News Releases

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: June 11, 2020, 3:00 p.m.

SUBJECT: Stolen Vehicle Update

LOCATION: Oxnard, CA

CONTACT: Luis Mancha, Sergeant

(805) 385-7632, [email protected]

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent stay at home order issued on March 19, 2020, the City of Oxnard has seen a significant increase in auto theft-related crimes. Oxnard Police Department Property Crimes Detectives, members of the Ventura County Auto Theft Task Force (VenCATT), and Oxnard Police Department Patrol Officers have been working to recover these vehicles, and to take into custody those responsible. Between June 1, 2020, and June 10, 2020, six residents from the City of Oxnard were arrested for being in possession of stolen vehicles.

On June 1, 2020, Oxnard resident Erica Torres was contacted by Oxnard Police Department patrol while in possession of a stolen vehicle. A family member of the victim had observed Torres driving the stolen vehicle. Torres was arrested for possessing the stolen vehicle, narcotics offenses, and for possessing burglary tools. Torres has five prior arrests for possessing stolen vehicles, with two of those arrests occurring during the month of May 2020. Torres was released with zero bail during her last three arrests per the California Judicial Council approved “zero bail” rule.

On June 4, 2020, Oxnard resident Ricardo Rodriguez was contacted by Oxnard Police Department patrol officers while in possession of a stolen vehicle. Rodriguez was found sleeping inside the stolen vehicle, and during the arrest, Rodriguez acknowledged that he was aware the vehicle was stolen. Rodriguez has prior arrests for possessing stolen vehicles, narcotics offenses, and possessing burglary tools. Rodriguez was arrested in April 2020 for possessing a stolen vehicle and felony evading. He was released with zero bail following the April arrest per the California Judicial Council approved “zero bail” rule.

On June 6, 2020, Oxnard resident Jesus Gomez was contacted by Oxnard Police Department patrol officers while driving a reported stolen vehicle. Gomez claimed to have purchased the vehicle earlier for $500.00 but could not produce a pink slip and did not have an actual key for the vehicle. Gomez was released later that day with zero bail per the California Judicial Council approved “zero bail” rule. Gomez has numerous prior arrests for possessing stolen vehicles, narcotics offenses, graffiti vandalism, and theft-related crime.

On June 6, 2020, Oxnard resident Jose Ramos was contacted by Oxnard Police Department patrol officers while driving a reported stolen vehicle. The vehicle had initially been taken during an alleged carjacking incident where the victim had been violently assaulted. Ramos was released later that day with zero bail per the California Judicial Council approved “zero bail” rule. Ramos has prior arrests for possessing stolen vehicles, narcotics offenses, and previously served time in the California Department of Corrections.

On June 9, 2020, Oxnard resident Conrad Moraga was contacted by Oxnard Police Department patrol officers during a call for service regarding a person passed out in a vehicle blocking traffic. The vehicle was found to be an unreported stolen vehicle from a local Oxnard auto dealership. Moraga was arrested for possessing the stolen vehicle, narcotics offenses, and possessing a victim’s personal identifying information. Moraga has six prior arrests for possessing stolen vehicles, evading, and narcotics-related offenses. Moraga previously served time in the California Department of Corrections. In April of 2020 Moraga was arrested for being in possession of a stolen vehicle and was released with zero bail per the California Judicial Council approved “zero bail” rule.

On June 9, 2020, Oxnard resident Michael Arellanes was contacted by Oxnard Police Department patrol officers during a call for service regarding a person passed out in a vehicle in the parking lot of a local business. The vehicle was found to be an unreported stolen vehicle from a local Oxnard auto dealership (the same dealership as the above incident). Arellanes was also found to be on Parole for robbery and had an outstanding felony parole warrant. Arellanes has prior arrests for narcotics offenses, robbery, and residential burglary.

The Oxnard Police Department wants to encourage members of the public to use auto theft prevention devices such as steering wheel locks and vehicle alarms and to never store keys inside of their vehicle. Remember to “Lock it, Take it, Keep it.”

The Oxnard Police Department Property Crimes Unit is committed to reducing auto theft in the City of Oxnard. Anyone with information regarding any of these cases or other criminal activity is encouraged to contact the Oxnard Police Department at (805) 385-7600, or online via the Oxnard Police Department’s website: www.oxnardpd.org, and clicking on “Report Suspicious Activity.” You can remain anonymous if you choose to do so by calling the Ventura County Crime Stoppers at (800)222-8477. You can also visit their website: www.venturacountycrimestoppers.org to submit a tip via text or email.

