Quantcast
Channel: Santa Cruz Police
Viewing all 738 articles
Browse latest View live

Mrs. Doubtfire Has Been Arrested

$
0
0

Here is the real person behind the disguise, also known as the Mrs. Doubtfire bank robber. The suspect is Brandon Calantoc, 31 years old, out of Sand City in Monterey County.

On April 20, 2015 the Carmel PD was investigating a series of auto burglaries occurring in their city. Mr. Calantoc matched some of the descriptions provided and was a person of interest. During their investigation, they spotted Mr. Calantoc driving in his pickup and stopped him. He had warrants for his arrest out of Monterey County for previous burglary offenses. During the search of his vehicle, Carmel PD found drug paraphernalia and stolen property. They also located a purse and locket that matched the photos that Mrs. Doubtfire had during the robbery on April 3, 2015.

Carmel PD booked Mr. Calantoc into the Monterey County Jail on his fresh criminal charges and contacted SCPD regarding the articles found in his vehicle related to the bank robbery. It was determined Mr. Calantoc was the suspect known as Mrs. Doubtfire.

On April 21, 2015 Mr. Calantoc was being released from the Monterey County Jail on his charges in Monterey County. But as soon as he stepped out of the jail and assumed he was free, SCPD Detectives were there to greet him with a new set of handcuffs. Mr. Calantoc was taken into custody for the bank robbery and booked into the Santa Cruz County Jail.

Thanks to all the community members that tried their best to identify Mrs. Doubtfire. Also, a special thanks to Carmel PD for their diligent work and collaborative effort with SCPD!!

Sexual Assault Suspect Arrested

$
0
0
                                                     
On Thursday April 23, 2015 the above shown suspect, Lee Cast sexually assaulted a female jogger in the area of Bay St and Lighthouse Ave. At approximately 6:30 a.m. Cast jumped out of some bushes and slapped the female jogger in the buttocks. The victim was able to run away and safely return to her home. Cast was able to avoid apprehension just for a short time.
 
On the same day at approximately 10:00 a.m. a similar incident occurred in the County of Santa Cruz in the area of Portola Ave and Corcoran. A different female was jogging in the area, when Cast jumped out of some bushes and also sexually assaulted her by slapping her in the buttocks. The Santa Cruz Sheriff's Office was able to find Cast in the area but could not find the victim. A witness had witnessed the incident, took a photo of Cast, and called 911.
 
The Santa Cruz Sheriff's Office contacted the Santa Cruz Police Department regarding Cast and the similarities in both cases. The victim in the SCPD case was able to identify Cast as the suspect. Cast was taken into custody for the sexual battery and booked into the Santa Cruz County Jail.
 
The Santa Cruz Sheriff's Office was able to follow up with the victim in their case the following day and Cast was identified once again as the suspect in their case. Since Cast had already been released from jail, they are seeking an arrest warrant for Cast in their case.
 
This is another great example of collaboration between two law enforcement agencies, as well as great assistance from the community. 

Child Annoying Suspect Wanted

$
0
0
The Santa Cruz Police Department is looking for this suspect. He is wanted for questioning in connection to a child annoying case.

On Thursday April 23, 2015 this suspect approached a 16 year old female in the 700 block of California St. The suspect drove up to the female and asked the her for directions. The suspect then asked her for her name and phone number. The suspect continued following the female. The suspect then tried to lure the female closer to his vehicle. The female did not engage with the suspect and safely walked away.

The suspect is described as an Asian or light-skinned African American. He is 23-25 years old, 130-135 pounds, approximately 5'5" tall, black medium length and shaggy hair, and no facial hair. He is described as wearing a gray sweatshirt and khaki pants.

The suspect vehicle is described as a black, newer model two-door vehicle, with tinted windows. The vehicle has silver lining around the edges of the windows.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Santa Cruz Police Department Investigations Unit (831) 420-5820.  Anonymous tips can also be sent to the police department through our Tip Line (831) 420-5995, or click here.  Tipsters can also submit an anonymous tip via our smartphone app or from an SMS text.  Visit our Website for instructions.
 

Welcome Joyce Blaschke to SCPD Family

$
0
0


After 2+ years of searching....We are proud to announce our new Community Relations Specialist.....(drumroll please)....Welcome Joyce Blaschke. 

