Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On Wednesday, May 11, 2011, (S) Byron Maradiaga brandished a knife during a gang disturbance in the patio area of Sharkey’s restaurant in Newbury Park. Witnesses stated that Maradiaga, a local gang member, was there to fight gang members from a rival gang.

The Thousand Oaks Special Enforcement Gang Unit positively identified Maradiaga as the suspect in the gang incident during their investigation. Gang officers were able to apprehend Maradiaga after surveilling several locations within the Thousand Oaks area.

On Friday, May 13, 2011, Maradiaga was seen outside of a house on Paseo Esmeralda and attempted to flee from the officers. After a short foot pursuit and search the gang officers found Maradiaga hiding in the garage of the home and took him into custody without incident. Maradaiga was arrested for PC 417(a)(1) / Brandishing a Deadly Weapon and PC 186.22 / Street Terrorism.

Location: Sharkey’s Restaurant, 1930 Newbury Rd., Newbury Park

Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police Department / Special Enforcement Gang Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses Address Age

(S) Byron Maradiaga Newbury Park 25

Officer Preparing Release: Sr. Deputy L. Oriee

Follow-up Contact: Deputy J. Moore (805) 371-8335

Approved By: Captain Mike De Los Santos

Leaders, academia and public entities will come together in Pomona this February at the 2009 Fire Summit to improve wildfire management for Southern California’s residents, communities and landscapes.
The Fire Summit will be on Tuesday, May 24, 2011, from 8am-4:00pm at the Headquarters of Air Quality Management District (AQMD), in Diamond Bar, CA.
The Fire Summit was developed by the Regional Area Safety Taskforce (RAST). RAST is a partnership of local, state and federal agencies working to facilitate regional collaborative fire shed planning and improvement for safe, sustainable communities in southern California.
Through the Fire Summit and other efforts, RAST advances efforts to improve interagency coordination. This includes activities to:
• Unify the actions and strategies of numerous entities to meet shared goals of healthy ecosystems and safe communities on a regional level.
• Improve communication and coordination among government and agencies at all levels.
• Identify strategies to leverage information and resources.
The 2011 Fire Summit will provide a venue for government, organizations and other experts to work together to improve wildfire coordination in southern California. Participants from other regions will have the opportunity to observe RAST’s one-of-a-kind model for multi-agency cooperation at all levels on a regional scale. With the Fire Summit, RAST also looks forward to hearing about and learning from the strategies developed for other areas.
More information and registration materials can be found online at: www.FireSummit.info.
Coordination for the 2011 Fire Summit is provided by the South Coast Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council. A number of local, state and federal partners actively participate in RAST and are contributing to development of this event:

South Coast Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council
United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CALFIRE)
Local Resource Conservation Districts
Fire Safe Councils

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On 5-11-11 at approximately 1:32 p.m., Ventura County Sheriff’s deputies assigned to the West County Patrol / Ojai Station, as well as Ventura City Fire Department and LifeLine Ambulance personnel responded to Foster Park for a report of a subject not breathing in the Ventura River creek.

Upon arrival, emergency personnel found a male subject who had just been pulled out of the water in a semi-responsive state. Witnesses stated that three adult males were seen playing in the water. After several minutes, two female Ventura citizens, who were at the water’s edge, saw that two of the male subjects appearing to be in distress in the water. One of the female citizens jumped into the water and assisted the two male subjects out of the water and onto some nearby rocks. She was then alerted to the fact that there was a third subject, Raul Reyes-Perea, lying motionless at the bottom of the stream in about 6 to 8 feet of water. The female citizen dove into the water and was able to bring Reyes-Perea up to the surface.

After initiating a 9-1-1 call and with the help of a friend, the two females were able to drag Reyes-Perea partially out of the water and start first aid. After approximately a minute, Reyes-Perea started breathing on his own.

Emergency personnel arrived shortly thereafter and took over first aid/rescue operations, eventually transporting Reyes-Perea to the Ventura County Medical Center.

At the time of this release, Reyes-Perea’s condition has been improving, and will be kept in the hospital for observation and treatment.

