County of Ventura, California. – The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office was awarded a $455,000.00 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). The grant will support our ongoing enforcement and education programs to help reduce the number of serious injuries and deaths on our roads. The grant program runs through September 2026 and is distributed among our five contract cities: Ojai, Fillmore, Camarillo, Moorpark, and Thousand Oaks.
“We are grateful to receive this grant, which will strengthen our traffic enforcement efforts and improve road safety, Ventura County Deputy Sheriff Bradley Bordon said. “Through a combination of education and enforcement efforts, our goal is to reduce dangerous driving behaviors, prevent crashes, and make our roads safer for everyone.”
The grant will provide additional programs and resources, including:
DUI checkpoints and patrols focused on stopping suspected impaired drivers.
High-visibility distracted driving enforcement operations targeting drivers in violation of California’s hands-free cell phone law.
Enforcement operations focused on the most dangerous driver behaviors that put the safety of people biking or walking at risk.
Enforcement operations focused on top violations that cause crashes: speeding, failure to yield, stop sign and/or red-light running, and improper turning or lane changes.
Community presentations on traffic safety issues such as distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding, and bicycle and pedestrian safety.
Collaborative enforcement efforts with neighboring agencies.
Officer training and/or recertification: Standard Field Sobriety Test (SFST), Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE), and Drug Recognition Expert (DRE).
“Through focused traffic enforcement and education, we’re working toward a future where everyone will be safe on California roads,” OTS Director Stephanie Dougherty said. “By encouraging people to prioritize safety in their daily choices, we are creating a strong road safety culture together.”
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jason Christmann
News Release Date: November 17, 2025
Approved by: Captain Jason B. Hendren
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Community: Media Release: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Awarded Grant from the Office of Traffic Safety for Traffic Enforcement Program to Increase
Nature of Incident: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Awarded Grant from the Office of Traffic Safety for Traffic Enforcement Program to Increase Safety on Roads
Location: County of Ventura
Date & Time: November 17, 2025
Unit(s) Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office

Ventura County District Attorney’s Office

VENTURA, Calif. – Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced today that Jose Zavala (DOB 06/13/85), of Fillmore, was convicted by a jury of four felony counts of sexual abuse against two minor victims. Zavala was found guilty of three counts of lewd acts upon a child and one count of continuous sexual abuse. Several special allegations were also found true, including that he took advantage of a position of trust or confidence and that the victims were particularly vulnerable.
Between 2019 and 2022, Zavala molested two victims. One was as young as six when the abuse started and the other was ten. The abuse took place regularly over several years. In 2023, both victims disclosed the abuses to mandated reporters who contacted law enforcement. Zavala gained access to the victims through a familial relationship.
Senior Deputy District Attorney Michael Kern, a member of the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office Sexual Assault Unit, prosecuted the case.
“The two young victims in this case showed exceptional courage by testifying in open court and confronting the person who harmed them,” Mr. Kern said. “Their strength made this verdict possible and reinforces that Ventura County will not tolerate crimes of this nature.”
Zavala is scheduled to be sentenced on December 16, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in courtroom 26 of the Ventura County Superior Court. He faces a maximum of 100 years to life in state prison.
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Case: 2024001044
Defendant Information: Jose Antonio Zavala Aldaco (DOB 06/13/85) Fillmore
Charges convicted of:
• (3 counts) PC 288(a) – Lewd act upon a child
• PC 288.5(a) – Continuous sexual abuse
Special allegations found true:
• PC 667.61(e)(4) – Multiple victim allegation
• PC 667.61(j)(2) – Victim under age 14
• PC 1203.066(a)(8) – Substantial sexual conduct with victim under 14 years of age
• CRC 4.421(a)(11) – The defendant took advantage of a position of trust or confidence to commit the offense
• CRC 4.421(a)(3) – Victim was particularly vulnerable
***
Contact: Joey Buttitta
Title: Communications Manager/PIO
Phone: (805) 767-3400
Email: Joey.Buttitta@venturacounty.gov
Approved: SW
Date: November 10, 2025
Release No.: 25-136