Joyce will be transitioning into our primary media relations role including day-to-day media releases, and on-camera interviews.  Additionally, Joyce will be managing our other forms of communications to include social media.

We are so excited to have Joyce on board here at SCPD.  Joyce comes to us with over 20 years’ experience in marketing communications with the Santa Cruz Sentinel.

She earned two major degrees; B.S in School of Journalism and B.A. in Communications from the University of Colorado.

Initially on the way to San Diego, Joyce fell in love with Santa Cruz and made this community her home.
"This small town has a big heart. I found the community in Santa Cruz to be creative and courageous. It can be eclectic and traditional but never boring. There is always something to do."

After 20+ years, Joyce is still surprised and delighted by the many joys and possibilities found here.
"It's amazing how many people I meet who live here and do things on national and international platforms."

Joyce enjoys lending a hand to groups that support and encourage children. 
"I love it when kids' achievements surpass everyone's expectations.”

Joyce's experiences give her a deep appreciation for how an invested community is essential to our overall quality of life.  She will be a strong asset for our department and community.   

Please join us in welcoming Joyce Blaschke to the Santa Cruz Police Department family. 

New Officers Carry On In Their Fathers' Legacy

$
0
0
The Santa Cruz Police Department stood proudly today as two officers both sons of SCPD veterans were sworn in by Police Chief Kevin Vogel.
Adam Baker and Erik Bailey took the oath of office after their graduation from the police academy this morning.

Following in the tradition of their fathers, Adam Baker and Erik Bailey are now SCPD Police Officers. 

Chief Kevin Vogel was the keynote speaker for the graduation ceremony and many of the SCPD staff were on hand to witness the graduation ceremony for Academy Class SB 128 of the South Bay Regional Public Safety Training Consortium.


Pinning of their badges was an extra special highlight.  Both officers will carry on the badge numbers that their father’s honorably wore in service.

Recently retired 26-year retired veteran of the department; Mark Bailey had the privilege of pinning his badge #146 on his son Erik.

Adams mother, Kelly Baker had the honor of pinning Butch Baker’s badge #159 on her son’s chest.

Chief Kevin Vogel remarked, “Issuing the oath of office and swearing in the sons of my former colleagues is a highlight in my career.  We are all incredibly proud of these two fine officers”. 

Meet our newest officers:

Adam Baker is 23 years old. Adam has worked in the department as Community Service Officer since 2010.

Erik Bailey is 25 years old.  Eric previously worked at Safeway in Aptos. Erik also serves in the United States Marine Corps Reserve as a radio operator.   

This duo graduated near the top of their academy class.

We have seen these two grow up in the halls of SCPD. We are proud that Adam and Eric choose to continue the legacy of service to our community.

The graduating ceremony concludes 22 weeks of rigorous training at the academy.

The next 4 months they will be partnered with veteran officers for Field Training Program and evaluation before they are solo beat officers. 

Suspect Arrested After Having a Relationship with a Minor

$
0
0
On Thursday April 30, 2015 SCPD Detectives arrested Forrest Reyes for having a 6-month long sexual relationship with a 14 year old female.

Mr. Reyes is 28 years old and a Madera County resident but lived in Santa Cruz for periods of time. He met the 14 year old female on a social media site back in November 2014. She was 13 years old at the time they met. The female juvenile came forward to her parents and then SCPD about this consensual relationship on April 29, 2015.

SCPD Detectives used a ruse to meet with Mr. Reyes at the Dairy Queen in Capitola. Mr. Reyes was taken into custody and booked for several felony crimes related to his relationship with the 14 year old. He is currently being held on $250,000 bail.

Cleanup Effort Yields 3.5 Tons of Trash

$
0
0
In response to numerous complaints about illegal camping and dumping, SCPD teamed up with Parks & Recreation for a massive clean-up of the Sycamore Grove. The property runs between the northern portion of Pogonip Park and Highway 9.
This area has been an ongoing makeshift hideout for crime to include illegal camping, drug use and dumping. This activity results in public safety threats and environmental damage.

On April 15th and April 22nd, several railroad cars were heaped with 3.5 tons of trash, including needles and other biohazards that were cleaned out of our environment.

