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

Support For "We Are Santa Cruz"

April 2, 2013, 3:30 pm
$
0
0


“We Are Santa Cruz” is a wonderful project aimed at illustrating the true narrative as well as the character and personality of Santa Cruz.  At the Police Department, we are happy to support the project and participate.  In fact, we have encouraged our officers to appear on their own time and have authorized them to appear in their uniform to be filmed. 
 

We are honored that Impact Media Group would take such a step to honor our officers and help rebuild community spirit in the wake of this tragedy.  With efforts like this, we are confident our community will grow stronger, and Butch and Elizabeth’s sacrifice will not be in vain.  


Check out their Website, and if you are so inclined, come support the project and be a part of rebuilding the personality of our community.  

www.wearesantacruz.org




↧
Search

Help Us Identify This Bike and Owner

April 3, 2013, 6:00 pm
$
0
0


Help us find the owner of this bike

On Wednesday, 04/03/2013, at approximately 8:40 AM a house on Gharkey St. was burglarized.  The suspect left behind his black and red Schwinn S40DSX, 21 speed mountain bike. This bike might have been previously stolen and used by the suspect, or it might actually belong to the suspect.  In which case, tell us who that is! 

If you recognize this bike or are the owner please contact the Santa Cruz Police Department.  Refer to Officer Cross and Case #13S-02700



↧
↧

Welcome Officer Brad Burruel

April 4, 2013, 4:30 pm
$
0
0
The Santa Cruz Police Department Welcomes 
Officer Brad Burruel 

Brad was welcomed to our ranks in a swearing in ceremony today.

Brad comes to us from the Sheriff's Office where he has worked for the past 6+ years.  Brad is the second Deputy to make his way to the Santa Cruz Police Department in the past 9 months, joining John Shepard.  John was featured in a previous blog post here:

http://santacruzpolice.blogspot.com/2012/08/get-to-know-scpd-officer-john-shepard.html

Brad had a number friends and family on hand to help usher him in, including his wife and parents.  Mayor Hilary Bryant and Vice-Mayor Lynn Robinson also joined the celebration to welcome Brad to our family. Chief Vogel conducted the swearing in, and Brad's wife had the honors of pinning the badge. 

Congratulations Brad...we're proud to have you as part of SCPD! 




↧

Rockin' With "We Are Santa Cruz"

April 5, 2013, 4:30 pm
$
0
0
A couple of "Cats" dropped in on "We Are Santa Cruz" today and played a number with the fabulous and incredibly talented Vince Tuzzi.  

That's right....Chief Kevin Vogel and Deputy Chief Steve Clark dropped in and hammered a few chords with Vince. 

Great event today at the Civic!  We encourage everyone to come down and show the world how great Santa Cruz is!  


Vogel and Clark shot a scene for the project in uniform with their guitars. 
↧

Chevron Donates $5,000 to Fallen Officers' Scholarship

April 8, 2013, 11:00 am
$
0
0


Chevron contributed $5,000 to the Butch Baker - Elizabeth Butler Scholarship Fund this week.  The contribution was a collaboration of Richard Biddix, the Station Manager at the Chevron station located at 404 Soquel (Ocean and Soquel) and Police and Fire: The Fallen Heroes organization.  

The donation was spearheaded by Richard Biddix, who worked through Police and Fire: The Fallen Heroes, CEO Tom Gallinatti.  The check was presented to Deputy Chief Steve Clark at the Chevron station on Sunday April 7th.  

Chevron is a Title Sponsor for Police and Fire: The Fallen Heroes.  They continue to make significant contributions to assist the families left behind in the tragic loss of our public safety men and women.   

Thank you Chevron and Police and Fire:  The Fallen Heroes.  

Here is a link to their Website: 

www.thefallenheroes.org

 
Pictured:  Deputy Chief Steve Clark, Richard Biddix - Chevron, 
Tom Gallinatti, CEO - Police and Fire: The Fallen Heroes

↧
↧

A Letter From Sergeant Loran "Butch" Baker's Family

April 8, 2013, 6:30 pm
$
0
0


Letter from Sergeant Loran "Butch" Baker's family

The events of February 26th changed our lives forever. Every police spouse's worst nightmare became my reality when I was told of my husband's in-the-line-of-duty death. The details, emotions, and circumstances surrounding the events of Butch's death have become surreal and definitely overwhelming.