JESUS GOMEZ.JPG RICARDO RODRIGUEZ.JPG CONRAD MORAGA.JPG ERICA TORRES.JPG Michael Arellanes.jpg

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: June 4, 2020, 3:45 P.M.

SUBJECT: Felony Evading Driver Arrested

DRIVER: David Sanchez, 27-year-old Oxnard Resident

VEHICLE: Black Nissan Maxima

LOCATION: Plaza Park, Oxnard, CA

CONTACT: Dale McAlpine, Sergeant

(805) 200-2337 | [email protected]

At approximately 5:00 P.M. on Wednesday, June 3, 2020, a group of protesters held a planned rally at Plaza Park in downtown Oxnard. A crowd estimated at approximately 350 marched to the Oxnard Police Department’s headquarters building, and through Oxnard’s downtown and surrounding area. This group was peaceful. The group took over all lanes of Oxnard Boulevard and marched to Five Points. After pausing at Five Points, the crowd returned to Plaza Park about two hours later, and many of the attendees dispersed.

A smaller group of approximately 100-150 people continued to march throughout central Oxnard before arriving back at Plaza Park. At this point, several vehicles drove onto the park’s grass. The vehicles drove recklessly on the park grass, endangering several pedestrians. Police officers responded to address the safety concerns. One of the reckless drivers sped away, colliding with another vehicle, and fleeing. A vehicle pursuit ensued and was ultimately terminated a short time later due to the reckless driving of the suspect.

Investigators were able to identify the driver who fled as David Sanchez, a 27-year-old Oxnard resident. Sanchez was ultimately arrested without incident and booked into Ventura County Jail for felony evading, reckless driving, hit and run, and driving without a valid license.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Oxnard Police Department at (805) 385-7600, or online via the Oxnard Police Department’s website: www.oxnardpd.org, and clicking on Report Suspicious Activity. Any witness can also remain anonymous by calling the Ventura County Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477 or visiting www.venturacountycrimestoppers.org to submit a tip via text or email.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: June 10, 2020

SUBJECT: Illegal Fireworks

LOCATION: City of Oxnard

CONTACT: Robin Whitney, Commander

(805) 385-7600

[email protected]

The City of Oxnard has experienced a dramatic increase in illegal fireworks over the past few weeks. On any given night, the Oxnard Police Department receives dozens of calls about fireworks disturbing. The onslaught of fireworks calls, most of which are non-specific, strains police resources while dealing with a number of competing public safety priorities. With fireworks easily available in nearly 300 cities throughout the state of California, including in Ventura County just a few miles away from Oxnard, people do not acknowledge the danger of fireworks, or simply disregard it. Sadly, the July 4th holiday in 2019 saw a tragic event when a 21-year old male was lighting fireworks on the roof of an apartment building in south Oxnard when a mortar shot up and hit him in the head. He ultimately died on July 10th.

The Oxnard Police Department has diverted resources to address the growing problem of fireworks. Fireworks Suppression Details began on Monday evening and immediately had positive results. On Monday, June 8th, officers contacted an individual in the 700 block of S. “B” Street. The 28-year old male was in possession of dangerous “mortar” type fireworks (See picture). He was issued a citation for two (2) violations of the Oxnard City Code that carry with them a fine of $1250.

On Tuesday, June 9th, the Fireworks Suppression Detail was called to the 4500 block of S. “F” Street where they contacted two (2) individuals in possession of dangerous fireworks. Each individual received a citation that carries with it a fine of $1000. A short time later, officers observed individuals lighting off “mortar” type fireworks in the 200 block of W. Hill Street. A subject was contacted and issued a citation that carries with it a fine of $1000. The Oxnard Police Department will continue to prioritize enforcement of our local fireworks ordinances as the July 4th holiday approaches.

While we have a nationwide culture that embraces fireworks as being part of the Independence holiday, illegal fireworks present a variety of dangers, as evidenced by fires and injuries that are caused by them each year. They have a dramatically negative effect on pets and can be traumatic to our elderly population as well as our military veterans that live in the city. Fireworks make many people frustrated, even angry. Unfortunately, a large segment of our city’s population disregard those negative impacts and continue to engage in illegal fireworks activity.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP?

Fireworks Tips via Email ([email protected])

You may send the Oxnard Police Department information about specific locations or residences where illegal fireworks are being used. Please be as specific as possible with days, times, and location.

Fireworks Hotline (805-394-5884)

You may call and leave information anonymously for the Oxnard Police Department about illegal fireworks. Please be as specific as possible with days, times, and location.