Joining our team, Big Trees Railroad hauled away mounds of garbage on flatbed cars for disposal.

It was a filthy job, but at the end of the project, the area was restored for community use.
The cleanup crew also discovered a myriad of discarded drug paraphilia, camping gear and even a bike chop-shop hidden in Sycamore Grove.

The process took 2 full days and many hands on deck to clean up the various camps and dump sites.
 
 
Believe it or not, this was the second organized cleanup effort in this very same location. The previous cleanup occurred just 2 weeks prior.

Our cleanup team included Park Rangers, Police Officers, Mental Health worker, Big Trees Railroad and up to 10 Labor Ready workers.
This is an ongoing concern for Santa Cruz Park Rangers and SCPD to identify and safely restore areas used for illegal camping and filled with environmental hazards.
Public Safety concerns include trespassing, drugs, sexual assault, theft and vandalism.   Additionally, human waste and garbage is a significant source of pollution to the environment. The health hazards expand into our wildlife habitats and water supply.
Thanks to our team members for their hard work and dedication.
 

SCPD Announces 2 Sergeant Promotions

$
0
0


The Santa Cruz Police Department proudly announces the promotion of two veteran officers to the position of Police Sergeant.  The two were promoted on Wednesday afternoon May 6th following a rigorous and competitive testing process.

Introducing Sergeant Bill Azua and Sergeant Bill Clayton:

Sergeant Bill Azua


Sergeant Azua is a 20 year veteran of the Santa Cruz Police Department.  Sergeant Azua began his career assigned to foot patrol in the Beach Flats neighborhood.  During his assignment, Sergeant Azua worked in partnership with the community to achieve positive change in the Beach Flats.  His active involvement was critical in garnering support for change; raising awareness of gang violence and reducing instances of violent crime. 

Sergeant Azua shows of his new "Sergeant" Badge
Sergeant Azua has enjoyed a number of specialized assignments during his career.  Those include the SCPD Neighbor Enforcement Team, the Santa Cruz County Narcotic Enforcement Team, the DEA Heroin Mobile Task Force, the Santa Cruz Police Department Southern Exposure Task Force, the Downtown and the Field Training Program.  Sergeant Azua is a recognized expert in the field of gang and narcotic related crimes.

Prior to his promotion, Sergeant Azua was working in partnership with the Homeless Shelter Center to provide a better working relationship with law enforcement and the community.

When not working, Sergeant Azua enjoys spending time with his family and watching his kids play sports.

Sergeant Bill Clayton 


Sergeant Clayton started his career at the police department in September of 2003 working as a Community Service Officer.  He was hired as a Police Officer in July of 2004.

Sergeant Clayton has his new "Sergeant" Badge pinned

Sergeant Clayton worked in patrol where he forged important community relationships and employed unique strategies to improve neighborhood quality of life.  Sergeant Clayton spent 5 years in the Traffic Unit as a motorcycle officer where he developed an expertise in traffic collision investigations. Sergeant Clayton also forged a partnership with the California DMV where they developed a new process for tracking down scofflaw car owners during hit and run investigations.

Sergeant Clayton serves on the department’s Emergency Services Unit as an experienced Hostage and Crisis Negotiator. Prior to his promotion, Sergeant Clayton was assigned as a Field Training Officer, responsible for the training of new officers.

Sergeant Clayton holds a degree in criminal justice.  When not at work, Sergeant Clayton enjoys spending time with friends and family either riding dirt bikes or camping near a lake and fishing.

Both new sergeants have a passion and extraordinary talent for teaching and mentoring department staff.  Chief Kevin Vogel said, “We are excited and proud to promote these two well-respected officers to the position of Police Sergeant.  Both have a solid history of hard work, dedication and caring service to our department and community.” 

Both new sergeants will be assigned to the Patrol unit where they will supervise a team of officers. 

Please join us in congratulating and welcoming Sergeant Bill Azua and Sergeant Bill Clayton

Help Us Identify this Armed Robbery Suspect

$
0
0

On May 11, 2015, at approximately 10:15 AM, Santa Cruz Police responded to a report of a robbery at Subway restaurant in the 1700 block of Soquel Ave. 

The suspect entered the restaurant armed with a handgun.  The suspect confronted a store employee and demanded cash.  At gunpoint, the cash was turned over to the suspect and he fled out of the store.



