A suspected burglar involved with a transnational organized crime group was apprehended following a quick response to a home burglary alarm in the unincorporated area of Oak Park, per the Ventura County Sheriff's Office. Carlos Ernesto Aranguren Jimenez, 48, of Los Angeles, was taken into custody after a coordinated effort by local law enforcement. According to official reports, Ventura County Sheriff’s Dispatch received a call about the activation of a residential burglary alarm on February 20, subsequently leading to the discovery of an ongoing burglary at the 1200 block of Dumaine Ave.
Law enforcement officials were able quickly to obtain a description of the suspect's vehicle, which was then spotted traveling southbound on US 101 by deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Lost Hills Station. The suspect's vehicle was stopped, and East County Patrol Services deputies took Jimenez into custody after linking him to the burglary. The official statement details how the suspect was found with counterfeit documents and a fictitious license plate on his vehicle.
Investigative efforts by the Ventura County Sheriff's Department have identified Jimenez as a member of a Transnational Organized Crime Burglary Crew. Following his arrest, he has been charged with residential burglary, conspiracy to commit a crime, possession of a counterfeit government seal, and destroying evidence. Jimenez's bail was set at $250,000, and his arraignment took place on February 24 at the Ventura County Superior Court, as documented in the press release provided by Sergeant Sean Taylor.
Emphasizing community vigilance, the Ventura County Sheriff's Department credits the swift actions of local citizens for the successful apprehension of Jimenez. As stated in their news release, "The arrest of this suspect was made possible by the citizens of Ventura County and their quick decision to call the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office to report these crimes." Continuing their fight against property crimes, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department advises residents to "remain vigilant and report suspicious people and vehicles by promptly calling 911 or our non-emergency line of (805) 654-9511," reminding members of the community, "If you see something, say something."
Incentives for public cooperation are emphasized by the Ventura County Crime Stoppers, who are offering up to $1,000 for information leading to arrests and criminal complaints related to this crime. Those with relevant information can contact Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477), and may choose to remain anonymous as the calls are not recorded.
