Ventura County Crime Blog

INCIDENT:
Armed Robbery
DATE/TIME:
9-28-08 0301 hours
LOCATION:
1011 South “C” Street (7/11 Store)
VICTIM/S:
7/11 Business
SUSPECT/S:
Hispanic male, 6’-0”, heavy build, wearing dark clothing and a ski mask. Armed with a large knife.
WITNESS/ES:
N/A
SUSPECT VEHICLE:
None seen
LOSS:
Unknown amount of currency

DETAILS:
On 9-28-08 Officer from Oxnard Police Department responded to a civil dispute at the business located at 1011 South “C” St. Upon their arrival they contacted witness that said there was robbery at the business.

The suspect entered the business wearing dark clothing and a ski mask. He was armed with a large knife. The suspect demanded money and after receiving the money he fled the store on foot. This is a similar description of this suspect in two prior robberies on 9-26-08.

We are asking for the community’s assistance. If you witnessed the incident and were not contacted by the police, please contact Detective Ed Baldwin at (805) 385-7688 or the Oxnard Police Departments Violent Crimes Hotline at (805) 982-7070.


An investigation is continuing.

September 28, 2008

INCIDENT:
Possible Gang Shooting
DATE/TIME:
9-28-08 0019 hours
LOCATION:
3100 block of South “L” St
VICTIM/S:
16 year old Oxnard resident
21 year old, Rana Islam of Oxnard
SUSPECT/S:
4 Male Hispanics NFD
WITNESS/ES:
N/A
SUSPECT VEHICLE:
Possible Silver Lexus

DETAILS:
On 9-28-08 Officer from Oxnard Police Department responded to shots fired in the 3100 block of South “L” St. Upon their arrival they contacted witnesses that said there was shots fired in the street but there was no victim at the scene. Moments later two gunshot victims arrived at St. John’s Regional Medical Center.

The 16 year old victim was shot in the throat and the 21 year old victim was shot in the leg. The 16 year old was listed in stable but serious condition. By what investigators could gather there was a party in the 1000 block of Spruce St. When people left from the party they were confronted by the suspects. Shots were fired and both victims were hit by gunfire. There was possible gang slogans yelled during the shooting. Neither victim has gang ties.


We are asking for the community’s assistance. If you witnessed the incident and were not contacted by the police, please contact Detective Jeff Long at (805) 486-6506 or the Oxnard Police Departments Violent Crimes Hotline at (805) 982-7070.


An investigation is continuing.

INCIDENT:
Gang Related Arrest
DATE/TIME:
September 26, 2008 at 11:55 p.m.
LOCATION:
200 block of West Palm Drive
SUSPECT/S:
17 year-old Oxnard resident

DETAILS:

On July 24, 2008 at 1416 hours, Oxnard police were dispatched to a stabbing victim at Lathrop Park, 600 E. Guava Street. When officers arrived, they located the victim, a 16 year-old Oxnard resident, who had suffered a non-life threatening stab wound. This incident appeared to be gang related and was assigned to the Oxnard Police Department’s Gang Unit for further investigation.

After a lengthy investigation, the suspect was identified as a 17 year-old Oxnard resident. It was also determined this same suspect was involved in a Ventura shooting on August 24, 2008.

On September 26, 2008 at 2315 hours, Oxnard Police Department’s Special Enforcement Unit, Oxnard gang investigators and members of the Ventura Police Department’s Special Enforcement Team served a search warrant at the suspect’s residence located in the 200 block of Palm Drive. During the execution of the search warrant, the suspect was taken into custody without incident.

The 17 year-old juvenile was booked into Juvenile Hall for two counts of assault with a deadly weapon and a related gang enhancement.

Further investigation will continue.
Anyone with information relating to these crimes are encouraged to contact Detective Williams at (805) 486-6228 or leave an anonymous message on the Violent Crimes Hotline at (805) 982-7070.

INCIDENT:
Insurance Fraud
DATE/TIME:
9/26/08 1100 HOURS
LOCATION:
1100 Block of Fifth ST, Port Hueneme, CA
VICTIM/S:
Insurance Industry
SUSPECT/S:
Fernando Lopez (24 YEARS OLD)
Armando Lopez (25 YEARS OLD)
LOSS:
APPROXIMATELY $20,000
PREPARED BY:

DETAILS:

On 9/26/08, a silent lojack signal was being tracked by marked Port Hueneme police vehicles. The signal led police to the stolen Nissan Altima, located in the 1100 block of Fifth Street in the City of Port Hueneme. This vehicle was reported stolen earlier this date to the Oxnard Police Department. Members of the Ventura County Auto Theft Taskforce conducted surveillance on the stolen Nissan Altima.

At approximately 1100 hours, a pickup truck pulled up next to the stolen vehicle and one suspect began vandalizing the vehicle. Both suspects then entered the pickup truck and left the area. A stop was conducted on the vehicle.

During the investigation, it was determined that the owner of the pickup truck was the owner of the stolen vehicle. During the investigation, it was determined that the suspect reported his vehicle stolen to commit insurance fraud.

It is illegal to falsely report vehicles stolen to commit insurance fraud.

If anyone has information regarding vehicle insurance fraud, please contact Detective Enrique Alvarez at the Oxnard Police Department: (805) 385-7755 or investigator Orozco at the California Highway Patrol Office: (805) 654-6934.


An investigation is continuing.

INCIDENT:
Police Investigate Two Armed Robberies
DATE/TIME:
1.09-26-08 at 0225 hours
2.09-26-08 at 0325 hours
LOCATIONS:
1.1955 S. Patterson Road, Oxnard
2.2060 E. Pleasant Valley Road, Oxnard
SUSPECT:
Hispanic male, heavy set, wearing dark clothes, gloves and mask; armed with a knife.
VICTIMS:
7-Eleven Stores (both locations)

DETAILS:

Oxnard police are investigating the overnight armed robbery of two convenience stores that appear to have been committed by the same suspect.