The suspect is described as African American male approximately 6’ to 6’2” tall with a thin build. He is between 50 to 60 years of age. At the time of the robbery, the suspect was wearing a dark blue jacket and carrying a red shoulder bag.
 
No one was injured in the robbery. 

The robbery was captured on video from the store. Attached are images of the suspect during the robbery.  In one of the photos, the gun could clearly be seen.  Detectives canvassed the businesses in the area for any other video of the suspect. 

The subject involved in this robbery matches the description of similar robberies recently reported in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties.

SCPD is working closely with other law enforcement agencies to collaborate on cases and identify the suspect.

 

Mayor Lane & City Council Present Proclamation to SCPD

$
0
0
Mayor Don Lane, speaking on behalf of the Santa Cruz City Council recognized the Santa Cruz Police Department in honor of Police Appreciation Week at today’s council meeting.
About National Police Week
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. This week is set to honor those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
The Memorial Service began in 1982 as a gathering in Senate Park of survivors and supporters of law enforcement. Decades later, the event, more commonly known as National Police Week, has grown to a series of events which attracts thousands of survivors and law enforcement officers to our Nation's Capital each year.
Deputy Chief Rick Martinez received a proclamation for SCPD’s hard work in our community.

Mayor Don Lane commended SCPD's ongoing good work in partnership with city.  The proclamation demonstrates that local law enforcement is honored and respected in our community.  

Thank you Mayor Lane and City Council. It is an honor to serve and protect this fine community.

Help us Identify a Hit and Run Truck and Driver

$
0
0

The Santa Cruz Police Department is seeking the public’s help in identifying the driver and vehicle involved in hit and run collision in a Westside neighborhood.

On May 17, 2015 at approximately 2:09 pm, the Santa Cruz Police Department responded to multiple reports of two vehicles in a chase in the area of Bay St and California St. Shortly after these initial reports, the police department began receiving calls regarding an injury hit and run in the 400 block of Palm St. 

Witnesses described seeing a grey truck chasing an older black Mercedes in the area of Bay St and California The speeding Mercedes eventually crashed into the curb on Palm St. The chasing truck followed and rear ended the Mercedes. 

After hitting the Mercedes car, the driver of the truck then backed up and rammed the Mercedes for a second time.   Witnesses described the truck intentionally slamming into the victim’s car again. Both drivers were heard yelling at each other in the street.

After intentionally striking the victim’s car, the suspect truck fled westbound on Palm St.  The vehicle had significant front end damage.
 


The victim driver of the Mercedes was transported to Dominican Hospital with a compound fracture to his leg.

The suspect vehicle is described as light grey full size pickup truck. These photos were provided to us by a witness.  They show the suspect fleeing the scene. The suspect driver is described as being a white male in his late 40s. 

The Santa Cruz Police Department is asking anyone with information or who may have witnessed this hit and run to contact the Santa Cruz Police Department Investigations Unit at (831) 420-5820.   

Anonymous tips can also be sent to the police department through our Tip Line (831) 420-5995, or from our Website; www.santacruzpolice.com .  Tipsters can also submit an anonymous tip via our smartphone app or from an SMS text.  Visit our Website for instructions.




Santa Cruz Police Officer Recognized for Lifesaving Efforts

$
0
0
Today, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors honored the amazing work of emergency responders including, Police Officers, Firefighters, Paramedics and Dispatchers in our county.

We are proud to announce that Santa Cruz Police Officer Jesse Pidcock was one of the first responders recognized for his lifesaving efforts.


In April 2014, William Curtis collapsed while riding his bike on West Cliff.  As the call came out over the radio, Officer Pidcock responded and was the first to arrive.  Officer Pidcock quickly assessed Mr. Curtis’ condition and began CPR.  He continued with CPR until Firefighters and Paramedics arrived.  Thanks to Officer Pidcock’s quick thinking and decisive action, Mr. Curtis is alive and well today.

Officer Pidcock’s response illustrates the commitment of first responders to be well-trained and ready for whatever comes next in their daily assignments.  

For all the first responders recognized in today’s ceremony, SCPD salutes you.  It takes a special kind of dedication to public service to do what you do. 
 
