Courtesy https://www.instagram.com/p/DUJvKE1EsyC/?img_index=2.
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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.
On 01/24/2026, during the early morning hours, suspects committed multiple graffiti vandalisms throughout east Fillmore which included damage to the city of Fillmore, the Fillmore Historical Museum, and private properties. Patrol personnel from the Sheriff’s Fillmore Station responded to the scenes of the crime spree and estimated the damage to be in the thousands of dollars.
Over the course of the investigation, patrol deputies located evidence which led them to identify three vandalism suspects. The suspects were identified as Jason Lizarraga, Axel Martinez and Joel Alonzo. All three suspects are affiliated with a criminal street gang in Fillmore.
Fillmore patrol personnel collaborated with the Fillmore Detective Unit and obtained a search warrant for the suspects and their residences. On 01/29/2026, Fillmore detectives, West County Special Enforcement Unit detectives, and Fillmore patrol personnel executed search warrants at two locations in Fillmore and one location in Piru. As a result, additional evidence linking the suspects to the gang-graffiti vandalisms was located. Additionally, both Jason Lizarraga, a 18-year old Fillmore resident and Axel Martinez, a 18-year old Fillmore resident were arrested for a felonious violations of Penal Code § 182.5 – [Criminal Gang Conspiracy] along with multiple counts of Penal Code § 594(b)(1) – [Felony Graffiti Vandalism] and Penal Code § 186.22(b)(1) – [For the Benefit of the Gang]. They were both booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility pending court proceedings.
On 01/30/2026, during the morning hours, the Fillmore Detective Unit located the third suspect, Joel Alonzo and arrested him for his participation in the vandalisms. Alonzo is affiliated with a criminal street gang and recently discharged parole. He was arrested for a felonious violation of Penal Code § 182.5 – [Criminal Gang Conspiracy] along with multiple counts of Penal Code § 594(b)(1) – [Felony Graffiti Vandalism] and Penal Code § 186.22(b)(1) – [For the Benefit of the Gang]. He was later booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility 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: 01/30/2026
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO
***
Nature of Incident: Gang Members Arrested
Report Number: 26-10467
Location: Multiple Locations in East Fillmore
Date & Time: 01/24/2026, early morning hours
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol, Fillmore Detective Unit, West County Special Enforcement Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent ; City of Residence; Age:
(V) Fillmore Citizens & Businesses, Fillmore, N/A
(S) Jason Lizarraga, Fillmore, 18
(S) Axel Martinez, Fillmore, 18
(S) Joel Alonzo, Fillmore, 25
***
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).

Christine Schieferle, Superintendent of Fillmore Unified School District

Posted February 2, 2026, courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2...
Dear FUSD Staff and Families,
We recently became aware of a student-led effort to have middle and high school students walk-out of school, tomorrow, February 3, 2026, to make their voices heard about immigration policies. Planned events such as these are student-led events and not school-sponsored activities.
We respect our students’ First Amendment rights and recognize that advocating for issues they are passionate about can be a valuable learning experience. At the same time, we acknowledge that some students may prefer to remain in class. Our priority is to ensure that all students feel safe and respected, regardless of their choice.
If students choose to participate in a walkout during school hours, the district will respond as follows:
Schools and classes will continue as scheduled.
Whenever possible, school administrators, particularly in middle and high schools, will work with student leaders to provide a safe and supervised on-campus space for those who choose to participate.
We encourage students to remain on campus. Once students leave campus, we cannot assume responsibility for their safety.
All students are expected to follow all school rules and expectations while on campus to maintain a safe and orderly environment.
If a walkout moves off campus, we will coordinate with local law enforcement agencies to support public safety.
Because these walkouts are not school-sponsored activities, we will follow district policies regarding excused and unexcused absences. We encourage you to have conversations with your child about this event, as you see appropriate.
As always, we remain committed to maintaining safe and welcoming schools for all students and families.
Thank you,
Christine Schieferle, Superintendent
Fillmore Unified School District

Soon to be retired from the United States Navy, Phillip C. Diaz of Fillmore.