Officers responded to a call of a robbery at the 7-Eleven located at 1955 S. Patterson Rd. Officers were told the suspect (described above) entered the business armed with a large knife. He demanded money and fled the location on foot westbound on Hemlock Street.

At about 0325 hours, officers responded to second armed robbery call at the 7-Eleven located at 2060 East Pleasant Valley Rd. The suspect was described as the same in the prior robbery on Patterson. The suspect was seen leaving the business on foot towards Beaumont Street.

Persons with additional information on these crimes can report their information anonymously to Crime Stoppers at (805) 385-TALK.

An investigation is continuing.

INCIDENT:
Two students injured in hit and run collision
DATE/TIME:
09-25-08 at 0730 hours
LOCATION:
800 block of Cooper Road
SUSPECT VEHICLE:
Red older model compact with male driver and female passenger
VICTIMS:
Two 15 year-old females from Oxnard


DETAILS:

Oxnard police are investigating a hit-and-run collision resulting in the injury of two Pacifica High School students this morning.

At 0730 hours, Oxnard police and fire received a call of a pedestrian hit-and-run collision near Ramona School at 804 Cooper Road.

Preliminary information from the scene indicates the two teenage students were walking in the marked crosswalk at Bonita Ave. and Cooper Rd. when they were hit by the suspect vehicle. The driver fled the scene northbound on Bonita St.

Both pedestrians were transported to St. John’s Regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries; one by private vehicle and one by ambulance.

The driver is wanted for felony hit-and-run.
Any witnesses to the crash are encourage to report their observations anonymously to Crime Stoppers at (805) 385-TALK.

An investigation is continuing. (Names of the injured pedestrians are not being released because notification of next of kin has yet to be confirmed.)

INCIDENT:  Arrest of Homicide Suspect
DATE/TIME:  09-23-08 / 1630 hours
LOCATION:  Oxnard Police Department
VICTIM/S:  Rosa Ruiz/ Luis Ruiz
SUSPECT/S:  David Landeros/ 20 years / Oxnard Resident

DETAILS:

Detectives from the Oxnard Police Department arrested 20 year old David Landeros in connection with the double murder of Rosa Ruiz and her son Luis Ruiz that occurred on September 12, 2008. The victims were gunned down while standing in front of their residence in the 1800 block of Alexander Street.

Investigators are not commenting on what led to the arrest of Landeros or what his involvement was in the double murder. Landeros was taken into custody at the Oxnard Police Department without incident. Landeros was booked into Ventura County Jail and is facing murder charges.


An investigation is continuing.

Related Post
>Double Murder

Related Links

I have found some resources for those that find themselves in a situation of being Emotionally or Physically abused - Abuse comes in many forms. It tends to remain a vicious cycle where at first may typically start very subtle, is very confusing. The abuse may be happening, and you may not even know it because of a sneaky controlling person, which usually works very smoothly.

I will be putting out bits of information here and there for those who wish view and learn from.
Also, I am attached this as a Resource page for Services in English and in Spanish.

This page will become more uniform and organized, and for the sake of beginning, I am simply just introducing this.

Resources Page:

For Emergency Help, dial 911
For Services Helpline, dial 211

Child or Adult Abuse Hotline: 654-3200
General Information: (866) 904-9362

The Coalition to End Family Violence (24 hours): (805) 656-1111
Spanish Hotline: (800) 300-2181
• Shelter for women and children
• Counseling for victims, batterers and children
• Support groups for women
• Referral services

Interface Children Family Services
http://www.icfs.org/

Behavior Health Department
http://portal.countyofventura.org/portal/page?_pageid=953,1293790&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL

Chilren & Family Services - Independent living Program
http://portal.countyofventura.org/portal/page?_pageid=884,1129972&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL

Child Development Resources
http://www.cdrofvtaco.org/

Coalition to End Family Violence: Local Police Agencies:
Camarillo Police Department 482-9844
Fillmore Sheriff’s 524-2233
Ojai Sheriff’s 646-1414
Oxnard Police Department 385-7600
Port Hueneme Police Dept. 986-6530
Santa Paula Police Dept. 525-4478
Simi Valley Police Dept. 583-6950
Thousand Oaks Sheriff’s 494-8200
Ventura Police Department 339-4400
Ventura Sheriff’s 654-2311

Regards
OPNS

On Thursday September 18, 2008, at approximately 5:00 p.m., a Hispanic male in a black four-door hatchback vehicle pulled up next to a 14-year-old female asking for directions. After providing the subject with directions, the subject asked the 14 year old if she needed a ride. She declined and the subject drove away. Approximately 5 minutes later the subject returned, pulled up next to her and got her attention. As she looked into the driver side window, she saw that the subject was exposing his genitals. The driver told her to get in the car. The 14 year old ignored the subject and began walking in the opposite direction of his vehicle. The subject left the area. This incident occurred in the area of Mountain Meadow and Tierra Rejada Park.

The suspect is identified as:

Male 30 to 33 years of age, Hispanic, thin build, shaved head, medium complexion, medium height wearing black sunglasses, white t-shirt and blue jeans.

The Vehicle is described as:Newer model black 4-door hatchback with tinted windows and something hanging from the rear view mirror.

If your children walk alone, please speak to them about this incident. If they encounter an incident like this, advise them to run away and call 9-1-1 as soon as possible.

Anyone with information about this incident or similar incidents, please contact the Moorpark Police Department at (805) 532-2700.

