Keep Your Family Safe and Make Sure Your Alarm Works
Cal Fire
Cal Fire

Sacramento, CA – To help reduce the number of home fire fatalities, CAL FIRE is reminding all Californians to make sure they have working smoke alarms in their homes. Nearly two-thirds of home fire deaths result from fires in homes with no working smoke alarms. A little attention to these important life saving devices can go a long way in increasing your chance of surviving a devastating fire.

“Smoke alarms give you and your family an early warning when there is a fire so you can quickly escape to safety,” stated California State Fire Marshal Tonya Hoover. “Making sure you have a working smoke alarms in your home will help keep you, your family and guests safe.”

Smoke alarm safety tips:
• Place properly installed and maintained smoke alarms both inside and outside of sleeping areas and on every level of your home.
• Interconnected smoke alarms are best, because if one sounds, they all sound.
• Get smoke alarms that can sound fast to all types of fires. CAL FIRE recommends that every residence and place where people sleep be equipped with ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms or dual sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors.
• Inspect, test and clean smoke alarms and change alkaline batteries at least once every year, or when the alarm signals (“chirps”) the end of the battery life. You can use a date you already know, like your birthday or when you change your clocks as a reminder.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions if you have a 10-year smoke alarm which uses a long-life lithium battery.
• Never paint over a smoke alarm.
• Replace your smoke alarm at least every ten years.
• Practice exit drills so everyone understands what to do when they hear a smoke alarm.
Keep your smoke alarm working, NEVER REMOVE BATTERIES FROM YOUR ALARM.

For more information on smoke alarms, please visit the CAL FIRE’s website at http://www.fire.ca.gov/communications/communications_firesafety_smokeala....

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On 11/1/2013, Narcotic Detectives with the Ventura County Sheriff Office and Simi Valley Police Department concluded a joint narcotics investigation of a Simi Valley resident who was selling methamphetamine to citizens in the east county.

Detectives detained Sacramento Huerta, age 45, at a shopping center near the intersection of Los Angeles Avenue and Sinaloa Road in Simi Valley. During a search of Huerta’s person, detectives located several bindles of methamphetamine that were packaged for sale. Detectives also searched Huerta’s residence located on the 900 block of Pacific Avenue in Simi Valley. Detectives located an additional amount of methamphetamine at the residence and evidence Huerta was actively involved in the sales of the drug. Additionally, Huerta’s 13 year old daughter was found to be living with Huerta at this residence. Because of the drugs located inside the residence and being accessible to the minor, a Drug Endangered Children investigation was initiated. Detectives contacted Ventura County Child Protective Services Agency and reported the incident to them for a follow up investigation. The minor was left in the custody of an adult family member.

Huerta was arrested and booked into the Ventura County Sheriff's East County Jail for Possession for Sales of a Controlled Substance and Child Endangerment. Bail was set at $50,000 with a pending court appearance of 11/5/2013, at 1:30pm.

Nature of Incident: Narcotics Arrest
Report Number: 13-24563
Location: 900 Block of Pacific Avenue, Simi Valley
Date & Time: 11/1/2013, 1650 hours
Unit(s) Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff Narcotics Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Huerta, Sacramento Simi Valley 45
Prepared by: Sergeant Jose Rivera
Media Release Date: 11/1/2013
Follow-Up Contact: Sergeant Jose Rivera
(805) 797-6341 Jose.rivera@ventura.org
Approved by: Captain Rob Davidson

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).

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

Camarillo Police, in conjunction with the Camarillo Health Care District, are offering free classes to educate the public about scams and how to avoid them, especially during the holiday season. The public will learn about the different scams currently being used by scam artists. Scams like, "The Lottery Scam," "The Grandparent Scam," and "Overpayment Scams." These scams affect millions of people on a daily basis. Although everyone is susceptible, most of these scams are targeting senior citizens. Participants will learn the top ten ways to avoid these scams. This class could save people thousands of dollars.
Two classes will be offered: November 5, 2013, from 11-12 pm
December 11, 2013, from 2-3 pm

The classes will be presented by Detective Julie Novak at the Camarillo Health Care District, 3639 Las Posas Road, in Camarillo. Pre-registration is required. Register by calling 805-388-1952, x100 or register online at www.camhealth.com/classes.