Pictured is U.S. Navy Senior Chief Phillip C. Diaz with his family, Cynthia, Lily (3) and Hailee (5), Thanksgiving 2025 in Fillmore.
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U.S. Navy Senior Chief (E-8) Information Branch (I-Branch) Leading Chief Petty Officer (LCPO) Phillip C. Diaz, a 2004 Fillmore High School (FHS) Graduate will retire from the United States Navy on February 28, 2026. In addition to FHS Phillip attended Piru Elementary School and Fillmore Middle School.
Growing up in Fillmore Phillip participated in Fillmore T-Ball, Little League, Fillmore High School Baseball and Football. Phillip was a member of the Piru 4-H Club raising the 1995 Grand Champion Swine named Tomasina, his first year in 4-H! Phillip is the Son of Richard and Carolyn Diaz and Brother to Arron Diaz, Brooke (Diaz) Heinrich and Julia (Diaz) Fitzgibbons. Phillip is the father of two beautiful daughters Hailee and Lily, Uncle to eleven nieces and nephews and has many uncles, aunts and cousins living in the San Diego area.
Despite living in “Padre Country” Phillip remains a Lifelong Dodger Fan! On May 22, 2024, Phillip was selected and honored as the “Dodgers Military Hero of The Game” when the Dodgers hosted the Arizona Diamondbacks. After retirement Phillip and Cynthia, children Hailee (5) and Lily (3) will remain the San Diego area where they have made their home and have lived for the past six years.
Phillip entered the Navy on October 31, 2005, as an Information Technician (IT) and received his approximately 10-week Basic Training and “C” School on the shores of Lake Michigan at the U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command Naval Station Great Lakes near Chicago, Illinois. During Phillip’s just over 20-years of service to his Country he has served on the USS McFaul (DD 74), USS Mt. Whitney (LCC 20) Communications Flagship ported in Gaeta, Italy, USS Russell (DDG 59) an Arleigh Burke-class Aegis guided missile destroyer and the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. Phillip has also been stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, Gaeta, Italy and San Diego.
Phillip has been deployed eight times. His longest deployment was at Bagram Air Base in Parwan Province, Afghanistan where he served for 1-year. There he served as an EOD ESU 2. Bagram Air Base was a frequent target for drone and missile attacks. One of Phillip’s memorable moments at Bagram, and there were many, was when his Nephew Michael O’Neal, an Army “Forward Observer” located Phillip at Bagram Air Base for an unforgettable reunion!
Phillip also was an instructor for both “C” and “F” Schools. Phillip visited many countries during his military service. He twice visited his “Birth Country and City” Busan, South Korea. When Phillip was born in 1986 Busan was known as Pusan. Since 2000 Pusan has been referred to Busan. It wasn’t a name change but a standardization of how Korean sounds are written in English to better reflect the native pronunciation of the English ‘p’ to the Korean softer ‘b’. A mountain near the city is also named Busan.
Phillip’s Family, Coworkers and Friends will witness his ‘Retirement Ceremony’ on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. onboard the USS Midway Museum. The Midway (CV-41) is a floating Aircraft Carrier commissioned in 1945 and docked in San Diego Harbor. The Fillmore Community thanks Senior Chief Phillip C. Diaz for his service and sacrifice to his Country.

On Friday, January 30, 2026, from approximately 5:30-7:30pm, about six Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) protesters gathered in front of Fillmore City Hall. Following is the link to Homeland Security’s website, “Arrested: Worst of the Worst”, for Ventura County: https://www.dhs.gov/wow?combine=ventura&field_country_of_origin_target_i.... The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is highlighting the worst of worst criminal aliens arrested by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Photo credit Sebastian Ramirez.

