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

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office has a long-standing commitment to assist inmates in custody through a variety of inmate services programs in our jails. On Thursday, September 15, 2011, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office will be sponsoring an In-Custody Job Fair for male and female inmates housed at the Todd Road Jail Facility in Santa Paula.

Ten to fifteen local employers will be invited to participate in this annual event. In addition to employers, invitations will be extended to county and community-based organizations to provide valuable resources and/or information to those individuals nearing release from custody.

Approximately 130 inmates enrolled in vocational and educational programs will be able to participate in the job fair. This event will give participants an opportunity to fill out applications, turn in resumes and interview with potential employers. All participating inmates have been preparing for the event by attending a variety of in-custody programs. These programs have prepped them with the job skills necessary to interface professionally with potential employers.

The Sheriff’s Office is committed to its mission of providing the programs and resources necessary to reduce recidivism and to assist offenders in becoming productive members of our community. We feel strongly that this can only be achieved if there is a collaborative effort between the Sheriff’s Office and the community. There are a number of State and Federal incentives available to employers who hire ex-felons. The Sheriff’s Office urges all potential employers interested in participating in this event to contact the Inmate Services Unit at (805) 933-8561.

Location: Todd Road Jail Facility
600 S. Todd Road, Santa Paula, CA 93060
Date & Time September 15, 2011 8:00 AM - Noon
Unit Responsible: Detention Services – Inmate Services Unit
Officer Preparing Release: Captain Jerry Hernandez
Follow-up Contact: Rosa Ramirez, Inmate Services Unit (805) 933-8561
Date of Release: September 2, 2011
Approved By: Commander Linda Oksner

 


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

At approximately 0730 hours, State Park Rangers located a damaged boat in the ocean near State Route 1 and Deer Creek Road. They requested assistance from the Sheriff’s Office and Fire Department for a possible rescue operation for the occupants of the boat.

Upon their arrival, they located more than a dozen large containers filled with gasoline, and packages of marijuana and clothing items scattered along the beach. They also located the remains of a panga-style vessel commonly used for fishing and more recently used by drug and human trafficking smugglers, grounded on the rocks and heavily damaged by the high surf conditions.

Personnel from Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, Ventura and Los Angeles County firefighters, State Park Rangers, Ls Angeles County Lifeguards, the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents searched for several hours over a one-mile radius, by land, sea, and air. However, the occupants of the boat could not be located.

Additionally, Ventura County Environmental Health was on scene for any gasoline spills or other envronmental issues associated with this matter.

It is estimated that at least 250 pounds of marijuana and up to 250 gallons of gasoline were recovered from the apparent drug-smuggling operation. The majority of the packaged marijuana was found on the beach near a stairway leading up to the highway.

There has been an increase in smuggling in recent months by traffickers attempting landfall in remote areas along the Ventura County shoreline and adjoining counties. Local community members or visitors to the area are being asked to call 9-1-1 if they see any suspicious individuals or activity in this general area.

Location: S.R. 1 (PCH) and Deer Creek Road
Date & Time/ RB#: September 1, 2011 / 11-19867
Unit Responsible: Sheriffs Media Relations
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses City of Residence Age
N/A
Officer Preparing Release: Captain Mike Aranda
Follow-up Contact: Captain Mike Aranda
Date of Release: September 1, 2011
Approved By: Captain Don Aguilar

 


 
Police seek public’s assistance in identifying the suspect in this unprovoked attack
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On 8-9-11 at about 9 p.m., an unknown assailant entered a business in El Rio and attacked an employee who was working there. The victim stated that the suspect approached him and, without provocation, started punching and kicking him. The suspect also threw a metal object at the victim, which had the potential to cause serious bodily injury.

Attached is a photo of the suspect as he is leaving the business. Detectives are looking for the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect in this unprovoked attack. Anyone who has information regarding the identity of this suspect is urged to call the Sheriff’s Office at (805) 662-6770, or anonymously call Crime Stoppers for a reward.

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).