The presence and incredible support from all county emergency responders was seen and felt by my family. My son, a Santa Cruz Police Department Community Service Officer, was working when his father was killed and it will take time for him to heal. My daughter is a Trauma Critical Care Nurse in Texas. Realizing she might be alone when we called to advise her of the tragic events we chose to contact the local police department for support.  Without hesitation they immediately sent a police officer to be with her when she called home.  Following the notification the police officer stated that out of respect for Butch he would stand watch outside her door throughout the night.  The officer remained at that post until my daughter left for the airport the following morning.  My daughter has since returned to Texas and was again greeted by their Victims' Advocate who afforded her with local grief counseling and support contacts.  Knowing they would be there for her when I could not helped to ease my mind.  The police department's actions and gracious support are sincerely appreciated from a mother's heart.

I mourn my husband, not for the police officer he was, but for the loss of my true love, childhood sweetheart, and soul mate. Our lengthy "when I retire" discussions were shattered in an instant along with our hopes and dreams of a beautiful future together.  Our family's "normal" is no longer; every day we fumble for a new normal or anything that feels even remotely the same as it was before February 26th. The truth is, nothing will ever feel quite right, but the sincere outpouring of love and support from our Santa Cruz community have given us the strength and courage to carry on.  The hundreds of cards, thoughts, and warm wishes are deeply appreciated and acknowledged.

I continue to fill my quiet nights reading the cards and notes sent from all over the country. The children's pictures of their "Hero Butch" bring tremendous pride and strength to my now broken heart.  According to the children, Butch now has wings, is in the clouds, has a halo, and sometimes he even wears a cape. They tell me jokes to try and make me feel better or share in their personal story of losing someone special. These heartfelt cards, flowers, and gifts are unique and very special to me and my family.  A teddy bear wearing a United States Service Member's Purple Heart was left at the memorial site in honor of the ultimate sacrifice, former Secretary of Defense, Leon Panetta gave me a Challenge Coin stating my husband was a true warrior, and Congressman Sam Farr presented me with a condolence letter signed by 33 State of California Congress Members indicating this horrible tragedy has united all of California. Butch and Elizabeth were acknowledged in the Senate by Senator Monning; they have a Congressional Record Remembrance stating they were extraordinary officers; received Medal of Honor Awards from the American Police Hall of Fame and will have their names etched in the marble walls at the Florida memorial. I've received condolence letters from the United States Secret Service, Director of the FBI, Senator Dianne Feinstein, and Leon Panetta stating Butch left a "beacon of heroism and honor that will never be forgotten." Words cannot express my gratitude to everyone who has stepped forward to give me a hug or simply say they are sorry for my loss.

My daily healing is in part due to the nationwide outreach of compassion and kindness. My husband would have been so proud of his community's support and the love shown to his family. Butch spent 28 years protecting his beloved Santa Cruz and Santa Cruz responded with the utmost respect and honor to him and his years of his service. I have lived in Santa Cruz for over 20 years and I couldn't be more proud to call this city my home.

I must formally acknowledge and relay to the community my family's continual gratitude to Santa Cruz Police Sergeant Michael Harms and his family. They continually stand by our sides, support us everyday, and carry out our wishes. We may have lost a husband and father, but gained the love and support of hundreds of Law Enforcement Officers and Emergency First Responders.

I personally thank my cousin Carol Koller for staying with me for the month following Butch's death. She took command of all situations, answered all phone calls, and instantly was nicknamed "Sarge" for her organization, control, and support to me and my family. I could never repay her for the assistance and love she gave during my darkest days.  Howard and Renee Skerry immediately came to my aid and also helped me with anything I needed. Kayla Gray has taken friendship to a new level and continually watches over us. Thank you to Loran and Virginia Baker, Sandy Perez and all my family members who came from all over the United States to be with their grieving relative. My relatives were filled with awe and astonishment at the outpouring of love and support from Santa Cruz. It was seen throughout the city and lined the streets, all the way to the memorial service at the HP Pavilion.

