TWO ARRESTS MADE IN GUN VIOLENCE INVESTIGATIONS

On August 15, 2019, the members of the Santa Cruz Police Department’s Investigation’s Team and Emergency Services Unit located and arrested two individuals associated with the recent gun violence. Detectives worked with the District Attorney’s Office and obtained arrest warrants for Michael DAY and Enrique ROCHA. See attached photographs of the individuals.

DAY was located and arrested in Capitola following a car stop. He was arrested without incident. DAY is a resident of San Jose but associates with individuals in the Santa Cruz County area. ROCHA was arrested without incident in his home in Watsonville. Both individuals were booked into the Santa Cruz County Jail for Attempted Homicide (664/186 PC), Prohibited person in possession of a firearm (29800(A)(1) PC), and Participation in a criminal street gang (186.22(B).

Michael Trabue DAY (05/27/2000) of San Jose. Booked into the Santa Cruz County Jail for Attempted Homicide, Prohibited person in possession of a firearm, and Participation in a criminal street gang.

Enrique ROCHA (07/27/1999) of Watsonville. Booked into the Santa Cruz County Jail for Attempted Homicide, Prohibited person in possession of a firearm, and Participation in a criminal street gang.

Detectives are continuing to investigate these gun violence incidents. The department will continue with its increased presence and enforcement as these investigations continue.

BACKGROUND:
On July 21, 2019 at approximately 4:30 p.m. Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to the report of multiple gunshots heard in the 300 block of Barson Street. Upon arrival, officers located evidence that a shooting had in fact occurred and proceeded to process the crime scene. No victims were identified at the time of the initial investigation. The case investigation was turned over to detectives who have been actively working the case since July 21, 2019. (19S-05195)

On July 31, 2019 at approximately 4:00 p.m. Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to a report of shots fired at the Santa Cruz Metro located in the 900 block of Pacific Ave. Involved parties had fled the scene, however the gun believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered at the scene as well as evidence associated to the suspect. Multiple witness were interviewed and video evidence was reviewed. A victim was located and the suspect remains outstanding. (19S-05500)

On August 3, 2019 at approximately 12:09 a.m. Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to the report of a shooting in the 700 block of Chestnut St. Upon arrival, officers responded to the area at which time it was determined an exchange of gunfire occurred between two subjects. During the investigation an adult male victim suffering from a single gunshot wound arrived at the hospital and determined to be a victim of this incident. The victim’s injuries were determined to be non-life threatening. The case investigation was turned over to detectives who have been actively working the case since August 3, 2019. (19S-05576)

On Tuesday August 13, 2019 at approximately 11:19 p.m. Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to a report of shots fired in the 800 block of Pacific Ave. Officers located evidence of a shooting and an adult male victim suffering from a single gunshot wound. The victim was located outside the downtown area and his injuries were determined to be non-life threatening. Officers processed the crime scene, interviewed several witnesses, and reviewed video footage collected from the area. The case investigation was turned over to detectives who have been actively working the case since August 13, 2019. (19S-05847)

SCPD Response to Uptick in Gun Violence 

As a result of this spike of violence, Santa Cruz Police Department deployed multiple gang suppression operations and collaborated with the Santa Cruz County Anti-Crime and Gang Task Force team in an effort to curb the uptick in related violence.

Since July 21, 2019, Santa Cruz Police Detectives have been working tirelessly on these series of shootings. The investigation led detectives to two separate persons of interest and locations in which search warrants were eventually obtained. On Monday August 12, 2019 members of the Santa Cruz Police Department Emergency Services Unit served two search warrants in Santa Cruz and San Jose where detectives recovered a firearm from each location. At this time, it has not been determined if the recovered firearms are associated to any of the shootings.

On August 14, 2019 at approximately 4:30 p.m. Santa Cruz Police Officers contacted a group individuals drinking alcohol in the area of Liebrandt Ave. at Beach St. During the course of the contact, officers arrested 19 year-old Cesar Corcoles for multiple weapons possession violations with a criminal street gang enhancement. A juvenile male subject was also arrested for an outstanding felony warrant, probation violation, and possession of a loaded firearm. (19S-05876)

The Santa Cruz Police Department will continue to collaborate with allied agencies in an effort to curb this rash of gun violence within the community.

The Santa Cruz Police Investigations Section asks anyone who has additional information related to any other the aforementioned incidents to please contact the Investigations main phone line at 831-420-5820.

