Ventura County Crime Blog

Ventura County's Cold Cases Magazine

2011-10-28T15:09:00.000-07:00

Ventura County's Cold Cases Magazine

Free to the readers!

Although our blog has taken a small break, we are launching a new magazine to complement the crime blog.

Our new magazine, Ventura County's Cold Cases, will feature unsolved cases in print!

If you are a small business owner, you ad will help pay for printing and distribution.

If you are a reader, your support will help get renewed interest in these cases. This magazine is FREE to the readers!

Contact us for more information or if you would like to carry our magazine, write for our magazine, or just have general questions or suggestions.

Elidet Reyes Bordon
Editor@VenturaCountyCrimeBlog.com

Find a Child Today Petition

2011-10-25T20:14:00.000-07:00

The mission of this petition is to place a TV set at the order counters of fast food restaurants and checkout counters of supermarkets.

Broadcast photo's of missing Children with a Reg# and a call in number.

When a child is with his/her parent and recognizes a child's photo, they will say to their parent(s) "Mom/Dad that Boy/Girl goes to my school or is in my class or lives on our street".

If this locates one child, then the system worked.
After this Pilot program, it could be utilized in all public places.
This would be a minimum charge with a huge result.

For more information, check out the following link on Change.org.
http://www.change.org/petitions/all-tv-and-media-networks-cable-satellite-companys-start-a-fact-program-find-a-child-today

You could make a difference. Thank You ~~
Diane Maheux

Update: Murder of David Laut

2009-09-03T11:18:00.001-07:00

September 3, 2009

Oxnard Police Chief John Crombach and District Attorney Gregory Totten announced today that detectives are making significant progress in the investigation into the August 27th killing of Oxnard resident David Laut. Evidence collected by Oxnard police investigators indicates that Mr. Laut was not the victim of random violence by a prowler.

Investigators are pursuing several leads and are confident that an arrest will be made in the case. Mr. Laut (DOB 12-21-56) was serving as the Hueneme High School athletic director at the time he was killed.

While we understand there is a great deal of interest in this case - it is important to note that there will be no further information about the case released at this time. We respectfully ask that the community understand that this investigation is at a very sensitive point right now, and be patient with us as this case proceeds to an arrest .

Ventura: Fatal Pedestrian Traffic Accident: Susan Jeanne Herman (Victim)

2009-08-24T22:59:00.000-07:00

August 24, 2009

Incident: Fatal Pedestrian Traffic Accident
Location: Shoreline Drive west of Figueroa Street, Ventura, CA
Date/Time Occurred: August 24th, 2009 / 6:05 p.m.
Officer(s) Involved: Traffic Sergeant Ryan Weeks, Numerous Patrol Officers
Victim(s): Susan Jeanne Herman (deceased), 60 years, Casitas Springs
Suspect(s): None
Report #: 09 - 11511

Narrative:

On August 24th, 2009 at about 6:05 p.m. Ventura Police received an emergency 911 call of an injury traffic accident that had just occurred on Shoreline Drive west of Figueroa Street in Ventura. Witness statements indicate that the pedestrian (Herman) was walking her dog across Shoreline Drive from the Derby Club area of the Fairgrounds toward the promenade beach area. As she began crossing the street she was struck by a westbound vehicle driven by a 16 year old male juvenile.

When Officers arrived the female pedestrian was in critical condition and her dog was deceased, Ventura Fire Department and AMR personnel attempted to save the victim but she succumbed to her injuries at the scene.

VPD Traffic Sgt. Ryan Weeks and additional traffic investigators responded to the scene and are continuing to conduct an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. Weeks said that an independent witness at the scene said it appeared that the 16 year juvenile was traveling at a safe speed just prior to the collision.

Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office was also contacted and they made notification to the victim’s family, they also said that the cause of death is still under investigation. Ventura County Animal Control Units responded and took possession of the deceased dog which appeared to be a mixed collie breed black in color.

Any other witnesses that may have observed this collision are encouraged to contact the Ventura Police Department Traffic Division at (805) 339-4309.

Federal Jury Clears Oxnard Police Department Sergeant in Trial of Wrongful Death Lawsuit

2009-08-18T18:21:00.000-07:00

August 18, 2009

Occurrence/Event:
Federal Jury Clears Oxnard Police Department Sergeant in Trial of Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Day/Date/Time:
Tuesday, August 18, 2009 @ 11:20am
Location:
United States District Court
Los Angeles, CA

Involved Parties:

Plaintiff Tomas Barrera
Represented by:

Gregory A. Yates, Encino, CA (310) 858-6944

Plaintiff Maria Lazos
Represented by:

Jenny Scovis and Kim Scovis, Thousand Oaks

Defendant Sgt. Andrew Salinas
Represented by:

Alan E. Wisotsky and Dirk DeGenna, Oxnard

Prepared By:
Alan E. Wisotsky

Narrative:

A Los Angles federal jury unanimously found in favor of Sgt. Andrew Salinas on Tuesday following a week-long trial of a Civil Rights/Wrongful Death lawsuit brought by the parents of Thomas Barrera, Jr. who was shot and killed on October 3, 2007 in Oxnard, CA.