I would like to thank Former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, Congressman Sam Farr, the entire Santa Cruz Police Department and Chief Kevin Vogel, Donna Lind, The Fallen Officers Foundation, Renee Hassna Executive Director Oakland Police Officer's Association, Mike Pool and The West Coast Post Trauma Retreat Center and Peer Counselors, Pastor Rene Schlaepfer, James Durbin, Santa Cruz Warriors, San Jose Sharks and HP Pavilion, San Francisco Giants, Rod Chambers and NASCAR, C.O.P.S. President Tami McMillan, Attorney General Kamala Harris, California Governor Jerry Brown, Santa Cruz Mayor Hillary Bryant, National Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation, California Peace Officer's State Memorial Foundation, American Police Hall of Fame and Museum, Deputy District Attorney Jeff Rosell, Capitola Police Chief Rudy Escalante, Santa Cruz Police Deputy Chief Steve Clark, Watsonville Police Department, Capitola Police Department, Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Association, UC Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Georgetown Police Department, California Highway Patrol, Santa Cruz County Fire Departments, Grief Counseling of Santa Cruz County, Santa Cruz County Emergency Dispatch Center, AMR, San Jose Police Department, San Jose Fire Department, Santa Cruz County District Attorney's Employee Association, Santa Cruz County Probation Employees Association, Attorney/Fallen Officer Foundation Board Member Larry Brenner, Santa Cruz Memorial, Paradox Hotel, Twin Lakes Church, Superior Alarm Company, Benefits Communication Network, Summit Uniform, Coroner Dr. Richard Mason, Zach Friend, Irma Rios, Karen Goehring, Jackie Tripodi, Wes Grant, Gloria Simpson, Steve and Robin Black, Joseph Heartsner, Dr. James Cartwright D.C., Carl and Patty Kustin, Well Within, Scotts Valley High School, Tammy Montague, Sue Faria, Kianti's, Chardonnay II Sailing, California Pizza Kitchen, and the countless others who gave their support.

My hope is to show strength to the law enforcement families and resonate the love that has been given to me throughout the nation. I am now walking in the shoes of a police officer widow, I am filled with respect and admiration for my husband and his fellow Police Officer Elizabeth Butler. My family and I join hands and step forward to endue dignity and respect to law enforcement officers for being who they are and for what they represent.

Thank you for the incredible kindness and sincere affection.

Respectfully,

Kelly Baker - Widow of Sergeant Loran "Butch" Baker
Jillian Baker - Daughter of Loran Baker
Adam Baker - Son of Loran Baker
The Family of Loran "Butch" Baker: EOW 2/26/2013
↧

A Letter From The Butler and Wu Families

April 8, 2013, 6:30 pm
$
0
0


Letter from Butler and Wu Families

On February 26th, life as we knew it ended. Our beloved Elizabeth Butler, daughter, sister, mother, partner, and police officer, lost her life suddenly, unexpectedly, and cruelly. Elizabeth was a ten-year veteran of the Santa Cruz Police Department. In her capacity as a detective in charge of sexual assaults, she was carrying out a somewhat ordinary interview along with Sergeant Butch Baker when the unthinkable happened. A man inexplicably exited his house with a gun. Elizabeth and Butch did not have a chance. After they were so heartlessly murdered, the future for their families was altered forever.

We … Louise Butler, Elizabeth’s mother, Peter Wu, Elizabeth’s partner, and Alexis Butler, Elizabeth’s sister… have just reached the one-month anniversary of Elizabeth’s death, and we miss her terribly. Each day is filled with both tears and moments of deep sadness. Yet almost every day of the past month has also included moments of awe and amazement at the love and honor paid to Elizabeth’s memory. We have so many people to thank from those that we know well to those that are complete strangers. We think of our relationships with the people around us as concentric circles, like the ever-widening circles that radiate out from a stone dropped in a pool of water. We have been helped by so many in so many ways that any attempt to thank everyone is doomed to failure, but here is our best attempt to say that we are humbled and touched by the thousands of people who told us that Elizabeth’s life meant something.

First, we would like to thank Stellan and Joaquin Wu, Elizabeth’s sons, for keeping us healthy. These young boys, age 2 and 5, have shown us what is really important: three good meals a day, sleep each night, and lots of playing. Sometimes playing is the real work of life. Second, we would like to thank our immediate neighbors and extended families who arrived within days of Elizabeth’s death to hug us, remember with us, and cry with us. At these times, family and neighbors are so important. Third, we would like to thank the Santa Cruz Police Department who became like sisters and brothers to us. They protected us, advised us, shepherded us, and anticipated our every need. Specifically, we would like to acknowledge the help of Officer Karina Ceceña, our liaison with the SCPD. So many police officers met with us daily and so many did superhuman tasks unseen by us. The officers we got to know best were officers Joe Hernandez, Saul Rodriguez, Trevor Kendall, Wendy Bynes and David Perry. In addition, Police Chief Kevin Vogel met with us several times to talk about the details of Elizabeth’s death. Both Chief Vogel along with Deputy Police Chief Rick Martinez gave us much support and attention. Thank you to the many SCPD police officers who came forward and told us specific stories about Elizabeth’s time at her job. They made us laugh and also showed us how much they cared and remembered.

