Claudia Portugal Cornejo, 52, of Fillmore

VENTURA, Calif. – Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced today that Claudia Portugal Cornejo (DOB 10/26/72), of Fillmore, was sentenced to twelve months in jail for defrauding COVID-19 relief programs and stealing more than $101,000 from the County of Ventura, the State of California, and individual victims. An additional twenty-eight months in jail was suspended as a term of her felony probation. Cornejo pleaded guilty on October 21, 2024, to five felonies: two counts of grand theft, presentation of a fraudulent claim, false personation, and conspiracy to commit a crime.

“The defendant stole tens of thousands of dollars from taxpayers and hardworking individuals, lining her own pockets at the expense of those in real need,” District Attorney Erik Nasarenko said. “Through the hard work and investigative eye of the Sheriff’s Office and County CEO’s Office, her schemes were exposed and brought to the attention of our prosecutors.”
In June 2020, the County of Ventura launched the Business Assistance Grant (BAG) Program to support local businesses impacted by the pandemic. Over four phases, grants were awarded to eligible businesses that met specific criteria, including having a valid business license in Ventura County and proof of operation before March 17, 2020. A similar program, the California Relief Grant Program, was funded by the state.

Cornejo orchestrated a scheme to submit fraudulent applications, stealing $70,000 from the County of Ventura and $25,000 from the State of California. She also charged individuals upfront fees to submit applications on their behalf but never did, stealing an additional $6,800 from two victims.

The fraud was discovered in October 2021, when the County of Ventura’s Executive Office identified suspicious documents in BAG Program applications, including forged business certificates and doctored tax forms. An investigation by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit and the County CEO’s Office revealed Cornejo submitted multiple fraudulent applications, often charging victims to submit the paperwork, and taking a portion of approved grants. She carried out the scheme from her business, Fillmore General Services. The County also determined that outside of the frauds perpetrated by Cornejo, the fraud was not widespread.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Howard Wise, a member of the Special Prosecutions Fraud and Technology Crimes Unit, prosecuted the case.

“It is appalling that Ms. Cornejo took advantage of programs designed to help established businesses stay open during COVID,” Mr. Wise said. “However, I was deeply impressed with the earnestness which the County of Ventura investigated this matter, shut it down, and supported the prosecution.”

In addition to the twelve-month jail sentence, Cornejo was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $92,659 to the County of Ventura for loss to the County and the costs associated with investigating the fraud. She was also ordered to pay $25,000 to the State of California and $6,800 to two individual victims. Those victims paid Cornejo to submit grants on their behalf but did not know Cornejo was engaged in fraud. Cornejo kept the money and did not submit the promised grant applications

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Case: 2022000241

Defendant Information:
Claudia Portugal Cornejo (DOB 10/26/72) Fillmore
Charges pled guilty to:
• (2 counts) PC 487(a) – Grand theft
• PC 72 – Presentation of fraudulent claim
• PC 529(a)(3) – False personation of another
• PC 182(a)(1) – Conspiracy to commit a crime.

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Contact: Joey Buttitta
Title: Communications Manager/PIO
Phone: (805) 767-3400
Email: Joey.Buttitta@ventura.org
Approved: SW
Date: March 4, 2025
Release No.: 25-028

On 03/02/2025, (S) Jesus Garcia was arrested for first-degree burglary, violation of a court order and misdemeanor drug offenses.

On 03/02/2025, at about 2:50 AM, a victim reported a residential burglary at an apartment building located in the 600 block of River Street in Fillmore. The victim stated the burglar had entered their apartment while they were home and stole items. Fillmore patrol personnel responded to the residence and confirmed a first-degree residential burglary had occurred and the suspect fled the scene with property belonging to the occupants of the apartment.

At about 8:22 AM, staff of a local group home reported a client, Jesus Garcia, had walked away from their facility where he was mandated to stay in accordance with a court order. Garcia was last seen the night prior. As patrol personnel were looking for Garcia, staff members of the group home advised Sheriff’s Dispatch they found him near the river bottom and the A Street bridge. This is near the area where the burglary occurred earlier in the morning.

Fillmore patrol resources responded to the group home and spoke with staff members and Garcia. During patrol’s investigation, they developed probable cause to arrest Garcia for a violation of Penal Code § 166(a)(4) – [Violation of a Court Order] and Health & Safety Code § 11550(a) – [Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance]. A subsequent search at the facility was conducted and patrol personnel located evidence linking Garcia to the residential burglary.