Shooting Investigations Recap and Response to Uptick in Gun Violence

 July & August Shooting Investigations Recap

On July 21, 2019 at approximately 4:30 p.m. Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to the report of multiple gunshots heard in the 300 block of Barson Street. Upon arrival, officers located evidence that a shooting had in fact occurred and proceeded to process the crime scene. No victims were identified at the time of the initial investigation. The case investigation was turned over to detectives who have been actively working the case since July 21, 2019. (19S-05195)

On July 31, 2019 at approximately 4:00 p.m. Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to a report of shots fired at the Santa Cruz Metro located in the 900 block of Pacific Ave. Involved parties had fled the scene, however the gun believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered at the scene as well as evidence associated to the suspect. Multiple witness were interviewed and video evidence was reviewed. A victim was located and the suspect remains outstanding. (19S-05500)

On August 3, 2019 at approximately 12:09 a.m. Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to the report of a shooting in the 700 block of Chestnut St. Upon arrival, officers responded to the area at which time it was determined an exchange of gunfire occurred between two subjects. During the investigation an adult male victim suffering from a single gunshot wound arrived at the hospital and determined to be a victim of this incident. The victim’s injuries were determined to be non-life threatening. The case investigation was turned over to detectives who have been actively working the case since August 3, 2019. (19S-05576)

On Tuesday August 13, 2019 at approximately 11:19 p.m. Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to a report of shots fired in the 800 block of Pacific Ave. Officers located evidence of a shooting and an adult male victim suffering from a single gunshot wound. The victim was located outside the downtown area and his injuries were determined to be non-life threatening. Officers processed the crime scene, interviewed several witnesses, and reviewed video footage collected from the area. The case investigation was turned over to detectives who have been actively working the case since August 13, 2019. (19S-05847)

SCPD Response to Uptick in Gun Violence 

As a result of this spike of violence, Santa Cruz Police Department deployed multiple gang suppression operations and collaborated with the Santa Cruz County Anti-Crime and Gang Task Force team in an effort to curb the uptick in related violence.

Since July 21, 2019, Santa Cruz Police Detectives have been working tirelessly on these series of shootings. The investigation led detectives to two separate persons of interest and locations in which search warrants were eventually obtained. On Monday August 12, 2019 members of the Santa Cruz Police Department Emergency Services Unit served two search warrants in Santa Cruz and San Jose where detectives recovered a firearm from each location. At this time, it has not been determined if the recovered firearms are associated to any of the shootings.

On August 14, 2019 at approximately 4:30 p.m. Santa Cruz Police Officers contacted a group individuals drinking alcohol in the area of Liebrandt Ave. at Beach St. During the course of the contact, officers arrested 19 year-old Cesar Corcoles for multiple weapons possession violations with a criminal street gang enhancement. A juvenile male subject was also arrested for an outstanding felony warrant, probation violation, and possession of a loaded firearm. (19S-05876)

The Santa Cruz Police Department will continue to collaborate with allied agencies in an effort to curb this rash of gun violence within the community.

The Santa Cruz Police Investigations Section asks anyone who has additional information related to any other the aforementioned incidents to please contact the Investigations main phone line at 831-420-5820.

Arrest In Shooting Investigation - Three suspects arrested, two guns recovered & one child found with suspects.

On Tuesday, June 5th, 2018 at 1:38 am, Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to a report of several shots heard in the area of the 1000 block of Ocean Street. Upon arrival, officers learned that a male who appeared to conceal a weapon under his shirt was seen running with several people into a motel room after the shooting occurred. CHP was also on scene and located several shell casings near the motel.

SCPD Officers conducted a call out of the room and detained two men and two women. Officers found an 18 month-old child asleep in the room occupied by the four adults. A safety search of the room recovered a Glock .40 caliber pistol located on the floor. The shell casings found near the motel was also a .40 caliber. Officers also discovered an additional 9 mm handgun in the motel room.

Investigators reviewed motel surveillance video and combined with interviews with the suspects determined that Daniel Estrada, 18 years old from Los Banos had shot the weapon. It appears he was firing the gun into the air. There were no signs that Daniel Estrada was shooting at anything or anyone.

Daniel Estrada was arrested for willful discharge of a firearm negligently, carrying an unregistered loaded handgun, and child cruelty.

Jorge Ayala Fernandez, 20 years old from Los Banos, was on felony probation and arrested for felon in possession of a firearm. Jorge Ayala Fernandez is the father of the 18 month-old child found in the motel room. The child is now in the custody of the mother.

Samantha Garcia, 20 years old from Los Banos, was arrested for public intoxication.

The Santa Cruz Police Department is dedicated to our community with ongoing efforts to keep Santa Cruz a safe place to live, work and raise a family.

#GreatPoliceWork #SantaCruzPolice #SafetyThroughVigilance

Great Police Work All Day & Night - SCPD Case Highlights

#K9CashWatchingYou

On Tuesday January 30 January 30th at approximately 11:05pm SCPD Officers responded to a burglary in progress at The Computer Zone on the 300 block of Laurel Street. SCPD K9 Team Ofc. Hansen and Cash tracked and ultimately located suspect Troy Witzke hiding in the bushes. All the stolen laptops were recovered in addition to items stolen from a neighboring residence.