On March 7th, we left early in the morning in an amazing procession of vehicles headed north on Highway 17th to the HP Pavilion in San Jose where thousands of members of the public and law enforcement agencies from far and wide celebrated the lives of the two fallen officers from Santa Cruz. We had barely reached the end of our driveway when our tears started falling at the sight of neighbors holding huge banners celebrating Elizabeth. As we traveled through the streets of Santa Cruz, the sight of hundreds of citizens with their hands over their hearts touched us deeply. At every overpass over Highway 17, firemen stood on fire trucks saluting Elizabeth and Butch. Community members and law enforcement officers together crowded every intersection till we reached our destination. The acknowledgement of Elizabeth’s and Butch’s lives by dignitaries, friends, and officers helped us know that these two dedicated people would not simply cease to exist. Their lives and the sacrifice that they made would be recognized. They meant so much to us, and they also meant so much to others.

Since the service in San Jose, there have been so many people who have befriended us. Special thanks goes to Santa Cruz Memorial, the Santa Cruz Fire Department, the Santa Cruz Deputy Sheriffs, the California Highway Patrol, the Santa Cruz Metro, Holy Cross Catholic Church, Westside Parent Education Nursery School, Musical Me, Scotts Valley Market, Otoro Sushi Restaurant in Scotts Valley, and hundreds of people who have sent us cards, scholarship funds, and gifts. Throughout the last month, the Santa Cruz Police Department have continued to assist us in putting our lives back together.

Our hope is to do more than survive. We want to raise two young boys to be honorable citizens like their mother. We, Elizabeth’s mother, partner, sons, and sister, want to become strong enough to someday give something back to this incredible community, a community that helped us so much when we were suffering. We want to put our lives back together to become people that Elizabeth would admire, the kind of people who make Santa Cruz and the cities around Santa Cruz such wonderful places to live. While everyone may experience sadness and possibly tragedy at some point in their lives, we have the special honor of having received a rare gift from you the community. We have glimpsed in the outpouring of support from the people of Santa Cruz and surrounding cities that goodness will prevail and small acts of love will redeem our aching hearts.
↧

Officers Honored For DUI Enforcement

April 9, 2013, 8:30 pm
$
0
0
Santa Cruz Police Officers Eileen Fincutter and Denise Cockrum were recognized today at an award ceremony in Monterey for their DUI enforcement efforts.  This is the second consecutive year that Officer Eileen Fincutter has been recognized and honored for this achievement.  

The recognition ceremony was a collaborative effort by the State of California Office of Traffic Safety and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).  The ceremony honored police officers from around the Central Coast for taking impaired drivers off of our streets and saving innocent lives that may have otherwise been lost when these impaired drivers become involved in deadly traffic collisions. 

Officers Fincutter and Cockrum were among 23 honorees from Santa Cruz County law enforcement agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, Capitola Police, Scotts Valley Police, Watsonville Police, and Santa Cruz Police.  In addition to the honorees from Santa Cruz County, there were 41 honorees from Monterey and San Benito County law enforcement agencies.  

This was a heartfelt ceremony that included a very sad testimonial by April Park the mother of bicyclist Zachary Park who was killed in a hit and run collision in Santa Cruz.  We are honored to have Santa Cruz Police Officers Eileen Fincutter and Denise Cockrum among the honorees.  

Please join the entire staff of the Santa Cruz Police Department in congratulating Officers Eileen Fincutter and Denise Cockrum!

Officers Fincutter and Cockrum
Chief Vogel with our honorees
SCPD staff joined by ceremony Emcee Brittany Nielsen of KSBW
↧
Search

Chief Vogel, Superintendent Bloom and School Board Trustees Recognize School Crossing Guards

April 20, 2013, 3:30 pm
$
0
0

On Wednesday April 17th, Santa Cruz Police Chief Kevin Vogel, Santa Cruz City Schools Superintendent Gary Bloom and the Santa Cruz City Schools Board of Trustees recognized and honored our team of school crossing guards at the school board meeting.  Chief Vogel presented the school crossing guards with a chief’s commendation and Superintendent Bloom presented them with a certificate of recognition and appreciation.   

The Santa Cruz Police Department School Crossing Guard Program is responsible for the safety of our children and pedestrians in school zones throughout the City of Santa Cruz.  Our crossing guard program represents a partnership between the City of Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz City Schools and our community.  The crossing guard program is comprised of 12 school crossing guards.  Our mission is to create the safest environment possible for children in these intersections and thoroughfares.  Our school crossing guards must commit themselves to the highest level of professionalism and responsibility in order to safeguard the wellbeing of our children as they walk to and from school.   

