News Releases

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: July 21, 2022

SUBJECT: Overdose investigation leads to Narcotics Sales Arrest

SUSPECTS: Abel Mejia, 44 year-old Oxnard Resident

LOCATION: 3000 Block of Albany Drive, Oxnard

CONTACT: Brandon Ordelheide, Sergeant

During the month of July, 2022, the Oxnard Police Department Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU), the South District Neighborhood Policing Team (NPT), and Homeless Liaison Officers (HLO’s) began an investigation regarding an increase in drug use and drug overdoses occurring in the area of Yucca Street and Saviers Road. During the investigation, Abel Mejia was identified as being involved in the sale of Fentanyl in the surrounding area. DEU Detectives developed enough evidence to obtain a search warrant for narcotics sales.

On July 21, 2022, with the assistance of South District NPT Officers, Abel Mejia was observed driving a vehicle and a traffic enforcement stop was initiated. During a search of the vehicle, Mejia was found in possession of Fentanyl for sale. A search warrant was served at Abel Mejia’s residence and further evidence of narcotics sales was located.

Abel Mejia was arrested for possession for sale of Fentanyl and transportation of Fentanyl, both felonies. He was booked into Ventura County Jail.

The Oxnard Police Department is committed to reducing narcotics related overdoses within Oxnard neighborhoods. 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.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: July 21, 2022

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

CONTACT: Mike Wood, 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 Saturday, July 23, 2022, 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: July 21, 2022, 1:30 P.M.

SUBJECT: Suspect Arrested for Child Exploitation Material

LOCATION: 600 block Northport Lane, Oxnard

MISSING PERSON: Charles Hebrard, 44-year-old, Oxnard Resident

CONTACT: Scott Aaron, Sergeant

(805) 385-7756 | [email protected]

On July 21, 2022, at about 8:00 A.M., after a seven-month-long investigation into the possession and distribution of child exploitation material, detectives from the Oxnard Police Department’s Family Protection Unit and members of the Southern California High Tech Crimes Task Force served a search warrant at a residence in the 600 block of Northport Lane in the City of Oxnard.

During the subsequent investigation and search of electronic devices in the residence, Mr. Hebrard was identified as the suspect in this case. Mr. Hebrard was arrested for one count of possession/control of matter depicting sexual conduct of a person under 18, one count of possession of child pornography with intent to distribute, and one count of bringing obscene matter into or distributing within the state. Mr. Hebrard was booked into the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility on a bail amount of $50,000.

The Oxnard Police Department would like to remind the public that possessing child pornography is a felony and can be punishable with imprisonment in State Prison. In addition to being captured in images and videos, many children depicted are often the victims of sexual assault, exploitation, or human trafficking. The Oxnard Police Department is committed to protecting the safety of our youth, and the continuing investigation of these crimes against children will be vigorously investigated and prosecuted.

Anyone with information regarding Mr. Hebard or the possession of child pornography is encouraged to contact Detective Kevin Adair with the Oxnard Police Department’s Family Protection Unit at (805) 385-7663. For additional information on how to report child pornography, contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at www.missingkids.com.

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 also 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: July 12, 2022, 10:06 p.m.

SUBJECT: Fatal traffic collision involving a vehicle and pedestrian

LOCATION: Fourth St at C Street, Oxnard

DRIVER/VEHICLE: Jesus Magana Estrada, 26-year-old male of Oxnard, CA

2015 Volkswagen Jetta

PEDESTRIAN: Name withheld pending next-of-kin

CONTACT: Mike Wood, Corporal

(805) 385-7749 | [email protected]

On July 12, 2022, at approximately 10:06 p.m., officers from the Oxnard Police Department and EMS personnel responded to a call for service regarding a traffic collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian that occurred at Fourth Street and C Street.

Initial investigation revealed a 2015 Volkswagen Jetta, driven by Jesus Magana Estrada, was traveling northbound on C Street towards Fourth Street. A pedestrian (name withheld), was crossing the street in a crosswalk when the collision occurred. The driver of the Volkswagen remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. Based on the initial investigation, Officers did not believe that speed or alcohol were a contributing factor to the collision. The pedestrian was transported to the Ventura County Medical Center where he was listed in critical condition.

On July 18, 2022, the Oxnard Police Department was notified that the pedestrian had succumbed to his injuries he sustained from the collision. Traffic Investigators are now taking over the investigation to determine the cause of the collision.

If anyone who has information regarding this collision is urged to contact Corporal Mike Wood at (805) 385-7749 or via email at [email protected]. Also, anyone with information regarding this case can contact the Oxnard Police Department at (805) 385-7600.

Please disregard the last press release. Updated press release is attached. Thank you.

DATE: July 20, 2022

DATE OF INCIDENT: July 10, 2022, at 11:00 a.m.

SUBJECT: Police are Searching for Witnesses or Video Recordings of Soccer Fight that Left a Man in Critical Condition

LOCATION: Oxnard High School, 3400 West Gonzales Road, Oxnard

VICTIM: Misael Sanchez, 29-years old

CONTACT: Carey Everhart, Detective (805) 486-6228 | [email protected]

Oxnard police detectives continue to investigate a fight at a soccer match that left one of the soccer players in critical condition. Detectives are also searching for witnesses or anyone with a video recording of the incident.