Above is the Athletic Complex surrounded by vertical scaffolding, with masonry/grouting work taking place on the 16-foot walls. The FHS Athletic Complex project’s anticipated completion date is February 2026.
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Crews have competed trenching for footings and caisson layout.
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Above is a view of the main stadium and site looking towards the old gym.
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Above are crews welding the embeds at grid line 8 at the corners of the gym.
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Construction continues to make steady progress at the Fillmore High School Athletic Complex, with multiple trades actively working on structural, electrical, plumbing, and site development components. Masonry crews advanced vertical construction, completing scaffold work and grouting masonry walls up to approximately 16 feet in height. Structural embeds were welded at key grid line locations, supporting the ongoing buildout of the gym and surrounding athletic facilities.
Across the site, temporary power poles were installed to support ongoing construction activities, and overall site conditions continue to take shape as foundational work progresses. Aerial and ground-level views show the building footprint clearly defined, with structural walls rising and site utilities expanding throughout the complex. These coordinated efforts reflect continued momentum toward delivering a modern, high-quality athletic facility for Fillmore High students and the Fillmore/Piru community.

Bryan Jessie Garcia, 23, of Los Angeles

In December 2025, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Special Crimes Unit was notified of a missing juvenile from Ventura County. During the investigation, detectives located evidence indicating the juvenile was being sex trafficked in Los Angeles. Detectives from multiple investigative units within the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Crime Analysis Unit, worked tirelessly to locate the juvenile. The juvenile was safely reunited with their family in early January.
Based on evidence found during the investigation, detectives identified Bryan Jessie Garcia, a 23-year-old resident of Los Angeles, as the juvenile victim’s trafficker.
Garcia used a popular social media platform to groom the juvenile, gain their trust, and eventually coerce the juvenile to leave their home in Ventura County to be sex trafficked near the Figueroa Street corridor, a known high-sex-trafficking area.
Traffickers commonly use social media platforms to identify, groom, and exploit minor victims. In this case, Garcia utilized online messaging to build rapport with the juvenile through consistent communication, flattery, and emotional manipulation. Over time, he normalized criminal behavior, offered perceived support and attention, and exploited the juvenile’s vulnerabilities. These grooming tactics are designed to establish trust, create dependency, and ultimately coerce minor victims into leaving their homes and engaging in commercial sex acts while under the trafficker’s control.
On January 23, 2026, a coordinated operation was conducted by detectives from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office in collaboration with the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office. During the operation, detectives located and arrested Garcia near the Figueroa Street corridor in Los Angeles. A search warrant was also executed at Garcia’s residence in Los Angeles.
As a result of the investigation, Garcia was arrested and booked into the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility for violating the following California Penal Code sections, with his bail set at $1,000,000:
236.1(c) - Human Trafficking of a Minor.
261.5(d) – Unlawful Sexual Intercourse
288(b)(1) – Forcible Lewd Act Upon Child
January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month, and the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office reminds parents and guardians of the dangers of online grooming of minors. Traffickers often use social media, gaming platforms, and messaging apps to build trust, manipulate vulnerable youth, and ultimately exploit them. Detectives encourage parents to stay engaged in their children’s online activity, watch for behavioral changes or secrecy, and maintain open communication, as awareness is a key factor in preventing exploitation.
Detectives encourage anyone who believes they are a victim, or who knows someone who may be a victim, to contact “211” or local law enforcement to be connected with support services.
Prepared by: Detective Nan Jiang
News Release Date: 01/26/2026
Approved by: Captain Matthew Young
Booking Photo Release: YES
***
Nature of Incident: Human Trafficking of a Minor Arrest
Reporting Number: 26-8919
Location(s): Figueroa Street corridor, Los Angeles
400 block of E 43rd Place, Los Angeles, CA
Date & Time: January 23, 2026 @ 1300
Unit(s) Responsible:
Ventura County Human Trafficking Task Force
Ventura County District Attorney’s Office
Ventura County Sheriff Special Crimes Unit
Fillmore Police Department Detective Unit
Ventura County Sheriff Major Crimes
Ventura County Sheriff Crime Analysis Unit
Ventura County Sheriff Technical Surveillance Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, City of Residence, Age
(S) Bryan Jessie Garcia, Los Angeles, 23
(V) Juvenile, N/A, N/A