Oxnard Police Department Non-Emergency Number (805-385-7740)

Information about fireworks activity in progress may be called into the Oxnard Police Department on their non-emergency line. Please recognize that fireworks calls are prioritized based on other calls for service pending throughout the city.

In 2018, the City of Oxnard passed a “Fireworks Social Host” ordinance allowing the City to hold residents and property owners responsible for illegal fireworks activity taking place in and on their property. The information received from the hotline and tip email is invaluable in following up and identifying the individuals that continue to break the law and bring unnecessary trauma to our vulnerable populations.

DATE / TIME COMPLETED: 6/10/2020 11:00 a.m.

Paul Carganilla

Community Affairs Manager

phone: (805) 385-7631 / mobile: (805) 342-8292

email: [email protected]

251 South C Street, Oxnard, CA 93030

The Oxnard Police Department is currently on-scene assisting the California Highway Patrol with a traffic collision investigation at the intersection of Rice Ave and Channel Islands Blvd. There may be intermittent road closures in this area. Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: June 7, 2020 (9:00 PM)

SUBJECT: Man arrested on stolen vehicle for fourth time in nine months

LOCATION: 5100 Block of Cypress Road

VICTIM: Undisclosed

SUSPECT: Marco Anthony Cerda, age 21, Oxnard resident

VEHICLE: 2004 Chevrolet Impala

CONTACT: Robin, Whitney, Commander

(805) 385-7771 | [email protected]

On June 7, 2020, at about 9:00 PM, officers from the Special Enforcement Unit (SEU) were on patrol in the area of Pleasant Valley and Cypress Roads when they observed a vehicle traveling in front of them without a rear license plate. The driver of the vehicle immediately pulled into a random driveway in the 5100 block of Cypress Road. SEU officers contacted three occupants inside the vehicle. The driver, identified as Marco Anthony Cerda (age 21), was detained after he walked away from the vehicle and dropped a key. Officers checked the Vehicle Identification Number and determined the vehicle was stolen. Officers arrested Cerda for a felony charge of possesion of a stolen vehicle. A second occupant in the vehicle was arrested for three outstanding misdemeanor warrants.

Cerda has an extensive criminal history relating to stolen vehicles and is currently on probation for the same. Within the past nine months, Cerda has been arrested on four separate occasions for felony charges of being in possession of a stolen vehicle, including one less than a month ago, during the State of Emergency. However, in that case, Cerda was released on $0 bail pursuant to the California Judicial Council Zero Bail Order from April 6^th, which applies to most misdemeanors and some low level felony crimes.

Given Cerda’s significant criminal history related to stolen vehicles, in addition to his recent criminal activity which shows no signs of being deterred, officers completed a Declaration in Support of Exception to Emergency Bail, in an attempt to keep Cerda in custody.

Since the State of Emergency was imposed March 19, 2020, the city has seen a significant increase in stolen vehicles. From January 18, 2020, to March 19, 2020 (pre-COVID-19), there were 80 reported stolen vehicles in the City of Oxnard. From March 20, 2020, to May 20, 2020 (COVID-19 stay at home period), there were 193 reported stolen vehicles in the City of Oxnard, a 141% increase.

To reduce the number of stolen vehicles, residents are encouraged to lock their vehicles, activate vehicle alarms, use theft prevention devices such a steering wheel locks, never leave the keys inside a vehicle, or leave a vehicle running and unattended.

Anyone with information regarding this case or other criminal activity is encouraged to contact the Oxnard Police Department at (805) 385-7600, or online via the Oxnard Police Department’s website: www.oxnardpd.org, and clicking on Report Suspicious Activity. Any witness can also remain anonymous by calling the Ventura County Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477, or visiting www.venturacountycrimestoppers.org to submit a tip via text or email.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: June 4, 6:00 P.M.

SUBJECT: Gang Member / Prohibited Person Arrested for Felony Evading, Firearms, and Arson

LOCATION: 1101 Ventura Blvd., Oxnard, CA

CONTACT: Martin Cook, Sergeant

(805) 385-7600 | [email protected]

On 05-20-20, Officers from the Oxnard Police Department responded to the 200 block of Plum Place reference a fire to a residence. Officers located a gas can next to the point of origin of the fire and determined an arson had occurred. It was determined that Salvador Pena Martinez (39yrs) was the suspect of committing the arson.

