In the early morning hours of May 29, Ventura County law enforcement officers descended on a residence in Oxnard following a lead on unregistered firearms. Richard Madrid, a 28-year-old resident of the area, found himself in custody after detectives unearthed a cache of illegal weapons, including a "ghost gun," an AR-10 style rifle, and other firearms during a raid at his home. The search was the culmination of a month-long investigation by the Camarillo Special Enforcement Unit, per details in a news release retrieved from Nixle.
Upon serving the warrant at Madrid's residence on the 3000 Block of Hemlock Street, officers found firearms, including an AR-15 style rifle with no serial number, colloquially known as a ghost gun, and an assault weapon modified Glock pistol.
According to the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, Madrid was booked on multiple counts, including unlawful transfer of a firearm, possession of an assault weapon, and possession of a short-barreled rifle. The latter term refers to rifles with barrels less than 16 inches in length or overall lengths under 26 inches, as defined under the California Penal Code. Madrid is now awaiting trial at the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility.
Ghost guns have posed a unique challenge for law enforcement due to their lack of serial numbers and the ability to be transferred without a federal firearms license, making them nearly impossible for the authorities to trace. Senior Deputy Frank W. Corona highlighted the role of community partnership in addressing such issues, expressing gratitude for the public's ongoing support in providing information to solve crimes.
Ventura County Crime Stoppers, in response to the arrest, has offered up to $1,000 for information that may lead to the arrest and criminal complaint against individuals responsible for similar crimes. As is their policy, the identity of the caller can remain anonymous, and the call is not recorded. Tips can be reported by dialing Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).