Above is Flashes Varsity scoring a touchdown in their playoff game against Cerritos High School. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
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Above is the Fillmore Flashes defense taking down a Cerritos player in last Friday’s game. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
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A Flashes player takes a dive to put a stop to a Cerritos player trying to make his way up the field. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
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Above are the Fillmore Flashes High School Cheerleaders during their halftime performance in Friday night’s CIF Playoff game. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
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By FHS Head Football Coach Charlie Weis, M. Ed.
The Fillmore Flashes football team just wrapped up one of the most remarkable seasons in school history — a season defined by leadership, redemption, and pride in the blue and white.
After finishing last year with a 2–8 record, the Flashes stormed into 2025 determined to rewrite their story. And rewrite it they did — posting the program’s first nine-win regular season since 1989 and cementing themselves among the best Fillmore teams of the modern era.
This year’s squad didn’t just win — they broke barriers that stood for generations. The Flashes earned their first victories over Royal High School and Buena High School since the 1960s, marking a return to form against longtime Ventura County powerhouses. Their consistency and toughness also secured a fourth playoff appearance in five years, proving that Fillmore football is once again a force to be reckoned with.
And of course, no Fillmore season would be complete without the Route 126 rivalry showdown — and this year’s battle was one for the ages. The Flashes dominated the Santa Paula Cardinals to reclaim the Leather Helmet Trophy, notching their fourth rivalry win in the past five years and sending the Flashes crowd into a frenzy. The victory was more than just another win — it was a statement about legacy, tradition, and pride in Fillmore Blue.
Much of this success can be credited to an outstanding senior class whose leadership and belief set the tone for the entire program. Captains Marcus Lechuga, Carlos Cabral, Mauricio Ocegueda, and Genaro Villela helped transform last year’s struggles into a season of triumphs — leading by example on and off the field and inspiring a new standard of excellence for the teams that will follow.
As the Flashes close the book on 2025, the message is clear: Fillmore football is alive, thriving, and built to last. The culture is strong, the tradition burns bright, and the future looks even brighter.

Residents of Fillmore are invited to come together for a morning of conversation, connection, and community spirit at the upcoming Coffee with Badges event, hosted at Roan Mills Grains.
This event will take place on Wednesday, November 12th, from 8:00 am to 9:30 am, at Roan Mills, located at 411 Central Avenue, and will feature first responders from the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore Fire Department, Ventura County Fire Department, California Highway Patrol, and the Ventura County Probation Agency. Community members are encouraged to stop by, enjoy a cup of locally brewed coffee, and engage in friendly discussions with the first responders who serve their community every day.
Coffee with Badges is all about building relationships. First responders want people to feel comfortable approaching them, asking questions, and getting to know them beyond the badge.
Guests will be treated to complimentary coffee from Roan Mills, a beloved local bakery known for its breads, pastries, and warm community atmosphere.
The informal event offers a welcoming space for residents to share ideas, express concerns, or simply chat with first responders in a casual and friendly setting. No speeches or agendas – just good coffee and good conversation.
Join us in the fight against crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: November 7th, 2025
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
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Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).
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Community: Media Release: Coffee with Badges
Nature of Incident: Coffee with Badges
Report Number: N/A
Location: Roan Mills Grains, 411 Central Ave, Fillmore
Date & Time: November 12th, 8 am – 9:30 am
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Police Department

A Fillmore Sheriff’s deputy launching a drone from El Dorado Mobile Homes in search of the attempted murder suspect who was eventually located near Pole Creek on 4th Street. Photo credit Sebastian Ramirez.

On 10/30/2025, at about 9:13 AM, deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to the 200 block of E. Telegraph Road in Fillmore reference an assault with a deadly weapon which had just occurred.
Upon arrival, deputies located an adult female suffering from serious injuries consistent with being assaulted with a pick axe. The victim was transported via ambulance to a local hospital for medical care.
Sheriff’s Dispatch worked with reporting parties and were able to identify the suspect as (S) Juan Carlos Saucedo, a 19-year-old Fillmore resident. Saucedo was recently released from custody on his own recognizance for felony resisting a peace officer.
Patrol personnel quickly learned Saucedo had fled the area on foot. Additional resources from the Fillmore Detective Unit, West County Special Enforcement Unit, Sheriff’s Air Unit, and Sheriff’s K9 Unit responded to assist with the investigation and actively searched for Saucedo in the immediate and surrounding areas.
Shortly after 10:00 AM, with assistance from diligent members of the community, Sheriff’s personnel were able to locate Saucedo hiding in the area near Pole Creek and Fourth Street. Once resources arrived, deputies developed a plan and took Saucedo into custody without incident.
Shortly after 1:00 PM, detectives from the Fillmore Detective Unit obtained a search warrant for Saucedo’s residence, which was the same location as the assault. During the warrant service, crime scene investigators located additional evidence linking Saucedo to the attempted murder.
As a result of the investigation, Saucedo was arrested for Penal Code § 664/187 – [Attempt Murder]. He was transported to the Pre-Trial Detention Facility where he was booked pending court proceedings.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 10/31/2025
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO
***
Nature of Incident: Suspect Arrested for Attempt Murder
Report Number: 25-139577
Location: 200 block of E. Telegraph Road, Fillmore
Date & Time: 10/30/2025, 9:13 AM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol, Fillmore Detective Unit, West County Special Enforcement Unit, Sheriff’s Air Unit, Sheriff’s K9 Unit, Sheriff’s Dispatch, Sheriff’s Crime Scene Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent, City of Residence, Age
(V) Adult Female, Fillmore, N/A
(S) Juan Carlos Saucedo, Fillmore, 19

Fillmore, CA — Tuesday, November 11, 2025
The Fillmore and Piru communities will come together once again to honor the brave men and women who have served our country at the annual Fillmore-Piru Veteran’s Day Celebration, set for Tuesday, November 11, 2025.
Festivities will begin at 10:00 a.m. with the Veteran’s Day Parade along Central Avenue, featuring local organizations, marching bands, community groups, and honored veterans. Leading this year’s parade as Grand Marshal will be Mark Dominguez, a retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant and interim Fillmore Police Chief and Peace Officer, recognized for his exemplary service to both his country and community.
Following the parade, a Luncheon will be served at Fillmore Middle School, located at 543 A Street. The meal is $15 per person, with veterans eating free as a token of appreciation for their service.
The day’s events will continue with the Annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony, scheduled to begin at approximately 1:30 p.m. This year’s featured speaker is Fillmore City Councilman and U.S. Veteran John Garnica, who will share reflections on service, sacrifice, and community.
Residents are encouraged to attend and spend the day celebrating our nation’s heroes. The event remains one of Fillmore’s most cherished traditions, uniting generations in gratitude and remembrance.
Come out and show your support—join us in honoring those who have given so much for our freedom.

Photo credit Sebastian Ramirez.

Officer Ryan Ayers of the CHP Moorpark Office issued the following statement about a fatal motorcycle crash occurring Sunday, November 2 of 2025, between Moorpark and Fillmore.
“BARDSDALE, CA. – The California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Moorpark Area officers are investigating the cause of a two-vehicle crash involving a motorcycle that occurred Sunday, on Bardsdale Road at State Route 23 (Grimes Canyon Rd) south of Fillmore, CA and claimed one life.
On November 2, 2025, at approximately 5:49 P.M., the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) Ventura Communications Center received a call of a two-vehicle crash on Bardsdale Road, west of SR-23.
Upon arrival, emergency personnel found a responsive 71-year-old male from Thousand Oaks, who had been ejected from his motorcycle, a 2009 Harley Davidson Electra Glide.
The rider was the sole rider of the Harley Davidson driving southbound on SR-23, at an unknown speed. For reasons yet to be determined, the rider was unable to negotiate a left turn in the roadway and struck a 2012 Toyota Yaris that was stopped on Bardsdale Road at the stop sign to SR-23.
The rider was ejected from the motorcycle and received major injuries. The rider was transported by air ambulance to Los Robles Hospital, where tragically, he succumbed to the injuries sustained in this crash and was pronounced deceased.
The driver of the Toyota, a 48 year old female from Canyon Country, received complaint of pain injuries from this crash and was able to drive her vehicle from the scene.
No arrests were made, and the involvement of alcohol/drugs is still unknown.
This incident resulted in the closure of Bardsdale Road for approximately 30 minutes to allow access for emergency personnel and for CHP officers to conduct the on-scene investigation.
The Ventura County Fire Department, American Medical Response (AMR), and Ventura County Sheriff’s Department responded to the scene to assist with the medical care, scene safety, and transport to Los Robles Hospital.
For additional information regarding the deceased, please contact the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office at (805) 641-4400.
This Collision is being investigated by the CHP’s Moorpark Area office. Any potential witnesses who have not already given their statements to an investigating officer are encouraged to contact the CHP’s Moorpark office at (805) 553-0800.
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.”

Army Staff Sergeant (R) Mark Dominguez

Fillmore Veteran’s Day Grand Marshal Mark Dominguez proudly served his country from November 4, 1965, to November 8, 1968. Mark answered the call to duty by enlisting in the U.S. Army and later volunteering to serve in Vietnam. He was stationed in Germany from 1965 until 1967 in various law enforcement duties and as a training instructor.
From April 1967 to April 1968, Mark served in Vietnam during the historic “TET Year of the Monkey” assigned to Nha Trang in the III Corps tactical zone. His unit was responsible for intensive structure-to-structure and room-to-room operations to locate enemy forces. This dangerous duty along with extended patrol missions in the surrounding jungles often required up to seven days of continuous engagement with the enemy.
After completing his Vietnam service, Dominguez was stationed at the Sixth Army Headquarters at the Presidio in San Francisco where he served as Honor Guard Platoon Sergeant overseeing burial detail for our fallen heroes. Mark was also in charge of the Military Brig Detention facility which housed long-term military prisoners. His exemplary service earned him several military honors, including promotion to Staff Sergeant E-6, and receiving the Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and National Defense Medal. He was also recognized as a Distinguished Expert in Rifle and Pistol Marksmanship.
After receiving his honorable discharge, Mark was hired as a peace officer for the Fillmore Police Department in 1969 where he served until 1982. He continued to display the same commitment and devotion to duty as a police officer as he did in the Army while serving his beloved Fillmore community. Mark received several promotions including Sargeant, Lieutenant, and Interim Chief of Police. In 1972, the Ventura Kiwanis Club awarded him the prestigious Fillmore Policeman of the Year.
Mark continues his lifelong commitment to helping others. He currently serves as the Senior Legal Administrator at the Law Offices of Rahnama Law which specializes in personal injury cases. Guided by his professional motto “Helping the injured” Mark is dedicated to securing justice and providing maximum compensation for injured clients.
Mark was born in Ventura and currently resides in Oxnard. He and his beloved wife Loira Dominguez have three children. His enduring devotion to his country, community, and family continues to inspire all who know him.

Each year, our communities celebrate Halloween with trick-or-treating, parties, and sometimes alcohol consumption. The Fillmore Police Department and the City of Fillmore would like to ensure everyone participates in the various Halloween festivities safely and responsibly. As such, we would like to share various tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to ensure the overall safety of our community members.
Trick-or-Treating
Safety Tips for Drivers:
Be alert for trick-or-treaters and other pedestrians.
Slow down and scan the road. Remember, slower speeds save lives.
Watch for young trick-or-treaters in unexpected places. Children may be unaware of traffic and dart into the street unexpectedly.
If you see a drunk driver, contact law enforcement.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians:
Before festivities begin, create a “buddy system” to get each other home safely and prevent walking alone.
Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
If possible, cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
Halloween Parties
Safety Tips for Attendees:
Before drinking, choose a designated driver, or schedule a ridesharing, ride-hailing or taxi service.
If you drink, do not drive for any reason. Even a small amount of alcohol can affect driving ability.
Safety Tips for Hosts:
Be responsible and take action to make sure guests get home safely.
Prepare to call taxis, rideshares, provide sleeping accommodations, or — if you’re sober — drive guests home yourself.
Collect car keys from guests who are drinking.
Provide non-alcoholic beverage options.
Unfortunately, Halloween celebrations involve potentially deadly crashes and impaired drivers on the road. In 2023, nearly half of all crash fatalities during Halloween night were alcohol related. Halloween Safety Tips for Drivers, Pedestrians, More | NHTSA
The Fillmore Police Department would like to remind our community of these safety tips and encourage everyone to do their part to keep everyone safe. Remember, these safety tips are not exclusive to Halloween and can be applied to any celebration or event in our community. Refer to the NHTSA link for additional information regarding Halloween safety and other traffic safety materials.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: October 29, 2025
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
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Nature of Incident: Halloween Celebration-Traffic Safety Information
Location: City of Fillmore
Date & Time: October 29, 2025
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Police Department

