News | Page 114 | Oxnard Police Department

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: May 15, 2021

SUBJECT: Click it or Ticket Seat Belt Campaign

CONTACT: Jose Diaz, Senior Officer

(805) 385-7749 | [email protected]

Californians Encouraged to Buckle Up on Every Trip

May 24-June 6 is Click it or Ticket Seat Belt Campaign

The Oxnard Police Department encourages the public to wear a seat belt and keep children secured in child safety seats.

This year’s Click it or Ticket campaign is from May 24-June 6. During this time, the Oxnard Police Department will actively look for drivers and passengers who are not wearing a seat belt. This includes drivers who do not secure children in child safety seats.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), of the 22,215 passenger vehicle occupants killed in 2019, 43% (9,466) were not wearing seat belts. In 2019, 620 passengers killed in crashes across California were not wearing a seat belt.

California law requires a child to be properly secured in a car or booster seat in the back seat until they are at least 8 years of age or at least 4’9” tall. Children under the age of 2 shall ride in a rear-facing seat unless the child weighs 40 or more pounds or is 40 or more inches tall.

California has a primary seat belt law, which allows law enforcement officers to ticket someone for not wearing a seat belt without committing another traffic violation.

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: May 12, 2021, 4:00 p.m.

SUBJECT: Narcotic Sales / Possession of a Loaded Firearm Arrest

SUSPECTS: Scott Bowen, 56 year old Oxnard resident

Javier Tamayo, 24 year old Oxnard resident

Michelle Bennett, 32 year old Oxnard resident

LOCATION: 2300 Block of North Rose, Oxnard

CONTACT: Brandon Ordelheide, Sergeant

805-256-5121, [email protected]

The Oxnard Police Department Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) was conducting a surveillance in a business parking lot located in the 2300 block of North Rose Avenue when detectives observed narcotics activity occurring in a vehicle. Detectives developed probable cause to conduct an enforcement stop. With the assistance of Oxnard Patrol Officers, an enforcement stop was conducted on the vehicle and the occupants were contacted.

During the investigation, Officers contacted the driver, Scott Bowen, and two passengers, Javier Tamayo and Michelle Bennett. Tamayo was found to have an outstanding felony warrant for possession of a loaded firearm. As Tamayo was being taken out of the vehicle, he was found to have a loaded semi-automatic “ghost” gun. During a further search, Tamayo was found in possession of Fentanyl. Michelle Bennett had an active misdemeanor warrant for her arrest. During a search incident to her arrest, she was found in possession of Fentanyl and Methamphetamine for sale..

Javier Tamayo was arrested for his felony warrant, several felony firearms violations, and possession of Fentanyl. Michelle Bennett was arrested for her misdemeanor warrant and felony possession for sale of Fentanyl and Methamphetamine. Scott Bowen was arrested for transportation of Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, and Psilocybin for sale, all felonies.

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.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: May 13, 2021, 1:00 PM

SUBJECT: The Oxnard Police Department and Starbucks Raise Funds and Spread Awareness for Autism Society Ventura County in April of 2021

CONTACT: Paul Carganilla, Community Affairs Manager

(805) 385-7631 | [email protected]

Each year, the Autism Society celebrates the month of April as Autism Acceptance Month: an effort to spread awareness and acceptance of individuals and families affected by autism. 2021 marked the third consecutive year the Oxnard Police Department joined in this effort with educational community “pop-ups” and fundraisers. This year, the Department teamed with Autism Society Ventura County and local Starbucks stores to raise over $10,500.00 for the cause.

The Oxnard Police Department strives to build strong community partnerships and assist Oxnard’s vulnerable populations. Police Chief Jason Benites recognizes the importance of autism awareness and education. According to Benites, “As more attention has been brought to autism, it has become increasingly apparent how far reaching this condition is. As more light is cast upon understanding, it brings it all home to many of us. More and more people have mentioned that they have someone in their family, be it a child, a sibling, or close relative, that is on the autism spectrum. We have a number of officers and staff members who have personal experiences and have shared them, and they are highly motivated to raise the level of both understanding and acceptance to the forefront.”

Funds were raised through sales of Oxnard Police Department “Autism Awareness” patches, T-shirts, and face coverings: which were produced through donations from title sponsor Stacy Miller Public Affairs, as well as the Oxnard Police Community Foundation. Miller stated, “We believe every individual affected by Autism should have the ability to achieve their highest quality of life. We believe in celebrating our differences, as it is our differences that make us so tremendously unique.” The Channel Islands Farmers Market and local business owner Ron Wertzenberger of Ron’s Signs also donated services to the cause.

