officer Mark Varela and Special Assistant District Attorney Michael D. Schwartz will give a presentation in the Roth Nelson Room. They will discuss how the new law, which went into effect on Oct. 1, may affect Ventura County resources and community safety.

Criminals convicted of about 500 classifications of lower-level crimes who previously went to state prisons will instead serve their time in county jails under the 2011 Public Safety Realignment Act. The move was designed to reduce the state’s corrections costs, freeing up funds for public education and other services, while also reducing the state prison population to comply with a federal court order.

Some prosecutors and county sheriffs predict rising crime and other dire outcomes from what amounts to the most radical change in the prison system in decades. While sentence lengths will remain the same, more inmates could be released early because of overcrowded county jails. Others say California’s counties can provide better rehabilitation and job training services to improve the state’s recidivism record.

CLU’s Department of Criminal Justice and Master’s in Public Policy and Administration Program are sponsoring the free public presentation.

The Roth Nelson Room is located on Mountclef Boulevard between Olsen Road and Memorial Parkway on the Thousand Oaks campus.

For more information, contact Pat Egle at egle@callutheran.edu or 805-493-3450.

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

On October 11, 2011, a Thousand Oaks resident returned home to discover his house had been burglarized. The resident heard suspicious noises and observed two suspects fleeing from the residence. Patrol deputies and detectives from the Thousand Oaks Police Department responded to the neighborhood and began searching for the suspects.

Deputies located Travis Jones nearby the victim’s residence. As the search continued, Cody Martinez and Marlene Macias were also located by deputies about a half mile away. All three suspects were taken into custody without further incident.

This burglary investigation led to the recovery of the victim’s stolen property. Further investigation led to the recovery of additional property. These suspects have also been linked to another similar crime that recently occurred in Thousand Oaks.

Martinez, Jones and Macias were all arrested for residential burglary. They are currently in custody at the Ventura County Jail on $50,000.00 bail.

Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against person(s) responsible for these types of crimes. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

1600 block of Sweet Briar Place, Thousand Oaks, CA
October 11, 2011 @ 1:00 p.m.
Thousand Oaks Police Department Investigations Bureau
Suspects City of Residence Age
(S) Cody Martinez
(S) Travis Jones
(S) Marlene Macias Thousand Oaks
Simi Valley
Thousand Oaks 23
22
20
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sergeant Jeff Miller
Media Release Date: October 12, 2011
Follow-Up Contact: Detective Matt Young (805) 494-8227
Approved by: Captain Tim Hagel

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

On October 20, 2011 at 10:20 a.m., millions of Californians will "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" in “The Great California ShakeOut.” The drill is organized to inspire Californians to get ready for big earthquakes and to prevent disasters from becoming catastrophes. Currently, there are over 8 million registered participants in California, with over 109,000 from Ventura County.

On October 11, 2011 at 10:00 a.m., the Ventura County Board of Supervisors will present a resolution proclaiming the County of Ventura’s participation in “The Great California ShakeOut “on October 20th.

“This is a good opportunity for businesses and employers to look at their own disaster plans and educate employees on how to be prepared,” said Laura Hernandez, Assistant Director of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services.

To register for the drill, go to www.shakeout.org. The free registration will pledge an individual or an organization’s participation in this important preparedness event. Participants will receive information on how to prepare for a major earthquake in the region and what actions to take during and after the shaking.

To participate in the drill, “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” as you would do in an actual earthquake, and stay in this position for at least 60 seconds.

The main goal of the ShakeOut is to get Californians prepared for major earthquakes, so use the ShakeOut as an opportunity to learn what to do before, during, and after an earthquake.

For more information of how to prepare, please visit the Ready Ventura County website at www.readyventuracounty.org. This website will display current information in the event an emergency, educate residents on the hazards in our area, and provide a resource on how to prepare, respond and recover from a disaster in our area.

Media outlets can also participate in the ShakeOut drill by broadcasting the audio or video recordings available at: http://www.shakeout.org/drill/broadcast/.

Date & Time: 10/20/11 @ 10:20 AM
Unit Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services
Staff Preparing Media Release: Cynthia Elliott, OES Program Administrator 805-654-3655
Media Release Date: October 10, 2011
Follow-Up Contact: Cynthia Elliott, OES Program Administrator 805-654-3655
Approved by: Laura D. Hernandez, OES Assistant Director 805-654-2552

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

On 10/07/11 at approximately 6:50 AM, a female driver in a red Kia sedan was driving southbound on North Ventura Avenue, when she was struck from behind by a small blue Honda SUV being driven by a male. The male failed to stop for the accident, and then continued driving southbound on North Ventura Avenue. As he drove through the Villanova Curve, he lost control of his vehicle, went off onto the south shoulder of the roadway and drove through a recently planted landscaped area. His Honda SUV continued through the landscaped area, eventually striking a tree, which caused his vehicle to roll over.

Deputies arrived on scene, and discovered that the male was suffering from complaints of pain due to the collision. He was eventually transported to the Ojai Valley Community Hospital for examination.
The female driver also had complaints of pain and went to the Ojai Valley Community Hospital for examination as well. Both vehicles suffered major damage. The male was cited and released for 20001(a) VC / Hit-n-Run with injury and the investigation is continuing.

Report Number: 11-22771
Location: North Ventura Ave @ Hermosa Road / Villanova Road
Date & Time: 10/07/11 @ 6:50 AM
Unit Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office – Ojai Patrol Station
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(P-1) Male Adult Driver
(P-2) Female Adult Driver Ojai
Ojai 54
46
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sgt. Ruby
Media Release Date: 10/08/11
Follow-Up Contact: Deputy Balcom / Sr. Dep. Popp 805 / 646-1414
Approved by: Captain Paul Higgason
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 October 8, 2011, a single suspect robbed the Chase bank, located at 148 W. Hillcrest Drive in Thousand Oaks. The suspect used a demand note and received an undisclosed amount of cash. No weapon was seen during the robbery and nobody was injured.

The suspect is described as a white male in his 40’s, approximately 5’7” to 5’9” tall, weighing approximately 180 to 200 pounds. The suspect had very short hair with a receding hairline and wore prescription glasses.

This investigation is being handled by the Thousand Oaks Police Department, in conjunction with the FBI. Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect or his whereabouts is asked to contact Sergeant Jeff Miller at (805) 494-8218, or Special Agent Bernard Riedel of the FBI at (805) 677-7353 or (858) 565-1255 (24 hours a day).

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).

Report Number: 11-22891
Location: 148 W. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Date & Time: October 8, 2011 @ 3:00 p.m.
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police Department Investigations Bureau &
Federal Bureau of Investigations
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
White male, 5’7”-5’9”, 180-200 pounds Unknown 40’s
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sergeant Jeff Miller
Media Release Date: October 8, 2011
Follow-Up Contact: Sergeant Jeff Miller (805) 494-8218
CHIEF OF POLICE
COMMANDER JEFF MATSON
SHERIFF
GEOFF DEAN
Approved by: Captain Tim Hagel