Barrera, a 22 year-old Oxnard resident, was believed to have been burglarizing a truck in the early morning hours on Fifth Street near Hobson Way. Salinas stopped to investigate and engaged in a foot pursuit of Barrera when he fled the scene.

During the pursuit, Barrera threw a wrench set at Salinas which struck the officer. Moments later, Barrera turned again and brandished a 6-inch knife, swinging at Salinas from a distance of 5-8 feet. Faced with this imminent threat, Salinas fired four shots from his department-issued handgun, striking Barrera three times. Barrera died at the scene.

Salinas presented testimony from Dr. William Lewinski, a Minnesota State University professor who has conducted research and studies in “Force Dynamics” for the past 25 years. Dr. Lewinski addressed the action/reaction, turning movements and “stop-shooting” dynamics which play a role in lethal force encounters.

The jury began deliberating late Monday afternoon and returned with its verdict Tuesday morning.

Ventura: 911 Services not affected by phone outage

2009-07-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

July 6, 2009

Incident: Widespread telephone outage affects emergency calls throughout Ventura County
Location: Ventura County
Date: July 6, 2009, 12:05 p.m.

Narrative:

A widespread telephone outage has occurred throughout many portions of Ventura County which has affected many local 9-1-1 services.

Currently, telephone systems within the City of Ventura, including the 9-1-1 emergency call center, are operational. Should you experience an emergency within the City of Ventura please call 9-1-1 immediately. For non-emergency calls and information please call 805-650-8010.

In the event of an emergency outside of the Ventura City limits please go directly to your nearest police or fire station to report the emergency.

Oxnard: Massive Phone Outage

2009-07-06T12:05:00.000-07:00

July 6, 2009

The city of Oxnard is experiencing a massive telecommunications outage. This includes the Oxnard 9-1-1 system and cellular service to some carriers. Initial reports indicate the outage is throughout a major portion of California .

Citizens needing assistance are asked to come to the Oxnard Police station at 251 South “C” Street, or any local fire station for help in Oxnard.

Emergency Numbers:
(805) 210-0474
(805) 210-0475
(805) 210-0476

The city of Oxnard has established an email address for the temporary reporting of emergencies in Oxnard only: 911info@OxnardPD.org.

Oxnard: Fireworks by the Sea Update

2009-07-05T02:31:00.000-07:00

July 5, 2009

Large, Calm Crowds were reported by officers assigned to the Fireworks By the Sea fireworks show in the Channel Islands Harbor. Officers noted much larger crowds from the previous year. Parking was at a premium near Oxnard State Beach and along Harbor Boulevard as people arrived early to barbeque, play catch, and take walks on the beach. Many of the beach-goers were out-of-towners. There were few disturbances with the only arrest made being for a theft of a traffic cone. Officers did cite persons for drinking in public and possessing fireworks (which are illegal in Oxnard).

11 officers were assigned for crowd control in and around Channel Islands Harbor and Oxnard Shores. These officers were supported by a large traffic contingent which was charged with providing an orderly arrival and departure for the fireworks spectacular.

“All-in-all we were pleased with the results this year,” commented Special Projects Commander Marty Meyer, “But we were disappointed with what seemed to be an increase in the use of fireworks at this year’s event.”

PREPARED BY:
Marty Meyer, Special Projects Commander

Oxnard: Homicide Victim: Melissa Rodriguez

2009-07-04T12:43:00.000-07:00

July 4, 2009

INCIDENT:
187 PC Homicide
DATE/TIME:
07-03-2009 / 2330 Hrs
LOCATION:
1700 Block Ironbark Ct
VICTIM:
Melissa Rodriguez, 19 yrs
SUSPECT/S:
Unknown
PREPARED BY:
Sergeant Jim Seitz, Homicide Supervisor

DETAILS:

On 07-03-2009 at approximately 11:30 pm, officers from the Oxnard Police Department responded to a call of an injury traffic accident in the 1700 block of Ironbark Ct. While officers were en-route to that location, dispatch received additional calls of possible shots fired heard in the same area.

Upon the officer’s arrival they located the victim, 19 year old Melissa Rodriguez lying in the roadway next to her vehicle. The car had crashed into a tree at the scene. Officers and paramedics performed CPR on the victim who was not breathing. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. It was determined a short time later that the victim had sustained a gunshot wound to her head which was not initially visible.

Investigators are asking anyone that may have heard or seen the incident to contact Detective Adam Wittkins at Adamwittkins@Oxnardpd.org or leave a message on the Violent Crimes Hotline at 982-7070.

Ventura: Angel Alamilla: Assault with a Deadly Weapon/Vandalism/Pursuit

2009-07-04T12:41:00.000-07:00

July 4, 2009

Incident: 245 PC-Assault with a Deadly Weapon/ 594 PC-Vandalism/Vehicle Pursuit
Location: Rite Aid parking Lot, 131 W Main St Ventura
Date/Time Occurred: 7/4/09 0210
Officer(s) Involved: Patrol Officers
Victim(s): 27 yr old Oxnard Resident
Suspect(s): Angel Alamilla 34 year old Ventura resident

Narrative:

Officers responded to a stabbing victim in the parking lot of Rite Aid at 131 W Main Street. Investigation revealed the victim and his friends were walking to their parked car after visiting a nearby nightclub. The suspects confronted the victim and friends in the parking lot and an argument ensued.