Location: Shell Gas Station 2778 Vineyard Ave, El Rio
Date & Time: 8-9-11 at 9:00 p.m .
Unit Responsible: Headquarters Detective Bureau
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses City of Residence Age
(V) Confidential
Officer Preparing Release: Detective Christine Rettura
Follow-up Contact: Detective Christine Rettura (805) 662-6770
Date of Release: 8-24-11
Approved By Sgt. Alvarez

 

VENTURA, California - District Attorney Gregory D. Totten announced today that the Real Estate Fraud Prosecution Unit has filed a 49-count felony complaint against Kenneth A. Powell (DOB 6/18/53), a former resident of Thousand Oaks; Katie Rose (DOB 7/25/49) of Woodland Hills; and Paul Charles Lascola (DOB 10/26/42) of Thousand Oaks. The criminal complaint filed today alleges felony crimes that occurred from 2005 to 2008. The complaint includes felony counts of grand theft, theft from an elder, and special enhancements for taking money or property in excess of $50,000. Powell is charged with 42 distinct felonies, Rose is charged with 29 felonies, and Lascola is charged with 24 felonies. All three defendants are also charged with an enhancement for aggravated white-collar crime, which alleges taking money or property in excess of $500,000 in a pattern of felony conduct involving fraud or embezzlement. The total amount of theft-related loss to victims caused by the alleged conduct of the three defendants currently exceeds $3 million.

The investigation was conducted in partnership with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Bureau and the Ventura Police Department. These agencies and the District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigation received numerous complaints against the defendants arising out of their marketing and sale of various investments purportedly secured by real estate in the state of Arizona and the California cities of Taft, Goleta, Canyon Country, Ventura, and Thousand Oaks. Defendants Powell and Rose made contact with many of the alleged victims as “Ken & Katie,” the hosts of a locally aired weekend radio program called “Academy of Real Estate” and “Money Intelligence” that previously aired on News Talk KVTA 1520 AM.

Both Rose and Lascola hold real estate sales licenses issued by the California Department of Real Estate. Powell’s real estate sales license was suspended in 2006. Powell and Rose primarily conducted business under the name Captech Advisors, LLC. Lascola conducted business under the names of Shea Estates Development, Inc. and Conejo Partners, LLC. A significant number of alleged victims were led to believe by Powell and Rose that their monies would be utilized by Lascola to develop and construct new homes on vacant lots in Taft, California. In fact, virtually no construction took place on those lots and many lots were already encumbered with prior liens or had been sold to previous investors. Powell, Rose, and Lascola are also alleged to have solicited victims to make several loans to borrowers that were purportedly secured by real estate trust deeds. These alleged victims parted with substantial monies in reliance on the statements and actions by all three defendants. All alleged victims have lost substantially all of their investments. Financial analysis of bank records from accounts belonging to the defendants revealed instances of new investors’ monies being paid to former investors in the form of interest or partial repayment of debts owed on previous notes.

Powell, Rose and Lascola were all arrested today in an operation conducted by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Bureau. Bail was set at $1 million for each defendant by Ventura County Superior Court Judge Patricia Murphy. Judge Murphy also signed an order requested by the District Attorney’s Office which requires each defendant to show the court proof of the source of any funds offered towards bail.

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

On August 30, 2011, the Thousand Oaks Police Department / Internet Crimes Against Children Unit arrested Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley residents, David George, age 46 and Edgar Otero, age 28, for possessing child pornography.

The investigation began in January of this year, when members of the Thousand Oaks Police Department / Internet Crimes Against Children Unit served a search warrant at George and Otero’s residence. An undercover detective had been using a publicly available file-sharing program and observed that George and Otero were sharing illegal child pornography on the Internet.

The pornographic images and videos contained visual depictions of children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Computers belonging to George and Otero were seized and turned over to the Southern California High Tech Task Force who conducted a forensic examination of the computer. .

George and Otero were arrested without incident and booked into the Ventura County Jail on felony charges

Their bails are set at $50,000 each.

The Thousand Oaks Police Department Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, Southern California High Tech Task Force and F.B.I, have made the investigation of online sexual predators, and those who choose to exchange child pornography a top priority, and will continue to aggressively investigate, identify, and prosecute those persons involved in Internet Crimes against Children.