Location: Camarillo Health Care District
3639 Las Posas Road, Camarillo
Date & Time: November 5th, 11-12 pm and December 11th , 2-3 pm
Unit(s) Responsible: Camarillo Police Department and Camarillo Health Care District
Prepared by: Detective J. Novak
Media Release Date: November 1st, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Detective Julie Novak, 805-388-5115, Julie.novak@ventura.org
Approved by: Bruce Macedo, Captain

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On 10-27-13, Richard Rodriguez entered the Woodside Deli in Camarillo and while the clerk was distracted, stole a display case containing “Diamond Millionaire” lottery tickets valued at $10.00 each. The clerk of the deli was able to get Rodriguez’s vehicle license plate and gave that information to the police. California Lottery security was notified of the theft and the stolen tickets were deactivated.

On 10-29-13, Detectives were notified that someone had attempted to cash in the lottery tickets. Detectives identified Rodriguez as the person who attempted to cash the stolen lottery tickets at four different locations in Camarillo. Camarillo patrol deputies located Rodriguez’ and his vehicle and found he was still in possession of the remaining stolen lottery tickets. Rodriguez was subsequently arrested for theft and burglary. Rodriguez was booked into the Ventura County Pre Trial Detention Facility with bail set at $10,000.00.

Nature of Incident: Burglary Arrest for Stolen Lottery Tickets
Report Number: 13-24152
Location: Woodside Deli 4509 Pleasant Valley Road, Camarillo
Date & Time: 10-29-13 @ 1300 hrs.
Unit(s) Responsible: Camarillo Patrol and Camarillo Investigations
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Richard Ruiz Rodriguez, Anaheim, Ca., 54
Prepared by: Detective Gene Martinez, Camarillo Investigations
Media Release Date: October 29, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Detective Gene Martinez (805) 947-6402
Approved by: Bruce Macedo, Captain
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).

 

On September 3, 2013, Moorpark Police Department patrol deputies responded to a local pizza restaurant to a call of an identity theft. During their investigation, it was learned that the owner of the pizza restaurant received a complaint that a pizza delivery person, Jonathan Rutherford, inappropriately wrote down the credit card number from a patron during the delivery of pizza. At the time of the incident, there was no evidence the credit card number was used.

Very shortly after the first incident was reported, the owner received a complaint from another patron that their credit card was compromised shortly after purchasing pizza from the restaurant. After the information was revealed to the owner, he conducted a brief internal investigation and discovered Rutherford was involved in the second victim’s transaction. The owner immediately terminated Rutherford’s employment with the restaurant and called police to report the incident.

Members of the Moorpark Police Department Investigations Unit took over the investigation. Detectives wrote search warrants and eventually obtained evidence that showed Rutherford used both victims’ stolen credit card information to purchase gift cards from Starbucks before converting the gift cards into cash. Detectives obtained enough evidence to arrest Rutherford for two counts of identity theft.

On October 25, 2013, detectives arrested Rutherford for the identity theft. Further investigation revealed Rutherford was in possession of additional stolen credit cards and personal information from other victims, believed to have been obtained during his employment as a pizza delivery person. The detectives also learned Rutherford used this stolen credit card information to purchase gift cards from Starbucks. Detectives believe some of those people may not be aware that they were victims of an identity theft. Detectives encourage anyone whose credit cards were compromised after purchasing pizza in Moorpark in August and September to call the Moorpark Police Department at 805-532-2700.

Nature of Incident: Identity Theft Arrest
Report Number: 13-19838
Location: City of Moorpark
Date & Time: 10-25-2013 / 1345 hours
Unit(s) Responsible: Moorpark Police Department Investigations Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(S) Rutherford, Jonathan Thousand Oaks 28
Prepared by: Sergeant Eric Tennessen
Media Release Date: October 29th, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Senior Deputy Kevin Lynch, 805-532-2714
Approved by: Captain Stephen Wade

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).