Nature of Incident: Sexual Battery
Location: 1200 block of Crestview Avenue, Camarillo, CA.
Date & Time/ RB#: 09-16-2008 / Approximately 1820 hours / 2008-25214
Unit Responsible: Camarillo Detectives

(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses:

(S) White male, late 20s early 30s, short brown hair, bluish-green eyes, 5’07” to 5’08” tall, 150 to 160 lbs, thin medium build, white T-shirt with unknown design on front, blue jean shorts, black shoes. (Refer to suspect composite sketch below.)
(V) 24 year old female from Camarillo, California.

Narrative:
On 09-16-2008, at approximately 1820 hours, an unknown suspect approached the victim in the 1200 block of Crestview Avenue in Camarillo. The suspect confronted the 24-year-old female victim, during her evening walk, and grabbed her by the waist. The suspect pulled the victim toward him and kissed her on the mouth. The victim pushed the suspect away and he fled. If you have any information that may assist investigators in this investigation, please contact Detective Guillermo Valencia with the Camarillo Police Department at (805) 388-5149.



Thank you to Ebrockway for providing me with this information.


Thank you Spapegoat for the image

OPNS

Dear Folks,
I'm creating this blog site so that we may share information, or get information from anyone that may have details to this case, encouraging to contact Detective Eric Buschow. This blog will also be used for persons who would like to participate in conversations - venting - as we all know, News like this can really still up the blood or anger. Moreso, this site will be for anyone who is a victim and is having a hard time coming out and sharing their information to those who have walked those shoes.

If you or anyone you know is or has been sexually violated. I urge you to please speak up and talk to us. Your now alone, and although family and friends may not believe you. Please give us here in the community to hear you. What you have to say is so important. Here we can come together to support someone out there, to hold their hand while taking steps to resources and help.

Remember, we are all participating and commenting to to scare those away who are trying to reach out. I hope that this blog will help us all come together to heal our own pain from stories like this.
Regards,
Opns

INCIDENT:
Robbery Assault with a Deadly Weapon
DATE/TIME:
9-18-08 1840 hours
LOCATION:
Gisler and Kamala
VICTIM/S:
Filemon Hidalgo 45 year old, Oxnard resident.
SUSPECT/S:
Suspect-1 17 year old juvenile Oxnard resident
Suspect-2 Elias Orozco 22 year old Oxnard resident
WITNESS/ES:

SUSPECT VEHICLE:
In Custody
LOSS:
US Currency

DETAILS:
On 9-18-08 officers from the Oxnard Police Department responded to a robbery investigation with a shot being fired. The victim was standing by in the 1500 block of Oxnard Blvd. Upon officers arrival the victim stated he was selling ice cream in the area of Gisler and Kamala when he was approached by the suspect. The suspect was armed with a handgun and he demanded the victim’s money. During the incident a shot was fired by the suspect striking the ice cream container.

A witness had seen the incident and called in the description of the suspect vehicle to the police. Officer responded to the trucks last registered address. They located the truck and contacted a possible residence of interest in the 600 block of East Juniper. During the investigation both suspects were identified and arrested. Both admitted their participation in tonight’s robbery. The juvenile was arrested and booked into juvenile hall for assault with a deadly weapon and robbery. The adult was arrested and booked into Ventura County Jail for tonight’s robbery and another robbery that occurred on 8-19-08 at the 7/11 at 2201 East Gonzales Rd.

During a search warrant detectives seized a possible weapon used during the robbery. The victim was not injured as a result of the shooting.

An investigation is continuing.

Location:
400 Blk. Cornell Place.
Date/Time Occurred:
September 13, 2008, 11:30 p.m.
Victim(s):
Monico Ramirez,18 years of age, Ventura Resident.
Suspect(s):
Unknown Hispanic Males.


Narrative:
On the above date and time, numerous suspects approached the victim as he arrived at a residence in the 400 block of Cornell Place. After a brief conversation, the suspects attacked the victim.

As a result, the victim sustained a single stab wound to his lower back. The victim was transported to Ventura County Medical Center where he was treated for his injury. Victim sustained a moderate injury not believed to be life threatening.

This investigation is ongoing.

If you have any information about this crime, please contact the Ventura Police Detectives at 339-4394, or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 385-TALK or 494-TALK. If your information leads to an arrest, you could receive a cash reward of up to $ 1000.00.

Location:
Kohls 4950 Telephone Rd Vta, CA .
Date/Time Occurred:
September 14, 2008, 4:49 p.m.
Victim(s):
Kohls Department Store and a 4 yr old child (minor's name withheld).
Suspect(s):
Gerardo Rodriguez, 24 years of age, Fillmore Resident, AND Yanira Camargo, 22 years of age, Fillmore Resident


Narrative:
On the above date and time, both suspects Yanira Camargo and Gerardo Rodriguez, entered the Kohls department store with their 4-year-old daughter. The child was riding in a shopping cart which the suspects had been using to steal merchandise.

The suspects left the store without paying for the merchandise, and the loss prevention staff confronted the suspects once they were outside the store.

Rodriguez and Camargo fled to a nearby car and made their escape, but they abandoned their small child in the shopping cart in the parking lot. When the suspect’s abandoned the shopping cart, the child was almost struck by a car traveling through the parking lot. Kohl’s loss prevention rescued the child and recovered their merchandise. The child was not harmed and was released to guardian.

If you have any information about this crime, please call Ventura Police Detectives at 339-4394, or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 385-TALK or 494-TALK. If your information leads to an arrest, you could receive a cash reward of up to $1,000.