The Santa Cruz Police Department, Santa Cruz City Schools and the Santa Cruz community recognizes and appreciates the exemplary service that our school crossing guards perform day in, day out, rain or shine, to keep our children safe.  Our school crossing guards are responsible for providing safety to children and pedestrians in designated school zones throughout the City of Santa Cruz by escorting our children across the street going to and from school, reporting license plate numbers of reckless drivers and reporting all suspicious activity they observe around the schools.  They are the caretakers of our community’s children.              

On behalf of the Santa Cruz Police Department, Santa Cruz City Schools and the Santa Cruz community, Chief Vogel and Superintendent Bloom commended the school crossing guards for their outstanding performance and service as members of the Santa Cruz Police Department’s School Crossing Guard team.  The school crossing guards who were recognized and honored are Richard Bartlett, Jerry Cacace, Joni Cashin, Stephen Fuehrer, Stephen Hedges, Gail Marizette, Mark Okamoto, Ron Perrigo, Jr., Saundra Sand, Debra Stephens, Anne Taku and George Wischer.  The image below depicts our team of school crossing guards who were present for the recognition ceremony, along with Chief Vogel and Superintendent Bloom.



↧
↧

Help Us Catch This Groper

May 3, 2013, 12:00 pm
$
0
0


On April 29, 2013, two separate female runners were attacked by the suspect depicted in the below sketches.  The first attack occurred at approximately 7:30 PM on Escalona Drive near Olive Street.  Approximately 30 minutes later a second attack occurred on Western Drive near Echo Street. 

In both attacks the victims passed the suspect who was going in the opposite direction.  The suspect turned around and came back at the victims.  The suspect grabbed and/or slapped the victims on their buttocks as he passed by.  The suspect would then continue to run from the victims.  Neither victim sustained injuries from the attack. 

In follow up, we learned that the victim in the second attack actually returned to the general area with her boyfriend.  They found the suspect still in the neighborhood.  The victim and her boyfriend confronted the suspect.  When cornered, the suspect apologized and fled.    

We worked with both victims and the boyfriend witness to produce the two attached sketches.  The suspect is described as

  • Hispanic Male  - Late teens or Early 20’s
  • Approx 5’06” to 5’07”
  • Slender/ small frame
  • No facial hair, no blemishes
  • Dark Hair

 There have been no other incidents of this type in close proximity by either location or time sequence.  We believe the suspect to be the same person in both attacks.  

Anyone who recognizes the suspect, or has additional information to report, is encouraged to contact the Santa Cruz Police Department Investigations Unit at (831) 420-5820. 


↧

Indecent Exposure Suspect Arrested

May 3, 2013, 5:30 pm
$
0
0


On April 23, 2013 a case of Indecent Exposure was reported to the Santa Cruz Police Department.  Witnesses reported the suspect was in a car masturbating while watching a young girl’s soccer team practice at lower De Laveaga Park.  The soccer team consisted of girls in their young teens. 

Mr. Leslie was spotted by an adult who was arriving to participate in the city’s softball league at the park.  The suspect was confronted by a group of men's softball players who were arriving for the regularly scheduled city softball league.   He fled from the park at that point.  

Detectives conducted follow up to learn and confirm the identity of the suspect.    Today (May 3rd) a $10,000 arrest warrant was obtained for suspect Charles Joseph Leslie Jr. charging him with a violation of 314.1 Penal Code – Indecent Exposure. Because he was not observed by the teens, he could not be charged with the more serious offense of Child Annoying. 

Mr. Leslie was arrested today on the warrant.  During the investigation, Mr. Leslie authored a letter and made a number of statements to investigators both rationalizing his behavior, and indicating a fantasy driven motive. 

Mr. Leslie drives a maroon Volkswagon Golf with California License Plate #3HHH878.  

The police department recommends community members keep a cautious watch for Mr. Leslie should he be released from jail. 

Here is his photo:



 


↧

Jim Howes: Don't turn page on police tragedy

May 5, 2013, 4:30 pm
$
0
0
As a new police officer with the Santa Cruz Police Department, Butch Baker was assigned to work with me in the Field Training Officer Program.

When a new officer is assigned with a Field Training Officer, the two begin a process of applying in the field what was learned in the police academy. This can be stressful where the two become distant, or close. Butch and I became close friends and eventually much more than that. Butch and I struggled with similar issues in our personal lives and were drawn even closer.

