News Releases

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: September 8, 2023 (4:21 p.m.)

SUBJECT: Passenger Tosses P80 Handgun During Police Pursuit

SUSPECTS: Eduardo Arreola, 47-year-old Oxnard resident

Marisela Suarez, 30-year-old Oxnard resident

LOCATION: Vineyard Ave. at Kentia St., Oxnard

CONTACT: Bakari Myers, Sergeant

On September 8, at approximately 4:21 p.m., officers from the Oxnard Special Enforcement Unit (Gang Unit) conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle at the intersection of Vineyard Ave. and Kentia St. Officers contacted the driver who was identified as Eduardo Arreola. As officers contacted Arreola regarding the traffic violations, Arreola sped away from the officers and a pursuit ensued. The pursuit traveled through the Sierra Linda and Fremont North neighborhoods. During the pursuit three passengers fled from the vehicle. One of the passengers, identified as Marisela Suarez, was apprehended on Ventura Rd. north of Gonzales Rd.

Suspect Arreola continued to attempt to evade officers until his vehicle became disabled on Kelp Ln. north of Wooley Rd. Arreola was taken into custody at the conclusion of the pursuit without incident, and charged with felony evading. The Oxnard Police Dispatch Center received a call from a resident that observed one of the passengers discard a handgun from the vehicle during the pursuit. Officers interviewed the resident and also recovered video that showed the handgun being tossed from Arreola’s vehicle.

Marisela Suarez was identified as the suspect that discarded the handgun from the vehicle. Upon further inspection of the firearm, officers determined it was a loaded 9-millimeter, Glock-style, Polymer 80, un-serialized, semi-automatic handgun. Polymer 80 semi-automatic handguns are sold commercially as incomplete, without serial numbers, and must be further manufactured to make them into functioning firearms. This Polymer 80 handgun was modified with a threaded pistol barrel, capable of accepting a flash suppressor, or silencer and fit the definition of “assault weapon”, an additional felony. Suarez was searched incident to her arrest and was found to be in possession of methamphetamine. Arreola was charged with reckless evading and Suarez was charged with firearm and narcotics violations. Arreola and Suarez were booked into Ventura County Jail.

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.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: September 7, 2023

SUBJECT: Narcotic Sales Arrest

SUSPECTS: Matthew Marquez, 19 year-old Oxnard Resident

LOCATION: 500 block of West Vineyard Avenue

CONTACT: Jose Velazquez, Sergeant

(805) 385-7623 (Tue-Fri 10AM-8PM) [email protected]

The Oxnard Police Department Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) concluded an investigation into the sales of narcotics committed by Matthew Marquez, a 19 year-old Oxnard resident. On September 7^th, 2023, DEU detectives gathered enough evidence to obtain a search warrant for Marquez’s residence. With the assistance of patrol officers, DEU detectives located over 1400 Alprazolam “Xanax” pills at the residence. Marquez was charged with possession for sale of a controlled substance and booked at the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office – Pretrial Detention Facility.

The Oxnard Police Department’s Drug Enforcement Unit is comprised of detectives who have been federally deputized as Task Force Officer(s) by the Federal of Bureau of Investigation. These Task Force Officer(s) are assigned to the Ventura County Criminal Investigation Division and are in charge with the duties of investigating violations of the drug and criminal laws of the United States of America.

The Oxnard Police Department is committed to reducing drug overdoses in the city of Oxnard. 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 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.

Matthew Marquez.jpg

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: September 8, 2023

SUBJECT: DUI and Driver’s License Checkpoint and DUI Enforcement Patrols

CONTACT: Alvaro Pulido, Corporal

(805) 385-7749 [email protected]

Oxnard Police Department to hold DUI Checkpoint and use extra officers to patrol for suspected impaired drivers

The Oxnard Police Department will have additional officers on patrol on Friday, September 8, 2023, specifically looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. In addition, the Oxnard Police Department will hold a DUI/driver’s license checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the city. The DUI Checkpoint and DUI patrols will be from 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

DUI checkpoints and patrols are done in locations with a history of DUI-related collisions and arrests. During the checkpoint, officers will be looking for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment, with officers checking drivers for proper licensing.

In 2018, 1,069 people were killed on California roads in crashes involving drivers who had a blood alcohol content over the legal limit (.08 or above). The Oxnard Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Prescription or over-the-counter medications with an operating heavy machinery warning on the label can also impair. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

If you plan on drinking or are taking medications that can affect your ability to drive, please take these precautions to avoid a DUI:

● Always use a designated sober driver – a friend who is not drinking, ride-share, cab, or public transportation – to get home.