Related Links
>Couple Arrested on Suspicion of Abandoning Child, Theft
>Pair Accused of Theft, Child Endangerment
>Shoplifters Flee Arrest, Leaver Daughter Behind

Early this morning, a 32-year-old made a choice that cost him more than any D.U.I. or legal attorney fees could have cost:
It cost the lives of 5 of his passengers.

He was arrested this morning, and will be facing charges of felony drunk driving, driving with a suspended/revoked license and vehicular manslaughter, according to California Highway Patrol officials.

Remember
It's cheaper to call a cab than get a D.U.I. and it's better to have a friend be mad at you for a day or two when you take away their keys than to lose them in an accident like this, or have them cause an accident like this.

Do what is right, not what is easy!

-Elidet

*Update*

The names of the victims are as follows:

Guillermo Aguiniga, 29
Miguel Gallardo, 23
Juan Carlos Gallardo
Horacio Sanchez, 23
and Raul Fletes, 43.




RELATED LINKS
>Five Dead in Crash Near Fillmore
>Vehicle Crash Victims Grew Up Best Friends

September 13, 2009

[Update: Murder suspect, David Landeros, was arrested on September 23rd.]

INCIDENT:  Double Murder
DATE/TIME:  09-12-2008 / 11:15pm
LOCATION:  1800 Block Alexander St
VICTIM/S:  Rosa Ruiz, 49 years / Luis Ruiz , 17 years

DETAILS:

On 09-12-2008 at approximately 11:15 pm, officers from the Oxnard Police Department responded to a call of a shooting victim in the 1800 block of Alexander St. Upon the officer’s arrival, they located two shooting victims in the front yard area of the residence. The victims were identifies as 49 year old Rosa Ruiz and her 17 year old son Luis Ruiz. Both victims’ were transported to Saint John’s Regional Medical Center where they died a short time later.

The victims had several family members from out of state at their residence as they had come into town for a family celebration that was scheduled for Saturday. Rosa Ruiz was in the front yard area speaking with her son. The rest of the family was inside of the house when they reported hearing a gunshot. As the family members went outside to check on the victims, they found that both had sustained gunshot wounds.

At the time of this press release, the motive for the shooting has not been determined. It is not known if the shooting is gang related. Anyone with information relating to this crime is asked to contact Detective Adam Wittkins at 385-7649 or leave a message on the Violent Crimes Hotline at 982-7070.

An investigation is continuing.Related Post
>Arrest of homicide suspect

Related Links

Suspect Threatens Life

At approximately, 11:10 AM Wednesday morning, a 19 year old victim answered a knock on her door when the suspect tried to force himself into her home. She was able to secure the door and keep him out.

She told police that during the whole thing the man continually yelled at the victim that he was going to kill her.

Once she got the door closed again, the suspect fled and police efforts to locate him failed.

Fillmore Police described the suspect as a Hispanic male, 5'10" tall, medium build, mid 20's, dark complexion with a mole on the right side of his face.

He was last seen wearing a black baseball cap and a black t-shirt with white lettering or an emblem on the back. He spoke English.

September 11, 2008

Close Date: Sep 18, 2008
Salary: $26.00 Hourly

Job Announcement:
The City of Oxnard is currently seeking persons interested in a law enforcement career with an excellent and progressive community-oriented police department.


THE POSITION

As a Trainee you will attend a P.O.S.T. certified 24-week police academy designed to provide an overview of the criminal justice system, training in various laws and procedures, law enforcement techniques, first aid, physical fitness and related duties. Upon successful completion of the police academy, trainees enter the Oxnard Police Department field training program and are assigned to the Patrol Division.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

The preferred method of application is on-line and you are highly encouraged to apply at www.hr.cityofoxnard.org. If you are unable to apply electronically, you may either print out or request a paper application by calling (805) 385 7590 during regular business hours. Paper applications may be faxed to (805) 385 8352, mailed, or hand-delivered to the Human Resources Department at 300 West Third Street, Oxnard, California 93030.

Candidates who successfully complete all phases of the selection process will be placed on the eligibility list. These phases include: a thorough background investigation; polygraph; psychological assessment; medical examination (including a drug test); and a Chief’s oral interview. The academy schedule will be announced at a later date.

Ideal Candidate:

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

No experience is required. Must be 20 years and 6 months of age at the time of entry into police pre-academy and a U.S. citizen or a resident alien who is eligible for and has applied for citizenship. Must be in good physical condition with the ability to walk, run, jump, climb, crawl and meet P.O.S.T. medical standards which include visual and hearing acuity.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE - High school diploma or GED.

ABILITY TO - Speak Spanish is highly desirable. Ability to speak Vietnamese, Filipino, Korean and American Sign Language capability is also desirable.

LICENSE - Valid California Class “C” driver license. Must meet the City of Oxnard’s driving standards of no more than two moving violations within the past two years.

LINKS:
>More Info
>Application

While prevention is key in reducing crime, so is preparedness.

We are fortunate enough to live in Ventura County, which offers Reverse 911 services, and it only takes a few minutes to register.

From the website:

"The system can be used to deliver alerts when there is a threat to the public health or safety of residents in the cities of Camarillo, Fillmore, Moorpark, Ojai, Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Santa Paula, and the unincorporated areas of Ventura County.

The Cities of Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, and Ventura have opted not to participate in the County’s REVERSE 911® System.

They have their own community notification systems capable of alerting residents.

Please contact them for further information."


If you have any questions, please check their FAQ's page. If your question is still not answered, you can contact reverse911@ventura.org.

LINKS
Reverse 911
FAQ's

Anthony Tovar, of Oxnard, crashed a stolen car into Channel Islands High School Wednesday afternoon.

At approximately 4:25 pm, an Oxnard police officer ran the car's license plates through a database, which showed the car had been reported as stolen from Port Hueneme on June 23.