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office will be providing collection locations for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. Citizens can drop off unused or expired medications at patrol station public lobbies on Saturday, October 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The program is coordinated by the United States Department of Justice-Drug Enforcement Administration. The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.

On a Take Back event in April this year, 742,497 pounds (371 tons) of prescription medications were collected from members of the public at more than 5,829 locations manned by 4,312 state, and local law enforcement agencies that partnered with DEA on the event. When added to the collections from DEA’s previous five Take-Back events, more than 2.8 million pounds (1,409 tons) of prescription medications have been removed from circulation.

The following Sheriff’s patrol stations are designated drop-off locations for October 26:

• Ojai Police Station: 402 S. Ventura Street, Ojai
• Fillmore Police Station: 524 Sespe Avenue, Fillmore
• Headquarters Patrol Station: 800 S. Victoria Ave. Ventura
• Camarillo Police Station: 3701 Las Posas Road, Camarillo
• Moorpark Police Station: 610 Spring Road, Moorpark
• Thousand Oaks Police Station: 2101 E. Olson Road, Thousand Oaks

Other local law enforcement agencies are participating in the event as well. Please visit http://tinyurl.com/NationalPrescriptionTakeback to find the collection location near you. Find out more at http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/ .

Nature of Incident: Sheriff’s Patrol Stations are Participating in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
Location: Sheriff’s Patrol Stations Throughout Ventura County
Date & Time: Saturday, October 26, 2013, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Unit(s) Responsible: Sheriff’s Administration
Prepared by:
Captain Don Aguilar
Media Release Date: October 24, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Captain Don Aguilar (805) 797-7349 don.aguilar@ventura.org
Approved by: Captain Ross Bonfiglio

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

A Castaic woman visiting relatives in the city of Fillmore fell victim to a lottery ticket scam perpetrated by a team of suspects.

The incident unfolded after the Castaic woman was walking home after having breakfast at a local restaurant. The male suspect approached her at an intersection and engaged her in conversation. A second female suspect approached the two and joined them pretending to be unrelated to the male suspect. The male suspect sought the women’s help in redeeming a winning lottery ticket he told them was worth several hundred thousand dollars. He told them he was unable to cash the ticket because of his illegal immigration status. The male suspect requested several thousand dollars from the victim as good faith money for trusting her with the winning ticket. He promised to double her money for her help. The victim was encouraged by the female suspect and agreed to help the male suspect. The two suspects drove the victim to a local bank where she withdrew $2,500.00 and gave the money to the male suspect. The suspects drove the victim to a residence and used a ruse to convince her to get out of the car and meet with the resident of the home. Once the victim walked to the front door, the suspects drove away with the victim’s money. The residents at the home were not involved in the scam.

The public is being warned about this scam where the lottery ticket is a counterfeit. Suspects usually target elderly Spanish-speaking citizens in shopping center public parking lots, but have also been known to target citizens in neighborhood streets.

Detectives are offering the following tips to protect the public from these scams:

• US citizenship is not a requirement for winning a lottery prize.
• The California lottery does not require money from the winner to redeem a winning ticket.
• Never get in a car with or follow a stranger.
• Never hand over money to a stranger you meet in public.
• Trust your first instinct, if a deal looks too good to be true, it’s likely a scam.
• If a person with such an offer approaches you, don’t fall prey, call the police.

Nature of Incident: Lotto Scam
Report Number: 130023255
Location: 400 Block of Central Ave. Fillmore, CA. 93015
Date & Time: October 17, 2013 @ 8:30 A.M.
Unit(s) Responsible: Patrol / Detectives
Prepared by: Detective Taurino Almazan
Media Release Date: October 22, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Detective Taurino Almazan
Approved by: Captain J. Hernandez

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).