Three subjects including Alamilla got out of their car and slashed the tires to the victim's vehicle. The victim intervened on the tire slashing when Alamilla stabbed him in the leg. Alamilla fled in a vehicle that was spotted by responding officers. Officers tried to stop the vehicle, however it fled.

Officers pursued the vehicle as it fled on streets in the Downtown and Ventura Ave area. Alamilla and the two other subjects fled on foot after abandoning the suspect vehicle near Olive St. and W. Simpson Street. Alamilla was arrested after a brief foot pursuit.

Investigation identified Alamilla as the stabbing suspect and he was booked at the Ventura County Jail for assault with a deadly weapon and vandalism. The victim was transported to VCMC where he received treatment for a stab wound to his leg. The victim's injuries were not life threatening.

Ventura: Daniel Gilberg: Assault with a deadly Weapon

2009-07-04T07:10:00.000-07:00

July 4, 2009

Incident: 245 PC- Assault with a deadly Weapon
Location: Ventura County Medical Center Emergency Room, 3291 Loma Vista Rd, Ventura
Date/Time Occurred: 7/4/09 0145
Officer(s) Involved: Cpl. Mike Anselmo and Officer Karl Reyes
Victim(s): VCMC Nurse and Staff
Suspect(s): Daniel Gilberg, 42 year old Lancaster resident.

Narrative:

Gilberg was a patient at VCMC emergency room where he was receiving treatment for a head injury he sustained when he fell. He was intoxicated and belligerent. Gilberg grew impatient with his treatment and pulled out intravenous lines and a catheter. He demanded that he be released from the emergency room.

He got out of the hospital bed and armed himself with a pair of scissors he obtained from his hospital room. Gilberg was bleeding profusely because he removed the IV lines and he confronted two nurses in the hall near his emergency room bed.

Gilberg held the scissors over his head and threatened the nurses with his demands to be released. The nurses retreated from the room and yelled for help.

Cpl. Mike Anselmo and Officer Karl Reyes were in the emergency room conducting a separate investigation when they heard the nurses yelling for help. Officers saw Gilberg advancing on the nurses and waving the scissors.

Officers said Gilberg got within 10 feet of the nurses. The officers saw Gilberg hold the scissors above his head while he shouted at the nurses. The officers described that Gilberg was nude and covered in his own blood. Gilberg refused to stop when ordered to do so by the officers. Gilberg turned and started walking towards the exit of the emergency room and refused to stop or disarm himself of the scissors.

Gilberg was shot with a Tasar as he tried to open one of the exit doors to the emergency room. The Taser stopped Gilberg’s behavior. Gilberg was arrested and booked at the Ventura County Jail for assault with a deadly weapon after he was treated at the Ventura County Medical Center.

No one was injured as a result of the incident.

Ventura: Drive-by Shooting/Homicide: Victim: Ida Medina

2009-07-03T09:04:00.000-07:00

July 3, 2009

Incident: Drive-by Shooting/Homicide
Location: 1200 Block Of Mead Av
Date/Time Occurred: 7/03/09 0045 hrs
Officer(s) Involved: Patrol, Major Crimes Detectives
Victim(s): Ida Medina 46 yrs Ventura Resident
Suspect(s): Unknown

Narrative:

On 7-3-09 at about 0045 hours the Ventura Police Department responded to a shooting victim in the 1200 block of Mead St. The victim, Ida Medina, was located inside her residence suffering from a gunshot wound.

The initial investigation revealed that several shots were fired at the residence striking the victim who was inside.

Medina was transported to the Ventura County Medical Center where she was treated by emergency room staff. Medina succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital.

It appears that this incident is gang related. This investigation is on going. This is the second homicide at this residence within the last 6 months.

The Ventura Police Department urges anyone with information about this shooting to contact Det. Boon at 339-4479 or the Watch Commander at 339-4416.

Blog Announcement: Posting Glitch

2009-07-03T02:58:00.000-07:00

July 3, 2009

Due to a formatting issue with our blog, we were unable to post entries or updates for the past few days. The problem was fixed shortly after midnight on July 3, 2009.

We are working to update the week's stories.

Thank you for your patience and we apologize for any inconvenience in providing information.

Oxnard: Mounted Unit Getting the Word Out

2009-07-03T02:47:00.000-07:00

July 3, 2009

Oxnard Shores and Mandalay Beach residents voiced pleasant surprise this past Saturday when they saw Oxnard Police Department officers Jim Evans and Larry Eklund patrolling on horseback. Riding JJ and Clinton from 1 to 6 PM the officers contacted dozens of beach-goers reminding people that it is illegal in Oxnard to possess, use or sell fireworks.

The two officers saw no fireworks works violations during their shift. One resident said, “We really love seeing you on the horses,” adding, “I am glad to see you guys patrolling the beach.”

The Saturday deployment of the Mounted Unit officers was just one of a number of pre-4th of July activities designed to encourage compliance with the City’s No Fireworks Ordinance.

Other strategies include deploying message boards alerting the public to the ordinance, a banner strung across “C” Street at 4th Street, patrol units dedicated to fireworks suppression, advertisements in local newspapers, articles in local newspapers, flyers, and flyers accessible from the Oxnard Police Department web site.

