The city of Fillmore has witnessed a small victory in its ongoing battle against gang-related crime, as Ventura County Sheriff’s Office deputies have arrested individuals for graffiti vandalism, targeting what can often be a precursor to more serious offenses. According to the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, on Wednesday, Christopher Garcia, 22, of Fillmore, was apprehended and is now facing charges related to graffiti vandalism and participation in a criminal street gang.
In a collaborative effort between patrol personnel and the Fillmore Bureau of Investigation the suspect was identified after new gang graffiti was reported in March near Pole Creek and Sespe Avenue, the graffiti problem is not only a cosmetic concern but it potentially sagging property values and may act as a gateway to additional crime that wears on the fabric of community safety. On the evening of the arrest at approximately 6:45 P.M., Garcia was located mere blocks from the site of the original incident at the 300 block of Mountain View Street, where authorities found further evidence tying him to the crime scene. he is currently booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility, waiting for court proceedings.
To report graffiti, residents can utilize the city’s graffiti hotline at (805) 524-1500, remembering the prompts 4, then 3. For up-to-the-minute updates and advisories, the community can stay connected with the police department through various social media platforms, including Nixle by texting their zip code to 888777.