Date & Time/ RB#: August 30, 2011 / 11-1531 & 11-2634
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police / Internet Crimes Against Children
Suspects City of Residence Age

David Austin George Thousand Oaks 46
Edgar Manuel Otero Simi Valley 28
Officer Preparing Release: Sgt. Anthony Aguirre
Follow-up Contact: Sgt. Anthony Aguirre 805 371-8309 Anthony.Aguirre@ventura.org
Date of Release: August 30, 2011
Approved By: Captain Tim Hagel

 

This past week has been a busy one for CAL FIRE and firefighters throughout the state as a substantial increase in large wildfire activity began over the weekend. Despite the slightly cooler temperatures, humidity levels in most areas continue to be very low and that coupled with the tinder dry vegetation has led to the fire danger remaining high. The public is urged to remain cautious and fire safe. The website ReadyForWildfire.org is available to ensure Californians are prepared.

Battling the major fires in California include over 2,260 firefighters, 135 fire engines, 61 fire crews, 16 helicopters and 10 bulldozers.

Fires of Interest:

**CAL FIRE Incidents**

Pala Fire, San Diego County (more info…)

Pala-Temecula Rd and Moro Rd, north of Pala

* 300 acres - 60% contained
* An evacuation advisory remains in place for 35 homes in the Rancho Heights area

**Federal & Local Fires**
Motor Fire, Mariposa County (more info…)
US Forest Service – Sierra National Forest
Hwy 140 near the Ferguson rock slide, southwest of Yosemite National Park
* 5,231 acres - 60% contained
* CAL FIRE is assisting
* Expected containment Friday, September 9

Oasis Fire, Los Angeles County (more info…)
Los Angeles County Fire Department
South of Hwy 138 off Oasis Rd south of Pinion Hills
* 345 acres - 90% contained

Ridge Fire, San Diego County (more info…)
US Forest Service – Cleveland National Forest
South of I-8 & east of Buckman Springs Rd, northeast of Lake Morena.
* 150 acres - 85% contained
* Sparked by lightning
* Expected containment today (August 30)

Wells Fire, San Bernardino County
Bureau of Land Management
Mojave National Preserve
* 1,584 acres - 70% contained
* Sparked by lightning
* Expected containment today (August 30)

Recently Contained Fires:

**CAL FIRE Incidents**
Florida Fire, San Bernardino County (more info…)
Greenspot Rd and Florida St, Mentone
* 67 acres - 100% contained

Keller Fire, Riverside County (more info…)
Baxter Rd and Menifee Rd, Menifee & Winchester area
* 458 acres - 100% contained
* Started

Wildcat Fire, San Bernardino County
Wildcat Canyon and San Vicente Road, near the community of Ramona
* 60 acres - 100% contained

Watts Fire, Fresno County
26,000 block of Watts Valley Road, east of Clovis
*75 acres - 100% contained

The California Fire Summary is provided during times of multiple wildfires across the state. For the latest on CAL FIRE’s incidents visit www.fire.ca.gov or follow us on twitter @CAL_FIRE. For fires burning on federal land visit http://www.inciweb.org/state/5/.

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

Deputies from the Thousand Oaks Police Department responded to a theft that had just occurred at Total Wine and More in Thousand Oaks. Brian Barash and Ferdinand Miller had taken several bottles of premium alcohol, valued at over $1,100.00. The suspects split up upon leaving the business. Soon after, Barash fled the area on foot when confronted in the parking lot by store management, leaving the alcohol behind.

Deputies were able to locate Barash a short distance away. Barash refused orders to stop, and a foot pursuit began. The deputies chased Barash for over a quarter mile through a shopping center, medical office complex, and two apartment complexes. The pursuing deputy lost sight of Barash several times, but alert citizens were able to provide the deputy with Barash’s direction of travel. Barash eventually surrendered to a patrol sergeant who was able to cut off Barash’s attempt to escape.

A witness who was aware of the incident at Total Wine alerted other deputies at the scene to Miller’s location at a nearby restaurant. Miller was contacted at the restaurant and subsequently arrested.

After the arrest, investigators learned that Barash and Miller had been arrested earlier this month and were out on bail for a similar crime in Irvine, California. They have also been identified as suspects in at least six other similar crimes in Orange and Los Angeles Counties.

Barash and Miller were booked at the East County Jail. They have both been charged with commercial burglary and conspiracy. Their bail has been set at $100,000.00.

