Ventura County Sheriff's Department

Location: 13000 Block. Telegraph Road, Santa Paula
Date & Time: 12-30-2008, 1:30 A.M

Unit Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Department Fillmore Sub-Station

Victim: Unnamed Family

On 12-30-2008, at about 1:30 A.M, a family was confronted inside their home by a “hot-prowler” burglar. The homeowner heard the family dog barking and growling inside the house. The homeowner, armed with a handgun, walked down the hallway and located a burglar who had used force to make his way inside the house. The suspect was in a family room.

The victim interrupted the male intruder, who then brazenly and antagonistically challenged the homeowner. Threatened by the aggressive behavior and fearing for her life, the victim fired in self-defense at the confrontational suspect. The suspect fled the residence, without the property, and was last seen running through an orchard with a male accomplice. Both suspects are described as Hispanic adult males. The primary suspect was described as having a slight Spanish accent.

The victim immediately called 911. Sheriff’s Deputies and Santa Paula Police Officers responded. Within a couple of minutes, a search by several law enforcement agencies was started. Fifteen officers, two K-9’s, and helicopters using floodlights and heat seeking detectors participated in the search.

K-9 Officers followed the suspects’ escape route south toward the Santa Clara River, where they lost their tracks. Investigators believe they fled the area in a waiting vehicle. The search continued for two hours, but neither suspect was located. At this time, it is unknown if either man was injured during the crime.

Deputies went door-to-door, warning local residents of the brazen behavior of the hot-prowler burglars. Any citizens who have information or leads, please contact the Sheriff’s Department at 805-524-2233