Garcia was transported to the Fillmore Police Station and interviewed by a detective from the Fillmore Bureau of Investigation where they obtained additional evidence linking Garcia to burglary.
During the afternoon hours, detectives followed up with the burglary investigation and canvassed the area where the burglary occurred. During the canvas, they located additional evidence linking Garcia to the burglary. Garcia was supplementally arrested for a felonious violation of Penal Code § 460 – [First-Degree Residential Burglary]. He was transported and booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility for the aforementioned offenses pending court proceedings.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.

Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 03/03/2025
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO

On 03/03/2025, deputies with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office-Fillmore Station arrested a 41-year-old man following a firearm incident in the quiet community of Ventura County known as Piru. At about 4:37 AM, patrol deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to a report of a neighbor shooting into another neighbor’s residence in the 700 block of Park Street, located in the unincorporated community known as Piru. Arriving deputies located the victim and his family who were evacuated as a safety precaution.
As the investigation unfolded, deputies determined a firearm had been negligently discharged, with a round striking and entering a neighbor’s residence. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
A short time later, the suspect, identified as (S) Patrick Casas, 41, exited his residence and was taken into custody by deputies without incident.

Detectives with the Fillmore Bureau of Investigation along with field evidence technicians from the Sheriff’s Bureau of Identification, and scientists from the Sheriff’s Crime Lab responded to the location for the investigation. A search warrant was obtained followed by a subsequent search of Casas’ residence. As a result, additional evidence linking Casas to the crime was located including 12 rifles, five handguns, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. None of the firearms seized were lawfully registered to Casas.

Casas was transported and booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility for a violation of Penal Code § 246.3(a) – [Negligent Discharge of Firearm into Residence]. Casas was served a Temporary Emergency Gun Violence Restraining Order authorized by a Ventura County Superior Court Judge. Casas remains in custody pending court proceedings.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office reminds our community members of the serious consequences of improper firearm handling and urges gun owners to exercise extreme caution.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.

Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 03/04/2025
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO

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Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

By Nancy Rodriguez

The City of Fillmore is thrilled to reflect on the success of our youth basketball program, Legendz. This year, we welcomed a spirited group of 21 players who brought boundless energy and enthusiasm to the court. With the dedication of our six amazing coaches—Matthew Hernandez, Nancy Hernandez, Tania Melgoza, Yvette Moore, Miguel Rico, and Marissa Rodriguez—this season has been nothing short of spectacular!

Legendz was designed with passion and purpose, aimed at supporting young athletes who are looking for that extra bit of assistance to dive into the world of sports. Our program focuses on ensuring that every participant can progress at their own pace, allowing them to develop as individual players while honing vital skills. Whether dribbling, shooting, or teamwork, our players have made tremendous strides this season, and we couldn’t be prouder!

One of the most exciting developments this year was the introduction of adaptive basketball, spearheaded by our devoted Cultural, Arts, and Recreation Commissioner, volunteer, Nancy Rodriguez Hernandez. This program has opened doors for more young athletes to engage in the sport, emphasizing inclusivity and participation. It’s heartwarming to witness how this program has positively impacted our community, offering everyone the chance to experience the joy of basketball.

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to all our coaches, players, families, city staff, and Mayor Christina Villasenor, for not only supporting the program, but making sure that the Boys and Girls Club gym was a safe place for everyone to play. It was a memorable season filled with growth, friendship, and fun. We look forward to seeing everyone back on the court next year, ready to create more unforgettable memories together! Go, Legendz!

Enlarge Photo

VENTURA, Calif. – An investigation by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office has determined that a petroleum-contaminated wastewater discharge into Grimes Canyon Creek originated from a vacuum truck operated by a temporary employee of Advanced Industrial Services, Inc. (AIS).

The case began on November 1, 2022, when an employee of California Natural Resources Group discovered petroleum byproduct in a dry creek bed at the Dryden oil lease facility in Fillmore. Environmental authorities launched an investigation to determine the source of the contamination.
Investigators used a combination of physical evidence, logbook records, photographs, tire tread analysis, and witness statements to track the discharge back to an AIS-operated vacuum truck. Evidence showed that between 4:00a.m. and 4:49 a.m., the driver loaded petroleum-contaminated wastewater, backed the truck up to Grimes Canyon Creek, and discharged approximately 150 gallons into a ravine leading to the creek bed. The driver then left without reporting the spill, as required by law.