Location: 438 Casitas Vista Rd., Foster Park
Date & Time/ RB#: May 11, 2011 @ 1:32 p.m. / 11-10668
Unit Responsible: Ojai Valley Area Patrol
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses City of Residence Age
(V) Perea Reyes, Raul Watsonville, CA 21
*Involved Citizens: Female Ventura Resident (46 years)
Female Ventura Resident (39 years)
*At the request of the involved citizens, their names were not included in the media release.
Officer Preparing Release: Sgt. Pat Ruby
Follow-up Contact: Sgt. Pat Ruby (805) 646-1417
Approved By: Captain Don Aguilar

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On May 4, 2011 and May 7, 2011, different suspects robbed a branch of Chase Bank, located at 148 W. Hillcrest Drive. There were no injuries during either heist, and both suspects fled the bank within minutes, carrying an undisclosed amount of cash. Both suspects used a demand note, and no weapons were seen.

The investigation is being handled by the East CountyMajor Crimes Unit in conjunction with the FBI. Anyone with information about the identity of the suspects or their whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Jon Smith at (805) 494-8201, or Special Agent Pat Conley of the FBI at (310) 629-9553 or (310) 477-6565 (24 hours). Please see the attached images of the suspects.

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). The FBI will also offer a reward for information in this matter.

Location: Chase Bank, 148 W. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks, CA
Date & Time/ RB#: May 4, 2011 @ 3:50 p.m. / 11-10032
May 7, 2011 @ 11:30 a.m. / 11- 10301
Unit Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff East County Major Crimes / Federal Bureau of Investigation
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses Date
(S1) Black Male, 5’9 -5’10, 200-250, 25-35 years old May 4, 2011 (S2) Black Male, 5’8 – 5’9, 190-220, 25-30 years old May 7, 2011
Officer Preparing Release: Detective Jon R. Smith
Follow-up Contact: Det. Jon R. Smith (805) 494-8216 / Special Agent Pat Conley (310) 629-9553
Approved By: Captain Tim Hagel

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On May 5th, 2011, at approximately 2:00 p.m., the Fire Department and Sheriff’s Office were notified of two injured fall victims in the area of Hwy 33 and the Potrero John Trail. Initial reports indicated that one of the victims was not breathing. This area is located approximately 20 miles north of Ojai in the Los Padres National Forest and is a popular hiking and climbing destination.

The Sheriff’s Office helicopter responded with Fire and Sheriff rescue personnel on board. As the helicopter arrived on scene, Tyler Dobbs was spotted being attended to at the trailhead by the Highway Patrol and several bystanders. The group directed the helicopter to a location approximately 1/8 mile up the canyon where the helicopter crew observed a person lying in the rocks next to a cliff face. The helicopter medic was hoisted from the helicopter to render aid but the victim’s injuries were fatal. This person was identified as Jasper Bowen.

The helicopter crew then flew back to the trailhead and with the assistance of the Fire Department and Lifeline medical personnel treated Dobbs at the scene. He was then airlifted to Ventura County Medical Trauma Center.

In examining the scene and speaking to Dobbs it was determined that the two friends had been camping in the area when they decided to explore the canyon. They both began scaling a section of the canyon wall when Dobbs believed it was becoming too dangerous to continue without proper climbing gear. Bowen continued to climb above Dobbs approximately 30 feet when he slipped and fell. Dobbs attempted to stop Bowen’s fall by stepping in front of him but Bowen’s momentum knocked Dobbs off of the cliff face and they both fell approximately 50 feet to the rocks below.

After being knocked unconscious, Dobbs awoke to find his friend unresponsive next to him in the remote canyon. After rendering aid to Bowen, Dobbs staggered to the campsite to retrieve his car keys. Dobbs, suffering from multiple injuries, then hiked back to the roadway where several passing motorists stopped and helped him. One of these motorists continued down Hwy. 33 until he was able to obtain cell service and placed an emergency call to the authorities.

Location: Potrero John Trail, Los Padres National Forest – Ojai, CA
Date & Time: 5/5/2011 @ 2:00 p.m.
Unit Responsible: Sheriff’s Search & Rescue / Aviation Unit
Victims City of residence Age
V-1 Jasper Bowen – Deceased Santa Barbara 31
V-2 Tyler Dobbs – Hospitalized Santa Barbara 23
Officer Preparing Release: Sergeant F. Underlin
Follow-up Contact: Sergeant F. Underlin (805) 947-8196
Approved by: Captain Don Aguilar

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

During the last week of March 2011, the Sheriff’s Gang Unit started receiving reports that a group of gang members in the unincorporated area of Nyeland Acres were targeting residents for the purpose of robbery. The robberies were being committed against undocumented immigrant workers who were not reporting the crimes to police.

