A spate of gang graffiti and vandalism led to multiple arrests in Thousand Oaks, a crackdown by local law enforcement that uncovered a hive of criminal activity, authorities said. In an operation spanning several months, the Thousand Oaks Directed Enforcement Unit (DEU), in cooperation with East Valley Major Crimes and Patrol Services, apprehended four suspects linked to the graffiti which caused over $950 in damages to businesses and city property.
The investigation, which began in October 2023, targeted Luis Ramirez, who police said was connected to the gang-related damage. Detectives obtained a search warrant for Ramirez, who already had a rap sheet with an outstanding felony warrant for auto theft, according to a report by the Ventura County Sheriff's Office. On January 18, 2024, in a joint effort, Ramirez was cornered and arrested in Thousand Oaks.
Digging deeper into the criminal burrow, authorities executed the search warrant at Ramirez's residence. It was here they encountered and arrested Jose Ramirez, and Reyna Aleman De Ramirez, both of whom attempted to hinder the deputies' search. Further into the lion's den, Jorge Gonzalez, with a laundry list of felony and misdemeanor warrants for weapons and property crimes, was found skulking within the premises. The search yielded controlled substances and materials linked to gang activity.
Luis Ramirez faces felony vandalism, possession of controlled substances, and the existing felony warrant, with a bail set at $120,000. Gonzalez’s bail was set at $58,500, all the while, Reyna and Jose were released on a promise to appear in court. "DEU is comprised of eight detectives, who focus on protecting East County communities by actively investigating illegal activities," Sergeant Jonathan James said in a prepared statement. Gonzalez was booked at the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility for his slew of warrants, signaling the end of his stint of freedom.
They encourage the community to remain vigilant and contribute any information regarding illegal weapons in the East County areas under their jurisdiction, as described by Detective Jonathan San Jose. For anonymous tips, Ventura County Crime Stoppers promises up to $1,000 rewards for leads that result in arrests and criminal complaints against involved perpetrators. Tips can be submitted by calling 800-222-TIPS (8477).