Butch was promoted to sergeant and was tasked with reactivating the Community Services Section. He asked if I wanted to work for him, which began a three- or four-year period where we worked very closely, and I learned more about Butch and his family.

His family accepted me for who I was and I was fortunate to get to know his wife, daughter and son. We worked long hours in the community developing a Citizen Police Academy, working with problems throughout the community and meeting thousands of people. I had worked with Neighborhood Watch groups when assigned to the West Beat for quite some time, but this was much better, allowing me to work with groups throughout the city. I would not have met the many I did, or participate in the various activities throughout the city, had Butch not asked me to work for him.

I enjoyed working with Butch and found that between the two of us, we had the energy to complete the task no matter what was involved. Butch was supportive and so were Chief Steve Belcher and Lt. Patty Sapone. Butch's wife Kelly was there with us in most cases, operating all night print sessions in their home, preparing for major events and never complaining. His daughter Jill and son Adam were there, too. They have become fine young adults and professionals.

After retirement, Butch and I continued to talk frequently. There were times where one of us would call the other, finding that the other was just about to call. When meeting at Fin's, Kelly would call Butch, asking when he would be home and he would respond that he "was around the corner, or down the street and would be home soon." Kelly always wondered how many times Butch could turn the same corner, or just how long the street was that Butch was referring to. The community was a big part of Butch and his family and his family was a big part of the community. I appreciate Kelly sharing Butch.

I lost someone who was more than a friend, colleague, coworker or even brother when Butch was taken from this earth. So many have been impacted by his tragic death, and our community lost fibers of fabric which hold a community together. We sometimes ask why and try and assign responsibility for tragic events.

I have read the City Council is responsible for this and it is because something they may have done, or not done. Butch and I worked with many of the current and former council members and I know this is not true. We all have an opportunity to participate in our government, or should think we do. This is a good time to get involved and find the courage to problem solve why it seems the safety net of our community is unraveling. In order to do this, we should leave opinions and bias out of the discussion and search for answers and develop responses to what we learn.

I appreciate all that those in public safety did during the tragic events of Feb. 26 and have done since. All of the efforts of those agencies who assisted and patrolled the city are appreciated. Even though under tremendous stress, in addition to their regular assignment, they planned for and held one of the largest events ever, the memorial. I appreciate the community and outpouring of encouragement and concern. I pray for both families, their children and the community for healing and health.

Please don't turn the page on this tragic story, don't complete the chapter too soon and certainly don't complete the book. Ever.

Jim Howes retired from the Santa Cruz Police Department in 2007 after a 26-year career as a Santa Cruz Police Officer.  This letter from Jim appeared in the Santa Cruz Sentinel on Saturday May 4, 2013.

↧

Santa Cruz Police Collaborate With State Parole to Keep Agents Local

May 6, 2013, 11:00 am
$
0
0

Faced with the possibility of having State Parole Agents relocated outside the Santa Cruz area, the Santa Cruz Police Department partnered with the local State Parole Unit Supervisor to keep Parole Agents local.

It is imperative that we ensure an active presence of Parole Agents in the Santa Cruz area.  Under the partnership, State Parole agents will work directly out of the Santa Cruz Police Department facility.

With the budget axe falling, State Parole was faced with moving out of the Santa Cruz area and consolidating staff into offices outside of the Santa Cruz area.  The Santa Cruz Police Department worked with our local unit supervisor and collaborated on an agreement to provide office space.  This move helps to alleviate budget pressures being faced by State Parole Agents throughout California.  Further, it helps to ensure an active presence of State Parole Agents in the Santa Cruz area.

Additional benefits include the ability to create closer working relationships and increased access to information for Santa Cruz Police Department patrol officers and detectives.  The Santa Cruz Police Department will house up to 4 State Parole Agents in our Investigations unit.

Angela Wilson, Unit Supervisor for State Parole commented, “This move helps ensure vital monitoring of local parolees and better collaboration on important criminal cases.  We are excited to be working so closely with the Santa Cruz Police Department”.

Chief Kevin Vogel said, “Adequate supervision of our parolee population is crucial to community safety.  Our community will greatly benefit by keeping these resources local as well as the increased access and information sharing”.

The two teams worked together to overcome logistic and tech issues and bring this plan to fruition.

The Santa Cruz Police Department and State Parole Agents have a series of planned compliance sweeps in the months ahead.  


↧
↧

SCPD Attends California Peace Officers' Memorial Ceremony

May 7, 2013, 11:00 am
$
0
0
On Monday, Santa Cruz Police Honor Guard representatives attended the 2013 ceremony for the California Peace Officers' Memorial.  Our Honor Guard accompanied the Baker family to the ceremony.  In next year's ceremony, (May 2014) Sergeant Butch Baker and Officer Elizabeth Butler will be added to the names on the memorial.  



California Peace Officers’ Memorial Ceremonies have been conducted in the State Capitol since 1977. It is a ceremony that honors the officers who have fallen in the line-of-duty the preceding year, recognizing the sacrifice of those loved and left behind.  To learn more about the California Peace Officers' Memorial, click below:

http://www.camemorial.org/
 
A short video is available here or on our YouTube Channel:

California Peace Officers' Memorial Video

On May 1st we also attended the Monterey County Peace Officer Memorial Ceremony where Sergeant Baker and Officer Butler were honored. 

 
In addition to the California Peace Officers' Memorial Ceremony, National Police Week will be recognized May 12th through May 18th.  In 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15th falls, as National Police Week. Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.To learn more about the National Law Enforcement Memorial click below:

http://www.nleomf.org/


↧

Bike Dojo Spins Up Donation for Fallen Officers

May 21, 2013, 10:00 am
$
0
0

Many, many thanks to the good people at Bike Dojo. 

Bike Dojo raised a hefty $5,250 donation to contribute to the scholarship fund for the families of Sergeant Butch Baker and Detective Elizabeth Butler. 

The money was raised from a three-hour spin class “Spin For a Cause”, hosted by Bike Dojo.

On Friday May 17th, Rob and Kim Mylls, owners of Bike Dojo and Mayor Hilary Bryant presented a check to Kevin Vogel, Chief of Police, and Deputy Chief of Police Steve Clark and Rick Martinez.

We are so grateful for all the care and support from this community and exemplified through great partners likeBike Dojo.

Thanks Bike Dojo…Keep on Spinnin’ 


↧
Search

Dispatcher's Stitches Help the Healing

May 21, 2013, 5:00 pm
$
0
0

Dispatcher Kristine Ebersole created a beautiful banner quilt to honor the memory of Sergeant Butch Baker and Detective Elizabeth Butler.  Kristine Writes:
 “I awoke early on the 29th of February with my heart breaking.  In my sadness and shock, I was moved to create something that expressed my grief and respect at the same time.  This quilt was hand made with love and respect in honor of Sgt. Butch Baker 105 & Det. Elizabeth Butler 172 by Dispatcher Kristine Ebersole, SCR911. 2/29/13”
 Kristine presented the finished quilt to Chief Vogel last week.   



If you look closely, you can see where she stitched in the words “Protect & Serve” and “EOW 2-26-13”.  Nice work Kristine!!


We are honored to display this beautiful quilt made with care and love from Kristine.

↧

Department Photo Snapped Today

May 22, 2013, 2:00 pm
$
0
0

The Police Department lined up in Class A uniforms for a department photo at the Lighthouse.   The last department photo was in 2008.  Here is a sneak preview


This was the first time the entire department has been together since the memorial service for Sergeant Butch Baker and Detective Elizabeth Butler.  Chief Vogel addressed the department and dedicated the photo to Butch and Elizabeth.  A full size photo of Butch and Elizabeth was placed on easels and included in the department photo. 

All members of the department displayed their newly issued uniform pins honoring the memory of Sergeant Butch Baker and Detective Elizabeth Butler.  The pins will be a permanent part of the police uniform and will forever honor their legacy.  The pins contain the officers’ badge numbers above the “Thin Blue Line” and the date of their “End of Watch” below the line.   The pins will be issued in perpetuity to new officers.  New members of the department will be required to earn their pin by completing a research project on Butch and Elizabeth, the concept of honor, and their own responsibility to honor the legacy of Butch and Elizabeth in all that they do as they serve this community.    



Special thanks to Parks & Rec for their help with getting the grounds prepared and logistics.  Also a special thanks to Ken Morse from Lifesaver Towing for transporting the bleachers to the Lighthouse to use as risers.  



Jon Covello from Covello & Covello Photography snapped the photo as he has done dating back decades. 

↧
↧

Great Work by Our Detectives Seizing Illegal Firearms and Ammo

May 24, 2013, 6:30 pm
$
0
0


In the early morning hours of May 24, 2013, Santa Cruz Police Department Detectives served a search warrant on a mobile home in the Beachcomber Mobile Home Park on Mattison Lane in the unincorporated Live Oak area.   The search warrant was part of an ongoing investigation into an elaborate plot of Grand Theft from a Santa Cruz business.   Suspect Nicholas Yukich was arrested in the early morning hours of May 24, 2013 in the city of Santa Cruz on charges of conspiracy to commit Grand Theft.  Yukich was arrested before he was able to carry out his planned heist. 


Detectives learned of the plot from informants and began exploring the information.   The investigation revealed that Mr. Yukich was the mastermind behind the planned heist, and he attempted to recruit others into his scheme.   The plan had been in the works for months and included surveillance and reconnaissance of the intended target. 

In the course of serving the search warrant, Detectives uncovered a cache of weapons, including assault rifles, shotguns and handguns.  In all, 48 firearms, numerous high-capacity magazines and over 50,000 rounds of ammunition were recovered from the mobile home.  



Many of the seized firearms (Photos Attached) are believed to be in violation of California State laws prohibiting certain types of firearms classified as “Assault Weapons”.  Additionally, some of the ammunition is believed to be “armor-piercing” and also illegal to possess in California.   



 Detectives are continuing to pour over the cache of weapons and ammunition.  Experts from the United States Department of Justice, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are being consulted to assist in classifying the firearms and ammunition.  



 Yukich is currently being held in the Santa Cruz County Jail on a charge of conspiracy to commit Grand Theft with a $500,000 bail.  Additional firearms charges are pending. 
↧

Help Us Catch This Bank Robbery Suspect

May 28, 2013, 6:30 pm
$
0
0


On May 28, 2013, the lone suspect pictured below entered the Bank of the West at 1551 Pacific Ave and demanded cash from the teller.  The suspect also threatened the teller, as well as demanding he not be given any bills with a dye-pack, or GPS device.  

The teller handed over the cash to the suspect.  He walked out of the bank through the doors on the Pacific Avenue side and then fled southbound on Pacific Avenue.  There were 2 additional customers inside the bank at the time as well as additional bank staff.  No one was injured in the robbery.  No weapon was actually seen. 

Here are a few portraits of our suspect in the act...



If you're Mr. Robber and you're looking at these photos....you might consider the unconditional full surrender option, as it is likely we'll have you identified pretty quickly. 
 
In addition to these great photos, here is a further description.  

White Male Adult 20-25 YRS
Approximately 5 feet 7 inches, 160 pounds
Brown Hair
Pock-marked Complexion
Scruffy Facial Hair

Wearing:

Grey Chicago White Sox Baseball Hat
Black Sunglasses
Black Hoodie with “Santa Cruz” skateboards logo
Blue Jeans
Black Shoes

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Santa Cruz Police Department Investigations Unit at (831) 420-5820.  If you recognize the suspect, please call 9-1-1 to report this information. 
↧

Great Patrol Work Leads to Arrest For Stolen Property

May 29, 2013, 5:00 pm
$
0
0


Great Work by Officers Karina Ceceña and Alec Ganzel

At 5:05 PM on May 28, 2013, Officer Karina Ceceña responded to the Days Inn 600 Riverside Ave, for a report of a theft. She contacted the victim who owns a construction company.  The victim parked his work truck in the parking lot of the motel sometime after midnight. When the victim went to leave for work later in the morning, he discovered his $600 “Chop Saw” was missing.  Officer Ceceña was able to view surveillance footage from early morning and saw a truck pull in and park next to the victim’s vehicle. 

A male from the truck got out of the truck, put on a yellow construction helmet and then climbed into the bed of the victim’s truck, stealing the saw.  At about 9:00 PM, Officers Alec Ganzel and Karina Ceceña were sharing case information about a similar vehicle involved in an unrelated case.  

Officers Ganzel and Ceceña connected the information and located the suspect’s truck parked in the area of Branciforte Avenue and Belvedere Terrace with the doors open and two people standing in the immediate area.

One of those persons, Kyle Franks, matched the overall description from the surveillance footage and a yellow construction hat was located inside his vehicle.  In the vehicle’s bed was the stolen “Chop Saw”.  

Mr. Franks was taken into custody for Possession of Stolen Property, Possession of Heroin and Theft.  His bail was enhanced because he was out of custody on Court “Own Recognizance” release at the time of this new offense, 12022.1(b) PC.   Mr. Franks has a significant history of arrest for theft and drug related offenses dating back to 2000.  If you see his truck in your neighborhood, take note!


Arrested:  Kyle Wyatt Franks – 27 yrs,  Felton Resident
Suspect Vehicle = 2007 White Chevy Truck License# 8F41471





 
↧
Viewing all 738 articles
Browse latest View live
Search