An extensive firearm and ammunition cache was uncovered in Fillmore last week, according to a media release from the Ventura County Sheriff's Office. The suspect, Fillmore resident Timothy Padilla, 45, was arrested on June 13th following an investigation initiated by the Camarillo Special Enforcement Unit into his activities as an alleged illicit firearms dealer.
Early in June, detectives acquired probable cause to arrest Padilla for violating California Penal Code Section 27545 relating to the unlawful transfer of firearms. Seized from Padilla’s residence during the search, detectives discovered a staggering number of weapons. Serving a search warrant signed by a magistrate, the law enforcement officials located "137 firearms, hundreds of firearm magazines, and approximately 100,000 rounds of various caliber ammunition," as stated in the release. Discovered among the array was a substantial collection comprising assault-style firearms and machine guns.
The seizure included weaponry such as a Fabrique Nationale Herstal assault rifle, a Mac-10 style pistol, and a Beretta 9mm pistol with suppressor capabilities. Notably, an M1919 Browning belt-fed machine gun and linked .50 BMG rounds were also among the cache.
As the investigation developed, collected evidence suggested Padilla was illegally transferring and selling assault weapons within the Ventura County area. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office detailed that "Padilla was ultimately booked into the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility" and that the detectives believed most funds in Padilla's possession were likely proceeds from these illicit sales. Further compounding his legal challenges, the Ventura County Superior Court granted a petition for increased bail; consequently, Padilla's bail tally rose to a steep $500,000.
On Tuesday, the Ventura County District Attorney's Office formalized charges against Padilla, which included 10 counts under Section 27545 for the unlawful transfer of firearms, five counts under Section 30600(a) for felony transportation of assault weapons, and a couple counts under Section 30605(a) for possession of an assault weapon. The law enforcement community in Ventura has extended gratitude to the citizens for their partnership and assistance in crime prevention initiatives. The Sheriff's Office release also emphasizes encouraging community involvement via social media and through the use of the Nixle alert system.