Under the ordinance enacted in 2008 persons in possession of fireworks can be fine up to $1,000.

Oxnard: Arnold Road & McWane Boulevard Closures On July Fourth Holiday

2009-07-03T02:45:00.000-07:00

July 3, 2009

The Oxnard Police Department will restrict access to a small section of the Ormand Beach area by closing Arnold Road during the 2009 July Fourth holiday. All vehicle access on Arnold Road will be halted at Hueneme Road after 4:00 p.m. on July 4th and will reopen at 2:00 a.m. on July 5th.

The road closure is part of the City’s fireworks suppression efforts and is aimed at maintaining the integrity of the wetlands environment and wildlife in that area. These roads were closed last year during the holiday and the results were positive.

Oxnard: 12th Annual Fireworks By The Sea at Channel Islands Harbor

2009-07-03T02:41:00.000-07:00

July 3, 2009

INCIDENT:
12th Annual Fireworks By The Sea at Channel Islands Harbor
DATE/TIME:
July 4th, 2009 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
LOCATION:
Channel Islands Harbor
PREPARED BY:
Senior Officer Brian Woolley

DETAILS:

On 7-4-09, the Channel Islands Harbor District will be hosting its 12th annual 4th of July event. The event will begin at 8:00 am with a 10K & 5K Fun Walk along Sunset Lane and Mandalay Beach Road.

There will be a children’s parade which will start at the Harbor Landing parking lots located off Harbor Boulevard. The parade will begin at 11:00 A.M. South Harbor Boulevard, from Channel Islands Boulevard to Bluefin Circle. Harbor Boulevard will be close to vehicular traffic during the parade. Motorists can use Sunset Lane or Ocean Drive as an alternate route.

Activities and entertainment are schedule throughout the day at the Fishermen’s Wharf and Marina. There will be vendors with booths and local restaurants will also be open. This will be a family oriented event with fun for all. The event will end with a fireworks show that begins at 9:00pm.

No alcohol, fireworks, including safe and sane fireworks, or flare ignition will be tolerated. All of the involved law enforcement agencies will be conducting strict enforcement of all related offenses.

This event is expected to draw a large crowd and traffic delays are expected following the fireworks show. The Oxnard Police Department will be handling traffic control to expedite the flow of traffic surrounding the event site. Starting at 7:00 pm, all intersections on Victoria Avenue and Harbor Boulevard from Fifth St. to the harbor area may be controlled by Traffic Officers.

The controlled intersections on Harbor Boulevard may include:

-Harbor at Fifth St.

-Harbor at Driftwood

-Harbor at Beachcomber

-Harbor at White Cap

-Harbor at Wooley

-Harbor at Nautilus

-Harbor at Island View

-Harbor at Oceanaire

-Harbor at Eastborne Bay

-Harbor at Falkirk

-Harbor at Gateshead

-Harbor at Costa De Oro

-Harbor at Mandalay Beach Rd.

-Harbor at Meridian

-Harbor at Channel Islands Boulevard.

The controlled intersections on Victoria Avenue may include:

-Victoria at Fifth

-Victoria at Nantucket

-Victoria at Pierwalk

-Victoria at Wooley

-Victoria at Via Marina

-Victoria at Leeward

-Victoria at Ketch

-Victoria at Hemlock

-Victoria at Marina Village

-Victoria at Monaco

-Victoria at Channel Islands Blvd.

-Victoria South of Channel Islands Blvd.

-Channel Islands Blvd. at Peninsula.

If you live in the area of any of these intersections, we apologize for any inconvenience. The roads will be re-opened as soon as possible.

These traffic flow modifications are taking place to assist in relieving the traffic congestion from this event in a timely and orderly fashion, with caution for pedestrians.

Please have a safe and enjoyable 4th of July holiday.

Oxnard: Pedestrian Decoy Operation

2009-07-03T02:39:00.000-07:00

July 3, 2009

INCIDENT:
Pedestrian Decoy Operation
DATE/TIME:
7-2-09/ 0900-1230 hours
LOCATION:
Multiple intersections in Oxnard
PREPARED BY:
Traffic Officer Charles Woodruff

DETAILS:

On 7-2-09, between the hours of 0900 and 1230 hours, Officers from the Oxnard Police Department Traffic Unit conduced pedestrian decoy operations at several intersections in the City of Oxnard. This was in direct response to phone calls the police department received from the public concerning the safety of pedestrians at specific intersections.

The operations were conducted at the intersections of Wooley Road @ E Street, Hill Street @ Saviers Road, and Esplanade Drive in front of the Target Department Store. Officers targeted motorists who failed to yield to pedestrians who were crossing the road in marked crosswalks. Officers issued 42 citations for different pedestrian related violations.

The Oxnard Police Traffic Unit will continue to conduct pedestrian operations to increase pedestrian safety in the city. If you have any questions about traffic safety or these pedestrian operations, please contact the Oxnard Police Traffic Coordinator Senior Officer Brian Woolley at (805) 385-7749.