Location: 394 N. Moorpark Rd. Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Date & Time/ RB#: August 23, 2011 @ 1:33 pm / 11-19101
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police Department Investigations Bureau
Suspects Address Age
Brian Barash Irvine, CA 28
Ferdinand Miller Transient 32
Officer Preparing Release: Detective Roger Kelley
Follow-up Contact: Detective Roger Kelley (805) 494-8211
Date of Release: August 24, 2011
Approved By: Captain Bill Ayub

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

During the month of May 2011, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office East County Narcotics Street Team and the Simi Valley Police Department’s Narcotic Unit initiated a joint operation targeting heroin dealers in Simi and the Conejo Valley. The primary motivation for this joint operation was due to a significant rise in heroin use and heroin overdose incidents occurring in eastern Ventura County. The following is a summary of these investigations:

On May 26, 2011, Christopher Taylor sold heroin to an undercover agent at an undisclosed location in the city of Thousand Oaks. Taylor was subsequently arrested for sales of heroin and booked into the county jail.

On June 8, 2011, a search warrant was served at Kyle Clemens’ residence in the 300 block of Hickory Grove, Thousand Oaks. The search warrant was obtained after Clemens sold heroin to an undercover agent. A small quantity of vicodin, marijuana and a deadly weapon (brass knuckles) were found at the residence. Clemens was arrested for sales of heroin, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of a deadly weapon. Clemens was booked into the county jail on each of these charges.

On June 21, 2011, Erreon Jackson was arrested for selling heroin to an undercover agent from his residence in the 600 block of Paseo La Perla, Thousand Oaks. Jackson was booked into the county jail.

On June 26, 2011, a search warrant was served at Clarence Sayles’ residence in the 1700 block of Warfield Circle, Simi Valley. The search warrant was obtained as a result of Sayles selling heroin to an undercover agent. During this heroin transaction, Sayles had his nine-year-old son with him in his vehicle. While executing the search warrant, investigators learned Sayles’ girlfriend, Danielle Gonzales, frequently stayed at Sayles’ residence and assisted with the care of his nine-year-old son. Investigators learned both Sayles and Gonzales smoked their heroin in the same bedroom when the young boy was present. Sayles was arrested for heroin sales and felony child endangerment. Gonzales was arrested for felony child endangerment, driving under the influence and being under the influence of heroin. Both Sayles and Gonzales were booked into the county jail for these charges.

On July 19, 2011, a search warrant was served at Jose Hernandez’ residence in the 500 block of Avenida De La Plata, Thousand Oaks. The search warrant was obtained as a result of undercover officers observing Hernandez selling heroin in front of his residence. Investigators found several grams of heroin and a significant amount of cash inside Hernandez’ bedroom.

On August 22, 2011, a search warrant was served at Ryan Goodnight’s residence in the 1500 block of Sinaloa Road, Simi Valley. The search warrant was obtained as a result of Goodnight selling heroin to an undercover agent. The search warrant resulted in the seizure of heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, ketamine, marijuana, a shotgun and ammunition. Goodnight was arrested for sales of heroin and for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Goodnight was booked into the county jail.

On August 23, 2011, Luis Ramirez and his girlfriend, Kacie Webb, were arrested for sales of heroin at their residence in the 2500 block of Phyllis Street, Simi Valley. Ramirez and Webb were operating a heroin delivery service in the city of Simi Valley. Both Ramirez and Webb sold heroin to an undercover agent. Ramirez and Webb were booked into the county jail for heroin sales.

The Sheriff’s Office would like to remind everyone that on September 27, 2011, beginning at 6:30 PM, there will be a Community Forum held at Newbury Park High School (456 N. Reino Road), addressing the problem of prescription and over-the-counter drug and heroin abuse. This event is sponsored by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, Thousand Oaks Police Department, Ventura County Behavioral Health, Conejo Valley Unified School District, and the Conejo Valley Recreation and Parks District. For more information on this event call (805) 494-8255 or go to safeconejo.org.