Fillmore Police Chief Eduardo “Lalo” Malagon was recognized for his 25 years of service to the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and the community.

Fillmore Police Chief Eduardo “Lalo” Malagon was recently recognized for 25 years of dedicated service with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.
Throughout his distinguished career, Chief Malagon has served in Detention Services, Patrol Services, and the Special Crimes Unit/Intelligence. He has also held specialized assignments with the Tactical Response Team, served as a SWAT Operator, and later as a SWAT Supervisor.
“I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve as Chief of Police and to lead the dedicated members of this department. It has been an honor to uphold the trust of our Fillmore community and to advance our shared commitment to professionalism, integrity, and public service.”
The City of Fillmore proudly congratulates Chief Malagon on this milestone achievement and thanks him for his continued service and commitment to the residents of Fillmore and Ventura County.

Ventura County Sheriff's Office

On 10/24/2025, (S) Francisco Martinez, a 34-year-old Piru resident, was arrested for his involvement with several graffiti vandalisms.
Graffiti vandalism is an eyesore that directly affects the quality of life in our communities. If left unchecked, graffiti can decrease property values and lead to the deterioration of entire neighborhoods. Graffiti may also be the catalyst for additional, more serious crimes affecting our communities. The removal of graffiti costs homeowners, business owners and taxpayers thousands of dollars each year. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is committed to responding to public concerns in a manner that builds confidence in our agency and strengthens relationships to empower businesses and residents to be the eyes and ears of the community.
At about 9:34 PM, a diligent member of the community called to report a vandalism in progress near the 100 block of Ventura Street in Fillmore. Patrol deputies from the Sheriff’s Fillmore Station responded and located the suspect’s vehicle leaving the area. An enforcement stop was conducted on the vehicle and deputies contacted the driver, (S) Francisco Martinez. Martinez had paint on his person and was arrested for the vandalisms.
Martinez’ vehicle was searched incident to arrest and additional evidence linking Martinez to the crimes was located. Martinez was arrested for Penal Code § 594(b)(1) – [Felony Graffiti Vandalism] and Penal Code § 594.2 – [Possession of Graffiti Tools]. He was transported to the Pre-Trial Detention Facility where he was booked pending court proceedings.
The Fillmore Police Department encourages citizens to immediately report suspicious people and vehicles, and to promptly report any graffiti they come across by calling our dispatch center at (805) 654-9511. Following a police investigation, all graffiti should be immediately removed. Anyone with information pertaining to any crimes is urged to contact The Fillmore Police Station at (805) 524-2233 or the listed detectives below. The reporting party may remain anonymous.
Graffiti Removal
The City of Fillmore removes all graffiti in public areas by either painting over it or by using a power washer, depending upon the location of the graffiti. Residents are encouraged to call the city graffiti hotline at (805) 524-1500, prompt number 4, then 3. Additionally, private property owners are encouraged to help combat vandalism by removing any graffiti visible on their properties.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 10/27/2025
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO
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Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).
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Nature of Incident: Tagger Arrested
Report Number: 25-137175
Location: 100 block of Ventura St, Fillmore
Date & Time: 10/24/2025, 9:34 PM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(S) Francisco Martinez Piru 34