Fillmore High School is proudly recognizing the outstanding academic achievements of its football program, as 28 students earned 1st Team Academic All-League honors, seven students were named 1st Team Academic All-County, and two additional students received Honorable Mention distinction. These honors highlight the school’s commitment to developing true student-athletes who excel both on the field and in the classroom through Fillmore High’s athletics program.
Head Football Coach Charlie Weis, Education Specialist Department Chair and Guiding Coalition/Instructional Leadership Member, praised the students’ accomplishments. As a Guiding Coalition/Instructional Leadership Member, Weis helps shape schoolwide academic and instructional priorities by collaborating with administrators and teacher leaders to improve teaching practices, student outcomes, and overall school culture. Weis said, “This season 28 of our varsity football players were named to the 1st team All-league Academic squad. Students needed to maintain a 3.5 GPA throughout the football season in order to be eligible for this honor. These 28 students represent over 50% of our varsity roster. That is an INCREDIBLE achievement. In addition, 7 of our athletes were named to the 1st team All-County academic team. 1st team honors require a cumulative GPA above 3.5 for the duration of their HS career and is only available for Seniors. 7 of our 21 seniors earning this honor is an incredible achievement. I want to thank Fillmore High Principal Cinda Francis and Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle for their continued support for our football program’s vision. Our emphasis on prioritizing academic achievement and true student athletes has been a resounding success.”

CITY OF FILLMORE - CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY REGULAR MEETING TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2026, 6:30 PM CITY HALL AGENDA
Item 4 - Adoption of Agenda - Villasenor motion, Broggie second - passed 5-0
Consent Calendar - Items 7A through Items 7C - Garnica motion, Villasenor second - passed 5-0
Item 8A - Appintment of Cultural, Arts, & Recreation Commissioner - Villasenor motion, Rodriguez second, passed 5-0
Item 8B - Appropriation and Agreement giving $500,000 loan to developer of Fillmore Terrace - Broggie motion, Villasenor second - passed 5-0
Item 8C - Resolution acknowledging receipt of the SB 1205 Fire Inspection Report - Vilasenor motion, Garnica second - passed 5-0
Item 8D - City Council salaries - Garnica motion, Villasenor second - passed 5-0
Item 8E - Authorize agreement with Michael K Nunley Associates to update Urban Water Management Plan - Garnica motion, Villasenor second - passed 5-0
Item 8F - Approval of fourth amendment to Venco Western landscaping service agreement - Villasenor motion, Rodriguez second - passed 5-0
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
5. PUBLIC COMMENTS
6. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS, RECOMMENDATIONS, AND COMMENTS
7. CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDATION FOR ITEM 7.A THROUGH 7.C IS TO APPROVE BY VOICE VOTE.
7.A CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-JANUARY 27, 2026 CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-JANUARY 27, 2026.PDF
7.B BOND EXONERATION TRACT NO. 5520-4
SR - HEARTHSTONE BOND EXONERATION TRACT 5520-4(2081285.1) FINAL.PDF
7.C ADOPT RESOLUTION NO 26-4093 TO ACCEPT FEMA GRANT FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TRAINING
SR - 2026 HAZ MAT STAFF REPORT FEMA GRANT.PDF
8. NEW BUSINESS
8.A APPOINTMENT TO THE CULTURAL, ARTS, AND RECREATION COMMISSION 
SR - CAR COMMISSION APPOINTMENT VACANCY.PDF
8.B FILLMORE TERRACE 50 UNIT PERMANENT SUPPORTIVE HOUSING PROJECT DISCUSS AN APPROPRIATION AND AGREEMENT GIVING THE DEVELOPER A $500,000 LOAN
SR PSHH FILLMORE TERRACE CONTRIBUTION.PDF
8.C ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF THE FIRE INSPECTION REPORT REQUIRED BY SENATE BILL 1205
SR - SB 1205 REPORT 2025.PDF
8.D DISCUSSION OF WHETHER TO INCREASE THE CITY COUNCIL SALARIES SR - COUNCIL ON CITY SALARY DISCUSSION CONTINUED 2026.PDF
8.E AUTHORIZATION OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH MICHAEL K. NUNLEY AND ASSOCIATES TO UPDATE THE 2020 URBAN WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ASSOCIATED WATER SHORTAGE CONTINGENCY
SR - AUTHORIZATION FOR AN AGREEMENT WITH MKN FOR 2025 UWMP - FINAL.PDF
8.F APPROVAL OF FOURTH AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT WITH VENCO WESTERN FOR CITYWIDE LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE SERVICES
SR - APPROVAL OF FOURTH AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT WITH VENCO WESTERN - FINAL.REDUCED.PDF
9. COMMITTEE, COMMISSION, AND BOARD REPORTS
10. CITY MANAGER
CITY MANAGER VERBAL REPORT
Well 10 – Updates
ERF Grant Update
Business Roundtable meeting on February 2nd at R+Q Kitchen
Newsletter
11. CLOSED SESSION - JANUARY 27, 2026
11.A CLOSED SESSION 
A. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION AND COMPENSATION - THE CITY COUNCIL WILL HOLD A CLOSED SESSION WITH THE CITY ATTORNEY PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 54957 AND 54957.6(A), TO CONDUCT AN EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF THE CITY MANAGER AND TO DISCUSS THE SALARY, COMPENSATION AND FRINGE BENEFITS PROVIDED TO THE CITY MANAGER.
JANUARY 27, 2026 - CLOSED SESSION.PDF
12. ADJOURNMENT
MAYOR ALBERT MENDEZ ADJOURNS TO THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING AT 6:30 P.M. ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2026, CITY HALL, 250 CENTRAL AVENUE, FILLMORE, CA 93015.