Location:
Cities of Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley

Date & Time/ RB#:
May 16, 2011 thru August 23, 2011

Unit Responsible:
East County Narcotics Street Team – Simi Valley Police Department’s Narcotic Unit

(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses City of Residence Age
Clarence Sayles Simi Valley 34
Danielle Gonzales Simi Valley 21
Kyle Clemens Thousand Oaks 19
Christopher Taylor Cypress, Ca 22
Erreon Jackson Thousand Oaks 19
Jose Hernandez Thousand Oaks 26
Ryan Goodnight Simi Valley 25
Luis Ramirez Simi Valley 27
Kacie Webb Simi Valley 26

Officer Preparing Release:
Sergeant Robert Thomas

Follow-up Contact:
Sergeant Robert Thomas, 383-8710 or Robert.Thomas@ventura.org

Date of Release:
August 23, 2011

Approved By:
Captain Derek West

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

Over the last couple of months, there have been several thefts and burglaries along the Ventura County beaches between Ventura and the Santa Barbara County line. In some instances, vehicle windows have been broken and property stolen from inside. In other cases the property was taken from the outside of the vehicles.

In one particular case, a distinguishable surfboard was taken. Sometime between 10 pm on 7-27-11 and 10 am 7-28-11, the victim’s surfboard was taken from the Hobson Beach Campground on PCH between Ventura and La Conchita. The board is distinctive because it’s an 11 foot “Donald Takayama, Prince Kuhio” model. It’s light and dark teal colored board that has a logo of 4 white birds that form a circle. There is a slight defect on the tail of one of the birds which makes the board unique (refer to attached photos for details). Anyone with information on the suspect(s) who stole the surfboard or its whereabouts are urged to call detectives.

As always, the Sheriff’s Office reminds all beachgoers and campers not to leave any valuables in their vehicles, and especially not in plain view.

Location: PCH between Ventura and Santa Barbara County line
Date & Time/ RB#: Several over the last two months
Unit Responsible: Headquarters Detective Bureau
Officer Preparing Release: Detective Christine Rettura
Follow-up Contact: Detective Christine Rettura 805 – 662-6770
Date of Release: 8-12-11
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 August 11, 2011, the Camarillo Police Department’s Special Enforcement Detail conducted a probation search at an apartment located at 687 N. Las Posas Road in the city of Camarillo. The sole resident, Jacob Carl Manuel, is on probation for burglary with search terms. Initially, Manuel could not be located and was not present at the time of the search of his apartment.

Investigators found multiple boxes of ammunition and several firearms, including an AK-47 assault rifle with a large capacity magazine, a Mac-10 with a large capacity magazine, and an unregistered Ruger Mini-14 rifle. A small quantity of heroin and syringes used to inject the drug were also found in the apartment. Additionally, a pit-bull was found locked inside a small dog crate, which was stored inside a closed closet. The dog did not have access to food or water.

As the investigation progressed, it was determined that Manuel may have been alerted to our presence and was hiding in the immediate area. The apartment complex and surrounding neighborhood was searched and Manuel was eventually located in his vehicle a short distance away. Based on the circumstances, Manuel was considered to be an armed suspect and was detained at gunpoint.

Manuel was arrested for unlawful firearm activity, possession of large capacity magazines, possession of a controlled substance, unauthorized possession of a hypodermic needle, and cruelty to an animal. Manuel was booked at the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility for the listed charges. Manuel’s bail is set at $55,000.

Report Number:
RB # 11-18160
Location:
687 N. Las Posas Road Apt. # 104, Camarillo, Ca.
Date & Time:
August 11, 2011 @ 1423 Hours
Unit Responsible:
Camarillo Police Department - Special Enforcement Detail
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(A) Jacob Carl Manuel Camarillo, Ca. 23
Media Release Prepared by: Sergeant John J. Gleason
Media Release Date: August 12, 2011
Follow-Up Contact: Sergeant John J. Gleason (805) 388-5100
Approved by: Captain Bruce Macedo

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

From July 28th, 2011, through August 8th, 2011, numerous Las Vegas hotels and casinos received bomb threat phone calls. The caller appeared to be disguising his voice and was demanding large amounts of money. The caller threatened to detonate the bombs and destroy the properties if the casinos did not meet his demands.

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) Counter Terrorism Section immediately initiated an investigation into these calls and learned that the suspects were attempting to use sophisticated devices in order to conceal their identity and location. LVMPD Counter Terrorism Detectives were able to learn that the suspects were making the calls from Ventura County California.