“This case underscores the importance of thorough environmental investigations and the critical role of state and local partnerships to protect Ventura County’s natural resources,” said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “The objective of this settlement is to ensure that harmful discharges into our environment do not reoccur.”

Following the inve-stigation, AIS reached a $29,736 settlement with the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office. The company was also ordered to comply with permanent injunctive terms prohibiting the unlawful disposal of petroleum products.
Authorities urge the public to report any suspected environmental violations to ensure the protection of local waterways and ecosystems.

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Contact: Joey Buttitta
Title: Communications Manager/PIO
Phone: (805) 767-3400
Email: Joey.Buttitta@ventura.org
Approved: SW
Date: February 28, 2025
Release No.: 25-026

Story by Girls Wrestling Head Coach Michael Torres

Friday, February 21st. La Habra, CA-The Fillmore High School girls wrestling team concluded its season at the CIF Masters Meet, held at Sonora High School in La Habra, with three athletes—senior co-captains Alexa Martinez and Emma Torres, along with sophomore Naomi Bonilla—qualifying for this prestigious event. These three wrestlers were Citrus Coast League Champions who showcased their strength and perseverance, marking the end of a memorable season for the Flashes.

Sophomore Naomi Bonilla, wrestling in the 110-pound weight class, faced a tough road at the Masters Meet, finishing with a 0-2 record. Bonilla’s first match saw her lose by pin to Alice Liu of Arroyo High School. In her second match, she faced Jaslene Higuita of Rowland High School and also lost by pin. While the results were not in her favor, Bonilla’s qualification for the CIF Masters Meet was a remarkable achievement, and the experience will undoubtedly serve as valuable experience for her in the coming years.

Senior co-captain Emma Torres, competing in the 130-pound weight class, wrapped up her high school wrestling career with a 0-2 finish at the CIF Masters Meet. Her first match resulted in a loss by pin to Ava Sosa of Hillcrest High School, and in her second match, Torres lost to Gabriela Jimenez of Paloma Valley High School with an 11-2 decision. Despite a challenging day at the Masters, Torres leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. Over the course of her career, she claimed four Citrus Coast League (CCL) championships, never losing to a CCL opponent in individual or tournament preseason, season, or postseason competition throughout her four years. In her senior season, she also earned fourth place at the CIF Northern Division Individual Championships. Torres’ leadership, work ethic, and dedication to the team will be deeply missed.

Senior co-captain Alexa Martinez, competing in the 145-pound weight class, had a strong showing at the Masters Meet, finishing with a 2-2 record. In her first match, she faced Annalese Arroyo of Norco High School, losing by a score of 16-4. Martinez bounced back in her second match with a win by pin over Jaydan Colgan of Temecula Valley High School. She continued her winning ways in her third match, defeating Gianna Panaggio of Marina High School by pin. Martinez’s final match ended with a narrow 10-14 loss to Melissa Moreno of Paloma Valley High School as she gave up 4 points in the final 10 seconds of the match. Although she didn’t make it to the final rounds, Martinez’s performance highlighted her strength, skill, and determination. This season, she became the first-ever FHS Girls Wrestling CIF Champion and captured her first Citrus Coast League Championship in the 145 lb. weight class, marking a historic milestone for both her and the program.

While the CIF Masters Meet did not end with the results they hoped for, the fact that Torres, Martinez, and Bonilla were the only athletes from Fillmore High School to qualify for the meet speaks volumes about their skill and dedication. Their efforts at the event, as well as throughout the season, demonstrated the commitment they have to their sport and their team.

Head Girls Wrestling Coach Michael Torres shared his pride in the team: “I couldn’t be more proud of Emma and Alexa, who have left a lasting legacy on this program. Both of them have worked tirelessly over the years, and I am glad to have coached them through their middle school and high school years, and their accomplishments speak for themselves. They pass the torch on to Naomi, who will continue to grow and help lead this team in the future. The commitment, effort, and heart that all of our athletes have shown this season is something special.”

The Fillmore High School girls wrestling program extends its deepest gratitude to the assistant boys’ and girls’ wrestling coaches Adrian Bonilla, Jorge Bonilla, Ignacio Juarez, David Navarrete, Head Boys Coach Manuel Ponce, Athletic Director Kim Tafoya, FHS administration, faculty and staff, as well as the families, volunteers, and fans for their support throughout the season. The future looks bright for the Lady Flashes, and with continued hard work and dedication, they are poised to tackle new challenges in the seasons to come.