On 12/15/2025, deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to the 200 block of Casner Way in Fillmore reference a theft which had just occurred. Arriving deputies spoke with the victim and determined a grand theft of landscape equipment had occurred. In summary, two suspects arrived together in a vehicle, quickly loaded thousands of dollars of landscape equipment into their vehicle, and fled the area. A check of the surrounding area was conducted the suspects were not located. The case was then assumed by the Fillmore Detective Unit for further investigation. Over the next month, detectives worked diligently and identified one of the suspects involved in the theft as (S) Kevin Melgar, a 41-year-old Pasadena resident.
On 01/14/2025, at about 11:35 AM, a deputy from the Fillmore Station was dispatched to the area of Carriage Place at River Street in Fillmore reference a theft that had just occurred. The reporting party advised a white van had pulled up and stolen their gardening equipment.
Shortly thereafter, an officer with the California Highway Patrol requested assistance with a traffic stop of a white van near Main Street at Telegraph Road in the unincorporated community east of Fillmore known as Piru. Deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to assist.
When deputies arrived, they learned there was a total of three occupants detained from two different vehicles. The three occupants were (S) Kevin Melgar, (S) Jesus Rodriguez, and (S) Rogelio Bribriesca. All three occupants were from Los Angeles County. Melgar had an active felony warrant for his arrest for firearm possession and unlawful taking of a vehicle. Rodriguez was on active parole from Los Angeles County for a shooting, while Bribriesca was on active post release offender supervision (PROS) from Los Angeles County for burglary.
During a search of their vehicles, deputies located the lawnmower which was stolen minutes prior in Fillmore along with burglary tools and a controlled substance.
The Fillmore Detective Unit responded to assist with the investigation. Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement learned all three suspects have extensive criminal histories and have served time in state prison for a variety of crimes to include grand thefts and burglaries. It was also determined that the three suspects had likely acted in concert and conspired with each other to commit the landscape equipment theft.
The three suspects were arrested and transported to the Sheriff’s Fillmore Station for further investigation. At the station, detectives collaborated with patrol personnel, state parole, and the Los Angeles County Probation Agency to determine the three suspects are affiliated to Southern California criminal street gangs.
At the station, detectives obtained additional evidence linking both Melgar and Rodriguez to the grand theft from December in Fillmore.
At the conclusion of the investigation, Melgar was arrested for violations of Penal Code § 182.5 – [Criminal Gang Conspiracy] (2 counts), Penal Code § 487(a) – [Grand Theft] (2 counts), Penal Code § 186.22(b)(1) – [Street Terrorism], Penal Code § 466 – [Burglary Tools], Health & Safety Code § 11395(b)(1) – [Possession of Hard Drug], and an out of county felony warrant. Rodriguez was arrested for Penal Code § 182.5 – [Criminal Gang Conspiracy] (2 counts), Penal Code § 487(a) – [Grand Theft] (2 counts), Penal Code § 186.22(b)(1) – [Street Terrorism], Penal Code § 466 – [Burglary Tools], and a parole hold. Bribriesca was arrested for Penal Code § 182.5 – [Criminal Gang Conspiracy], Penal Code § 487(a) – [Grand Theft], Penal Code § 186.22(b)(1) – [Street Terrorism], Penal Code § 466 – [Burglary Tools], and Health & Safety Code § 11377(a) – [Possession of a Controlled Substance]. They were all transported to the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility and booked for the aforementioned offenses pending court.