LVMPD Detectives contacted the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and a joint investigation was initiated. On August 10th, 2011, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and members of the LVMPD Counter Terrorism Section served a search warrant in Ventura County in support of this investigation. Detectives recovered several pieces of key evidence. Two suspects were identified as being involved in making these calls. Zachary Jackson was arrested and booked into the Ventura County Sheriff’s East County Jail on charges of Making False Bomb Threats and Attempted Extortion.

LVMPD Counter Terrorism and Cyber Crimes Detectives will be examining the devices recovered for additional evidence. Some of this evidence may potentially identify new incidents and victims.

Location: 1500 Block of Patricia Avenue in Simi Valley, CA

Numerous Casinos in Las Vegas, NV

Date & Time/ RB#: Between July 28, 2011 and August 8, 2011

Unit Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Intel and Narcotics Units, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses City of Residence Age

(S) Jackson, Zachary Simi Valley 18

(S) Male Juvenile Simi Valley 16

Officer Preparing Release: Detective John Wright

Follow-up Contact: Officer J. Rivera, LVMPD (702) 828-4082

Detective John Wright (805) 383-8751

Date of Release: August 11, 2011

Approved By: Captain Derek West

 
Police asking for additional victims to come forward
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

In late June to early July of 2011, several residents of the Santa Rosa Valley area reported a male subject exposing himself and masturbating on the dirt trails along the hillsides of the Santa Rosa Valley. Victims provided an articulate description of the suspect. Patrol deputies conducted follow-up investigation and were able to identify a suspect. Moorpark station detectives continued the investigation and established probable cause to arrest the suspect, Terrence Clark. Clark was located and arrested for section 314.1 of the Penal Code– indecent exposure.

If anyone has been a victim of an indecent exposure in the Santa Rosa Valley area over the past several months and has not yet reported the incident, please contact Moorpark Police Department detectives at (805) 532-2714.

Location: Santa Rosa Valley
Date & Time/ RB#: August 5, 2011 @ 8:00 a.m. / RB # 11-14952
Unit Responsible: Moorpark Detectives
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses City of Residence Age
(S) Clark, Terrence Camarillo 53
Officer Preparing Release: Detective Christopher Starks
Follow-up Contact: Detective Christopher Starks (805) 299-1554
Date of Release: August 5, 2011
Approved by: Capt. Don Aguilar

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

On July 26, 2011, at about 5:45 P.M, City of Thousand Oaks Police Officers responded to a disturbance call at the 200 block of Siesta Avenue. When they arrived at the location, they were confronted by 39 year-old Gary Fisher. He pointed what was believed to be a handgun at a uniformed Sheriff’s Deputy. Officers assigned to the City of Thousand Oaks Special Enforcement Unit and Major Crimes Investigation Unit responded to the scene to assist patrol deputies. Fortunately, the deputies were able to de-escalate the situation and safely take Fisher into custody. A realistic looking replica handgun was recovered at the scene.

During the incident, 48 year-old Laurie Fisher was also arrested for interfering with the deputies investigating the crime. Both Gary Fisher and Laurie Fisher were booked into the Ventura County Jail. Both were released after posting bail.

This case was presented to the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office who filed one felony count against Gary Fisher for Resisting an Officer and one misdemeanor count of Brandishing a Replica Gun. Misdemeanor charges of Obstructing a Police Officer and Battery on a Police Officer were filed against Laurie Fisher.

Gary Fisher is scheduled to appear in court on October 4, 2011. Laurie Fisher is scheduled to appear in court on August 30, 2011.

Location: 200 block of Siesta Avenue, Thousand Oaks
Date & Time/ RB#: July 26, 2011, 5:45 P.M Report #/ 11-16899
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police Department / Investigation Bureau
Arrested City of Residence Age
Gary Fisher Thousand Oaks 39
Laurie Fisher Thousand Oaks 48
Officer Preparing Release: Detective Russell King
Follow-up Contact: Detective Russell King
Date of Release: August 4, 2011
Approved By: Captain Tim Hagel

 
Police asking witnesses to contact them

On Thursday, August 04, 2011 at approximately 6:32 am, Santa Paula Police Department received a call of a stabbing victim at the Santa Paula Hospital.

Responding Officers contacted and interviewed the victim in the Santa Paula Hospital Emergency Room. The victim suffered 3 stab wounds to his upper left arm and left thigh that were determined to be non-life threatening. The victim reported the incident occurred in the parking lot area of Del Taco, located at 55 Hallock Dr. in the City of Santa Paula. The victim was unable to provide information regarding the suspect(s).

At this time, the investigation is continuing. If anyone witnessed or has any information regarding this incident, please contact the Santa Paula Police Department at (805) 525-4474.

Jeremy Watson #1025
Senior Officer

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

On August 1, at approximately 1:30 pm, personnel from the Ojai Police Department executed a search warrant based on information obtained about a convicted felon (Ronald Frowein) possibly in possession of a machine gun. Ojai Police organized a search warrant team utilizing resources from patrol as well as detectives to serve the warrant. The search warrant was then served at the location and deputies seized a machine gun as well as drugs, drug paraphernalia, and other contraband from the location. Mr. Frowien was arrested without incident.

Frowein was booked at the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility for possession of a firearm by a narcotic addict, possession of a machine gun, possession of ammunition, possession for sale of a controlled substance and being under the influence of a controlled substance, all felony charges.

Location: 900 Block of E. Ojai Ave, Ojai, Ca
Date & Time: August 1, 2011, 1:30 P.M.
Unit Responsible: Ojai Detectives and Patrol Units
(A) Arrestee City of Residence Age
Frowein, Ronald Ojai 47
Officer Preparing Release: Sgt. Mark Franke
Follow-up Contact: Ojai Detectives Burgess and Michalec, 646-1414
Date of Release: August 3, 2011
Approved By: Captain Monica McGrath

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

After participating in a competitive statewide process, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office was awarded a $65,000.00 grant to help combat underage drinking, curb incidents of driving under the influence, and assure vendors of alcoholic beverages maintain legal compliance.

In cooperation with staff from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, deputies will use grant funds to facilitate responsible alcoholic beverage sales and service training to owners and employees of businesses that are licensed to sell alcoholic beverages. Deputies will also conduct site inspections at licensed locations, check compliance with laws regulating the sales of alcoholic beverages to minors, and purchase some investigative equipment with grant funds.

Funding from this grant will be applied to all locations within the Sheriff’s Office’s patrol areas, which includes all unincorporated areas and the Cities of Ojai, Fillmore, Camarillo, Moorpark, and Thousand Oaks. The grant operational period includes July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012.

Officer Preparing Release: Captain Bill Ayub
Follow-up Contact: Captain Bill Ayub 805-494-8248
Date of Release: July 22, 2011
Approved By: Captain Paul Higgason

 
Tom Keller Nation
Tom Keller Nation

The Thousand Oaks Police Department / Internet Crimes Against Children Unit and FBI arrested Thousand Oaks resident, Tom Keller Nation, age 42, for possessing child pornography.

The investigation began in May of 2011, when an undercover detective of The Thousand Oaks Police Department / Internet Crimes Against Children Unit using a publicly available file-sharing program saw that Nation was sharing illegal child pornography. The downloaded images and videos contained visual depictions of actual minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

A search warrant was served today at Nation’s residence. Nation’s computer was seized and turned over to the Southern California High Tech Task Force who will conduct a forensic examination of the computer.

Nation was arrested without incident at his residence and booked on felony possession of child pornography into the Ventura County Jail. Nation’s bail is set at $50,000.

The Thousand Oaks Police Department Internet Crimes Against Children Unit has made the investigation of online sexual predators, and those who choose to exchange images of child pornography a top priority, and will continue to aggressively investigate, identify, and prosecute those persons involved in Internet Crimes against Children.

Date & Time/ Report: July 13, 2011 / 11-15633
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police / Internet Crimes Against Children Unit and F.B.I. SAFE Team
Suspect City of Residence Age
Tom Keller Nation Thousand Oaks 42
Officer Preparing Release: Detective Anthony Aguirre
Follow-up Contact: Detective Anthony Aguirre (805) 371-8309 / anthony.aguirre@ventura.org
Date of Release: July 13, 2011
Approved By: Captain Tim Hagel

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

On 07-28-2011, Vintage Oil field workers discovered a large amount of metal missing from an inactive oil pumping site in the 17000 block of South Mountain Road in Santa Paula. Fillmore Station Patrol Deputies were contacted and responded to the scene. During the initial investigation evidence was recovered that indicated (S) Jeffrey Daniel was involved in the theft. Daniel was detained near his residence and several of the stolen oil pump parts were located in his truck. The theft represented approximately $3800.00 in losses of equipment for the victim.