Twice in a week’s time that Troy Witzke, 29 from Santa Cruz, was arrested for commercial burglary.

Great police work all the way around from the tracking, collection of evidence, gathering the witness statements and locating the suspect.

Suspect Arrest in Drive-By Shooting on January 20, 2018 SCPD Investigation Update

On Tuesday, January 30, 2018, Santa Cruz Police Investigation Section arrested Jovanni Fernandez of Watsonville, Ca and conducted a search warrant of his residence and vehicle in the city of Watsonville. Jovanni Fernandez was identified as being involved in a shooting that occurred in the city of Santa Cruz on January 20, 2018, near the intersection of Soquel and Branciforte Ave.

Jovanni Fernandez, 18 years old from Watsonville

Jovanni Fernandez, 18 years old from Watsonville, was booked into county jail for multiple counts of attempted murder, along with a gang and firearm enhancement.

The Santa Cruz Police began its initial investigation on January 20, 2018, when patrol officers responded to reports of shots fired in the area of Soquel Ave and Branciforte Ave. Patrol Officers located the vehicle in the area, with three occupants. The vehicle was struck twice by gunfire. None of the occupants were injured. Witnesses in the area reported seeing a white VW Jetta with multiple occupants fleeing the area on Soquel Ave.

The investigation of the shooting is ongoing, with the assistance of the Santa Cruz County Gang Task Force and the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office.
SCPD Media Release https://goo.gl/uEPa8i

Great Police Work - Shooter Arrested & Search Warrant Nets Drugs, Firearms & $36,500

Last week, after an in-depth investigation, Santa Cruz Police arrested Deshawn Hatfield in the 7/16 /17 attempted homicide shooting which also led Detectives to a drug dealing operation. Santa Cruz Police Department and the Neighborhood Enforcement Team (NET) executed a search warrant at a residence in the 100 block of Kennan Street. Officers found 20 grams of methamphetamine, 1 pound of cocaine, 14 ounces of crack cocaine, 5 pounds of marijuana, firearms, dozens of rounds of ammunition, and $36,500 cash.

The initial investigation began on 07/16/17, around 2:00 a.m., an attempted homicide occurred in the 700 block of Pacific Ave. A 33-year-old, male victim was shot once in the neck and life flighted to an out-of-county trauma center. The victim has since recovered.

The suspects, described as two black male adults, fled the scene after the shooting. Detectives worked through the night and the following week collecting evidence and following up on leads. As a result, Deshawn Hatfield and Terrence Tolliver were identified as persons of interest in the case but had yet to be located.

Deshawn Hatfield, 27 years old from Santa Cruz

Terrance Tolliver, 30 years old from Santa Cruz 

On 07/31/17, around 1:00 a.m., Hatfield and Tolliver were both spotted and arrested in the 200 block of Front Street. Deshawn Hatfield, 27 years old from Santa Cruz, was arrested for possession for sales of crack cocaine and methamphetamine.

Terrance Tolliver, 30 years old from Santa Cruz was arrested for possession of a loaded stolen firearm and probation violation.

After interviewing both suspects regarding the 7/16/17 shooting incident, Detectives arrested Deshawn Hatfield for being the shooter in the attempt-homicide. Mr. Tolliver was released pending further investigation.

On 08/02/17 Detectives and SCPD NET served a search warrant at an address associated with Deshawn Hatfield and Terrence Tolliver on the 100 block of Kennan Street in Santa Cruz. Upon execution of the search warrant, officers recovered evidence in the attempted homicide and illegal drug manufacturing and sales located inside the home.

Officers seized the following evidence:
Loaded Sawed off .22 rifle
Loaded .22 caliber semi-automatic firearm
Homemade shotgun
Various rounds of Ammunition
Extended magazine for semi-automatic firearm
Stun gun
Money counter
$36,500 US Currency
20 grams of methamphetamine
1 pound of cocaine
14 ounces of crack cocaine
Approximately 5 pounds of marijuana

"I cannot express how grateful I am to my officers who made the arrests possible. Because of their efforts, the suspect involved in the attempted homicide is now in custody. It was the great teamwork and effort of our detectives and Neighborhood Enforcement Team who pieced together facts and circumstances leading to the identification and apprehension of the suspect which then also allowed us to shut down a drug operation.” said Chief Mills.

Community members wanting to assist this investigation with information are encouraged to contact the Santa Cruz Police Department Investigation Unit at (831) 420-5820.

Sunday 7/16/17 Highlight of Weekend's Cases Of Interest

Case 17S-05732:
On Sunday 7/16/17 approximately, 2:09 am, Santa Cruz Police responded to the 700 block of Pacific Avenue for a report of a shooting. Witnesses described a male victim who was shot in the neck and transported to the hospital by a bystander. Another team of SCPD Officers immediately contacted the victim who arrived at the emergency room. The victim sustained a bullet entry/exit wound in the neck area.