Thank you to the Board of Supervisors for today’s recognition.  The Santa Cruz Police Department is proud of Officer Jesse Pidcock and we are so pleased Mr. Curtis was able to join us in today’s ceremony.  



Suspect Arrested for Willful Cruelty to a Child

$
0
0

On Thursday May 21, 2015, Santa Cruz Police Detectives arrested Randy Lewthwaite (33 years old) at his home in Santa Cruz for Willful Cruelty to a Child.

The child’s mother reported a suspicious injury on the child’s face which occurred when the child was with the father, Randy Lewthwaite.  CPS and Santa Cruz Police Detectives followed up on the initial report with a visit to the home to check on the child. Their examination of the child showed there was significant bruising still present.

Detectives discovered that Mr. Lewthwaite also had an active warrant for his arrest out of San Mateo County and is on active probation (Prop 36) in Santa Cruz County. Based on their investigation, detectives arrested Mr. Lewthwaite for willful cruelty to a child.


Mr. Lewthwaite was booked into Santa Cruz County Jail.

PRIDE Program Celebrates 10 Graduates

$
0
0
Last week, Santa Cruz Police Department celebrated the successful graduation of 10 youths from the P.R.I.D.E . program.  This marks the 8th graduating class for P.R.I.D.E.
Check out these photos of the P.R.I.D.E. youth rising to new heights at Pacific Edge climbing gym.

The P.R.I.D.E. program (Personally Responsible Individual Development in Ethics) is a 12 week prevention/intervention course for at risk youth ages 12 to 15.  It is designed to help young teens understand the impact of their current life choices upon their futures and aid them in their future decision making processes.    

The P.R.I.D.E. students and their mentors participate in a variety of field trips and workshops. These experiences give the PRIDE youth the opportunity to better understand the differences between good and bad decision making.  
The P.R.I.D.E. youth often surprised themselves learning from the challenges encountered in the group activities.  The field trip activities included rock climbing, horseback riding, science experiments and   visits to the courts, jail and San Quentin State Prison.  P.R.I.D.E. mentors noted their students learned the value of cooperation and self-awareness in making better choices.

There are many individuals and organizations in our community who helped make P.R.I.D.E. reality.   Our volunteer mentors are integral to the success of the program. A special thanks goes out to Robert Orrizzi, a 6 time devoted mentor volunteer and Principal Daniel Denton for their extraordinary support.

Congratulations 2015 P.R.I.D.E.  Graduates!  Thank you P.R.I.D.E. mentors and community businesses for supporting our youth.

If you'd like to learn more about the program or become a mentor, visit our department's website or contact Community Services at (831) 420-5952

Sign Up Now for Teen Public Safety Academy

$
0
0
Santa Cruz Police and Fire Departments offer teens ages 14-18 the opportunity to learn more about law enforcement and the fire service in this summer’s Teen Public Safety Academy.  The Teen Academy will provide a total public safety experience with exposure to police and fire training, tactics and job duties.
Enrollment is happening now. Limited to 20 teen recruits per session spaces fill up fast.
Session #1 July 6 – 10
Session #2 July 20 -24
Session #3 August 3-7

Each action-packed session will include hands-on learning and demonstrations with Santa Cruz Police and Fire Departments.  Recruits will engage in a daily physical fitness program in addition to dynamic instruction from expert police and fire personnel. 

Sessions run from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day. The students meet at 8:00 AM each morning at the Police Department Community Room. The cost for the week long academy is $40.00.
The Teen Public Safety Academy provides teens with an understanding of the Santa Cruz Police and Fire Departments and their role within our community.  During the Academy, members of the Santa  Cruz Police Department will provide instruction to the students in various areas of law enforcement, including patrol operations,  criminal investigations, public safety dispatching, SWAT, and police K-9unit.  The teen academy recruits will also receive instruction on fire department operations and learn basic firefighting principals and emergency medical treatments.


Applications should be submitted as soon as possible. Spaces in the Teen Academy fill up quickly.  The program fee is $40 that includes T-Shirt and lunches.