Daniel was arrested for grand theft, a felony, and he was booked into the Ventura County Jail.

This arrest was made possible because of the partnership between the farming community and the Sheriff’s Office and the immediate reporting of the incident by “Farm Watch” members. “Farm Watch” is a county wide electronic neighborhood watch program that is distributed to more than 600 farms, ranches, nurseries, and supply houses. In this case, because of “Farm Watch”, the victim knew how to react and treat the crime scene to preserve potential evidence for immediate processing by the deputies of the Sheriff’s Office. In order to get registered on Farm Watch, please e-mail crime.watch@ventura.org.

Location: 17000 Block of South Mountain Road, Santa Paula
Date & Time/ RB#: 07-28-2011 @ 8:15 A.M. / Report # 11-17018
Unit Responsible: Fillmore Police Station
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses City of Residence Age
(V) Vintage Oil
(S) Jeffrey Donald Daniel Santa Paula 46
Officer Preparing Release: Detective Darin Hendren
Follow-up Contact: Detective Darin Hendren
Date of Release: 07-28-2011
Approved By: Captain Monica McGrath

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

On 7-27-2011, narcotic investigators received information that James Lucky Rose was growing and selling marijuana in his apartment unit in the 600 block of Hampshire Road, Thousand Oaks. Investigators also received information that Rose had a three-year-old child living at the residence who was being exposed to the marijuana. Investigators learned Rose was on probation with search terms and decided to conduct a probation search at Rose’s residence.

Investigators found several ounces of marijuana packaged for sale, sales paraphernalia and a loaded stolen handgun inside the residence. All these items were accessible to the three-year-old child. Investigators also found photographs inside Rose’s cell phone that were consistent with child pornography. The mother of the child, Cynthia Vatcher, was present when the search occurred.

Rose was arrested for possessing marijuana for sales, child endangerment, and for being a felon in possession of a loaded firearm. Cynthia Vatcher was not arrested pending a complaint being filed on her with the District Attorney’s Office. Rose was not arrested for child pornography charges pending further investigation. Rose was booked into the Ventura County Jail for the listed charges. Rose will be arraigned in the Ventura County Superior Court on 7-29-2011. His bail was requested to be set at $250,000.00

Location: 600 Block of Hampshire Road, Thousand Oaks

Date & Time/ RB#: July 27, 2011

Unit Responsible: East County Narcotic Street Team

(A) Arrestee City of Residence Age
(A) James Lucky Rose III Thousand Oaks 31 yrs
(S-1) Cynthia Allison Vatcher Thousand Oaks 22 yrs

Officer Preparing Release: Sergeant Robert Thomas

Follow-up Contact: Sergeant Robert Thomas- Robert.Thomas@ventura.org

Date of Release: July 27, 2011

Approved By: R.Hindman

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

On 07/26/2011, at approximately 3:15 pm, a UPS truck was delivering packages in the 2400 block of Springbrook Street. While the driver was making a delivery, two seven-year-old boys climbed onto the back step of the truck. The driver returned to his vehicle, and unbeknownst to him, the children were still on the step. He started the truck and drove off. The children fell off of the back step and landed onto the asphalt.

Both children were transported by ambulance to area hospitals for head injuries. One child was treated and released. The other child was admitted and is expected to fully recover.

Location: Springbrook Street / Windbreeze Avenue
Date & Time/ RB#: 07/26/2011 1515 hrs.
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Traffic
Involved Parties City of Residence Age
Male Driver Moorpark 42
Male Child Thousand Oaks 7
Male Child Thousand Oaks 7
Officer Preparing Release: Sgt. B. Payton
Follow-up Contact: Thousand Oaks Police Department, Traffic Bureau
Deputy Shawn Holzberger 805.373.2305
Date of Release: 07/27/2011
Approved By: Captain Paul Higgason