The fight occurred on July 10, 2022, at 11:00 a.m., at Oxnard High School. When officers arrived on scene, they located the victim, 29-year-old Misael Sanchez. Sanchez was unresponsive and not breathing. He was transported by ambulance to the Ventura County Medical Center and listed in critical condition.

During the initial police investigation, witnesses assisted police officers in identifying a suspect. However, additional information and evidence are needed to determine how the assault occurred and identify persons that were involved. Detectives are asking for the public’s assistance.

Detectives believe there were spectators in the stands, players from both teams, and other persons at the soccer game who witnessed the fight. Detectives also believe that persons may have video recorded the fight. Detectives are asking anyone who witnessed the fight or who has video recordings of the incident to contact Detective Cary Everhart at (805) 486-6228 or [email protected], or Detective Jaime Miranda at (805) 385-7547 or [email protected].

Also, you can remain anonymous and still provide valuable information by calling Ventura County Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477. You can also visit www.venturacountycrimestoppers.org to submit a tip via text or email.

Anyone with a video recording of the fight can remain anonymous and upload the video to the following link: https://oxnardpd.evidence.com/axon/citizen/public/oxnardhighsoccer

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: July 15, 2022 (8:00 PM)

SUBJECT: Person Arrested for Firearm Possession

SUSPECTS: Miguel Ruiz, 25-year-old Oxnard resident

LOCATION: 100 block of N. Bonita Avenue, Oxnard

CONTACT: Kevin Baysinger, Commander

(805) 385-7600 | [email protected]

On July 15, 2022, at approximately 8:00 p.m., officers from the Oxnard Police Department contacted Ruiz in the alley of the 100 block of N. Bonita Avenue. Just prior to this, Ruiz quickly entered and then exited the rear yard of a residence.

Officers searched the area where Ruiz had been and located a loaded handgun. The residents were contacted, and stated that the firearm did not belong to them.

Ruiz was arrested and charged with multiple firearms violations, including possessing an unregistered firearm.

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.

Traffic investigators are on scene of a traffic collision on Rose Avenue at Tiesa Lane. Southbound Rose Avenue is closed from Tiesa Lane to Cesar Chavez Drive. Motorists are encouraged to find alternate routes until the closure is lifted.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: July 15, 2022 (5:10 PM)

SUBJECT: Prohibited Person with Felony Warrant for Narcotics and Firearms Possession, Arrested for Narcotic and Firearms Possession

SUSPECTS: Rudy Garcia, 30-year-old Oxnard resident

LOCATION: 1000 blk W. Wooley Rd., Oxnard

CONTACT: Bakari Myers, Sergeant

(805) 797-6202 | [email protected]

On July 15, 2022, at approximately 5:10 p.m., officers from the Oxnard Special Enforcement Unit (Gang Unit) observed wanted subject, Rudy Garcia, in the 1000 blk of W. Wooley Rd. Officers were aware that Garcia had a felony warrant for possession of narcotics and a firearm. When officers attempted to detain Garcia, he became noncompliant. Garcia was tackled and taken into custody after a brief struggle.

Garcia was handcuffed and searched incident to his arrest. Officers located a loaded 9-millimeter Glock-style Polymer 80 semi-automatic handgun tucked in Garcia’s front waistband area. 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 barrel was modified and fit the definition of “assault weapon”, an additional felony.

Officers continued to search Garcia and located fentanyl and a significant quantity of suspected methamphetamine. Garcia’s original offense that led to Garcia being placed on probation was a conviction for possession of narcotics while armed with a firearm. The prior conviction made Garcia a prohibited person.

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

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: July 20, 2022

DATE OF INCIDENT: March 11, 2022, at 5:54 p.m.

SUBJECT: Bank Robbery Suspect Arrested

LOCATION: 1000 Block Of Will Avenue

VICTIM: CBC Credit Union, 2151 East Gonzales Road

SUSPECT:

CONTACT: Ricardo Vega, Detective

(805) 385-8291 | [email protected]

On March 11, 2022, at approximately 5:54 p.m., officers from the Oxnard Police Department were dispatched to an armed robbery at the CBC Credit Union, located at 2151 East Gonzales Road. When officers arrived, they learned a suspect had entered the bank and brandished a handgun. The suspect jumped over the counter and ordered the manager to give him money. The manager complied and the suspect then fled the business.

Investigators from the Oxnard Police Department Violent Crimes Unit assumed responsibility for the investigation. After a lengthy investigation, investigators were able to identify the suspect as 59-year-old Oxnard resident Eddie Tinoco. On the morning of July 20, 2022, investigators were in the 1000 block of Will Avenue in the El Rio neighborhood when they observed Tinoco outside of a residence. Investigators made contact with Tinoco and took him into custody for the robbery without incident. Tinoco was later booked into the Ventura County Jail for the bank robbery and released to the custody of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department. If you have any information regarding this case, please contact Detective Ricardo Vega at 805-385-8291 or [email protected].

Information can be reported online via the Oxnard Police Department’s website: www.oxnard.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.