On June 4, at approximately 6:00 p.m., Officers from the Oxnard Police Department Special Enforcement Unit (gang unit), in conjunction with the Oxnard Police Department Property Crimes Unit and Police K-9, were able to locate Martinez reference the arson. Special Enforcement Units attempted to conduct a traffic stop with Martinez as he drove a white Toyota Tacoma through the area of Ventura Blvd and Auto Center Drive in the City of Oxnard. Immediately Martinez failed to yield and a vehicle pursuit ensued. Martinez eventually entered the Royal Duke Mobile Estates Park, and fled from his vehicle. As Martinez fled from his vehicle, it collided with a chain-link fence. Martinez fled on foot for a short distance, but was apprehended by officers after a short struggle and arrested for arson and evading.

During a search of Martinez’ vehicle, a loaded .380 caliber semi-automatic handgun was located. Martinez is also a prohibited person from possession of firearms or ammunition due to prior felony convictions. Martinez is a known criminal street gang member within the City of Oxnard and was out on bail for other felony offences at the time of this arrest.

Martinez was arrested for multiple firearms violations, evading and arson.

The Oxnard Police Department’s Special Enforcement Unit is committed to reducing gang crimes and gun violence in the City of Oxnard through the strict enforcement of laws specifically targeting known, active gang members residing in the city. Anyone with information regarding this case or other criminal activity is encouraged to contact the Oxnard Police Department at (805) 385-7600, or online via the Oxnard Police Department’s website: www.oxnardpd.org, and clicking on Report Suspicious Activity. You can remain anonymous if you choose to do so. You can remain anonymous by calling the Ventura County Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477. You can also visit this site: www.venturacountycrimestoppers.org to submit a tip via text or email.

DATE / TIME PREPARED: June 4, 2020 / 2300 hours

Martinez firearm.jpg

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: June 04, 2020, 1:00 AM

SUBJECT: Man arrested for possessing a firearm and narcotic sales

LOCATION: 4700 block of South “J” St

SUSPECT: Hector Gutierrez, age 28, Oxnard resident

CONTACT: Scott Coe, Sergeant

(805) 385-7771 | [email protected]

On June 4^th, 2020, at around 1:00 AM, Oxnard Police Officers conducted a traffic stop on a 2006 Audi for a vehicle code violation in the 4700 block of South “J” St. The driver, Hector Gutierrez, was on active probation with various search terms. During a search of the vehicle, officers located an unloaded 9mm semiautomatic handgun in the trunk. Officers also located a high capacity magazine, live ammunition, narcotics and a large sum of money.

Gutierrez has previously been convicted of a felony and is prohibited from possessing firearms. The firearm located in his vehicle was not registered to him. Gutierrez was arrested for numerous felony charges related to firearm, ammunition and high capacity magazine possession and narcotic sales.

Please see attached news release.

Thank you,

Paul

Paul Carganilla

Community Affairs Manager

phone: (805) 385-7631 / mobile: (805) 342-8292

email: [email protected]

251 South C Street, Oxnard, CA 93030

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: June 3, 2020, 7:40 p.m.

SUBJECT: Missing Dependent Adult

LOCATION: 1900 Block Camino Del Sol, Oxnard

VICTIM: Maria Luisa De La Cerda, 78 years old

CONTACT: Mike Gregson, Sergeant

(805) 385-7600 | [email protected]

The Oxnard Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing dependent adult. Maria Luisa De La Cerda, a 78 year old female, was reported missing from her residence in the 1900 block of Camino Del Sol in Oxnard at about 5:00 PM. Raya is described as a Hispanic, female, 5’3”, 140 pounds, gray hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a pink jacket, pink pants, and white shoes.

It is not known where Raya may have been headed. If you see her, please call the Oxnard Police Department dispatch center at (805) 385-7740

Maria Luisa De La Cerda has been located and safely reunited with her family.

Thank you.

On Thu, Jun 4, 2020 at 12:42 AM Gregson, Mike <[email protected]> wrote:

NEWS RELEASE

DATE:            June 3, 2020, 7:40 p.m.

SUBJECT:   Missing Dependent Adult

LOCATION: 1900 Block Camino Del Sol, Oxnard

VICTIM:         Maria Luisa De La Cerda, 78 years old

CONTACT:   Mike Gregson, Sergeant

                        (805) 385-7600 | [email protected]

The Oxnard Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing dependent adult. Maria Luisa De La Cerda, a 78 year old female, was reported missing from her residence in the 1900 block of Camino Del Sol in Oxnard at about 5:00 PM. Raya is described as a Hispanic, female, 5’3”, 140 pounds, gray hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a pink jacket, pink pants, and white shoes.

It is not known where Raya may have been headed. If you see her, please call the Oxnard Police Department dispatch center at (805) 385-7740

Scott Coe, Sergeant

Oxnard Police Department

805-385-7600