CLICK HEREfor an application.
For more information contact Officer Joe Hernandez at (831) 420-5952 or email him at jhernandez@cityofsantacruz.com

Thank You Santa Cruz School Crossing Guards

$
0
0
Please join us in a big thank you to our Santa Cruz School Crossing Guards for keeping our children safe in crosswalks this school year. Every morning and every afternoon on school days, our Crossing Guards are posted on busy school crosswalks making sure children and families cross the street and get to school safe and sound.
The school year ends on Thursday June 11th. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our Crossing Guard team, we have enjoyed an incident free school year.

Before school is out …when you see our School Crossing Guards, please give them a wave or thumbs up to show your appreciation and support for the work they do.
Santa Cruz City Crossing Guards brave the elements be it chilling rain, the blazing sun or distracted drivers during the school year. The Santa Cruz Police Department has 10 Crossing Guards posted at 4 elementary school sites.

This is Sandi Sand. She is adored by many Delaveaga Elementary students and families. Sandi just retired her post at Prospect Heights and Morrissey.
Here is Jerry Cacace in action near Bayview Elementary. You will find him posted at the intersection of Bay and Seaside Streets. Jerry is a dedicated professional to all who pass through his crossing station.
“Our jobs are vital to the safety, not only for school children, but anyone on foot and all traffic passing through those intersections. The bonus is the reward in seeing the smiles on people's faces and knowing they can walk or bike safely to and from school” said Mr. Cacace
The Santa Cruz Police Department and Santa Cruz families rely on all of our Crossing Guards every school day. Thank you to all our Crossing Guards. We very much appreciate your good work.

Take a picture to recognize your favorite Crossing Guard and post it on our Facebook page.

Sergeant Jack McPhillips Retires After 28 Years

$
0
0



Sergeant Jack McPhillips officially retired today after 28 years in the profession.  He signed off on the radio for the last time after our dispatcher read an impressive list of career highlights.  To hear the last radio call click this link:


Sergeant McPhillips joined the Santa Cruz Police Department in February 1989 after two years with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office.

Shortly after beginning his career with SCPD, Sergeant McPhillips found himself on duty during the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake.  It was during the response to this emergency, he was awarded the department’s Medal of Valor for his actions.  This department photo was taken just a few months prior to the big quake.  Jack can be seen in the middle of this group


In 1990 and again in 1994, Sergeant McPhillips was awarded the “10851” award from the California Highway Patrol and California State Automobile Association for his efforts in recovering stolen cars. 


Throughout his career Sergeant McPhillips was the classic “go to guy”.  He always seemed to have a list of projects and ancillary duties in addition to his regular assignment.

Chief Vogel commented, “Jack is an amazing talent.  In addition to his excellent police work, he did so much for the organization on a day-to-day basis.  There wasn’t an assignment he couldn’t do.  We wish him nothing but the best in his well-earned retirement”. 


Prior to being promoted, Jack worked in the operations division on patrol, downtown officer, and motorcycle traffic officer.  In June 1995, Jack was assigned to the Investigations Unit as a detective.  There, he developed an expertise on the investigation of sexual assaults.

Jack was promoted to Sergeant in February 2000 where he supervised a patrol team, and eventually the Downtown Unit.  In 2003, he was reassigned back to traffic as the supervisor of the unit.

Sergeant McPhillips was assigned as the department’s training manager and coordinator in May, 2008.  In 2011, he was reassigned to Professional Standards where he finished his remarkable career. 


Congratulations to Sergeant Jack McPhillips for an outstanding career.  Enjoy your retirement!

Observant Wife and Husband Duo Catch Suspect In The Act

$
0
0
Another burglary was prevented by alert Santa Cruz residents. Well done!

Phat Duong, 38 years old, from San Jose was arrested on suspicion of burglary, possession of stolen property, and attempted vehicle theft.

Approximately 9:00 am on Wednesday, June 10th, a local homeowner noticed her previously closed and locked front door was now open. The homeowner looked outside the front of the house and saw Duong standing next to their vehicle with the owner’s keys in hand. The homeowner went outside and yelled at Duong then grabbed the car keys out of the suspect’s hand.

Hearing his wife’s call to action, the husband came outside to distract and detain the suspect. The quick-thinking wife called 911. Santa Cruz Police Officers Department responded quickly to the scene.

Mr. Duong was also caught holding a canvas bag. The bag and its contents belonged to the homeowner. Also in his possession were membership cards for the Monterey Bay Aquarium belonging to another family.