The officer turned on his emergency lights, signaling for Tovar to pull over. Instead, he drove onto the school's parking lot and drove onto campus.

According to Jack Kujawa, Oxnard police sergeant, Tovar faces possible charges of vehicle theft, resisting arrest and felony vandalism.

No other injuries were reported. School was not in session at the time, although one sports team was on campus.

For information from witnesses, click here.

Shortly before 2:30pm, one person was shot and another in custody, following a personal dispute at a busy strip mall in Oxnard regarding an earlier incident between the suspect and the victim.

The victim suffered hand injuries and treated at St. John's Medical Center . The suspect was quickly taken into custody.

The shooting took place at the 3500 block of Saviers Road, which was shut down briefly.

No other details at this time.

UPDATE:

The suspect is a 35 year old Oxnard resident.
The victim is a 37 year old male Oxnard resident.
Names have not been released.

The suspect walked past the restaurant where the victim was dinning inside, and fired, wounding the victim.

I thought this news video clip was interesting to post. If these children can do the right thing, certainly, we can do the right thing when it comes to our best of friends. It starts by taking away their keys.-Elidet

Due to the overwhelming response to 805 Vigilantes, and the weak presence of crime prevention resources available to Spanish speakers, we will be working on a Spanish version of this blog.

We will be pro-active in providing them with information, resources and making the process of crime prevention less intimidating. We feel this market is too important to ignore and the missing piece of the puzzle in gathering the entire community to contribute to the safety of our neighborhoods.

If you would like to get involved, or have suggestions, please email Ellen (high society) at republicofgenesis@yahoo.com. She will then assign the proper contributor according to your needs.

We hope that this will also lessen the intolerance that has been building up with recent crimes, and racism due to culture clash.

UPDATE:
http://vigilantesdel805.blogspot.com/


We will be updating the website and working on business cards in both English & Spanish.

Suggestions welcome!

Ventura Burglar Suspect Shot

Shortly before 3 a.m., an officer was involved in a shooting of a burglary suspect at Balboa Middle School.

Ventura Police responded to a report of a burglary at Balboa Middle School, located south of Woodland Street and west of Hill Road.

During the investigation, the suspect was confronted by the officer and shots were fired, injuring the suspect. The suspect was taken to the Ventura County Medical Center and listed in stable condition. His name has not been released yet. The officer was not injured.

No other suspects were found.

School operations are not being impacted by the investigation on campus.

An investigation is continuing.

VIDEO LINK:
http://gallery.venturacountystar.com/video.cfm?VideoID=571

Important to note that we had no serious crime reports on Monday in the City of Oxnard.

People always remember when bad things happen, but Monday was a good day.

(D.A. Gregory Totten & the late Ellie Liston has compiled invaluable information for victims of crime. Ellie Liston retired on October 1, 1999, as a Senior Victim Advocate for the D.A.'s office, and soon thereafter, on January 4, 2000, lost her courageous battle with cancer.-From the Information for Crime Victims & Witnesses Booklet.)

The Ellie Liston Crime Victims Assistance Program

It is important that as a victim of a crime, you know your resources and understand that you have rights. Contrary to popular belief, suspects do not have more rights, it is just that victims do not know theirs.

As a victim, you will be provided with a trained Victim Advocate to assist you with your case. The Victim Advocate is part of a team that consists of the Deputy District Attorney and investigator, who will also work on your case. Remember, you are not alone. As a victim, you have access to the services of the Crime Victims Assistance Program, regardless if the case is prosecuted or not.

These services include:

-Assistance with domestic violence temporary restraining orders.
-Orientation to the criminal justice system.
-Crisis intervention.
-Information about your case.
-Property return assistance.
-Interview appointment.
-Support during court proceedings.
-Referrals to community agencies.
-Help with victims of crime compensation.
-Assistance with therapist referrals.

Victim Advocates work in the following areas:

-Felonies.
-Child abuse/molestation.
-Domestic violence.
-Sexual assault.
-Juveniles.
-Homicides.
-Elderly abuse.
-Statutory rape.
-Gangs.
-Misdemeanors.

(Spanish speaking advocates are available for all crime areas. Specially trained advocates available to assist senior citizens and victims with special needs or disabilities.)

We will be posting more on Crime Resources weekly.

Complete booklet available by contacting:
Gregory D. Totten, D.A.
Ellie Liston Crime Victims Assistance Program (Hall of Justice)
800 South Victoria Avenue, Room 311
Ventura, CA 93009
(805) 654-3622

Related Links:
http://www.ventura.org/vcda

It is no secret that we have a problem with gangs and related criminal activity. The most vicious this year so far, has been the cold-blooded murder of Gurmohinder Singh, by gang member, Jeffrey Aguilar.

The measure, also called the Safe Neighborhoods Act, would increase punishments for gangs and street criminals, create funding for law enforcement to get such technology as GPS tracking and databases of gang members, and establish prevention and intervention programs aimed at children at risk of joining gangs.

Many of the citizens of Oxnard are tired of the leniency criminals, especially repeat offenders, receive and thus, are out terrorizing our streets.

There are many people against this bill, but this is exactly why we have repeat offenders. No doubt, some have said that it will lead to racial profiling. Many of us agree that parenting, or lack of parenting, is one of the biggest contributors to crimes.

Should illegal aliens qualify for bail due to a violent or gang crime? I say no. As a Latina, this has created controversy with a few of my peers, but I say, once someone commits a violent or gang crime, their rights are no longer guaranteed, regardless if they are illegal or not. I would prefer that this apply to all those charged with violent crimes, but we are taking baby steps.