The Sheriff’s gang unit began conducting assertive anti gang operations in the community of Nyeland Acres, consisting of saturation patrols, surveillance, and canvassing the neighborhood in an attempt to locate victims during this time frame. Gang investigators were able to locate two victims. In one of the robberies, five gang members ages 14 to 16 approached a victim, threatened him and robbed him of $300. In another incident, a 16-year-old gang member brandished a screwdriver and demanded money. The suspect was scared off by a passer-by before the robbery could be committed. Investigators also discovered an un-reported robbery while reviewing surveillance video provided by a local business. Investigators have so far been unable to identify the victim.
During some of the surveillances conducted in the neighborhood, gang investigators watched local gang members aggressively panhandle local residents. Investigators believe that the gang members picked who they wanted to rob by how the residents reacted to the panhandling. In each case of aggressive panhandling, gang investigators contacted the residents to confirm a robbery had not taken place.

During a surveillance on 4-8-2011, an undercover gang investigator watched as a gang member broke into a car parked nearby. The investigator began coordinating responding enforcement units to arrest the suspect. However, before they arrived, a local resident interrupted the burglary and the suspect fled from the area.
On 4-9-2011, Sheriff Gang investigators were again canvassing the neighborhood when a call of a reported carjacking was broadcast. A victim in the 3500 block of Orange Drive reported that two males confronted him as he sat in his pickup truck. One of the suspects brandished a handgun and demanded money. Believing he was about to be shot, the victim fled out the passenger’s door and called police. Gang investigators quickly began searching areas where the gang members frequent. About 30 minutes later, a gang investigator found the occupied stolen vehicle on Vineyard Ave and Collins Drive in El Rio. The suspects led gang investigators on a pursuit through El Rio where they rammed a car occupied by five people at Rose Avenue and Collins Drive. Two of the five people in the rammed vehicle suffered minor injuries. The suspects continued driving onto the 101 Freeway where they drove northbound on S.R. 101. Because of the extreme danger the suspects posed to the general public, gang investigators used their patrol cars to force the suspects to stop when they exited Johnson Drive in the city limits of Ventura. The passenger was immediately taken into custody as he sat in the truck. The driver ran into a nearby field. Gang investigators chased the suspect and apprehended him after a short foot pursuit. The driver fought after being caught and had to be subdued with a Taser and eventually placed under arrest. During a search of the driver, a handgun was recovered from his front pants pocket. The driver was identified as a 14 year-old gang member and the passenger was identified as a 16 year-old gang member. Investigators also recognized the 16 year-old as the suspect who committed the vehicle burglary the day before.
As a result of the robbery investigations, 6 juveniles were arrested for multiple counts of carjacking, attempted robbery, robbery and burglary. Investigators believe that there are several robberies that are still unreported. All juveniles remain in custody at Juvenile Hall.

During saturation patrols, Gang investigators also arrested 4 adults for a variety of crimes. On 4-16-2011, gang investigators saw four adult males standing in front of a residence on Orange Drive in Nyeland Acres. They recognized one of the males as Jorge Flores. Flores was on active parole and was wearing a GPS electronic monitor on his ankle. They knew that Flores had parole terms that included not to associate with gang members. Investigators recognized two of the subjects that were with Flores as gang members. All four were drinking in public and when investigators tried to stop them, two of the subjects, Juan Garcia and Robert Baddigo, began walking away and refused to stop when they were ordered to by gang investigators. They were both subsequently arrested for resisting arrest. The fourth subject, Alejandro Fernandez, was arrested after he was found in possession of a small amount of cocaine.

As a reminder to the public we serve, every member of the Sheriff’s Office is committed to safeguarding the lives and property of every community member. Everyone must feel secure in contacting our agency so we can protect them from the criminal element, regardless of their immigration status.

Report Number: Numerous
Location: Unincorporated area of Nyeland Acres
Date & Time: 3-28-2011 through 5-4-2011
Unit Responsible: Sheriff Gang Unit
Suspect(s), City of Residence Age
Male Juvenile Oxnard 14
Male Juvenile Oxnard 15
Male Juvenile Oxnard 15
Male Juvenile Oxnard 16
Male Juvenile Oxnard 16
Male Juvenile Oxnard 16
Jorge Flores Oxnard 27
Alejandro Fernandez Oxnard 24
Juan Garcia Oxnard 25
Robert Baddigo Oxnard 20

Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sgt Bill Schierman
Follow-Up Contact: Sgt Bill Schierman 654-3551
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

On April 30, 2011 patrol deputies were dispatched to vandalism in progress in the area of Ventu Park Road and the 101 Freeway. Upon their arrival, deputies located (S) Carlos Veliz, riding his bike. Deputies also located several areas that had been spray painted with gang graffiti. During the initial investigation, deputies located a can of spray paint in Veliz's possession that was the same color of paint used to complete the graffiti.

