Community: Three suspects caught and arrested for an in-progress graffiti vandalism.
Nature of Incident: Three suspects caught and arrested for an in-progress graffiti vandalism.
Report Number: 23-33959
Location: 300 Block of Central Avenue (Rear Alley), Fillmore
Date & Time: March 16, 2023 @ 3:00 PM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol Services / Fillmore School Resource Officer Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(S-1) Male juvenile Fillmore 14
(S-2) Male juvenile Fillmore 14
(S-3) Female juvenile Fillmore 13
Narrative:
On March 16, 2023, three local juveniles were arrested for graffiti vandalism and conspiracy to commit a crime after they were caught spray painting the wall of an apartment building on private property.
At approximately 3:00 PM, a diligent resident called the police to report several juveniles loitering in the alley of the 300 block of Central Avenue in the city of Fillmore. The juveniles were seen spray painting graffiti on several walls at the location. Fillmore patrol deputies along with a Fillmore School Resource Officer responded and began an investigation.
This crime was witnessed by a diligent citizen who relayed valuable information to the deputies and the deputies were able to identify and detain three suspects who were still in the area. The investigation, which included a search of one of the suspect’s residences, revealed evidence related to the fresh graffiti sprayed on the surrounding walls.
All three juvenile suspects were arrested for violation of vandalism along with conspiracy to commit a crime. All three juveniles were released to their guardians pending a future court date.
Graffiti vandalism is an eyesore that directly affects the quality of life in our communities. If left unchecked, graffiti can decrease property values and lead to the deterioration of entire neighborhoods. Gang graffiti and tagging may also be the catalyst for additional, more serious conflicts between rival gangs. The removal of graffiti costs homeowners, business owners and taxpayers thousands of dollars each year.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is committed to maintaining the safety of all residents by continued community partnerships. The Fillmore Police Department encourages citizens to immediately report suspicious people and vehicles, and to promptly report any crime they come across by calling 911 or the Fillmore Police Station @ (805) 524-2233. The reporting party may remain anonymous.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes.
After a police investigation, all graffiti should be immediately removed.
Graffiti Removal
The city removes all graffiti by either painting over it or by using the power washer, depending upon the location of the graffiti. If graffiti is on private property, the city secures a signed agreement from the property owner giving them permission to do the work. To request removal, call the city at (805) 524-1500 (option #4 then #3) for the Graffiti Hotline. If you see graffiti within the city, they will take steps to remove it.
Prepared by: Sergeant Will Hollowell
News Release Date: 03/18/2023
Media Follow-Up Contact: School Resource Officer Deputy Jon Schnereger
(805) 524-2233 / email jonathan.schnereger@ventura.org
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).