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: 01/15/2026
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO
***
Nature of Incident: Gang-Related Burglary-Theft Crew Arrested
Report Number: 25-160120 & 26-5687
Location: Fillmore, California
Date & Time: 01/14/2026 @ 11:35 AM
Unit(s) Responsible: California Highway Patrol, Fillmore Patrol, Fillmore Detective Unit, California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation, Los Angeles Probation Agency, Sheriff’s Dispatch
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent , City of Residence, Age
(S) Kevin Melgar, Pasadena, 41
(S) Jesus Rodriguez, Compton, 31
(S) Rogelio Bribriesca, Tujunga, 27
***
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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On Saturday, 01/17/2026, at about 12:01 P.M., deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to the Santa Clara River bottom reference a subject chasing other subjects with a knife. Upon arrival, deputies located an adult male victim and corroborating witnesses who identified (S) Ivan Hernandez, 34, as the attacker. Hernandez is a documented criminal street gang member on active parole for a shooting.
Based on the circumstances, deputies from the Homeless Liaison Unit (HLU) responded to assist and coordinated with patrol resources who established a perimeter in the river bottom for where Hernandez sought refuge.
Deputies searched the river bottom with the assistance of the Sheriff’s Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Unit, Sheriff’s Aviation Unit, and Oxnard Police Dept K9 Unit, but Hernandez was not located.
On Sunday, 01/18/2026, during the early morning hours, patrol deputies from the Fillmore Station conducted a second search for Hernandez in the Santa Clara River bottom. This time, deputies located Hernandez and arrested him for a violation of Penal Code § 245(a)(1) – [Assault with a Deadly Weapon]. During a search of the immediate area, deputies located evidence linking Hernandez to the assault.
At the conclusion of the investigation, Hernandez was arrested for Penal Code § 245(a)(1) – [Assault with a Deadly Weapon], along with a parole hold. 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: 01/20/2026
Approved by: Captain Jason Hendren
Booking Photo Release: NO
***
Nature of Incident: Parolee Arrested for Assault with a Deadly Weapon
Report Number: 26-7198
Location: Santa Clara River Bottom near Chambersburg Bridge, Fillmore
Date and Time: 01/17/2026, 12:01 PM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol, Sheriff’s Homeless Liaison Unit (HLU), Sheriff’s Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Sheriff’s Aviation Unit, Oxnard Police Dept K9 Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent, City of Residence, Age:
(V) Adult Male, Fillmore
(S) Ivan Hernandez, Fillmore, 34
***
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).