A deputy with the Special Enforcement Gang Unit responded to assist with the investigation. It was later determined that Veliz had sprayed gang related graffiti at about 15 locations. The total amount of damage is not known at this time. Veliz was booked at the Ventura County Jail Facility for a violation of 594 (b)(1) PC / Vandalism, 186.22 PC / Street Terrorism and 11550 (a) H&S / Under the Influence of Narcotics.

Location: Numerous locations in Newbury Park

Date & Time/ RB#: April 30, 2011 @ 6:45 A.M. / 11-09699

Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police Department / Special Enforcement Gang Unit

(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses Address Age

(S) Veliz, Carlos Thousand Oaks 18

Officer Preparing Release: Sergeant M. Gillette

Follow-up Contact: Deputy J. Moore / 805-371-8335

Approved By: Captain W. Ayub

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On April 29th, 2011, two male subjects confronted the victim as he talked to a friend on a street corner. The suspect(s) aggressively confronted the victim and demanded money. One suspect punched the victim several times on the head, knocking him to the ground. The victim stated he did not have any money, so the suspects stole the victim’s skateboard. After taking the property, the suspects fled the area.

Within a few days, members of the East County Investigation Bureau and Thousand Oaks Special Enforcement Unit were able to positively identify the two suspects responsible for the robbery. During the investigation, it was also determined that the suspects are associates of a local street gang.

On May 5, 2011 members from the Thousand Oaks Special Enforcement Unit and East County Investigation Bureau served two search warrants in the City of Thousand Oaks and located both suspects. The suspects were subsequently arrested and booked for violations of 211PC / Robbery and 186.22 PC / Street Terrorism.

Location: 500 block Jenny Dr., Newbury Park

Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police Department / East County Investigations Bureau –Major Crimes Unit and Special Enforcement Gang Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses Address Age
(S) Juvenile Newbury Park 15
(S) Juvenile Newbury Park 15

Officer Preparing Release: Sergeant M. Gillette

Follow-up Contact: Sr. Deputy J. Smith / 805-494-8216

Approved by: Captain W. Ayub

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

The Thousand Oaks Police Department / Internet Crimes Unit investigates cyber crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. The unit arrested Simi Valley resident, Trevor Curtis Hart, age 47, on two felony counts of possessing child pornography.

The investigation began in November of 2010 when an undercover detective of the Thousand Oaks Police Department / Internet Crimes Against Children Unit began monitoring Hart's Internet use of illegal child pornography. The investigation was comprehensive and detectives as a result of a search warrant issued by a judge seized Hart’s computer. The electronic evidence was turned over to the Southern California High Tech Task Force who conducted a forensic examination of the computer. The computer lab identified that Hart had over 150 child pornography videos on his computer.

Hart was arrested for the felony charges at his residence and booked into the Ventura County Jail. Hart’s bail is set at $50,000.

Date & Time/ Report: May 3, 2011 / 10-26555
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police / Internet Crimes Unit
Suspect City of Residence Age
Trevor Curtis Hart Simi Valley 47
Officer Preparing Release: Detective Anthony Aguirre
Follow-up Contact: Detective Anthony Aguirre (805) 371-8309
Approved By: Captain Tim Hagel

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On Thursday afternoon, while playing at Santa Susana Park, two children were approached by a subject near the tunnel. The children entered the tunnel and were followed by the subject . The subject then committed a lewd act involving one of the children. Neither child was harmed.

A composite drawing was constructed and the Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the individual.

As the summer approaches, these circumstances warrant being cognizant of strangers in open areas, and keeping close watch on your small children at all times.

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: Santa Susana Park, Simi Valley
Date & Time/ RB#: April 28, 2011 4:10 PM
Unit Responsible: East County Sexual Assault Unit
(S)uspect City of Residence Age
White Male Adult Unknown 40-45
Officer Preparing Release: Sgt B. Payton
Follow-up Contact: Sgt. B. Payton 805.371.8392
Approved By: Captain T. Hagel

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Over the last three weeks, the Sheriff’s Gang Unit has been investigating a residential burglary where numerous firearms and large quantities of ammunition were stolen. During the course of the investigation, they arrested three subjects for committing the burglary and recovered all but one of the firearms. One of the subjects arrested was Brian Teasdale who is an associate of the Hells Angels criminal street gang. Continuing the investigation, gang investigators developed enough evidence to obtain a search warrant for the Hells Angels Club House at 65 Fix Way, Ventura.

On 4-29-11, gang investigators from throughout the Sheriff’s Department served the search warrant at 65 Fix Way, Ventura. Investigators detained 19 people who were attending a meeting at the clubhouse. During the search investigators recovered methamphetamine, several large containers of marijuana, over 2,000 dollars in cash and a loaded handgun.

Five Hells Angels gang members were arrested for a variety of charges. They include George Christie III for being under the influence of methamphetamine, Jacob Holder for being under the influence of methamphetamine, David Olivares for being under the influence of methamphetamine, Jason Novak for possession of a deadly weapon, and Robert Smith for possession for sales of marijuana and being under the influence of methamphetamine.

Report Number: 11-9664
Location: 65 Fix Way, Ventura
Date & Time: 4-29-2011 / 7:00 PM
Unit Responsible: Sheriff Gang Unit

Suspects, City of Residence Age
1) George Christie III Ventura 35
2) Jacob Holder Ventura 25
3) David Olivares Santa Barbara 40
4) Jason Novak Ventura 30
5) Robert Smith Ventura 36

Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sgt Bill Schierman
Follow-Up Contact: Sgt Bill Schierman 654-3551
Approved by: Captain P. Higgason

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

The Thousand Oaks Police Department will be hosting a program to educate newly licensed and future licensed drivers.

Start Smart is a cooperative effort between the California Highway Patrol, Thousand Oaks Police Department, teenage drivers, and their parents.

In an attempt to remain proactive and not reactive, the Start Smart Program is designed to help young drivers and their parents/guardians understand the responsibilities associated with driving a motor vehicle. Start Smart will show how a poor choice behind the wheel can change the lives of everyone involved. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the number of teen-related injuries and deaths due to collisions.

Interested parents are asked to call the Thousand Oaks Police Department Traffic Bureau at 805-494-8271 for more information and to make a reservation. Space is limited to 20 students and their parents. There is no charge to attend the program.

Location: Thousand Oaks Police Station – East County Community Room
2101 E. Olsen Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

Date & Time: Thursday May 12, 2011 at 6 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Traffic Bureau
Officer Preparing Release: Senior Deputy Kelly Roark
Follow-up Contact: Thousand Oaks Traffic Bureau / Senior Deputy Kelly Roark
Approved by: Captain Bill Ayub

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

In March of this year, Sheriff’s Office narcotics detectives received information of cocaine sales occurring in the city of Camarillo. Detectives identified Victor Espinoza of Camarillo as the suspect in these illegal sales. During the course of the investigation, detectives learned that Gerardo Gaytan was also involed in the sales of cocaine. Several controlled purchases of cocaine were made from Espinoza at his place of employment, the Taqueria El Tapatio restaurant located in the city of Camarillo.

On April 28, 2011, Sheriff’s narcotic detectives, along with members of the Camarillo Special Enforcement Detail observed Espinoza meet with Gaytan near the Taqueria El Tapatio. When contacted by detectives, Espinoza was found to be in possession of one kilo of cocaine, which detectives believe to have been supplied by Gaytan. The estimated street value of the seized cocaine is approximately $60,000.00

Search Warrants were later served at two locations in the city of Camarillo; Espinoza’s residence in the 2600 block of Ponderosa Dr, and the Taqueria El Tapatio restaurant. No additional narcotics were seized. While at the Taqueria El Tapatio, the owner, Joel Valle, became combative with detectives and was arrested for resisting arrest and possession of cock fighting paraphernalia that was found inside the business. Valle was not involved in the narcotics investigation.

The bail for Espinoza and Gayton was set at $50,000.00, and the bail for Valle was $5,000. Valle also has and INS hold.