● Walking while impaired is also dangerous. Have someone sober walk you home or stay with you until a sober driver is available to pick you up.

● Report drunk drivers – Call 911.

● Hosting a party? Offer nonalcoholic drinks. Monitor who is drinking and how they are getting home.

A DUI arrest is not cheap. Drivers charged with DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license and possible jail time.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: September 6, 2023 (2:03 p.m.)

SUBJECT: Prohibited Person Arrested for Carrying a Concealed Handgun

SUSPECTS: Cristobal Lopez, 23-year-old Port Hueneme resident

LOCATION: Bard at Park Ave.

CONTACT: Bakari Myers, Sergeant

(805) 797-6202 | [email protected]

On September 6, at approximately 2:03 p.m., officers from the Oxnard Special Enforcement Unit (Gang Unit) observed suspect Cristobal Lopez near the intersection of Bard Rd. and Park Ave. The officers were aware that Lopez had a previous firearms conviction and that he was on court ordered probation. Officers made contact with Lopez and confirmed the terms of Lopez’ probation. Due to the previous firearms conviction, Lopez was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. Officers conducted a search of Lopez and located a loaded revolver that was concealed on Lopez’ person. The firearm was confiscated and Lopez was arrested for the violation.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: September 3, 2023

SUBJECT: Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation

CONTACT: Jose Diaz, Sergeant

(805) 385-7847 (Mon-Thu 7AM-5PM) | [email protected]

The Oxnard Police Department will have extra officers on patrol September 3, 2023, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. looking specifically for violations made by drivers and motorcycle riders.

The top primary crash factors for motorcycles are unsafe speed, improper turning, right-of-way violations, driving under the influence, and unsafe lane changes. Speeding is the most common, accounting for nearly a third of all crashes in the state.

To help protect you and your family, keep the following tips in mind while driving or riding:

Drivers

· Always check twice for motorcycles in your mirrors and blind spots.

· Use your signal when changing lanes.

· Never follow a motorcycle too closely. Always keep a safe distance.

· When at an intersection, allow enough space before turning.

Motorcyclists

· Always wear a DOT compliant helmet and protective gear.

· Consider adding reflective tape to make it easier for other drivers to see you.

· Always keep your lights on, even during the day.

· Don’t assume drivers see you: signal well in advance before changing lanes and watch for turning vehicles.

· Although lane splitting is legal, the practice is not encouraged at high speeds in free-flowing traffic.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: Septemer 1, 2023

SUBJECT: Shooting Victim

LOCATION: 1940 North H Street, Oxnard

VICTIM: 31-Year-Old Male, Oxnard Resident

CONTACT: Detective Ricardo Vega

(805) 385-8291 | [email protected]

On September 1, 2023, at approximately 8:29 PM, Officers from the Oxnard Police Department responded to a call of a shooting victim located in the 1900 block of North H Street. Officers and EMS personnel arrived on the scene and located a 31-year-old male suffering from what appeared to be a single gunshot wound to his head. The subject was immediately transported to a local hospital, where he is listed in stable condition.

Investigators from the Oxnard Police Department Violent Crimes Unit assumed responsibility for the investigation. The investigation is ongoing, and no further information is available at this time. If you have any information regarding this case, please contact Detective Ricard Vega at 805-385-8291 or by email at [email protected].

Information can be reported online via the Oxnard Police Department’s website: www.oxnardpd.org, and click on “Report Suspicious Activity.” You can remain anonymous and still provide valuable information by calling Ventura Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477. You can also visit this site: www.venturacountycrimestoppers.org to submit a tip via text or email.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: September 2, 2023

SUBJECT: DUI/Driver’s License Checkpoint and DUI Saturation Results

CONTACT: Jose Diaz, Sergeant

(805) 385-7847 (Mon-Thu 7AM-5PM) | [email protected]

Three impaired drivers arrested during DUI checkpoint and saturation.

On September 1, 2023, between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m., the Oxnard Police Department and the California Highway Patrol – Ventura Office, held a DUI/Driver’s License checkpoint at Wooley Road and A Street. The operation resulted in three arrests for impaired driving, two arrests for driving on a suspended license for DUI, and thirty-seven citations.

Checkpoint locations are based on a history of crashes and DUI arrests. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests but to promote public safety by deterring drivers from driving impaired.