Ronald Joseph Cole, 19, of Fillmore. Photo credit Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.

On October 25, 1983, Ronald Joseph Cole was reported as a missing person to the Fillmore Police Department. During the reporting, law enforcement was advised that Ronald Cole had been missing since May of 1965 and his last known location was a family residence in the 400 block of Foothill Drive in the city of Fillmore. Family members of Ronald Cole believed he was missing under suspicious circumstances and suspected Ronald Cole’s half-brother, David La Fever, was responsible for Ronald Cole’s disappearance. Due to the suspicious circumstance surrounding Ronald Cole’s disappearance, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office assumed the missing person investigation in August of 1984.
At the time, investigators were unable to find any physical evidence of a crime, a crime scene, or locate Ronald Cole. David La Fever was named a prime suspect in Ronald Cole’s disappearance, but no criminal charges could be substantiated at that time. Ronald Cole’s missing person investigation remained open throughout the years. During the investigation, investigators learned David La Fever passed away on August 12, 2007, in Anchorage, Alaska.
In 2024, Henry County Sheriff’s Office began reviewing a cold case involving unidentified human skeletal remains that were located on October 27, 1966. The remains were located near a creek southeast of Geneseo, Illinois. Included in the remains discovered was a human skull with an obvious bullet hole, classifying the investigation as homicide.
Investigators with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office requested assistance from the non-profit organization, DNA Doe Project, in identifying the remains. At DNA Doe Project’s request, a sample of the remains recovered in 1966 were sent to Astrea Forensics for analysis. Astrea Forensics is a laboratory that specializes in extracting genetic profiles from highly degraded forensic samples.
Investigators with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office worked with DNA Doe Project and were able to identify potential family members. In May of 2025, members of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Unit began working with investigators from the Henry County Sheriff’s Office. Case notes from the Ronald Cole missing person case were shared and information was compared.
On January 10,2026, Henry County Sheriff’s Office investigators received notification from the DNA Doe Project that the unidentified human remains located in 1966 were confirmed to be that of Ronald Cole. Henry County Sheriff’s Office investigators hold jurisdiction of the homicide investigation regarding Ronald Cole.
The Ronald Joseph Cole missing person investigation is one of many cold cases constantly being reviewed by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Unit. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Unit continually investigates numerous cold cases through cooperation with outside agencies, working with various forensic laboratories, and utilizing assistance from volunteer organizations to solve and make progress of these types of cases.
Prepared by: Detective Erik Hernandez
News Release Date: 01/14/2026
Approved by: Captain Victor Medina
Photo Release: NO
***
Nature of Incident: Missing Person / Cold Case Update
Report Number: 84- 52993
Location: 400 Block of Foothill Drive, Fillmore
Date & Time: October 25, 1983
Unit(s) Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Bureau, Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Unit, Henry County Sheriff’s Office, DNA Doe Project, Astrea Forensics
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent, City of Residence, Age
(V) Ronald Joseph Cole, Fillmore, 19
***
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).

By Epi Torres
PASADENA, CA – It was a successful weekend for local distance runners as athletes from Fillmore and Piru traveled to Pasadena to compete in both track and road racing events on January 17th and 18th.
Track Standouts at Distance Night
The weekend kicked off on Saturday at Pasadena High School for the January Distance Night meet. Two local freshmen made their mark on the track, both coming away with new personal records.
Ethan Leighton, a freshman at Saint Bonaventure, put on an impressive display of endurance and recovery. Leighton established personal bests in two different events during the meet. He first posted an excellent time of 2:07.39 in the 800-meter race. Just minutes later, he returned to the starting line for the Mile, where he clocked his second personal best of the night with a time of 5:15.61.
Representing Fillmore High School, freshman Damien Santa Rosa took on the grueling two-mile race. Competing in the event for the first time, Santa Rosa crossed the finish line with a strong personal best time of 10:43.02.
Success at the Rose Bowl
On Sunday, the focus shifted to the iconic Rose Bowl for the 2026 Rose Bowl Half Marathon.
In the main 13.1-mile event, Martin Arredondo of Fillmore and Fabian Ochoa of Piru represented the local community. Arredondo finished the half marathon with a time of 1:31:55, while Ochoa completed the course in 1:42:14.
The next generation of runners was also in action as Angel Fabian Ochoa Arredondo, a student at Piru Elementary, participated in the Rose Bowl Rush. The young athlete completed the half-kilometer (one-third of a mile) course. While no official times were kept for the youth event, it capped off a weekend of high-level participation for the Fillmore and Piru running community.