It appears the suspect entered the home from the backyard through an unlocked sliding door and left via the front door.

We are impressed with the husband wife duo for keeping their cool and for their decisive actions. Mr. Duong never had the opportunity to get away with their car.

Thank you Officer Kendall and Officer Cockrum for your quick response to the scene of the crime.

Mr. Duong was arrested and booked into jail for suspicion of burglary, possession of stolen property, and attempted vehicle theft.

Update Fatal Hit & Run - Police Seek Public's Help to Identify Vehicle of Interest

$
0
0
Help us locate a vehicle of interest in a fatal hit and run collision.
Background:
On June 10, 2015 around 12:45 a.m. the Santa Cruz Police Department responded to a fatal hit and run collision between a vehicle and pedestrian. This collision occurred in the area of Hwy 1 at River St. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene.

Update:
The victim of the fatal collision has been identified as Dene Diannthe Shaw, age 59, a woman from Santa Cruz.

Investigators are asking for the public’s help in efforts to identify a vehicle of interest.

The silver colored vehicle pictured is from a security camera in the area at the time of the accident. The vehicle involved in the collision would have sustained damage.

Someone in our community knows this vehicle and the driver who would have been traveling on Hwy 1 at River Street between 12:30 and 1:00 am.

The Santa Cruz Police Department is actively investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with information relative to the vehicle pictured is asked to contact the Investigations Unit at (831) 420-5820.

Anonymous tips can also be sent to the police department through our Tip Line (831) 420-5995, or from our Website; www.santacruzpolice.com. Tipsters can also submit an anonymous tip via our smartphone app or from an SMS text. Visit our Website for instructions.

Two Less Guns on Santa Cruz Streets

$
0
0
Santa Cruz Police Recover TWO Loaded Guns in Separate Incidents

INCIDENT #1
On Sunday, June 14, 2015, Santa Cruz Police patrol officers stopped a suspicious vehicle in the 400 block of Soquel Avenue. The officers noticed a green Cadillac stopped in the middle of the roadway. The occupants were posturing at a pedestrian who was wearing red and posturing back at the group in the car. After the exchange, the vehicle speed off. After watching this interaction unfold, our officers caught up to the Cadillac and stopped it.

During the car stop our officers discovered drugs and drug paraphernalia inside the car. Looking a little deeper, the officers found a loaded .40 caliber firearm inside a backpack.

The backpack containing the loaded firearm belonged to Oscar Alvarez, age 19 from Santa Cruz. Mr. Alvarez was a passenger in the car, and the backpack was sitting in front of him. Mr. Alvarez has previous contacts with the Santa Cruz Police Department related to gang activity.
Oscar Alvarez was arrested and booked into the Santa Cruz County Jail for possessing a concealed loaded firearm, conspiracy to commit a crime, and participation in gang activity. Refer to Case #15S-05083.

INCIDENT #2
Around 11:00 am on Friday, June 12, 2015 Santa Cruz Police responded a report at Laurel Street Park of an individual brandishing a gun and shouting gang affiliation challenges at a bystander. The victim was able to provide a detail description of the suspect for the responding officers.

Santa Cruz Police officers found Mr. Anthony Hill and an associate a few blocks away on Center Street and New Street. Mr. Hill and his associate matched the description provided by the victim. Officers stopped the pair at gunpoint.

During the detention, Mr. Hill kept reaching toward his waistband. Officers searched Mr. Hill and found a loaded .32 caliber revolver in his waistband.
Mr. Anthony Hill is 18 years old and from Santa Cruz. Mr. Hill was arrested and booked into the Santa Cruz County Jail for (1) Possession of a Firearm in a School Zone, (2) Brandishing a Firearm and (3) Participation in a Criminal Street Gang. Refer to Case #15S-05013
Mr. Hill is being investigated for two other incidents from the night prior to this case, where a victim was physically assaulted with a baseball bat and another victim had their tires slashed.

The Santa Cruz Police Department continues to encourage residents to be partners in public safety. We are committed to reducing gang crimes and violence in the City of Santa Cruz. Anyone with information regarding suspicious or criminal activity is encouraged to contact the Santa Cruz Police Department.
Viewing all 738 articles
Browse latest View live