Community: Media Release - Fillmore Arson Arrests

Nature of Incident: Juveniles Arrested for Arson
Report Number: 24-105700
Location: 300 Block of Main Street, Fillmore
Date & Time: 08/18/2024, 7:40 PM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Bureau of Investigations, Fillmore Patrol, Fillmore School Resource Officers, Fillmore Fire Department

(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent
City of Residence Age

(V) Fillmore Historical Museum Fillmore
(S) Male Juvenile Fillmore 14
(S) Male Juvenile Fillmore 12
(S) Male Juvenile Fillmore 12
(S) Male Juvenile Fillmore 12

Narrative:

4 Fillmore Juveniles Arrested for Arson

On 08/23/2024, four juveniles were arrested for their involvement with two arsons which occurred at the Fillmore Historical Museum on 08/18/2024.

On 08/18/2024, Fillmore Fire Department personnel responded to the Fillmore Historical Museum located in the 300 block of Main Street in Fillmore reference two small fires. The fires were extinguished and determined to be suspicious in nature. On 08/20/2024, another suspicious fire was started in the same area. Fillmore patrol deputies responded to the area and collaborated with Fire Investigators from the Fillmore Fire Department to investigate.

On 08/22/2024, detectives and Fillmore Fire Investigators conducted follow-up at the Fillmore Historical Museum and located additional evidence showing these fires were intentionally started, in violation of Penal Code § 451(a) – [Arson].

With the assistance of Fillmore School Resource Officers, Fillmore detectives identified the suspects as four male juveniles. On 08/23/2024, during the morning hours, detectives and School Resource Officers contacted and arrested the four juveniles. The juveniles were all cited and released to their parents pending Juvenile Justice Court proceedings.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the Fillmore community how fire safety is a critical issue which affects our entire community. Each year, hundreds of lives and millions of dollars in property are lost due to fires, many of which are preventable. Alarmingly, some of these fires are started by juveniles, either accidentally or intentionally. As parents and guardians, it is essential to recognize the signs and understand how to prevent such incidents.

Understanding the Risks
Fire-Setting behavior in children can stem from curiosity, peer pressure, or deeper behavioral issues. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, children are responsible for approximately 40% of all fires set intentionally. These incidents can lead to severe injuries, fatalities, and destruction of homes and property.

Key Warning Signs
Parents should be aware of the following warning signs that may indicate fire-setting tendencies in their child:
An unusual fascination with fire, matches, or lighters.
Unexplained burn marks on clothing, furniture, or walls.
A pattern of playing with fire or discussing fire in a positive or obsessive manner.
Behavioral changes such as isolation, aggression, or increased anxiety.

Resources & Support
Our local fire department offers resources and educational programs aimed at preventing juvenile fire-setting. Parents and guardians are encouraged to reach out for support and guidance. For more information, please contact the Fillmore Fire Department at 805-524-0586.

By working together, we can prevent tragedies and ensure the safety of our children and community. Let’s stay vigilant and proactive in educating our youth about fire safety.

Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 08/23/2024
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon