Santa Cruz Police

The Fourth of July holiday can be a very scary day and/or nighttime for animals. Most dogs and cats are extremely afraid of the fireworks or any noises they hear outside. More pets go missing on July 4th than any other day of the year. Share these tips to put your pet at ease while celebrating America's 240th birthday.

SCPD would like to share 4 tips with pet owners to save themselves and their pets heartache and anxiety by following a few simple suggestions.
1. It's Safer Indoors
It is safer to keep your pets at home during Fourth of July celebrations instead of bringing them to your neighbor's party. Keep your pets in the house, rather than in your yard. They will be a lot happier indoors, and not tempted to leap over or dig under a fence to find you.

2. Establish A Safe Place For Your Pet
Pets can be startled by the loud noise of fireworks. Keep your pet in a safe room where he can feel comfortable. If he is crate trained, put him in his crate covered with a blanket to make him feel secure.

3. Calm Down Your Nervous Pet
Block outside sights and sounds by lowering the blinds and turning on the television. If your pet seems overly anxious, spend some time with him, speaking soothingly to help him to relax.

4. Collar ID Tag & Microchip
Make sure your pet is wearing an ID collar and micro-chipped with your current contact information. Should your pet get scared, escape and run away, it will be easier for the animal shelter to reunite you with your pet.

These simple precautions tips will help with pet safety and prevent owners from being separated from their pets. However, if your pet does become lost, be sure to contact the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter for lost & found animals. Call 831-454-7303 or visit www.scanimalshelter.org

By following these simple precautions, everyone in the family can enjoy a safe 4th of July celebration.

Throughout the 4th of July weekend, the Santa Cruz Police Department provided proactive and preventative enforcement of the citywide Safety Enhancement Zone. This 4th of July holiday brought crowds to our beaches and neighborhoods. This was an “all hands on deck” situation with everyone in the department working over the weekend.

Calls for Service - The Santa Cruz Police responded to 1641 calls for service during the three day weekend. SCPD responded to 572 calls for service in the 24 hour period of July 4th. The overwhelming majority of service calls were related to illegal fireworks possession and alcohol related violations. SCPD responded to 214 fireworks calls over the weekend with 144 fireworks calls on July 4th.

Number of reports taken- 142 total for the weekend.

Arrests- 76 arrests for the weekend with 25 of those arrests being made on the 4th. Several of these arrests were for public intoxication, fighting and disturbance related incidents.

Traffic citations – 117 traffic citations were issued for the weekend with 74 issued on the 4th.

Muni Code – 233 muni code citations were issued for the weekend with 151 on the 4th.

Triple Fine Citations- 43 total triple fine citations were mostly alcohol and fireworks related.
Estimated 70 lbs. of fireworks seized- Confiscated fireworks resulted from proactive patrols in the neighborhoods. Officers responded directly to areas where aerial fireworks were seen and reported. Enforcement netted over 70 lbs. of illegal fireworks.

Both Eastside and Westside neighborhoods were impacted with incidents of fireworks violations. All available Santa Cruz Police resources were in service throughout our community. In addition, First Alarm Security Guards were hired to assist with road closures and security patrols in the Seabright and Westside Neighborhoods.

Two Cases of Interest on July 4, 2016
16S-05573: At about 6:15 pm, SCPD Officers contacted Calvin Carlson, 51 years old from Santa Cruz in a car on Washburn at Ocean. SCPD K9 “Argus” alerted on narcotics inside Carlson’s 1999 black Mitsubishi sedan. A search of the car revealed over 3 ounces of freshly made crystal meth in several baggies. Calvin Carlson was arrested for possession of methamphetamine for sale. Carlson has a significant history of drug related arrest.
16S-05582: At approximately 11:00 pm, SCPD Officers responded to area of Delacosta Avenue and Almar Avenue for a report of an injury crash. A 1999 white Honda Accord had collided into a Subaru. The driver of the Accord, Cristobal Ortiz 20 years old from Watsonville, was detained for DUI. Mr. Ortiz was also in possession of a loaded handgun, which was not registered to him. Cristobal Ortiz was booked for DUI and carrying a loaded handgun. Mr. Ortiz is a documented Sureno gang member. The victim in the Subaru sustained minor injuries from the collision.

On July 6^th, we posted images found on a camera seized from a suspect during an arrest. Once again, the great detective work from our Santa Cruz PD Facebook followers comes through and we are able to make contact with the camera’s rightful owner. Here’s the rest of the story:

On July 6^th at about 10:30 AM Officers Elliott Rock and Dave Albert were on foot patrol on Pacific Ave. They came across our suspect getting ready to light up his marijuana pipe in the courtyard of Taco Bell at 802 Pacific Ave. Officers Rock and Albert contacted our suspect and began his investigation.

Our suspect is Mr. Francisco Valdez aka: Francisco Moran.

Mr. Valdez (Moran) is on probation and has an extensive history of arrests in Santa Cruz and Watsonville for weapons, drugs, burglary and theft related charges many times over.

A search of Mr. Valdez’ (Moran’s) person and a bag in his possession found methamphetamine, marijuana, bolt cutters, and a CO2 powered and realistic looking revolver.

Items in the suspect's possession

Also in his possession was a camera with images stored on it.

Since he was in violation of his probation, Mr. Valdez (Moran) was taken into custody and booked into jail. If his probation was not violated, he would have simply been given a citation for the narcotic violations and possession of burglary tools and sent on his way.

Meanwhile, Officers Rock and Albert forwarded the camera images to be posted on the department Facebook page. Within 3 hours, our intrepid team of Facebook detectives had forwarded the message to the right person, and the rightful owner was alerted. We will now add another charge to Mr. Valdez (Moran) for being in possession of stolen property.

Great teamwork and great police work results in stolen property returned and a chronic offender back in jail.

Since the senseless murder of the Police Officers in Dallas this week, many of our great community members have gone out of their way to send letters, cards and emails or; stop an officer on the street just to say thanks and show your support.

This afternoon, I stopped by the office to pick up some work files and found this amazing family waiting at the front doors of the police department.

Folks, meet the Harris family:
Nitasha, Brendon, Cynthia and Tage.

This wonderful family brought a giant fresh cake just to show their appreciation to the men and women of our department. Moved by the events in Dallas, they wanted to find a way to say "Thank You".

We are so grateful to have such a strong base of support, and blessed to have such great families in our community like the Harris'. It means the world to us that you would show your appreciation and acknowledge the daily sacrifices made by our team here at SCPD. You inspire and encourage us as we work hard to keep our community safe from those that mean harm.

Thank you all so much for your expressions of support and appreciation!!!

About that cake....I hear it has been extremely popular with the swing shift team working right now.

Santa Cruz Police Department Neighborhood Enforcement Team (NET) closed down an illegal nightclub operating in the 300 block of Coral Street thanks to a collaborative effort that included Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office, City of Santa Cruz Code Enforcement, and Santa Cruz Fire Department. The nightclub’s operator and three employees were arrested during the operation.

On Saturday, July 9, 2016, a search warrant was served at the club which resulted in the seizure of a large amount of alcohol, cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, and a stolen firearm. The nightclub’s operator and three employees were arrested during the operation.

Members of the Neighborhood Enforcement Team with SCPD Officers executed the search warrant at 11:55 p.m., July 9 at the illegal outlet. About 40 patrons were inside at the time. The unlicensed club charged patrons a door fee and illegally sold beer, wine, champagne, and Jell-O shots. During the search of the club, a .38 caliber revolver was located in a bedroom inside the warehouse style building. The revolver was determined to be stolen out of Shasta County.

The following were arrested and charged:

Robert Cardiasmenos, 62 years old from Capitola
Charges: Conspiracy to Sell Alcoholic Beverage without a License, Failure to Obtain Worker’s Compensation Insurance, and Possession of a Stolen Firearm

Stephanie Ross, 52 years old from Santa Cruz
Charges: Conspiracy to Sell Alcoholic Beverages without a License

Patrick Eze, 51 years old from Santa Cruz
Charges: Conspiracy to Sell Alcoholic Beverages without a License

Amber Hagle, 33 years old from Santa Cruz
Charges: Conspiracy to Sell Alcoholic Beverages without a License

Stacy Crisler, 36 years old from Santa Cruz was issued Citation for Possession of Methamphetamine

Over the last month, the Santa Cruz Police Department received complaints about the after-hours night club operating in the largely industrial Coral Street neighborhood. The investigation revealed the club’s operator was running an illegal nightclub which would stay open until 6am.

During the course of the investigation, NET discovered the illegal club was visited by as many as 200 people a night when it was open. Undercover SCPD Officers visited the club and observed employees selling alcohol without a permit and allowing patrons to use and distribute controlled substances at the location. The club had entertainment provided by a DJ and live band.

The District Attorney’s Office also conducted an investigation into the club’s compliance with worker’s compensation insurance requirements, as well as assisting in the investigation of the criminal conspiracy. The Santa Cruz Fire Department investigated safety related code violations.

Please continue to contact SCPD when suspicious activity occurs in your neighborhood.
SCPD is dedicated to our community with ongoing efforts to keep Santa Cruz a safe place to live, work and raise a family.

The Santa Cruz Police Department has launched an online bicycle license registration system. The registration is free and never expires! The online registration was developed to make registration of bicycles easier for Santa Cruz residents and bike shops, deter bicycle theft, and to help locate owners of recovered bicycles.

155 stolen bikes have been reported so far in the first five months of 2016. In 2015, reported bike thefts increased by 19% over 2014. The Santa Cruz Police Department recovers hundreds of bikes, but since many aren't registered by serial number, the police have no way to track down the owners. Help improve the chances of your bicycle being returned by registering it with SCPD’s Online Bicycle Registration program. It’s FREE!
Bicycle Registration Form
Here's What You Can Do!
Along with keeping your bike locked up, it is also important that you register your bike. Registering your bicycle is more than just applying a sticker; it also provides the police with a written record of the bike’s pertinent information including the serial number. Having this information enables the police to enter the bike in the law enforcement computer system should it ever be stolen, or return it to you if it’s recovered.

Get Your Bike Back
To help return bikes to their proper owners & discourage theft in the first place, the Santa Cruz Police has developed a new online registration system. Our goal is to make every bike in the City of Santa traceable in this database. SCPD is committed to registering as many bicycles as possible.

Here's how it works
1. To register your bike simply complete theBicycle Registration Form
2. Fill in info about your bike, with the serial number. The more detail you can provide about the bike the better.

3. You will receive a bicycle registration sticker by mail.

4. Apply the license decal on your bike.
Your bicycle registration provides SCPD with the necessary information so that if your bike is ever stolen, we would have a record of the serial number when you called to make your report. It enables us to then submit the information about your stolen bicycle into the law enforcement databases in a quick easy step.

What does it cost?
The online bike registration is free and never expires!

Who Benefits?
Everyone is encouraged to register their bikes to help deter theft and to assist officers should an owners bicycle be stolen or lost. If stolen and recovered registered bikes are more likely to be returned to their owners. The bicycle registration information is kept on file at the Santa Cruz Police Department. Even if an owner moves, SCPD will still be able to provide ownership information on the bicycle.

Solid police work and cyclists that had registered bikes put a bike thief in jail. SCPD was happy to reunited two bikes to back to their rightful owners.

An SCPD Officer doing a routine area check under the Soquel Bridge made contact with a suspect in possession of two bicycles that did not appear to belong to him. The Officer checked the serial numbers on both bikes in the SCPD data base for stolen bikes. Both cyclists had registered their bikes with serial numbers that identified the true bike owners.

SCPD is committed to reuniting bike back the rightful owner with every available tool.
SCPD Instagram post reunites $7000 bike back to its rightful owner! A friend recognized the unique brand EVIL Insurgent bike posted on SCPD lnstagram and alerted the owner.

In January, SCPD recovered 22 stolen bikes from a fencing operation. We were able to reunite this rightful owner her with bike. However, many of the bikes remain unclaimed. This is primarily because we have no way to identify owners.

We posted the 22 stolen bikes recovered on SCPD social media platforms. She recognized her bike and was able to prove ownership. It was good day for SCPD and the bike owner.
What's the bottom line?
The bikes that SCPD can't connect to their owners end up being donated or auctioned off. Registering your bicycle is smart because if it is stolen, and subsequently recovered, the owner stands a much higher chance of recovery than if the bicycle were never registered.

Free Online SCPD Bicycle Registration:
http://www.cityofsantacruz.com/departments/police/bicycle-license-registration

Bike Shops in the City of Santa Cruz interested in online registration partnerships contact bikereg@cityofsantacruz.com

SCPD bicycle license registration questions, please email bikereg@cityofsantacruz.com

SCPD Lost & Found, Recovered Property on Instagram and Pinterest
https://www.instagram.com/scpdproperty/
https://www.pinterest.com/scpdproperty/

Bike Theft: Realities and Risks
http://santacruzpolice.blogspot.com/2015/11/bike-theft-realities-and-risks.html

Pokémon Go is the latest mobile app craze that is bringing thousands of adults, teenagers, and kids to public places in search of virtual Pokemon characters. Crowds of people are out and about having fun hunting for Pikachu.

While the Pokémon Go is great getting outside to explore a new adventure, it can also become a safety hazard.

While you're ‪Pokémoning around the City of Santa Cruz be sure to remember these Pokémon Go Safety Tips!

1. Know your surroundings: Pay attention to where you are going and who is around you.

2. Do not play "Pokemon GO" while driving.

3. Do not go onto private property, dark alleys or suspicious locations.

4. At night avoid potentially dangerous situations, make sure that people can see you and be aware of strangers.

5. Set boundaries for children on where and when they go ‪‎Pokémoning.

6. This tip is more about good manners. Be respectful of where you're playing. Be mindful when hunting for Pokemon at memorials and sanctuarys where people want to reflect.

Here's a very interesting stop on the Pokemon Go trail.

Good luck catching them all and stay safe in the real world as you explore.

The Santa Cruz Police Department arrested a suspect from the July 11, 2016 shooting that occurred in the 1600 block of Mission Street. Santa Cruz Detectives followed the trail of leads and identified the suspect in the shooting as Jose Alonso Reyes, 25 years old. Mr. Reyes was arrest on August 9, 2016, at his workplace in the 800 block of Almar Avenue.

Jose Alonso Reyes, 25 years old, from Santa Cruz

On Tuesday 8/9/16 at 9:15 pm, Detectives served search warrants at both Mr. Reyes’ workplace in Santa Cruz and home in Capitola. The gun believed to be used in the shooting was found in a backpack in Mr. Reyes’ possession at the time of arrest.

Also recovered in the backpack was clothing that matched the description from witnesses.

The investigation revealed that the shooting was gang motivated and not a random carjacking as initially reported.

Jose Alonso Reyes was arrested for the following charges: assault with deadly weapon, felon in possession of loaded firearm in public and participating in a criminal street gang.

The Santa Cruz Police Department continues to encourage residents to be partners in public safety. Anyone with information regarding criminal activity is encouraged to contact the Santa Cruz Police Department at (831) 420-5820 or Anonymous Tip Line (831) 420-5995.

Santa Cruz City Schools start this week and that means more cars, bicyclists and pedestrians will be on the streets and sidewalks. To prepare for the busy school commute, here are a few SCPD Back to School Safety Tips and Reminders.

The new school year can create traffic congestion on the roadways, so please plan ahead. Leave your home earlier than normal to allow enough time to reach your destination without rushing. Let’s all do our part to help keep our children safe. It is everyone’s responsibility to know the rules of the road whether walking, bicycling, skating or driving.

School zones are designated 25 mph and it is important that everyone takes extra care
when driving in or near one. SCPD will have additional enforcement patrols around schools during the opening weeks of the school year.

SCPD Reminders for Motorists:
· Slow down. Observe the speed limit in school zones at all times. At Stop signs, drivers must come to a complete STOP and proceed with caution. Be especially careful when driving on neighborhood streets and around school zones.

· Be aware of “no parking” signs, red zones, fire hydrants, blocking or stopping in disabled stalls, crosswalks, driveways and double parking.
· Be alert for children walking and biking as you back out of your driveway or leave your garage.

· Watch for children on bicycles, especially at intersections.

· Stop your car when you see lights flashing on a school bus. Red flashing lights indicate that the bus is stopped and students are getting on or off. Be aware that a child may dash across the street.

SCPD Safety Tips for Pedestrians:
· Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk and you have to walk in the road, always walk FACING traffic.
· Cross only at corners or marked crosswalks.
· Stop at the curb, or the edge of the road.
· Walk in groups, there is safety in numbers. Groups are more likely to be seen by drivers.
· Before crossing the street, stop and look left, then right, then left again. When vehicles are stopped, make eye contact with the driver to insure they know you are there before proceeding.
· If you see a car, wait until it goes by. Then look left, right and left again until traffic is clear and it is safe to cross.

SCPD Safety Tips for Bicyclists:
· Wear a helmet.
· Be sure to have reflectors on your pedals, frame, and wheels.
· Be Seen and Be Aware of your surroundings
· Follow the Rules of the Road
- Ride on the right, with the traffic, in single file. Obey stop signs and traffic lights. Never cross a street without looking for cars. Give the right of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks. When crossing the street, children should get off and walk their bikes using the marked crosswalk.
SCPD also encourages parents to share this message with their children. If approached or called out to by a stranger, they should run to a safe place, and tell a trusted adult.

Children should be encouraged to report suspicious behavior, or any behavior in which they feel uncomfortable or confused, to a trusted adult caregiver such as a parent, guardian, teacher, nurse or police officer.

Safe Routes to School information

http://www.cityofsantacruz.com/departments/public-works/traffic-and-parking/bicycle-pedestrian-facilities-and-programs/safe-routes-to-school

On August 23, 2016, at approximately 8:20 am, Santa Cruz Police responded to a report of a victim of a shooting on the levee pathway, near the 400 block of Front Street. Officers arrived within minutes of being dispatched and found a male victim lying in the levee pathway. The victim was suffering from gunshot wound in his upper torso. The officers provided medical attention until they were relieved by medics. Unfortunately, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Within 4 hours, SCPD had detained the suspect shooter and an accomplice connected with the murder.

Nino Ruiz, 27 years old, transient from Santa Cruz County
Nino Ruiz has been identified and arrested as the suspect shooter in the homicide on 8/23/16. Jenessa Kic was also arrested for murder and conspiracy to commit a murder. Nino Ruiz is 27 years old, a transient from Santa Cruz County and Jenessa Kic is 31 years old from Santa Cruz. SCPD Detectives spotted Ruiz in the 300 block of Liebrandt Avenue late yesterday morning. Nino Ruiz and Jenessa Kic were detained at 12:10 pm, coming out of a residence on Liebrandt Avenue.

Jenessa Kic, 31 years old, recent Santa Cruz resident

Detectives worked continuously to interview multiple witnesses and track down numerous leads that directed the investigation to the two suspects. Jenessa Kic is the girlfriend of Mr. Ruiz and was determined to be associated with the murder. Both suspects were in custody within four hours after the shooting. SCPD Detectives have served search warrants on several of the homes that Ruiz has visited.

In the month of August, Mr. Ruiz was arrested twice for possession on methamphetamine. Ms. Kic also has a history with law enforcement. She has been arrested in past for camping violations and burglary.
The gun used in the murder has not yet been recovered. The motive for the murder is still under investigation.

The identity of the victim is being withheld until proper notification to family members can be completed. This is the second homicide of the year.

Nino Ruiz was arrested for murder. Jenessa Kic was arrested for murder and conspiracy to commit a murder.

Anyone who may have witnessed this incident or has information is asked to contact SCPD Investigation at 831- 420-5820.

Nino Ruiz, 27 years old, transient from Santa Cruz County

Nino Ruiz has been identified and arrested as the suspect shooter in the homicide on 8/23/16. Jenessa Kic was also arrested for murder and conspiracy to commit a murder. Nino Ruiz is 27 years old, a transient from Santa Cruz County and Jenessa Kic is 31 years old from Santa Cruz. SCPD Detectives spotted Ruiz in the 300 block of Liebrandt Avenue late yesterday morning. Nino Ruiz and Jenessa Kic were detained at 12:10 pm, coming out of a residence on Liebrandt Avenue.

Jenessa Kic, 31 years old, recent Santa Cruz resident

In this month alone, Mr. Ruiz was arrested twice for the possession of methamphetamine. Ms. Kic also has a history with law enforcement. She has been arrested in past for camping violations and burglary.
The gun used in the murder has not yet been recovered. The motive for the murder is still under investigation.

The identity of the victim is being withheld until proper notification to family members can be completed. This is the second homicide of the year.

Nino Ruiz was arrested for murder. Jenessa Kic was arrested for murder and conspiracy to commit a murder.

Anyone who may have witnessed this incident or has information is asked to contact SCPD Investigation at 831- 420-5820.

Members of the SCPD spent Sunday afternoon meeting and talking with people from our community at the NAACP Peace Party. The day was beautiful, the people were great, and the event was a success.

Photo Credit: Allison Garcia Photography

Photo Credit: Allison Garcia Photography
The event was planned by Santa Cruz Branch of the NAACP and hosted by Garfield Park Community Church. The goal for the day was to raise awareness for organizations committed to racial justice. The day was also a huge success in bridging the gap between police and the community they serve.

Photo Credit: Allison Garcia Photography

Deputy Chief Police Rick Martinez - “Everything circles back to communication. What we see happening right here is collaboration and engagement which is essential for a healthy community.”

Photo Credit: Allison Garcia Photography
Spontaneous Q&A took place throughout the afternoon. The questions and conversations from the community included topics about racial profiling, transparency and building relationships. Deputy Chief Rick Martinez along with several officers answered questions on the spot.

Photo Credit: Allison Garcia Photography
SCPD uniformed officers socialized with community members at the NAACP Peace Party gathering.

Photo Credit: Allison Garcia Photography
The day was fun for everyone. Adult and kids played games, jumped in bounce-houses and blew bubbles and danced together. While the day was fun for everyone, it was also a priority at the NAACP table to register voters.

Photo Credit: Allison Garcia Photography
NAACP Santa Cruz Peace Party put into action community building at its best!

Photo Credit: Allison Garcia Photography
This event was an opportunity to have conversations, make introductions, and build relationships. We all have a role and responsibility in creating a better community.

Photo Credit: Allison Garcia Photography
SCPD sends out special thank you to the Santa Cruz Branch of the NAACP, Garfield Park Community Church and all the people who made the day possible. It was a good day, Thank you!

The Santa Cruz Police Department responded to 1131 calls for service over the course of Labor Day Weekend. Here are four cases of interest during the busy weekend.

16S-07419 On September 2, 2016, at approximately 11:26 pm, Santa Cruz Police responded to a report that a car had crashed into the Betty’s Burgers at 505 Seabright Ave. A gold Buick Century had smashed into the east-side of the building. Fortunately, Betty’s Burgers was closed at the time of the crash and no one was injured. Witnesses saw approximately four occupants run away from the scene in opposite directions.

While investigating the scene, SCPD received a call from the owner of the car. The owner indicated the driver crashed because he was being chased by another person. The driver, 18 years old male from Santa Cruz, then met with Officers and detailed his account of the incident. The driver indicated that the occupants of a white Dodge Charger were trying to shoot at him.

The driver was arrested for the hit & run and driving under the influence. Gang investigators are following up on this case and any possible gang ties to this incident.

16S- 07423 On September 3, 2016, at approximately 12:52 am, SCPD Officers responded to a report of a victim of a gunshot wound at Dominican Hospital. The victim sustained a non-life-threatening injury. The victim was uncooperative with investigators. Evidence was discovered to substantiate that the victim was shot near Seabright Ave. and Hall Street. Detectives are exploring any connections to the collision case 16S-07419. Early indication is that this incident is gang motivated.

16S-07420 On September 3, 2016 at approximately 12:07 am, Santa Cruz Police responded to a report of multiple gunshots in the 90 block of Chestnut Street. Arriving Officers discovered a drive-by style shooting occurred in a cul-de-sac of an apartment complex. No injuries were reported.

SCPD Officers established a crime scene and recovered several casings. During the investigation, witnesses reported seeing a light colored sedan speeding away from the scene. Preliminary information suggests the shooting is also gang related.

The police department is asking anyone with information or who may have witnessed the shooting to contact investigators. Contact investigators at 831- 420-5820.

16S-07455 On September 3, 2016, at approximately 11:33 pm, Santa Cruz Police responded to the area of Delaware and Swift for a possible hit and run with a van.

The suspect vehicle described as a white Ford van had hit several street signs and drove erratically tailgating and flashing a bright light behind a car. The driver had intentionally struck down 15 to 20 stop signs.
SCPD Officer located the van and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. The driver of the van failed to yield to the officers’ lights and siren and sped away. The pursuit started on Water Street and traveled over Highway 17 when the Santa Cruz CHP took over. San Jose CHP, Santa Clara County Deputies cornered the suspect in Santa Clara at a dead end. Authorities were able to take Christopher Ellebracht, 38 years old from Cupertino into custody without incident.
Please continue to contact SCPD when suspicious activity occurs in your neighborhood. SCPD is dedicated to our community with ongoing efforts to keep Santa Cruz a safe place to live, work and raise a family.

UPDATE: Woman and Child have been located in a safe and undisclosed location of her choosing.

The Santa Cruz Police Department is asking for the public's assistance in locating 37 year old Alice Wieland and her 15 month old daughter Joan Wieland. Alice Wieland voluntarily left without telling family where she was going.

Alice and Joan Wieland were reported missing on 9-11-16 from Santa Cruz. Alice is described as a white female 37 years old, brown hair, blue eyes, 5’7” 170 lbs. Joan is described as 15 months old, 2’10” 22 lbs. blue eyes, with blond hair.

If you know the whereabouts or have seen Alice or Joan Wieland, please contact the Santa Cruz Police Department Investigation Unit at 831- 420-5820.

The Santa Cruz Police Department proudly announces the promotion of two veteran officers to the position of Police Lieutenant and Police Sergeant. Introducing Lieutenant Jose Garcia and Sergeant Karina Ceceña

Both Lieutenant Garcia and Sergeant Ceceña were promoted on Wednesday afternoon September 14 following a rigorous and competitive testing process. "Jose Garcia and Karina Ceceña demonstrate dedication and leadership skills at the highest levels and will be strong assets to our leadership team,” said Chief Vogel.

Lieutenant Jose Garcia

Lieutenant Garcia started his career by volunteering with the Santa Cruz Police Department as a teen. He continued on and became a non-sworn Community Service Officer before being hired as a Police Officer trainee in 2001.

Over the course of his career, Lieutenant Garcia has worked as a foot patrol officer in the Beach area, worked in investigations as a detective, served as a canine handler, and was one of the founding members of the Emergency Services Unit Tactical team.

Lieutenant Garcia has supervised Patrol teams and specialized teams such as the Canine Unit, and Neighborhood Enforcement Team. He has co-coordinated and instructed the department’s Citizen’s Police Academy in both English and Spanish languages. Lieutenant Garcia is currently serving in the Professional Standards Unit.

Sergeant Karina Ceceña
Sergeant Ceceña is a 16 year veteran of the police department. Sergeant Ceceña began her career assigned to uniform patrol. She soon transitioned to the Canine Unit where she became an accomplished handler. She partnered with K-9 Jax for the next eight years. Sergeant Ceceña and K-9 Jax were credited with locating and apprehending numerous suspects and recovering several crucial items of evidence such as handguns and other weapons.

Throughout her career, Sergeant Ceceña has worked in patrol, investigations, K-9 and has been a member of the Emergency Services Unit Tactical Team. Sergeant Ceceña most recently served as a Field Training Officer instructing and training new patrol officers.

Born in Mexico and raised in Los Angeles, Sergeant Ceceña has enjoyed living and working in Santa Cruz.

Chief Vogel said of both Lieutenant Garcia and Sergeant Ceceña, "They are fully engaged with our community partners and embrace our department's core values. They possess the vital leadership qualities required to uphold the professionalism the community expects from the Santa Cruz Police Department.”

Please join us in celebrating and congratulating these veteran officers on achieving a significant milestone in their careers.

Lucky Kid gets his bike back on same day it was stolen.

This morning a sharp-eyed citizen called SCPD about a bike that appeared abandoned and out of place in the neighborhood. SCPD recovered the bike that was stolen earlier this morning. CSO Sanchez tracked down the license number that was recently documented in SCPD's Online Bike Registration program. CSO Sanchez contacted the family and returned the bike to the rightful owner- this lucky kid! Great teamwork ALL the way around!

Two Lessons Learned
#1 Lock your bike at all times, even if just for a few minutes.
#2 Improve the chances of your bike being returned by registering it with SCPD’s Online Bicycle Registration program. It’s FREE and never expires! Details on SCPD Blog http://goo.gl/Bfh9c7

Bike Theft: Realities and Risks

http://santacruzpolice.blogspot.com/2015/11/bike-theft-realities-and-risks.html

The Santa Cruz Police Department announces the arrest of a third suspect in the August 23rd homicide on the San Lorenzo River Levee. Cristobal Natividad, 41 years old from Santa Cruz has been identified and arrested as an accessory to homicide.
Cristobal Natividad, 41 years old from Santa Cruz
Evidence has shown Cristobal Natividad was in close association with Nino Ruiz and Jenessa Kic immediately following the homicide.

A handgun was recovered from a residence in the 2500 block of Capitola Road in Santa Cruz. The handgun is registered to a relative of Cristobal Natividad. Detectives believe it was the weapon used by Nino Ruiz in the homicide.

No further details on the arrest or the handgun recovery can be released at this time.

Homicide Investigation Background:
Nino Ruiz has been identified and arrested as the suspect shooter in the homicide on 8/23/16. Jenessa Kic was also arrested for murder and conspiracy to commit a murder. Nino Ruiz is 27 years old, a transient from Santa Cruz County and Jenessa Kic is 31 years old from Santa Cruz. SCPD Detectives spotted Ruiz in the 300 block of Liebrant Avenue late yesterday morning. Nino Ruiz and Jenessa Kic were detained at 12:10 pm, coming out of a residence on Liebrant Avenue.

Detectives worked continuously to interview multiple witnesses and track down numerous leads that directed the investigation to the two suspects. Jenessa Kic is the girlfriend of Mr. Ruiz and was determined to be associated with the murder. Both suspects were in custody within four hours after the shooting. SCPD Detectives have served search warrants on several of the homes that Ruiz has visited.

This is the second homicide of the year.

The Santa Cruz Police Department is conducting a community-wide survey on public safety and police service in the City of Santa Cruz. This survey is being conducted in order to gain insight into the issues that impact our community.

Chief Kevin Vogel said, “We are excited to hear from our community on the issues that affect them the most and the service offered by the hard working men and women of our department”.

If you live and/or work in the City of Santa Cruz, you are invited to participate in the survey. By completing the survey, you will be providing the police department with valuable information on the issues that are most important to you. In turn, we can use this information to focus resources, strategize and better serve our community.

The survey should take 10-15 minutes and your responses are anonymous.

The survey will be available over the next 3 months, until December 21, 2016. The survey will be available in English and Spanish. The survey is offered online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/SCPDSURVEY and https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SCPDEncuesta for Spanish language.

A link to the survey is on our Website at www.santacruzpolice.com. The survey is also available in hard copy for those without Internet access. Copies can be obtained at the front counter of the police department at 155 Center Street.

QR CODE to Community Survey in English

QR CODE to Community Survey in Spanish

We appreciate community members taking the time to complete our survey and share their observations. We look forward to releasing the results of the survey in the New Year.

On Thursday September 22, 2016 at approximately 12:26 a.m. the Santa Cruz Police Department responded to the report of multiple gunshots in the area of Broadway and Pennsylvania Avenue. Upon our arrival, one victim was located with multiple gunshot wounds to his upper torso.

The victim, 23 year old Hispanic male, was transported to Dominican Hospital before being pronounced deceased. The identity of the victim is being withheld until proper notification to family members can be completed.

Police interviewed witnesses who reported hearing multiple shots. At this time, there is no further description of any vehicles or the suspects. No other persons sustained injuries as a result of the shooting.

This is the third homicide of the year. Detectives are following up on leads that developed overnight and canvassing the area looking for additional information or evidence. At this point, no motive for the shooting has been established.

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 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 Detectives have identified the suspect in the 9/26/16 homicide as Kasey Gaskell, 43 years old from Santa Cruz. An $800,000 dollar warrant has been issued for murder for Mr. Gaskell’s arrest.

Kasey Gaskell, 43 years old from Santa Cruz
Suspect wanted in 9/26/16 Homicide

On Monday September 26, 2016 at 4:59 a.m., Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to report of a deceased female in an apartment in the 800 block of Front Street. Based on the suspicious nature of the death, SCPD Detectives responded to investigate and determined the death to be a homicide.

The victim, Shannon Magner, 66 years old from Aptos, suffered a stab wound to the back of her neck. Over the past three days, SCPD Detectives have been processing evidence and working with the County Forensic Pathologist and Department of Justice to investigate the potential crime scene.

Shannon Magner is the suspect’s mother. She was discovered in the apartment rented by Kasey Gaskell. At one time, the victim lived with her son at the residence before relocating to Aptos. The victim’s son Kasey Gaskell continued to reside in the apartment. He has not been seen for several days and his whereabouts is unknown.

At this time, the investigation is on-going. It is believed that Mr. Gaskell has fled the area. SCPD Detectives are actively pursuing his whereabouts. The motive is still undetermined.

Anyone with information about Kasey Gaskell’s location is encouraged to call 9-1-1.

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