Ventura: Seeking Residential Garage Burglary Victims

2009-06-26T08:55:00.000-07:00

June 26, 2009

Incident: Ventura Police Department Seeking Residential Garage Burglary Victims in an Effort to Return Stolen Property
Location: Portola Road, East to Saticoy Avenue, and South of the 126 Freeway within the City of Ventura
Date: Date of release: June 25, 2009. Date of incidents: May 1, 2009 to present.
Officer(s) Involved: Street Crimes Unit
Victim(s): Numerous
Report #: Multiple

Narrative:

The Ventura Police Department is currently seeking individuals who may have been victims of recent residential garage burglaries.

The burglaries have occurred since May 1, 2009 with the suspect targeting condominium and town-home complexes where garage door(s) had been left open. The specific area of the reported incidents is from Portola Road, East to Saticoy Avenue, and South of the 126 Freeway.

We are asking for the media’s help in further broadcasting this information to the community in an effort to return the unclaimed property to its rightful owner(s).

Members of the media should contact Detective Sergeant Glenn Utter at 805-207-8736. Members of the public who believe they have been a victim, and wish to claim their property, should contact Detective Corporal James Beautrow at 805-339-4428, or Detective Teddy Symonds at 805-339-4469.

Related Posts
>Ventura County Crime Library

If you have links or information that you would like to submit, please email us at:
CrimeReports@VenturaCountyCrimeBlog.com

Ventura: Attempted Murder – Drive-By Shooting

2009-06-26T08:53:00.000-07:00

June 26, 2009

Incident: Attempted Murder – Drive-By Shooting
Location: Si Se Puede and “S” Streets in the Community of Cabrillo Village
Date/Time Occurred: 6-25-09 @ 2235 hrs.
Officer(s) Involved: Numerous Patrol Officers and SET Detectives
Victim(s): Withheld at this time pending family notification and condition of victim
Suspect(s): Unknown
Report #:09-8564

Narrative:

On the above date and time, the victim was walking home from a friend’s house in the Community of Cabrillo Village in east Ventura. A vehicle with several occupants drove by and began shooting at the victim, hitting him several times. The suspects fled the scene prior to police arrival.

The victim was transported to Ventura County Medical Center for treatment. The victim was in critical but stable condition and his wounds do not appear to be life threatening.

This shooting is believed to be gang related.

***NOTE: This shooting appears to be completely UNRELATED to the homicide that occurred on Ventura Avenue on 6-15-09***

The investigation into this incident is ongoing. Any one with information is urged to call the Ventura Police Department at 477-3702, 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.

If you have links or information that you would like to submit, please email us at:
CrimeReports@VenturaCountyCrimeBlog.com

Oxnard: Serious Injury Vehicle Collision

2009-06-26T08:49:00.000-07:00

June 26, 2009

INCIDENT:
Serious Injury Vehicle Collision
DATE/TIME:
Thursday , June 25, 2009 @ 11:50 p.m.
LOCATION:
1800 Block north “H” Street
DRIVER #1:
Una Maria Juarez Jr.,24 years, of Oxnard (major internal injuries)
PASSENGER #1:
Angel Quirarte, 31 years, of Oxnard (abrasions/ minor injuries)
VEHICLE #1:
Blue 2005 Chevrolet Silverado truck
PREPARED BY:
Senior Officer Brian Woolley

DETAILS:

On Thursday, June 25, 2009 at about 11:30 p.m., officers from the Oxnard Police Department responded to an injury collision in the 1800 block of north H Street. When officers arrived, they discovered only one vehicle was involved. Oxnard Fire Department and Gold Coast paramedics arrived on scene and had to use the Jaws of Life to extricate the driver of the vehicle.

Preliminary investigation indicates Una Juarez was driving the blue 2005 Chevrolet Silverado pick-up truck southbound on “H” street with passenger Angel Quirarte. Juarez lost control of the truck, drove up the curb, and collided head-on with a large tree.

The driver of the Silverado (Juarez) was not wearing her seatbelt and sustained internal injuries. She was admitted to St. John’s Hospital where she underwent emergency surgery. Preliminary investigation revealed that alcohol might have been a factor in the cause of the crash. Passenger (Quirarte) sustained minor injuries due to the fact he was wearing his seatbelt.

The Oxnard Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance. If you witnessed the collision or have any additional information, please contact the traffic investigator, Senior Officer Brian Woolley, at 805-385-7749.

An investigation is continuing.

Related Posts
>Ventura County Crime Library

If you have links or information that you would like to submit, please email us at:
CrimeReports@VenturaCountyCrimeBlog.com

Readers asked: What can we do about gang violence?

2009-06-25T03:06:00.000-07:00

June 24, 2009

As promised during our “twitter chat” last week I have addressed the gang issue in Oxnard in the following article…these are my opinions and do not necessarily reflect the view of the Oxnard Police Department.-David Keith, Oxnard PD Spokesperson

During my twenty five years with the Oxnard Police Department I have fielded more questions about gangs than perhaps any other law enforcement related topic.

I certainly understand the concern people have about gangs – they do cause many problems within our communities and much of this negative behavior quickly catches the attention of our media. This spotlight provided by the media undoubtedly further fuels the fires of crime and violence.

The gang problem in Ventura County pales in comparison to the gang problems in Los Angeles. The gang problem here is different than the problem in L.A. – the problems in Ventura County tend to be turf based, essentially battles over neighborhoods, while the problems to the south are more often related to the sale of narcotics.

Gang life is a very difficult cycle to break.

