Two Oxnard residents, Roberto Banuelos, 43, and Alejandro Ruiz, 29, are currently facing charges after their arrest in connection to a fire within an illegal encampment. According to a news release from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, alert community members reported the encampments, which paved the way for an investigation by the Homeless Liaison Unit (HLU). During a site survey, deputies noticed a plume of smoke and discovered an active fire that could have threatened the local environment due to the substantial amount of dry vegetation present.
The two men present were identified as the aforementioned suspects and were recognized for using a propane torch to start the fire in their encampment. Any fires set within these encampments are considered a potential hazard, especially in rural areas where the spread can be rapid and the damage to local habitats significant. Both Banuelos and Ruiz were charged with starting a reckless fire and conspiracy to commit a crime, while Banuelos garnered an additional charge for an unrelated outstanding warrant.
As detailed by Sergeant James Douglas, the HLU is a dedicated task force addressing issues related to People Experiencing Homelessness (PEH) in Ventura County. Operating seven days a week, the unit comprises 2 Sergeants and 8 Deputies with the objective of mitigating homelessness by offering services and resources to those in need. Partnering with local agencies, the HLU is focused on crafting a bridge between the public and various aid organizations. Their primary goal is to foster community engagement, and awareness, and ultimately provide avenues for assistance to Ventura County's vulnerable populations.