Location: Camarillo

Date & Time/ RB#: April 28, 2011

Unit Responsible: Special Services – Narcotics – West County Street Team

(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses City of Residence Age
Victor Espinoza Camarillo 26
Gerardo Gaytan Port Hueneme 37
Joel Valle Camarillo 44

Officer Preparing Release: Sgt Mike Horne

Follow-up Contact: Sgt Mike Horne

Approved By: Captain D. Murray

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

At about 0425 hours on 04-24-11, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a burglary in progress in the 3400 block of Frankie Drive. An alert neighbor reported hearing glass break and several subjects carrying property from a nearby residence to a vehicle parked in the driveway. When the subjects noticed the neighbor, they fled the location in the vehicle. Patrol officers stationed out of the Thousand Oaks Station responded to the area and located the unoccupied suspect vehicle, containing the property removed from the residence.

Over the next several hours, detectives, along with assistance from the California Highway Patrol, located evidence that led them to the three suspects involved in the crime. Fausto Camarena was arrested for the felony charge of 459 PC / Residential Burglary and booked into the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility. Two additional juvenile suspects were also arrested for 459 PC / Residential Burglary and released to a parent.

The case was submitted to the District Attorney’s Office for review for charges of 459 PC / Residential Burglary.

Location: 3400 block of Frankie Drive, Newbury Park (unincorporated area)
Date & Time/ RB#: 04-24-11 @ 0425 hours / RB# 11-9203
Unit Responsible: East County Patrol Services / East County Investigations Bureau
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses City of Residence Age
(S) Fausto Camarena Reseda 19
(S) Juvenile Newbury Park 17
(S) Juvenile Newbury Park 16
Officer Preparing Release: Detective Russell King
Follow-up Contact: Detective Russell King
Approved By: Captain Hagel

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On 4-6-2011, Patrol deputies responded to a residential burglary call in the 1400 block of Loma, Ojai. An initial investigation found that an unknown person(s) had broken into the victim’s home and removed a large gun safe. The gun safe contained two (2) assault rifles, 12 other assorted firearms, over 3000 rounds of ammunition and cash. All of the weapons were legally possessed by the victim. The total loss was valued at over $12,000.
The Sheriff’s Gang Unit investigated the burglary and developed information that Brian Teasdale, his son Nikolas Teasdale, and Anthony Lindsey committed the burglary. After a two-week investigation, gang investigators learned that after the burglary, the three suspects took the safe to a welding fabrication shop in the City of Ventura. The suspects cut the safe open and removed all of the contents. The rifles and ammunition were then distributed between three separate locations.

Gang investigators served numerous search warrants and were able to recover all but one of the Rifles. Among the weapons recovered was an AR-10 and a SKS assault rifle with a high capacity magazine. Nikolas Teasdale and Brian Teasdale were both arrested on Wednesday for residential burglary. Both remain in custody awaiting trial.

Gang Investigators arrested Anthony Lindsey this morning while serving a search warrant at his residence. Lindsey is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing any firearms or ammunition. A search of his residence found one of the stolen high capacity magazines for the SKS assault rifle, a loaded handgun, two (2) rifles, numerous rounds of ammunition, and a small quantity of methamphetamine. Lindsey was arrested on charges that include residential burglary, felon in possession of a firearm, and being in possession of a firearm while in possession of methamphetamine. Lindsey was booked into the Ventura County Jail where he remains awaiting trial.

Gang investigators will continue the investigation until the one missing rifle is recovered.

Location: 1500 block Loma, Ojai, CA
Date & Time: April 6, 2011 to April 21, 2011
Unit Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Gang Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses City of Residence Age
(S-1) Brian Teasdale Ojai 41
(S-2) Nikolas Teasdale Ojai 18
(S-3) Anthony Lindsey Ojai 39
Officer Preparing Release: Sgt. Bill Schierman
Follow-up Contact: Sgt. Bill Schierman (805) 654-3551
Approved By: Captain Stephen Wade

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

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On February 5, 2011, Sheriff’s patrol units responded to a call of an illegal marijuana cultivation inside a residence in the community of La Conchita. Narcotics detectives responded and discovered an elaborate marijuana growing operation in a converted garage on the property. A search warrant was obtained and the residence was searched. 105 marijuana plants were seized as well as approximately 16 pounds of manicured marijuana. The owner of the residence had no knowledge of the illegal activity.

The associated growing lights, timers, and fans were powered by stolen electricity that had been bypassed and gone around the electric meter. The plants were in plastic buckets sitting on tarps and were being hand watered. The tarps contained the overflow water, but created a potentially dangerous situation had one of the loose electrical cords come in contact with water.