On their website, the sponsors of Prop 6 say their measure:

"Creates tougher punishment for gang crimes, drive-by shooting, meth distribution and victim intimidation."
"Creates more effective and accountable intervention programs to stop young kids from joining gangs."
"Helps victims who have been intimidated by gang criminals and it funds victim-witness protection programs in our communities."
"Prohibits bail for illegal aliens who are charged with violent or gang crimes."
"Ensures funding for local police, sheriff, district attorneys and probation officers."

Here is a report on the homicide rate in California. (PDF.)

Budget cuts have also played a role in neighborhood safety.

I support Prop. 6 and I hope this November, you will as well.

I have provided the links both supporting and opposing this proposition for your convenience.

Related Links:
>For Prop. 6
>Against Prop. 6

*Full disclosure*

We have a total of 5 contributors to this blog. My opinion on Prop. 6 does not reflect the opinion of the other contributors.
-High Society

INCIDENT:
Gunfire Injures Motorist
DATE/TIME:
Saturday, 9/06/2008 at 2315 hours
LOCATION:
Vineyard Avenue and Oxnard Boulevard
VICTIM:
Patricia Mendez, 28 years, of Oxnard
SUSPECT/S:
Hispanic male, 20s, 6-foot, medium build, black T-shirt.
SUSPECT VEHICLE:
Silver or white newer model Chevrolet Silverado 2-door pick-up.
LOSS:
Minor facial wound. Victim was treated and released.

DETAILS:

Oxnard police are investigating the injury of a 28 year-old Oxnard woman near the intersection of Vineyard Ave. and Oxnard Blvd. late Saturday night.

Officers were dispatched to the emergency room at St. John’s Regional Medical Center where Patricia Mendez was being treated for a minor facial wound.

Mendez told officers she was a rear-seat passenger in a car stopped at the intersection light. A man got out of a nearby pick-up truck and approached the car. The man fired on the vehicle with an unknown type firearm. Mendez was struck in the face. She was driven to the hospital by the uninjured (and unidentified) driver for treatment.

The motive for the shooting is under investigation.

Persons with information related to this crime are encourage to call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS number.. Rewards of up to $1,000 are offered to persons with information leading to the arrest of suspects in this case.

An investigation is continuing.

INCIDENT:
Fatal Traffic Collision
DATE/TIME:
Saturday, September 6, 2008 / 3:41 P.M
LOCATION:
Wooley Road and “C” Street
Motorcyclist:
Victim:
Walter B. Gordon, 73 years of age of Oxnard
VEHICLE:
Black 2003 Honda Motorcycle
Driver #2:
Javier Ayala 20 Years of age of Oxnard
VEHICLE:
Black 2002 Honda Accord

DETAILS:

On Saturday, September 06, 2008, at about 3:41 P.M., officers from the Oxnard Police Department responded to Wooley Road and “C” Street, after receiving a call of an injury collision involving a motor vehicle and motorcycle. Upon arrival, officers found a motorcycle rider lying on the westbound lanes of Wooley Road. The motorcycle driver was later identified as Walter Gordon. The driver of the Black Honda was identified as Javier Ayala. The Oxnard Fire Department and Gold Coast Ambulance responded to the scene. Both drivers were transported to St. Johns Hospital for treatment.

Driver Ayala was admitted to St. Johns Hospital for a skull fracture. Driver Walter Gordon died at St. Johns Regional Medical Center from injuries sustained in the collision.

The preliminary investigation indicated that the motorcycle was making a left turn from eastbound Wooley Road to northbound “C” street when the collision occurred. The black Honda which was westbound Wooley Road broadsided the motorcycle and the motorcyclist was ejected.

An investigation is continuing and we encourage any persons who witness the collision to contact the traffic investigator Senior Officer Humberto Jimenez at 805-385-7749

DATE: 09-06-2008

Fillmore Girl Assaulted

But 11-Year-Old Fends Off Male Attacker


2008-09-06

Fillmore Police say that the guardian of a young girl in that city reported that on Friday evening a man started to assault the girl, but the girl successfully fought him off. The incident was reported around 6:30 PM, not long after it happened.

The guardian of the 11-year-old told police a man approached the girl in the area of Mountain View Street and Sespe Avenue and pushed her to the ground.

The girl said that she was able to fend off the adult male before anything else happened. The man then fled the area in a black 1980's Honda with rear tinted windows. The only description of the suspect from police was that he was a Hispanic male in his 30's.

Anyone with information that could help police find the suspect should call Fillmore Police at (805) 524-2235
They can also call Crime Stoppers, anonymously, at (805) 385-TALK.

KVTA News

Suspects In Downtown Ventura Holdup Get Away

2008-09-06

Ventura Police say an attempt by two robbery victims to catch the suspects wound up causing the victims even more headaches, and the suspects ultimately got away.

The chain of events started around 1:30 Saturday morning as the two victims were walking on Santa Clara Avenue near Palm Street in downtown Ventura. Police say two men walked up and one of them held a knife to the chest of one of the victims as the suspects demanded the victims' wallets.

One of the victims gave up a cigarette while the other handed over an empty wallet and a cell phone. The suspects then fled in a white 1990's 4-door Toyota Camry. The victims ran to their car and started driving around looking for the suspects. They found them, in that white Camry, at Santa Clara and Laurel Street.

The suspects were in the middle of robbing another pedestrian of his wallet. But the suspects spotted the initial victims and they fled before completing the second holdup. The victims started a vehicle pursuit of the suspects through midtown Ventura. Police say during the chase the victim's vehicle went out of control and smashed into a parked van at Catalina near Poli Street. The victims tried to continue the pursuit, but their vehicle, which was totaled in the crash with the parked van, finally stopped running at Evergreen and Poli.