 
Santa Paula Police Department
Santa Paula Police Department

On 10-22-13 at approximately 0215 hours, Santa Paula Police and the Santa Paula Fire Dept. responded to the 100 block of E. Ventura St. regarding a call of a structure fire. Police Officers responded and discovered a fire in a trash can which was extinguished by Santa Paula Fire Fighters. SPPD and SPFD again responded to the 100 block of E. Ventura St. at approximately 0340 hours regarding a vehicle fire. The fire was extinguished. Due to the suspicious nature of the fires, a Ventura County Fire Dept. Arson Investigator was called to the scene. The two fires are currently under investigation. Any one with information regarding either incident is encouraged to call the Santa Paula Police Dept. Detectives Unit at 805-525-4474.

Santa Paula Police Department
PRESS RELEASE
Nature of Incident:
Suspicious fires
Report Number(s):
SG1301909 / SG1301910
Location(s):
100 block of E. Ventura St.
Dates & Times:
10-22-13 / 0215 and 0340 hours
Unit Responsible:
Officer Preparing Press Release:
Press Release Date:
10-22-13
Follow-Up Contact:
Watch Commander
Approved by:

 
Reynel Rios
Reynel Rios

A jail inmate who escaped from a transportation vehicle late yesterday afternoon at the Todd Rd. Jail was located early this morning on the Todd Rd. Jail Facility grounds. The inmate was arrested for escape charges. The investigation is continuing.

On October 17, at about 5:00 p.m., inmate Reynel Rios was being delivered to Todd Rd. Jail in a transportation vehicle. Rios was able to escape from the vehicle and fled on foot. A perimeter was established and a coordinated search throughout the evening and continued throughout the night. Resources involved in the search included patrol deputies, jail deputies, Sheriff’s K-9’s, a Search & Rescue bloodhound, Sheriff’s helicopters, and deputies from several specialized units. Nearby residents received a notification from VC Alert of the search for the inmate and were given instructions to lock their doors and windows, and to call 9-1-1 to report suspicious activity.

On October 18, at about 5:10 a.m., Reynel was found by deputies on Todd Rd. Jail grounds near the entrance to the facility.

Raynel was originally in custody for possession of a counterfeit driver’s license and an immigration hold.

To find out more about the VC Alert emergency notification system, visit www.vcsd.org and click on the “VC Alert” icon.

Nature of Incident: Inmate Escapee from Transportation Vehicle at Todd Jail is Found by Deputies
Report Number: 13-23288
Location: Todd Rd. Jail – 600 S. Todd Rd., Santa Paula
Date & Time: October 18, 2013 @ 6:55 a.m.
Unit(s) Responsible: Sheriff’s Detention Services – Todd Road Jail
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(S) Rios, Raynel Thousand Oaks 33
Prepared by: Captain Don Aguilar
Media Release Date: October 18, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Captain Don Aguilar
(805) 797-7349
don.aguilar@ventura.org
Approved by: Assistant Sheriff Gary Pentis

 
Santa Paula Police Department
Santa Paula Police Department

On 10/19/13 at approximately 2323 hours a patrol officer from the Santa Paula Police Department attempted to stop 20 year old Christian Castaneda in the area of Harvard Blvd. and Palm Ave. Castaneda was known to the officer to be on active felony probation and a known and documented Santa Paula gang member. When the officer attempted to stop Castaneda he fled from the officer on foot. During a brief foot pursuit through a parking lot Castaneda discarded a loaded handgun, Castaneda ran a short distance further to the area, of Santa Anna Street, and then gave up. After checking the area officers located the loaded handgun. Castaneda was later booked into Ventura County Main Jail on multiple firearms violations, attempting to conceal or destroy evidence, and active participation in a criminal street gang.

Nature of Incident: Gang Member with a Firearm
Report Number(s): SG1301896
Location(s): Palm Ave. and Santa Anna St.
Dates & Times: 10/19/13 at 2323 hours
Unit Responsible: Patrol
(S)uspects, (V)ictims City of Residence Age
(S) Christian Castaneda Santa Paula 20
Officer Preparing Press Release: Senior Officer Larry Johnson #1033
Press Release Date: 10/20/13
Follow-Up Contact:
Approved by: Lieutenant Ismael Cordero #1038

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On 10/17/2013, at about 8 am, deputies and detectives from the Ojai station responded to an explosion that resulted in a dumpster fire. Witnesses described a male that was possibly involved.

Deputies located that subject and interviewed him. During that interview, it was learned he was in possession of stolen checks from an Ojai resident. As deputies contacted the victim, they learned the suspect, Christopher Hammond, was in possession of numerous forged checks and stolen property. He also had a large amount of narcotics in his possession.

Follow-up by detectives revealed that Hammond had passed some of the stolen checks, committed identity theft, and forgery in Ventura County and in the State of Colorado. Detectives discovered that the local stolen checks were associated with recent mail thefts.

After locating stolen property from Colorado, Colorado detectives were contacted. They confirmed Hammond as the suspect in several baggage thefts at the Denver airport, and additional cases for forgeries, identity theft, and other related charges.

Hammond was arrested at the scene. Hammond’s bail was set at $500,000 for the forgeries, commercial burglaries, and possession of stolen property. Detectives are investigating additional crimes believed to be associated with Hammond.

Any unreported victims of recent forged checks listing the payee as Chris Hammond are encouraged to contact Ojai Detective Mulrooney.

Nature of Incident: Arson investigation/ theft and forgery arrest
Report Number: RB#13-23234
Location: 300 block of E. Ojai Avenue
Date & Time: 10/17/13 @ 8 am
Unit(s) Responsible: Ojai Patrol, and Ojai Station Detectives
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Hammond, Christopher, Ojai, 27
Prepared by: Detective Joe Mulrooney
Media Release Date: 10/18/21013
Follow-Up Contact: Detective J. Mulrooney 805-646-1414
Approved by: Captain D. Kenney

 

SAN DIEGO – Attorney General Kamala D. Harris today announced that former San Diego Mayor Bob Filner has plead guilty to one count of felony false imprisonment and two counts of misdemeanor battery.

Filner entered his guilty plea today in San Diego County Superior Court.

“This conduct was not only criminal, it was also an extreme abuse of power,” said Attorney General Harris. “This prosecution is about consequence and accountability. No one is above the law.”

Under the terms of the plea agreement, Filner must surrender his Mayoral pension from the date the felony was committed (March 6, 2013) until the date he resigned office (August 23, 2013). He will serve probation for three years and home confinement for three months. The agreement also prohibits Filner from ever seeking or holding public office again. As a consequence of the felony plea, Filner may not vote, serve on a jury or own a firearm while he is on probation.

Filner is required to undergo treatment as directed by a mental health professional throughout his probation. If he violates the terms of his probation, he may face up to 6 months in jail.

Fines including restitution, probation and court fees will be determined at Filner’s sentencing hearing, which will be announced today.

The California Attorney General's office was assisted in this investigation by the San Diego County Sheriff's Department.

A copy of the complaint is attached to the electronic version of this release at: oag.ca.gov/news

 
$1,000 reward offered

Over the past several months, an unknown suspect has stolen credit cards and cash out of women’s purses while they attended church services. The suspect then used the credit cards to make fraudulent purchases at local stores. The crimes have been occurring in churches in the Thousand Oaks, Camarillo and Simi Valley area.

The suspect has committed the crimes during the services and at times while parishioners were attending communion and leaving their purses behind.

Thousand Oaks Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect in the attached pictures, which are believed to be the same suspect in all the thefts. Police Investigators also believe the thefts may have occurred at other churches in the area. The suspect is described as follows:

-White male in his early twenties
-Possibly having blue eyes
-Thin build (160 lbs)
-Height - 5’-8”– 5’-10”
-Light brown hair

Anyone who has information as to who the subject in the photos is or about the crimes is asked to call Sgt. Jason Robarts at (805) 947-8108.

Nature of Incident: Thefts occurring during church services
Report Number: 13-21897
Location: Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, Simi Valley
Date & Time: February 2013 – September 2013
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police Investigations
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Unknown
Prepared by: Sergeant Jason Robarts #2948
Media Release Date: October 10, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Sergeant Jason Robarts #2948
(805) 947-8108
Approved by: Captain J. Hernandez

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).