Oxnard Starbucks stores served as host to three police department pop-ups throughout the month of April. Starbucks also held a special collection for in-store donations. Local District Manager Anthony Valdez notes, “When communities and leaders come together, we know that we can achieve greater things than when we are apart. Being involved is part of our mission and values at Starbucks. We are passionate about supporting the communities that we serve and the Autism Society is a great partner and well deserving organization.”

According to their website, the Autism Society Ventura County was founded in 1994 by local parents, educators and professionals to help support newly-diagnosed families and develop needed local resources. The mission of the Autism Society Ventura County is to improve the lives of all affected by Autism. They work to promote lifelong access and opportunity for all individuals within the autism spectrum and their families to be fully included members of the community. As a local non-profit, the organization relies on local partnerships. Autism Society Ventura County Vice President Ashley Pope explains, “Fundraisers and donations are our only source of income for our operations and the programs that we hold. We serve thousands of families in Ventura County each year, and it’s all funded through these efforts. It was amazing to work with Oxnard P.D. & Starbucks for the third year! The relationships we hold are so much more than the funds they raise for us, it’s about the community seeing a united front for our cause.”

Chief Benites added, “I would like to thank and commend all of those persons and organizations that have come together with us in the effort to promote understanding and acceptance. I would also like to thank everyone who has made some form of contribution, which will help improve the lives of those impacted by autism.”

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: May 12, 2021

SUBJECT: National Motorcycle Safety Month

CONTACT: Jose Diaz, Senior Officer

(805) 385-7749 | [email protected]

Check Twice for Motorcycles: May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and the Oxnard Police Department reminds drivers to check twice for motorcycles.

During May’s Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, the Oxnard Police Department will have additional officers conducting enforcement for motorcycle safety violations on May 23 and May 30.

Motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than vehicle occupants. In 2019, there were 474 motorcycle deaths on California roads.

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

Drivers

· Always check twice for motorcycles, looking at all mirrors and blind spots.

· Motorcycle riders have the same rights to the road as other vehicles. Allow motorcycles to always use the full width of a lane.

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

· If you see a motorcycle with a signal on, be careful. The rider may have forgotten to turn the signal off. Be sure that the rider is turning before proceeding.

Motorcyclists

· Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet. Learn how to identify a safe helmet that fits on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.

· Wear appropriate gear like leather clothing, boots with nonskid soles and gloves. Consider adding reflective tape to your clothing to make it easier for other drivers to see you.

· Ride defensively. Don’t assume a driver can see you. Try staying out of a driver’s blind spot.

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

· Signal well in advance before changing lanes and watch for turning vehicles.

Lastly, both drivers and riders should never drive/ride under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

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: May 11, 2021, 2:05 PM

SUBJECT: 16 Year Old Oxnard Juvenile Dies Several Days After Being Shot

LOCATION: 200 block of James Ave, Oxnard

VICTIM: 16 Year Old Male Juvenile, Oxnard Resident

SUSPECT: Unknown

CONTACT: Edgar Fernandez, Sergeant

(805) 385-7633 | [email protected]

A male juvenile was found suffering from a gunshot wound on April 29, 2021 at around 8:35 PM, in the 200 block of James Ave. The identity of the male was not immediately known. It was later determined that the male was a 16 year old juvenile, who lived in Oxnard. The juvenile was transported to a local hospital where he was listed in critical condition.

On May 6^th, 2021, after the shooting, the juvenile victim was taken off life support and pronounced dead.

The Oxnard Police Department Major Crimes Unit has taken over the investigation. This is the fourth homicide in the City of Oxnard this year.

Detectives are encouraging anyone who may have video recorded or photographed all or part of the incident, to upload your media directly to the investigators via the following link: https://oxnardpd.evidence.com/axon/citizen/public/200jamesavenue. All submissions are immediately logged into the Oxnard Police Department’s digital evidence system. Contact information is not stored by Axon and community members can remain anonymous, choosing to upload their files without providing contact information.

Investigators are encouraging anyone who may have heard or seen anything to contact Detective Kaya Boysan, (805) 385-7645. Also, 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: May 10, 2021, 7:40 PM

SUBJECT: Carjacking, Suspects Arrested

LOCATION: 1000 block of South A Street, Oxnard

SUSPECTS: James Valdivia

Daniel Rodriguez

CONTACT: Detective Carey Everhart

(805) 486-6228 | [email protected]

On May 10, 2021 at approximately 7:40 PM, officers responded to a carjacking that occurred in the 1000 block of South A Street. Upon arrival, officers contacted the victim, who stated he was involved in a verbal and physical altercation with two suspects. One of the suspects produced a knife and yelled a gang slogan, while showing the victim his gang tattoos. The victim told officers the suspect tried stabbing him several times, before stealing the victim’s vehicle.