The suspects got away. No one was hurt. Ventura Police say it was a bad idea for the victims to do what they did. Police say they should have called 911, and if they did attempt to follow the suspects, it should have been at a safe distance and safe speed, obeying all the rules of the road. Meanwhile, police describe the outstanding suspects as 2 Hispanic males, in their early to mid 20's. Both are 5'10" tall and they were both wearing dark clothing.

Anyone with information that can help is urged to call Ventura Police at 339-4343.

KVTA News

A very concerned Aunt in Ventura posted in defense of her nephew. It is so easy for many to assume what the situation was. Please listen to the hearts of the family of the victims, this is exactly what this blog was created, for families and friends and concerned citizens to write and to vent and to create ideas in trying to prevent future crimes, and therefore hurtful comments. Please join us. And please read her post.

"Some of your comments are very rude. You do not know the person who was at the park or the situation behind it. My nephew was not at the park to score drugs, meet up with another man, nor did he have a fight with his girlfriend.

Let me explain...My sister's house is very hot because it faces the sun all day. Last night my nephew couldn't sleep because it was so hot and thought he would go running for a while. He loves to run and runs everyday in this neighborhood. He drove to Chumash park and ran three laps around the park. He got tired and decided to sit on a bench to catch his breath. The 3 men approached him, started punching him and throwing him to the ground. He was outnumbered and overpowered. When he hit one of the men in self-defense, one of the other three men stabbed him in the stomach. They took off running and my nephew drove himself to the hospital where he was treated and released. He saw the men and they were hispanic. We are very grateful that he was not seriously injured. He realizes he did not make a wise decision when he chose to go running so late at night. He thought he was in a pretty safe neighborhood. People should be more concerned about what is happening to our community with all the recent shootings, stabbings, and guns being brought to school etc. We all need to do something to make our community safe again."

INCIDENT:
Five Arrested in Suspected Gang Assault
Two Injured in Related Hit-and-Run Crash
DATE/TIME:
Friday, 09-05-08 at 0728 hours
LOCATION:
Channel Islands Blvd & Cloyne St.
VICTIM/S:
Assault victim: 18 year-old male from Oxnard
Traffic collision victims: Armando Alcantar Guzman, 36, of Oxnard, and Natividad Alcantar, 34, of Oxnard
SUSPECT/S:
Alexander Baez, 19 years, of Oxnard
Julio Juarez, 18 years, of Oxnard
14 year-old male juvenile from Oxnard
16 year-old male juvenile from Oxnard
16 year-old male juvenile from Oxnard
SUSPECT VEHICLE:
Green 2001 Oldsmobile Aurora
LOSS:
Assault victim: Contusions to body; no medical treatment necessary.
Traffic collision victims: Minor injuries/complaint of pain, transported by ambulance.

DETAILS:

Five gang members were arrested this morning after assaulting a rival gang member at a school bus stop in Oxnard. While fleeing the area, the suspect vehicle struck another car injuring two.

Undercover Oxnard police investigators were surveilling the bus stop at Channel Islands and Cloyne Street after receiving information that a fight might occur at one of the many bus stops in South Oxnard this morning.

Investigators observed five males approach another male at the bus stop. The suspects struck the victim multiple times with fists. When the victim fell to the ground, the suspects struck the victim with shoes/feet. The suspects fled into a nearby alley where an Olds Aurora was parked. The group fled the area.

Sergeant Tim Lumas followed the suspect vehicle as it drove southbound away from the scene. At the intersection of Gisler Avenue and Laurel Street, the suspect vehicle struck a Chevrolet Cavalier in the right-rear quarter panel. The car was driven by Armando Alcantar Guzman, 36, of Oxnard. The impact caused the victim vehicle to spin out in the intersection. Both Guzman and his wife, passenger Natividad Alcantar, 34, also of Oxnard, were transported to St. John’s Regional Medical Center by ambulance with minor injuries and complaints of pain.

After the collision the suspect vehicle fled the crash scene. Officers went into pursuit of the vehicle which eventually stopped on its own Gisler Avenue and Iris Street. All five occupants were taken into custody without further incident.

The five suspects were each charged with assault with a deadly weapon (shoes/feet), conspiracy, and criminal activity in the furtherance of a criminal street gang. Baez and Juarez were booked into the Ventura County Jail and are being held on $50,000 bail. The three juveniles were lodged at Juvenile Hall. The 16 year-old driver also faces charges of being an unlicensed driver, reckless driving and felony hit-and-run.

An investigation is continuing.

INCIDENT:
Robbery Assault with a Deadly Weapon (Home Invasion)
DATE/TIME:
9-5-08 at 0225 hours
LOCATION:
400 Block of South “D” Street
VICTIM/S:
30 year-old male Oxnard resident (minor stab wounds)
54 year-old female Oxnard resident (no injuries)
SUSPECT/S:
Hispanic female, 22 years, 5-06, medium build, beige shirt, jeans.
Hispanic male, 46 years, 5-06 to 5-07 medium build, dark clothing.
SUSPECT VEHICLE:
None seen
LOSS:
U.S. currency, miscellaneous personal property

DETAILS:

On Friday, 9-5-08 at approximately 0225 hours, officers received a call of a stabbing victim in the 400 block of South “D” Street. Upon their arrival they contacted two victims of a robbery and assault. The victims told officers they were asleep when they heard someone jump the fence into the rear yard of the residence.

Both victims were awakened by two suspects entering their bedroom and demanding money and property. During the incident the male victim was stabbed multiple time. The suspects then fled the scene on foot. The victim was transported to Saint John’s Regional Medical Center for minor wounds. He was treated and released.

Investigators are asking anyone with information please contact our Violent Crimes Hotline at (805) 982-7070 or Detective Chris Williams at (805) 486-6228.