While at the residence, detectives were approached by Edward “Bennett” Gregge who was a tenant at the house. Bennett told detectives that Angela Butler rented the home on his behalf and the cultivation found belonged to him. Bennett was arrested for cultivation of marijuana and possession of marijuana for sale. Follow up information learned during this investigation revealed Angela Butler and Bennett Gregge’s brother, Forrest Gregge, were actively involved in the cultivation and distribution of marijuana.

On April 15, Forrest Gregge was stopped in the city of Ventura and found to be in possession of approximately 18 pounds of processed marijuana. He was arrested for possession of marijuana for sale. On April 19, Angela Butler and Bennett Gregge were arrested for preparing false evidence and solicitation to commit a crime, both felonies. Additionally, all suspects were arrested for conspiracy to cultivate marijuana and possess marijuana for sale.

Estimated value of the processed marijuana: $102,000.00
Estimated potential value of growing marijuana: $315,000.00

Location: 7000 Block Ocean View Rd, La Conchita, Ventura County, Ca.
Date: 2-5-2011
Unit Responsible: Special Services, Narcotics
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses City of Residence Age
Edward Bennett Gregge Thousand Oaks 27
Angela Butler Thousand Oaks 36
Forrest Gregge Thousand Oaks 25
Officer Preparing Release: Sgt Mike Horne
Follow-up Contact: Sgt Mike Horne

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On April 14, 2011, the East County Narcotics Street Team and the Ventura County Combined Agency Narcotic Task Force (VCAT), concluded a five-month investigation into David Caramanis who was responsible for the sales, manufacture and distribution of GHB in the city of Thousand Oaks. Caramanis was known to narcotic investigators and had a prior narcotic history dating back to the early 1990’s for sales of steroids and the manufacturing of GHB.

Over the past several months, narcotic detectives observed Caramanis selling GHB in and around the Thousand Oaks area. A search warrant was served in the 1100 block of Westlake Blvd and Caramanis and his girlfriend, Heather Manzi, were both arrested without incident. During the course of the search warrant, detectives discovered chemicals that had been purchased from overseas distributors and were consistent with the manufacture of GHB. Based on evidence collected at the residence, there were enough chemicals present to produce over 16,000 dosage units of GHB. At roughly $10 per capful, the total street value would exceed $160,000.00. In addition to the GHB, detectives found numerous steroids including; HGH, Testosterone Cypionate, Nandrolone, and Methandriol.

GHB was first synthesized in France more than 50 years ago as a possible anesthetic, but because of its undesirable side effects was rejected by the American medical community. GHB is a Schedule I Controlled Substance, which is used by body builders to induce sleep to encourage larger muscle growth and also to combat a condition known as "Roid Rage." GHB is also used in drug-facilitated sexual assaults (sometimes referred to as “date rape”) since it is a depressant and causes amnesia. GHB has been surreptitiously placed in female’s alcoholic drinks, causing them to lose consciousness, thereby making them susceptible to rape. GHB is commonly carried in Visine type bottles, nasal spray containers and various types of water bottles.

Caramanis and Manzi were booked into the Ventura County Jail and will be arraigned on April 18, 2011. Caramanis’ bail was set at $500,000 and Manzi at $20,000.

Location: 1100 block of Westlake Blvd, Thousand Oaks
Date & Time/ RB#: April 14, 2011 @ 2:00 PM / RB #11-0087
Unit Responsible: East County Narcotics / VCAT Task Force
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses Address Age
David Caramanis Thousand Oaks 39
Heather Manzi Thousand Oaks 24
Officer Preparing Release: D. West, Captain
Follow-up Contact: D. West (805) 383-8700
Approved By: Mike De Los Santos, Captain #0730

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

In October of 2010, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Arson Investigator, Camarillo Detectives, and the Camarillo Special Enforcement Detail began investigating a series of “dumpster fires” in the area of Barry Street and Arneill Road in the City of Camarillo. Between October 2010, and April of this year more than 13 dumpsters were set on fire. The dumpsters were located in various locations including the Chevron Gas Station at 255 Arneill Road, Brake Masters store at 238 Arneill Road, The Lube Shop at 274 Arneill Road, the 99 Cent Store located at 301 Arneill Road and Troop Real Estate located at the corner of Lomita and Arneill Road.