Funding for this checkpoint and DUI enforcement patrols was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: September 1, 2023

SUBJECT: Pedestrian Safety Month

CONTACT: Alvaro Pulido, Corporal

(805) 385-7749 (Mon-Thu 7AM-5PM) | [email protected]

Safety is Sharing, Safety is Caring: September is Pedestrian Safety Month

September is Pedestrian Safety Month in California and the Oxnard Police Department encourages everyone on our roads to care for one another and keep pedestrians safe from crashes and injuries.

Based on data projections from the Governors Highway Safety Association, 7,508 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the U.S. in 2022, the highest number since 1981. In California, pedestrian deaths account for more than 25% of all traffic deaths.

To promote the safety of people walking, the Oxnard Police Department will conduct a traffic safety operation in September focusing on the most dangerous driver behaviors that put the safety of pedestrians at risk. These violations include speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield and running stop signs or signals.

The Oxnard Police Department offers safe driving and walking tips, including staying off the phone when behind the wheel or walking.

Drivers

· Do not speed, and slow down at intersections. Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.

· Avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make a right-hand turn.

· Never drive impaired.

Pedestrians

· Be predictable. Use signalized crosswalks where drivers may anticipate foot traffic.

· Watch for approaching vehicles and practice due care crossing the street. At 30 mph, a driver needs at least 90 feet to stop.

· Make it easier for drivers to see you at night – wear light colors, reflective material and use a flashlight.

· Be careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night or on busier streets with higher speed limits.

Share your thoughts about pedestrian safety by participating in the Go Safely Movement, a call-to-action traffic safety survey from the California Office of Traffic Safety. Take the survey at gosafelyca.org.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: August 30, 2023

SUBJECT: Serious Injury Traffic Collision Hit and Run

VEHICLES: 2017 Toyota RAV4

2006 Audi 4-door

CONTACT: Alexis Arellano, Traffic Investigator

(805) 200-5668 (Mon-Th 7AM-5PM) | [email protected]

On August 29, 2023, at approximately 9:22 p.m., officers from the Oxnard Police Department and EMS personnel responded to a call for service regarding a traffic collision involving two vehicles at Colonia Road and McKinley Avenue.

As officers were responding to the area they were told that the driver of one of the vehicles was fleeing the area. Upon arrival, officers located two vehicles at the intersection with major damage to both vehicles. The driver of the 2017 Toyota RAV4 was still inside the vehicle suffering from multiple injuries. That driver was transported to VCMC where he was listed in critical condition. Officers contacted an adult male in the area who matched the description of the subject who was seen fleeing from the traffic collision. The adult male was interviewed and said he was in the 2006 Audi 4-door during the traffic collision.

Preliminary investigation indicates that one of the vehicles was travelling on Colonia Road and the other vehicle was travelling northbound on McKinley Avenue when the collision occurred. Based on the initial investigation, officers believe alcohol was a contributing factor to the collision. Traffic Investigators responded to take over the investigation and the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who has information regarding this collision is urged to contact Traffic Investigator Alexis Arellano at (805) 200-5668 or via email at [email protected]. Also, anyone with information regarding this case can contact the Oxnard Police Department at (805) 385-7600.

If the inquiry is outside of the Investigator’s standard business hours, we encourage the use of the Investigator’s email. We have found that an email message with a callback request is a more effective way to reach the Investigator. Our watch commanders will continue to speak to those incidents that center around field operations, and still can be reached at (805) 385-7746 or (805) 385-7778.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: August 28, 2023 / 1140 hours

SUBJECT: Aggravated Trespass / Violation of Domestic Violence Restraining Order

SUSPECTS: Joseph Anthony Montoya, 30 year-old Oxnard Resident

LOCATION: 3501 South C St, Oxnard, California

CONTACT: John McBride, Sergeant

(805) 385-7600 (Thur-Sat, 2PM-2AM); [email protected]

At the above date and time, Officers from the Oxnard Police Department responded to 3501 South C Street regarding a Hot Prowl. The suspect was identified as Joseph Anthony Montoya who had an active domestic violence restraining order preventing him from being at the residence. Montoya was armed with a knife when he was contacted by Officers. Montoya was non-compliant with the Officers and refused to drop the knife.

Officers assigned to the police department's Crisis Negotiation Team arrived on the scene and began negotiating with Montoya in an attempt to have him peacefully surrender. After over four hours of unsuccessful negotiations, Officers from Oxnard PD’s SWAT Team, K9 ("Rocky"), and the Police Aerial Unit were utilized to take Montoya into custody.

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. Booking photographs for adult felony arrest available on the department website: www.oxnardpd.org under crime & safety, and booking / call logs.