It is not uncommon to have gang members brag about their gang lifestyles and how their fathers and other important male role models within their families played important roles in the gang. It is very difficult to break this cycle, and is certainly not one that can be turned around by law enforcement alone. Not every child is a gang member – in fact, the number of serious, crime committing gang members is less than 1% of our county’s population.

However, for a small handful of our youth the gangs are a way of life, a lifestyle that provides for their needs for love, acceptance and support. This is a shame – no one should have to belong to a gang to have these basic needs fulfilled.

I continue to be surprised by the attitude many have in our society that fixing our gang problems, or any other criminal behavior, is the responsibility of the police. I’m not trying to shirk our responsibility, but there is no way the police can fix this problem without help from everyone. Truly, everyone has a role, and in fact, a responsibility to fix this problem.

Parents need to be better parents, schools need to step up to the plate, churches need to help fill the gaps where families are faltering and neighbors need to lend a hand, instead of retreating into the privacy of their homes and closing the drapes.

The criminal justice system must provide a fair but strong response to criminal behavior, and the media must take more responsibility to report the news rather than sensationalize what’s happening in our communities.

In fact, as the spokesperson for OPD I have seen many, many cases where the media “lost interest” to some degree in an assault case or homicide when they learned it wasn’t “gang involved”….this points out the fact that oftentimes the gang related crimes receive more attention than other crimes – perhaps this results in increased fear among our residents and a growing perception by many that the gang problems are getting worse in our county.

When someone commits a crime there should be a price to pay and if he or she commits another crime the price to pay should be higher. If the crimes are violent in nature then the person should be removed from society. Yes, prisons are expensive but the price of having a criminal run loose on our streets is higher – both economically and from a human toll.

Clearly we need to address the problem sooner rather than later. The cure is difficult, expensive, and long in coming. But at some point we will need to make the commitment and get it done.

In Oxnard our approach is threefold – prevention, intervention and enforcement. Enforcement is very expensive, very effective short-term, but does not hold up very well for long period of times without the commitment of substantial funding.

Intervention is less effective in the short-term but can yield positive results over a period of time. Prevention is effective only over the long haul and can take years to really see the true impact of these programs. I believe you need all three to be effective and that has been our strategy in recent years.

Overall crime in Oxnard is down by more than 60% per capita since 1992 so our strategies have worked well but we are always looking to improve our efforts.

This past few years gang related homicides and serious gang assaults have actually fallen substantially in Oxnard. I believe this is as a result of our strategies mentioned above and the gang injunctions we were able to put into place a few years ago.

We also enjoy great support of our City Council who has given us the resources needed to tackle this problem.

Oxnard is certainly not alone in its fight against gang violence but we have made some pretty good strides – we need to continue with these efforts – and hopefully we will see much calmer and more peaceful times ahead.

Related Posts
>Twitter Chat Recap

>OxnardPD Twitter Guide

>Video: KTLA visits Oxnard Police during the live chat

If you have links or information that you would like to submit, please email us at:
CrimeReports@VenturaCountyCrimeBlog.com

#OxnardPD Twitter Chat Recap

2009-06-25T03:03:00.000-07:00

On June 16, 2009 Oxnard Police Department hosted a live online chat through twitter. You asked, they answered. Here is a recap of the questions and answers.

Community Questions

@shack072: Can we get speed bumps added to our street on Dunkirk? Like is there some form or something we can fill out? #OxnardPD

Answer: Ask for traffic engineering at 805.385.7600. You'll need to get a majority of neighbors to agree & discuss. #OxnardPD

@nomdecrayola: What special task forces do you have? #oxnardPD

Answer: We have a Gang Unit, Graffiti Detail, Youth Service Officers, Narcotics Unit, Sexuall Assault Unit, Major Crimes Unit & others #OxnardPD

@hawlkeye: What can we do about the vending on rice ave in between 5th & wooley? #OxnardPD

Answer: It is illegal & we've just recently stepped up our enforcement of it. I'll tell traffic division to address this. You can also report it. #OxnardPD

@cmarquez805 #oxnardpd who's been a cop the longest?

Answer: Sergeant Bob Camarillo, who's been here 31 years! #OxnardPD

@805CROCK: Need to stop cars from going thru the Chevron gas station to beat 5 points trafic light. #OxnardPD

Answer: Technically, it's not illegal. The gas station would have to control it if they wanted to. #OxnardPD

@16Phoenix: Does oxnard have any programs like thousand oaks DART or CERT? #OxnardPD

Yes, and Oxnard just actually finished a free month long CERT training. It is run by the Oxnard Fire Department 805.385.7702 #OxnardPD

How often do you do your Straight to You webcasts? via email #OxnardPD

Answer: We do them as often as necessary - any major incidents we usually do one...so far, since 2007 we've done nearly 200 of them.

Ox has a loud music ord. Why allow lrg amplified boxes in vehicles which rattle my windows in every 3-5 vehicles that pass #OxnardPD

Answer: The vehicle code allows us to cite for amplified sound, anything that can be heard over 50 ft so call us when it happens. #OxnardPD

Gang injunction and activity

Click here for a more detailed response to these questions, answered by Oxnard PD Spokesperson, David Keith.