On April 13th, at about 9:20 p.m., Camarillo Patrol Deputies responded to a dumpster fire located behind the Camarillo Mattress Warehouse located at 2177 Pickwick Drive. This fire ultimately destroyed several mattresses, burned part of the exterior of the building and destroyed a large advertisement sign.

Patrol Deputies and detectives were able to gather several leads on a suspect (Andrew Palacio). On April 14th, at about 9:45 p.m., members of the Camarillo Special Enforcement Detail arrested Palacio behind 2177 Pickwick Drive.

Detectives and the members of the Special Enforcement Detail subsequently served a search warrant at Palacio’s home and were able to gather additional evidence against him. Palacio was later booked at the Ventura County Main Jail for arson and bail was set at $200.000.00

Report Number:
11-8335
Location:
Camarillo
Date & Time:
April 14, 2011 @ 9:45 p.m.
Unit Responsible:
Camarillo Investigations / Special Enforcement Detail
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
A-1 Andrew Palacio Camarillo 19
Deputy Preparing Media Release:
Sergeant Joe Devorick
Follow-Up Contact:
Sergeant Joe Devorick (805) 388-5133
Approved by:
Cmdr. Steve DeCesari

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On April 17, at approximately 2:20 PM, personnel from the Ojai Police Department and the Ventura County Fire Department responded to a report of an injury traffic accident at West Ojai Ave, North of Villanova Rd. in the City of Ojai. Upon arrival, they determined a Harley Davidson motorcycle with two occupants had been traveling southbound on West Ojai Ave and collided with a black two door Ford Explorer that was traveling northbound on West Ojai Ave. The motorcycle collided with the Ford Explorer in the northbound traffic lane and the occupants were ejected off of the motorcycle. The motorcycle was ridden by a 54-year-old male from Ojai. Sonia Miller, a 38-year-old female from Ojai, was the passenger on the motorcycle. The name of the male driver on the motorcycle is not being released until the Medical Examiner can contact the next of kin.

Ventura County Fire Personnel and deputies from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the scene and immediately began life saving measures. Both of the occupants riding on the motorcycle were pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of the collision remains under investigation. It is unknown if alcohol or drugs were a factor.

Anyone having information concerning this collision is asked to call Sr. Deputy James Popp at the Ojai Police Department at (805) 646-1414.

Location: West Ojai Ave. North of Villanova Road. Ojai

Date & Time/ RB#: April 17th, 2011 @ 2:20 PM
Unit Responsible: Ojai Patrol Units
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses City of Residence Age
Male driver Ojai 54
Sonia Miller Ojai 38
Officer Preparing Release: Sgt. Mark Franke
Follow-up Contact: Sr. Deputy James Popp
Approved By: Captain Rick Hindman

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

Sheriff Geoff Dean is pleased to announce the graduation of the Ventura County Criminal Justice Training Center’s Academy Class 2010-2. The graduation ceremony will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, April 21, 2011, at the Camarillo Community Church Auditorium, Camarillo, California. The guest speaker for the graduation ceremony will be Michael Powers, County Executive Officer.

The recruits have completed 23 weeks of instruction provided through the combined efforts of local law enforcement agencies and other criminal justice entities. The intense training and education prepares these officers for the responsibilities of serving the community.

ACADEMY ROSTER
Basic Academy Class 2010-2
Graduating Recruits

OXNARD POLICE DEPARTMENT
Michael Curtis Cole
Nicholas Curtis
Jose Diaz
Keith Lawrence
Brandon Mascorro
Greg Reynolds
Gregory A. Utter

SANTA BARBARA POLICE DEPARTMENT
Shawn Amaro
Kyle Crooks

SIMI VALLEY POLICE DEPARTMENT
Kenny Brzezinski
Jessica Neumann
Austen Schlecht

VENTURA COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
Daniel Abeloe
Michael Carl Bonelli
Tyler Ebell
Jacob A. Epstein
Elyse Fiss
Dylan Foley
Caleb Gallagher
Christian Pierre Guerguy
Victor Holmes, Jr.
Steve Krupnik
David Lamb
Sung K. Lee
David Mancini
Walter Milam
Nicole Moynier
Jason Ryen Pallotto
Jessica Diane Predovic
Weston Price
Andrew Reveles
Jaime Linette Reyes
Joshua Richter
Jonathan Schnereger
Kyle Smith
Kyle Vickers