An investigation is continuing.

INCIDENT:
Oxnard PD Returns to TV on MTV’s “Busted”
DATE/TIME:
Weeknights at 6:00 p.m. PT on MTV
Check local listings for additional airing times and channels

DETAILS:

“Busted,” MTV’s newest reality show which examines the impact of illegal activity on young adults, features officers in action from around the country including the Oxnard Police Department. A new episode airs tonight at 6:00 p.m. on cable network MTV, featuring Oxnard P.D. Officer Matt Crenshaw.

The series originally debuted in August. Thus far, three Oxnard officers – Michael Velasquez, Robert Valenzuela and Matt Crenshaw – have appeared. New Busted episodes profiling the work of Oxnard police officers are scheduled for September 9, 11, 15 and 17 and will feature Officers Joe Floriano, Jaime Miranda and others.

Production crews rode with Oxnard officers for several weeks over the spring and summer months; they plan on returning for more ride-alongs this month as additional episodes of Busted go into production.

Busted is not Oxnard PD’s first foray into reality TV. Many episodes of trueTV’s (formerly CourtTV) “Speeders,” continues to air regularly on the cable network.

* * *

Links
http://busted.mtv.com

September 4, 2008

INCIDENT:
Online Video Results in Felony Graffiti Vandalism Arrest
DATE/TIME:
Wednesday, 9/03/2008 at 1500 hours
LOCATION:

INCIDENT:
Attempted Kidnapping
DATE/TIME:
Wednesday, 09/03/08 at 2220 hours
LOCATION:
Gonzales Road and Lantana Street
VICTIM/S:
17 year-old female of Oxnard
SUSPECT/S:
Hispanic male, 20’s, moustache, wearing a blue checkered flannel shirt and black gloves; armed with an unknown type handgun.
SUSPECT VEHICLE:
Light-colored small size pick-up (possibly a white Ford) with considerable body damage. One headlamp and one tail lamp not working.
LOSS:
None

DETAILS:

Oxnard police are investigating the attempted kidnapping of a 17 year-old female pedestrian from the area of Gonzales Road and Lantana Street last night.

The female was approached by the suspect driving the above-described pick-up truck. The suspect reportedly displayed a handgun and ordered the victim into his car. The victim immediately fled on foot and was not injured during the incident.

Oxnard patrol officers quickly arrived but could not locate the suspect or his vehicle.

Persons with information on the suspect or his vehicle are encourage to call anonymously to Crime Stoppers at (805) 385-TALK. Rewards up to $1,000 are made available to persons with information leading to the arrest of this suspect.

An investigation is continuing.

INCIDENT:
Fatal Traffic Collision
DATE/TIME:
Wednesday September 03, 2008 at 5:45 a.m.
LOCATION:
“C” Street @ Elm Street
PEDESTRIAN:
Eulojio Garcia Sanchez, 53 years, Oxnard
DRIVER:
John Phillip Gonzales
VEHICLE:
Green 1970 Ford, F-250 P/U

DETAILS:

On Wednesday, September 03, 2008, at about 5:45 a.m., officers from the Oxnard Police Department responded to “C” Street and Elm Street after receiving a call of an injury collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian. Upon arrival, officers found Sanchez lying on the roadway unconscious and not breathing. The Oxnard Fire Department and Gold Coast Ambulance responded to the scene. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

The preliminary investigation indicates the truck was traveling southbound on “C” Street and struck Sanchez crossing the road in an unmarked crosswalk.

Alcohol/drugs are not suspected as a factor in this collision.

An investigation is continuing.

Community Policing Institute-California

The Oxnard Police Department was just recently notified that it has been chosen the co-winner of the
2008 James Q. Wilson Award for Excellence in Community Policing.

This prestigious award is presented by the Regional Community Policing Institute - California (RCPI-CA), in association with the Office of the Attorney General, California Department of Justice. The purpose of this award is to recognize California law enforcement agencies that have successfully institutionalized the Community Policing philosophy. One agency each year is chosen as the recipient of the award and two others receive recognition as finalists. This year, the Oxnard Police Department and the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department - Carson Station tied for first place out of 27 entries.

The selections were made by a panel of experts who have no affiliation with any of the nominated agencies and were coordinated by the Director of the RCPI-CA. The recipient of the award will be featured in the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) quarterly newsletter, Problem Solving Quarterly. Each nomination was judged on the following criteria:

Problem Solving - The level of agency commitment to solving public safety and disorder issues.
Partnership with the Community - The level of agency collaboration with the community while addressing public safety and disorder issues.

Partnership with Public and Private Organizations/Agencies - The level of agency collaboration with other public and private organizations/ agencies while addressing public safety and disorder issues.

Institutionalization - The extent that the Community Policing philosophy has been integrated throughout the agency (e.g. percentage of personnel involved, training, relationship to promotional processes, etc.).

Results - What have been the positive outcomes that can be linked to the chosen Community Policing Strategy and how were they determined?

This award comes as the result of many years of hard work by the men and women of the Oxnard Police Department who have successfully woven Community Policing into the fabric of the Department. It serves as an acknowledgment of the sworn and civilian employees who work every day at finding new and better ways to partner with all segments of the community in order to provide a safer City. The Department’s ‘Neighborhood Policing Strategy’, which was implemented three years ago, has been the latest modification to 30 years of Community Policing under four Police Chiefs. This latest approach seeks to customize police service to the neighborhood level.

The award will be presented during the California Crime Prevention Officer’s Association’s 34th annual training conference in Sacramento on September 17, 2008.

For a more detailed breakdown of OPD's community policing efforts please visit www.oxnardpd.org.

(The community thanks you!)