@nomdecrayola: Do you feel the gang injunction has reduced gang activity and would you recommend it to other cities in our county? #OxnardPD

Answer: Absolutely. Following the injuction, gang violence dropped nearly 75%. It ebbs & flows a bit now, & other cities should do it. #OxnardPD

@nomdecrayola: I understand the police are here to protect, but what are the police doing to prevent gang violence? #OxnardPD
&
@princess8274 it seems as if gang violence has gone up. Why? Are u guys doing anything about this?What can we do to help?

Answer:Gang violence is a hot topic & needs more space. I will write a more detailed report for the Crime Blog to follow up on this Q. #OxnardPD

@nomdecrayola: What is the most important thing a community can do to reduce gang violence? (education, police, social services, jobs) #OxnardPD

Answer: Wilingness for people to report what they know & see to police(remain anonymous), stable home life, & community involvement #OxnardPD

Crimes

@rescuenerds: @805CrimeBlog What's the latest on the child abductor arrested in May? #OxnardPD

Answer: He is in custody, despite an attempted jail break last week. He's looking at 25 to life. #OxnardPD

@rescuenerds: @805CrimeBlog What can you tell us about the two recent Faria Beach stabbings? Are they related? Any possible suspects? #OxnardPD

Answer: Neither case is in oxnard, but I have spoken to VPD and VSCO and I know they are working nite and day on those cases. #OxnardPD

@16Phoenix How much time would the vandals serve if caught? #OxnardPD

It's up to a judge depending on past offenses, etc. but the penalties are getting much stiffer now than in years past. #OxnardPD

@TheKK: How are foreclosures affecting #OxnardPD ? Do they present any challenges in terms of vandalism, law enforcement time or costs to the city?

Answer: Yes. Vandals are partying in foreclosed homes & destroying property. Please report if you see this going on in empty homes. #OxnardPD

If you have links, information or questions that you would like to submit, please email us at:
Editor@VenturaCountyCrimeBlog.com

Oxnard: Injury Traffic Collision

2009-06-23T02:02:00.000-07:00

June 23, 209

INCIDENT:
Injury traffic collision
DATE/TIME:
Monday, June 22, 2009 @ 6:35 P.M.
LOCATION:
1600 West Fifth Street.
DRIVER:
Ryan Soliz, 19 years of age.
Resident of the City of Oxnard
VEHICLE:
Grey 2007, Nissan, Versa.
DRIVER:
Michelle Renee Aguilar, 49 years of age.
Resident of the City of Oxnard
PASSENGER:
Male juvenile 10 years of age
VEHICLE:
Grey 2003, Honda, CRV, SUV.
PREPARED BY:
Senior Officer Humberto Jimenez

DETAILS:

On Monday, June 22, 2009, at about 6:36 P.M.., officers from the Oxnard Police Department responded to the 1600 block of West Fifth Street, after receiving a call of an injury head on collision.

Upon arrival, officers found the grey Nissan, which was driven by Ryan Soliz, facing westbound in the middle of the street on Fifth Street. The grey Honda SUV, which was being driven Michelle Aguilar, was facing eastbound on Fifth Street. A preliminary investigation revealed that the driver of the Nissan had experienced a medical episode and “Blacked out” and turn left directly in the path of the Honda which was eastbound on Fifth Street.

A 10 year old passenger in the Honda was sitting in the rear seat, was not wearing his seatbelt and suffered serious head injuries and a broken left femur. There were three other occupants in the Honda which were wearing their seatbelts and only sustained minor injuries. The Oxnard Fire Department and Gold Coast Ambulance responded to the scene and administered advance life support care to the seriously injured passenger.

All parties were transported to St. Johns Hospital. The ten year old male was later transported to Los Angeles Children’s hospital for further treatment.

An investigation is continuing.

Related Posts
>Ventura County Crime Library

If you have links or information that you would like to submit, please email us at:
CrimeReports@VenturaCountyCrimeBlog.com

About Elidet Reyes: Content Editor

2008-04-24T16:32:00.000-07:00

Elidet Reyes, born and raised in Ventura County, has been volunteering since she was a senior in high school. After attending FIDM in Los Angeles and studying Product Development, she returned to Oxnard College to study journalism and marketing.

She comes from an online savvy family of entrepreneurs. Her older brother, Edgar Reyes, is a self employed media consultant who travels frequently to Japan. Her younger brother quit his banking management position to focus on the eBay business he has had for years. Her father also runs a bilingual website, NoriaZac.com, which was recently honored by local government officials in Mexico.

She is an advocate against drunk driving and was known for always telling her friends that it was "cheaper to call a cab than get a DUI." Later, she introduced it as a campaign named "Call your D.A.D.-Designate A Driver" to take her motto to the next level. Along with her brother Edgar, she designed bumper stickers while donating profits to drinking prevention programs. It is currently in the works to take it nation wide.

Social Media

Elidet is no stranger when it comes to social justice on the internet. In 2004, along with 805hiphop.com, & Mad.Face Marketing, she organized a hip hop fundraiser for the tsunami victims. The majority of the event was organized online, including the booking of the location of the Conga Room, which was owned by Jennifer Lopez, Jimmy Smits and Paul Rodriguez. Money raised was donated to the Red Cross.

Featured performers included Terminal Madness, Chingo Bling, Sen Dog from Cypress Hill, and Mellow Man Ace.