About 30 minutes later, an Oxnard Police officer observed the carjacked vehicle westbound on Pleasant Valley Road near Refsing Place. An enforcement stop was conducted and two occupants were detained. The driver was identified as 35-year-old Oxnard resident James Valdivia. The passenger was identified as 25-year-old Oxnard resident Daniel Rodriguez. Investigators from the Oxnard Police Department Special Operations Division responded to the scene to assist with the investigation. As the investigation progressed, it was determined that both of the suspects in the vehicle were the two suspects who carjacked the victim in the 1000 block of South A Street. The suspects were arrested for carjacking as well as street terrorism.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Detective Carey Everhart at (805) 486-6228 or [email protected].

The Oxnard Police Department’s Violent Crimes 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 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: May 10, 2021, 7:47 PM

SUBJECT: Stabbing

LOCATION: 2700 block of El Dorado Avenue

SUSPECT: Unknown

CONTACT: Detective Jason Radcliffe

(805) 385-7796 | [email protected]

On May 10, 2021 at approximately 7:47 PM, officers responded to Saint John’s Regional Medical Center in reference to a stabbing victim. Officers later determined the stabbing occurred in the 2700 block of El Dorado Avenue, Oxnard. Investigators with the Oxnard Police Department Special Operations Division responded to assist with the investigation. The victim is listed in stable condition at a local hospital. The investigation is on-going and no further information is available at this time.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Detective Jason Radcliffe at (805) 385-7796 or [email protected].

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: May 9^th, 2021

SUBJECT: 2 Gang Members Arrested for Illegal Possession of Firearm

LOCATION: 2800 Block of South Rose Avenue

SUSPECTS: Lesly Blanco – 29 years old Oxnard Resident

Juvenile Oxnard Resident

CONTACT: Tim Kelley, Commander

(805) 857-5297 | [email protected]

On May 9^th, 2021 at approximately 4:30 PM, officers from the Special Enforcement Unit (Gang Unit) conducted a traffic stop on a black Nissan for a vehicle code violation in the 2800 block of South Rose Avenue. The occupants were identified as local criminal street gang members Lesly Blanco and a male juvenile. Both occupants were found on probation with search terms.

During a search of the vehicle, a loaded unserialized Polymer80 “Ghost” handgun was located hidden inside the vehicle. Both were subsequently arrested for the firearm.

Based on both occupants being documented criminal street gang members and in possession of gang paraphernalia, they were also charged with a gang enhancement.

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: May 9^th, 2021 @ 1830 hours

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: May 8, 2021

SUBJECT: DUI and Driver’s License Checkpoint Results

CONTACT: Jose Diaz, Senior Traffic Officer

(805) 385-7749 | [email protected]

Two Drivers Arrested at the Oxnard DUI Checkpoint

Oxnard, Ca. – 1,112 drivers were screened while driving through a DUI checkpoint on May 8, 2021. The checkpoint was held at Oxnard Blvd. north of Second Street from 7:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Fifteen drivers were cited for operating a vehicle unlicensed or with a suspended/revoked license. Two drivers were arrested for DUI.

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.

As businesses continue to reopen, including bars and restaurants, impaired driving remains a top traffic safety concern. Funding for this checkpoint was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

NEWS RELEASE

DATE: May 6, 2021, 5:00 PM

SUBJECT: Firearm and Narcotics Arrest

LOCATION: 400 block of Occidental Drive, Oxnard

SUSPECT: Galen Koen

CONTACT: Detective Jason Radcliffe

(805) 385-7796 | [email protected]

On May 6, 2021 at approximately 5:00 P.M., investigators and officers from the Oxnard Police Department Special Operations Division served a search warrant in the 400 block of Occidental Drive. While serving the warrant, officers attempted to contact 49-year-old Oxnard resident Galen Koen while in his vehicle. Koen attempted to flee in his vehicle, and collided with several vehicles, including a marked police unit. After coming to a stop, Koen was taken into custody without further incident.

During a subsequent search of Koen’s vehicle and residence, a loaded handgun, suspected narcotics, and paraphernalia consistent with the sales of narcotics was located. Koen was arrested for numerous firearm and narcotics related charges and was later booked into the Ventura County Jail. The investigation is ongoing and no further information is available at this time.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Detective Jason Radcliffe at (805) 385-7796 or [email protected].