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

This morning, at approximately 7:00 AM, a motorcycle traveling northbound on Mountclef Boulevard approaching Heatherglow Street, was struck by a vehicle as it made a left turn from Heatherglow Street onto southbound Mountclef Boulevard. The motorcyclist, Franklin Gonzalez, suffered moderate injuries and was transported by AMR to Los Robles Hospital for treatment. The driver of the Acura, Renee Schwarz, was not injured.

No students from Cal Lutheran University were involved in the collision.

As a reminder from the Thousand Oaks Police Department’s Traffic Bureau, please be observant and aware of your surroundings as you drive. In an effort to provide a safe driving environment in our city, the Traffic Bureau will be increasing directed patrols in specific locations, actively enforcing traffic laws and seeking out traffic violators. Please drive carefully and arrive home safely.

Nature of Incident: Vehicle vs. Motorcycle Collision
Report Number: RB# 13-22709
Location: Mountclef Boulevard at Memorial Parkway, Thousand Oaks

Date & Time: October 10, 2013 7:00 AM
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police Department Traffic Bureau
Prepared by: Sgt. B. Payton
Media Release Date: October 10, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Sgt. B. Payton
805.494.8246
Approved by: Captain J. Hernandez

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).

 
California State University Channel Islands
California State University Channel Islands

Camarillo, CA - Two CSU Channel Islands (CI) police officers received Medals of Valor for saving a man’s life on the CI campus earlier this year. Sergeant Jeff Cowgill and Officer Stephen Osman were honored for their heroic actions at a Peace Officers Association of Ventura County (POAVC) ceremony on Saturday.

The Medal of Valor recognizes officers who show extraordinary bravery above and beyond the call of duty in risking their own safety to save others. The law enforcement association holds the awards ceremony each year to honor acts of bravery, heroism and service by law enforcement personnel and citizens of Ventura County.

Cowgill and Osman were awarded for rescuing a utility worker on the CI campus last spring. On Saturday, March 16, 2013, the two officers responded to a 911 call reporting an explosion at the University’s electrical substation. They arrived to find the building on fire and consumed with thick, black smoke. Inside, they could see a man lying on the floor with his upper body on fire. They ran into the burning building and carried the man outside to safety. Determining that he was not breathing and had no pulse, the officers – both trained emergency medical technicians – performed CPR and used an automated external defibrillator to revive the man.

“Through the heroic efforts of Jeff and Steve, the injured man has survived and is recovering today,” said CI President Richard Rush. “We are exceptionally fortunate to have officers as part of our campus community who exhibit such courage and professional acumen.”

The awards ceremony also honored the man’s coworker, Gary Cowles, President of DK Electric, with the Citizen’s Medal of Merit. Before the officers arrived, Cowles pulled the injured man from an electrical cabinet onto the floor and worked to save him by using a fire extinguisher and cutting burning clothes from his body.

Cowgill is a lifetime resident of Ventura County and a 20-year veteran of law enforcement who has served as a sergeant for CIPD since its inception. In addition to being a police EMT, he is a counselor at his church and volunteers at a homeless shelter. His wife, Deanne, four grown children, grandson, and more than a dozen friends and colleagues were on hand Saturday to watch him receive his medal.

“I am honored to receive the valor award,” Cowgill said. “As a police officer, I feel blessed to be trained as an EMT and to be provided the equipment to be able to help a severely injured person. I am so thankful that the victim is doing well and able to enjoy his family. I am also proud I was able to work alongside the Fire Department and paramedics as part of the Ventura County emergency medical team.”

Osman, a former staff photographer with the Los Angeles Times and reserve deputy for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, joined CI’s police department two years ago.

“This award is not just for me,” he said. “I am accepting this award for every police officer who has trained and prepared to react in such a situation. I thank all my instructors, training officers and colleagues for their support. It’s uncommon to be faced with this type of emergency (thankfully) in our job and it’s an honor to be recognized for saving someone’s life. Throughout my law enforcement career, I’ve been told that in a crisis one will revert back to their most basic training, which is exactly what happened with this incident. The EMT program here at CIPD prepared us for handling such a crisis.”