In 2006, during the great immigration boycotts, she encouraged students to stay in school and protest by getting an education and changing injustices. This garnered the media attention of the LA Times, who quoted her myspace blog post on their coverage of the protest.

Her experience in using social media to network has brought on many opportunities, including meeting journalists from across the country. By understanding social media and the different markets they target, she made the coveted front page of digg for a satirical article about feminism: "Is Digg Sexist?", been retweeted by actress Alyssa Milano, and was told by reporter Kristen Macias of People Magazine that she is "incredibly dialed in."

Marketing

She is a self employed marketing consultant and handles the marketing for the Ventura county Crime Blog. Aside from being the Content Editor of our blog, she also maintains the blog's appearance. Her experience with online marketing has helped the Ventura County Crime Blog grow from 3,000+ page views in March to over 28,000 in May.

Although she has volunteered for the Big Sister program in Ventura County, she is currently happily single and has no children. Contrary to what the internet says about her political goals, she has no plans to run for local politics and advises people not to believe rumors they read on the internet without facts and reliable sources.

Contact Elidet Reyes

Editor [at] VenturaCountyCrimeBlog.com

Blogs

Elidet.com

Blog on Yahoo!'s Shine

Plaid Journalism

Press/Media

>Oxnard PD Hosts first twitter chat (KTLA video)
>Web sites help Ventura County law enforcement crack crimes (via Ventura County Star)-Interview
>KKZZ 1400am interview regarding 805 Vigilantes (starts at 43:44 min)-Interview
>Immigration protests extend to the third day (originally published in the LA Times)-Quoted in the article about promoting peace and education as opposed to protesting
>Usan latinos internet para promover marchas (via TabascoHoy.com)-Spanish interview regarding immigration rights

Written by Elidet Reyes

On other sites

>KDAY vs Power 106. Rivalry or Friendly Competition? The Truth Behind Felli Fel vs KDAY (featured on hiphop-elements.com)
>Is Digg Sexist? (satire piece featured on PointlessBanter.net & on the front page of digg.com)

On this site

>The Employment Guide

>Lack of Ethics: Ventura County Star

On The Web

Ventura: Fatal Traffic Collision Occurring During a Speed Contest

2009-06-21T01:13:00.000-07:00

June 21, 2009

Contact: Watch Commander, 805-339-4416
Location: S/B Victoria Ave at Avocet Dr.
Date/Time Occurred: June 20, 2009, 6:35 p.m.
Officer(s) Involved: Patrol Officers and Traffic Investigator, Officer Brown.
Suspect(s): Travis Lee, 27 years, and, Robert Florine, 52 years.

Narrative:

On June 20, 2009, at 6:35 p.m., officers responded to an injury traffic collision involving a motorcycle down at the intersection of Victoria Av and Avocet Dr. The driver of the motorcycle, Travis Lee, was unresponsive at the scene. Lee was transported to VCMC where he was pronounced dead at 8:00 p.m.

Patrol officers determined that Lee was involved in a speed contest with a red Corvette driven by Robert Florine. Lee and Florine were racing between intersections southbound on Victoria Avenue according to witnesses. At the intersection of Avocet, Lee was facing a red light and attempted to stop. Lee lost control of his motorcycle and slid into the side of a SUV that was westbound through the intersection. Ventura Police Traffic responded to the scene and took over the investigation.

The driver of the Corvette, Robert Florine, was arrested for being involved in a speed contest. He was cited and released. The violation is a misdemeanor.

Any additional witnesses to this event are encouraged to contact Officer Mike Brown at 805-339-4400 x1237.

Related Posts
>Ventura County Crime Library

If you have links or information that you would like to submit, please email us at:
CrimeReports@VenturaCountyCrimeBlog.com

Ventura County Crime Blog

Ventura County's Cold Cases Magazine

Find a Child Today Petition

F.A.C.T.: Find A Child Today

Update: Murder of David Laut

Ventura: Fatal Pedestrian Traffic Accident: Susan Jeanne Herman (Victim)

Federal Jury Clears Oxnard Police Department Sergeant in Trial of Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Ventura: 911 Services not affected by phone outage

Oxnard: Massive Phone Outage

Oxnard: Fireworks by the Sea Update

Oxnard: Homicide Victim: Melissa Rodriguez

Ventura: Angel Alamilla: Assault with a Deadly Weapon/Vandalism/Pursuit

Ventura: Daniel Gilberg: Assault with a deadly Weapon

Ventura: Drive-by Shooting/Homicide: Victim: Ida Medina

Blog Announcement: Posting Glitch

Oxnard: Mounted Unit Getting the Word Out

Oxnard: Arnold Road & McWane Boulevard Closures On July Fourth Holiday

Oxnard: 12th Annual Fireworks By The Sea at Channel Islands Harbor

Oxnard: Pedestrian Decoy Operation

Ventura: Seeking Residential Garage Burglary Victims

Ventura: Attempted Murder – Drive-By Shooting

Oxnard: Serious Injury Vehicle Collision

Readers asked: What can we do about gang violence?

#OxnardPD Twitter Chat Recap

Oxnard: Injury Traffic Collision

About Elidet Reyes: Content Editor

Ventura: Fatal Traffic Collision Occurring During a Speed Contest