January 20, 2026 –Fillmore, CA– Rio Vista Elementary School education specialist Mariah Perez has been nominated for National Life Group’s 2025-26 LifeChanger of the Year award. National Life Group’s LifeChanger of the Year recognizes and rewards the very best K-12 educators and school district employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
Perez was nominated by the parent of a student, Marlene Galaviz, for her student dedication to students and advocacy for inclusion, including for those with special needs. She is humble, kind, consistent in her teaching, and supportive of her students, school, and parents.
Perez helps students in any way she can, whether by coaching the cheering team or selflessly providing resources for her classroom. She is completely committed to all that she does.
“Ms. Perez has personally given both of my children encouragement, building up their self-esteem and showing them that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to,” said Galaviz. “I am impressed with her ability to create relationships with each family and really know each student so well. Ms. Perez continues to find new ways to evolve. I am forever grateful.”
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About LifeChanger of the Year
Since 2011, LifeChanger of the Year has recognized and rewarded more than 8,600 K-12 teachers, administrators, and school employees in 2,300+ school districts. The program has awarded over $850,000 in cash prizes to winners and their schools for making a significant difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
(1) Grand Prize Winner – will receive $20,000 to be shared with their school/district.
(4) Grand Prize Finalists – will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
(10) LifeChanger Award Winners – will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school/district.
(1) Spirit Award Winner – This award is given to the nominee whose community demonstrates the most support for their nomination. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
(1) Spotlight Award Winner – This award is given to a nominee in a specific discipline each year. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school or district.
Winners are chosen by a selection committee composed of former winners and education professionals and will be announced in early 2026. Nominees must be K-12 teachers or school district employees. To be considered for an award, nominees must
- Make a positive impact on the lives of students
- Enhance their school or district’s atmosphere, culture, and pride
- Demonstrate exemplary leadership at the school and/or district level
- Possess a proven record of professional excellence
- Show commitment to building a nurturing environment that supports learning
- Adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards
A resource page with ideas for how to celebrate nominees can be found at http://lifechangeroftheyear.com/showspirit/.
Visit https://app.lifechangeroftheyear.com/nomination_detail.cfm?NominationID=... to read Perez’s nominee profile. If you’re interested in nominating someone from your school community, visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and the Cities of Fillmore, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, and Ojai would like to address our youth and young adults’ growing use of E-bikes, bicycles, and electric scooters. These vehicles can be useful in reducing traffic and allowing young people a means of transportation other than motor vehicles to school and other activities. However, we have seen recent increases in collisions involving our youth on e-bikes, bicycles, and scooters.
The increased speed provided by E-bikes and electric scooters requires increased care in their use. Traffic rules must be followed, and helmets must be worn at all times. Each type of the above-listed vehicle has specific rules for its use and operation. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office has prepared two informational flyers outlining these rules.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and the above-listed contract cities are collaborating with local schools, Community Resource Units, and School Resource Deputies to provide in-person education on the rules, regulations, and safe use of E-bikes, bicycles, and electric scooters in our communities.
Electric off-road motorcycles made by Sur-Ron, Talaria, Segway, and many other manufacturers are prohibited on public roads, sidewalks, or parks. These are off-road-only vehicles and are subject to impoundment if they are operated on public roads, sidewalks, or parks. The rider can be subject to citation and/or arrest.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office will focus on education but will also consider enforcement of violations associated with electric motorcycles and their unlawful operation.
The goal is to reduce traffic collisions, ensure safe operation, and prevent injuries, protecting the youth in our communities.