To learn more about CI’s Police department, visit www.csuci.edu/police/.

For more information on the Police Officers Association of Ventura County, visit http://poavc.org/.

About California State University Channel Islands
CSU Channel Islands (CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning. CI’s strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master’s degrees. Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research. CI has been designated by the U.S. Department of Education as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and is committed to serving students of all backgrounds from the region and beyond. Connect with and learn more about CI by visiting CI’s Social Media.

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On October 8, 2013, the City of Thousand Oaks Special Enforcement / Gang Unit concluded a two week graffiti investigation with the arrest of Anthony Dimizio.

During the later part of September patrol deputies took a graffiti vandalism report at City Hall. The suspect had used spray paint to apply graffiti on three different locations of the parking structure. During the first week of October, patrol deputies returned to City Hall to document an additional graffiti vandalism. The same suspect returned to City Hall and again used spray paint to apply graffiti on the parking structure. In both instances, the suspect was captured on video surveillance while the crime was being committed. The total clean up costs to the City of Thousand Oaks was estimated to be over $400.

The investigation led detectives to Anthony Dimizio who is currently residing in the City of Ventura. It was also discovered that Dimizio had a prior graffiti vandalism arrest / conviction in 2011, in the City of Santa Barbara.

On October 8, 2013, Detectives from the City of Thousand Oaks Special Enforcement / Gang Unit served a search warrant at Dimizio’s residence and located numerous items that linked Dimizio to the crimes. Dimizio was subsequently arrested for Vandalism over $400, Vandalism with prior convictions, and Possession of tools to commit vandalism. Dimizio was booked into the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility where he was later released after posting bail of $15,000.

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).

Nature of Incident: Graffiti Vandalism Arrest
Report Number: 13-21627
Location: 2100 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, City of Thousand Oaks, City Hall
Date & Time: September 24, 2013 & October 1, 2013
Unit Responsible: City of Thousand Oaks, Special Enforcement Gang Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(S) Dimizio, Anthony Ventura 21
Prepared by: Sergeant Dan Hawes
Media Release Date: 10/9/2013
Follow-Up Contact: Detective Richard LaSecla (805) 371-8335
Richard.lasecla@ventura.org
Approved by: Captain Mike Hartmann

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

The Moorpark Police Department’s Special Enforcement Detail concluded a four month investigation into several graffiti vandalisms that occurred throughout the City of Moorpark over the summer.

In late June of 2013, Special Enforcement Detail investigators began investigating a graffiti vandalism where an unknown subject spray painted graffiti on a wall owned by the City of Moorpark. Over the next several weeks, the investigators discovered five additional similar graffiti vandalisms spray painted at other locations throughout the city.
Investigators were eventually able to identify the vandal responsible for the graffiti as Victor Cruz Jr., and they obtained a search warrant for his residence. On 10-3-13, the search warrant was executed at Cruz’ Moorpark area home. Cruz was arrested without incident and his home was searched pursuant to the search warrant. Investigators discovered additional evidence at the home linking Cruz to the graffiti vandalisms.

Cruz was booked for four counts of felony vandalism and two counts of misdemeanor vandalism at the East County Jail.

Nature of Incident: Graffiti Vandalism Arrest
Report Number: 13-13602
Location: Various Locations in the City of Moorpark
Date & Time: 10-3-13 / 0700 hours
Unit(s) Responsible: Moorpark Police Investigations / Special Enforcement Detail
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(S) Victor Cruz Jr. Moorpark 22
Prepared by: Sergeant Eric Tennessen
Media Release Date: October 4th, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Deputy Christopher Starks, 805-299-1554
Approved by: Captain Stephen Wade

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).

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On 10/4/2013, Detectives with the Simi Valley Police and Ventura County Sheriff’s Narcotics Units concluded a joint narcotics investigation of a 30 year old Simi Valley resident, Terry Hand, who was suspected of selling heroin to residents in the Simi Valley area.

Detectives with the Simi Valley Police Department’s Special Enforcement Section detained Hand after he was seen in a shopping center in Simi Valley. After being detained, Narcotic Detectives searched Hand’s residence located on the 5000 block of Hidden Park Court in Simi Valley. During the search, detectives located over 21 grams of heroin and evidence Hand was actively involved in the sales of heroin.

Hand was arrested for Possession for Sale of a Controlled Substance and booked into the county jail pending the posting of bail, $50,000 or his conditional release. Hand will be scheduled to appear in court on 10/8/2013, at 1:30 pm.

Nature of Incident: Narcotics Arrest
Report Number: 13-22335
Location: 5000 block of Hidden Park Court, Simi Valley
Date & Time: 10/4/2013, 1630 hours
Unit(s) Responsible: Simi Valley Police and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Narcotic Units
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Hand, Terry Simi Valley 30
Prepared by: Sergeant Jose Rivera
Media Release Date: 10/4/2013
Follow-Up Contact: Sergeant Jose Rivera jose.rivera@ventura.org (805) 797-6341
Approved by: Captain J. Hernandez

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).

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

The Moorpark Police Department’s Special Enforcement Detail concluded a four month investigation into several graffiti vandalisms that occurred throughout the City of Moorpark over the summer.

In late June of 2013, Special Enforcement Detail investigators began investigating a graffiti vandalism where an unknown subject spray painted graffiti on a wall owned by the City of Moorpark. Over the next several weeks, the investigators discovered five additional similar graffiti vandalisms spray painted at other locations throughout the city.

Investigators were eventually able to identify the vandal responsible for the graffiti as Victor Cruz Jr., and they obtained a search warrant for his residence. On 10-3-13, the search warrant was executed at Cruz’ Moorpark area home. Cruz was arrested without incident and his home was searched pursuant to the search warrant. Investigators discovered additional evidence at the home linking Cruz to the graffiti vandalisms.

Cruz was booked for four counts of felony vandalism and two counts of misdemeanor vandalism at the East County Jail.

Nature of Incident: Graffiti Vandalism Arrest
Report Number: 13-13602
Location: Various Locations in the City of Moorpark
Date & Time: 10-3-13 / 0700 hours
Unit(s) Responsible: Moorpark Police Investigations / Special Enforcement Detail
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(S) Victor Cruz Jr. Moorpark 22
Prepared by: Sergeant Eric Tennessen
Media Release Date: October 4th, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Deputy Christopher Starks, 805-299-1554
Approved by: Captain Stephen Wade

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).

 
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

Sheriff’s Search and Rescue volunteers were called into action Thursday morning in response to a dog that became stranded on a steep cliff ledge in Ventura. Ventura City firefighters notified the Sheriff’s Office of the dog’s predicament and their concern for some good Samaritans in the area that were attempting to rescue the dog without adequate safety gear. After a supervisor with the Search and Rescue Unit evaluated the situation, it was determined the dog’s situation was dire and the danger to the amateur rescuers was very high.

Six volunteers with the Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team responded to the scene and established a technical rope system that would be needed to safely affect the rescue. After several attempts, the frightened Boxer named “Noah” was secured in a harness, hoisted to safety, and reunited with its grateful owner.

There are 168 men and women that volunteer with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office as search and rescue team members. In addition to the regular training each of the volunteer team members participate in, there were 4,997 hours of service donated last year alone. More information on the Sheriff’s Search and Rescue program can be found at: http://www.vcsd.org/cv-search-and-rescue.php

Nature of Incident: Stranded Dog Rescued by Search and Rescue Volunteers
Report Number: 13-22253
Location: East end of Rocklight Road, Ventura
Date & Time: 10/03/2013 10:25 a.m.
Unit Responsible: Special Services/Search & Rescue
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Captain Bill Ayub
Media Release Date: 10/04/2013
Follow-Up Contact: Captain Bill Ayub 805-388-4212
Approved by:

 
Syndicate content