The victim, a 33-year-old, was uncooperative, intoxicated and refused to provide law enforcement with any suspect description. He was flown out to a Bay Area Trauma Center for treatment.

Investigating officers recovered a .22 caliber casing at the initial crime scene on Pacific Avenue. 

Currently, there is no suspect information on the shooting. Detectives will continue to follow up leads and look for video surveillance. The police department is asking anyone with information or who may have witnessed the shooting to contact investigators 831- 420-5820. 

Case 17S-05734:
On Sunday 7/16/17 at approximately 3:39 am, SCPD Sergeant Azua was patrolling in the area of Soquel and Front Street and observed two black male adults fighting near Plaza Lane. Sergeant Azua drove up to the two fighting, got out of his patrol vehicle and yelled: “Stop it!” One subject began to run northbound on Plaza Lane. The victim pointed to the fleeing suspect, exclaimed, “He just stabbed me.” and collapsed.

A description of the suspect, Yemoh Anang, 22 years old, was immediately broadcasted, and several units responded “Code 3”.  After a long chase, SCPD officers detained Mr. Anang and positively identified him as the person who stabbed the victim.

Further investigation revealed that Mr. Anang is on active parole with two confirmed felony warrants for his arrest. SCPD arrested Mr. Anang for assault with a deadly weapon.

Case 17S-05747
On Sunday, July 16, 2017, at approximately 8:47 pm hours, a 27-year-old male from Santa Cruz was shot by two assailants. The victim was walking eastbound on Barson St. at the intersection of Ocean St. Witnesses reported seeing two men, wearing hoodies, drive by in a small dark colored four door sedan, pull over and exit the vehicle. One of the suspects pulled out a small caliber handgun and fired several shots at the victim.  He was struck several times and ran a short distance away. The suspects then fled the scene in the dark colored four door sedan.

Santa Cruz Police Officers were dispatched to the scene and arrived within minutes of the initial 911 call. Santa Cruz Police Officers located the victim and rendered first aid until the arrival of the Santa Cruz Fire Department. Officers coordinated a county wide search for the suspects. Officers also canvassed the area for evidence and contacted several witnesses. Santa Cruz Police Detectives responded to the scene.

The victim was air lifted to a nearby trauma center. He suffered from multiple gunshot wounds and is in critical condition. SCPD is treating this case as a possible gang related incident. The Santa Cruz Police Department is asking for assistance from anyone who may have any information related to the case.

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.

SCPD Proactive Policing and Shooting Investigation

SCPD Proactive Policing Gets 2 Suspects arrested, 9 grams of meth and $4,000 of drug money out of Harvey West Park.
On January 5, 2017 at 5:22 pm, an SCPD Officer was  on active patrol and spotted a known drug dealer in the area of Harvey West and Dubois. The Officer witnessed the suspects, Calvin Carlson and his associate Suzanne Winchel, parked in a car and appeared to be engaged in narcotic activity. Groups of people came up to the vehicle for short periods of time and then would walk away. 

Calvin Carlson 52 years old from Santa Cruz
The Officer pulled up behind the suspect’s car and contacted Carlson and Winchel. While the Officer was speaking with the suspects, a group of people who had been speaking to Carlson tried to interfere and prevent the officer from searching the vehicle. Additional officers were called for backup and the group of transients dispersed.

Suzanne Winchel 40 years old from Santa Cruz 
Calvin Carlson 52 years old and Suzanne Winchel 40 years old are both from Santa Cruz. The suspects were recognizable to the Officer because of their long criminal history and contacts with the PD. The Officer also confirmed through the Santa Cruz County Court website that Mr. Carlson was recently out on bail and had search terms for controlled substances, paraphernalia and drug sales.

A search of the suspect’s car and possessions produced 9 grams of meth and $4,000 in cash.

Calvin Carlson and Suzanne Winchel were arrested for possession of controlled substance for sale.
SCPD is working collaboratively with neighborhood groups such as; the Harvey West Business Association, Homeless Service Center, and Parks and Recreation, in order to address neighborhood concerns and safety issues within the Harvey West area.

Shooting Investigation
On Saturday January 7, 2017 at 11:37 am, SCPD Officers responded to reports of several shots fired near the 1300 block of Soquel Avenue. Santa Cruz Police Officers were patrolling the area and quickly identified that the gunfire came from Soquel Avenue and Darwin Street. When Officers arrived at the scene they located several shell casings. Officers canvassed the immediate area and surrounding blocks and did not find where the rounds struck. Local hospitals were contacted and none of them reported any victims with gunshot wounds.

Currently, there is no information regarding suspects on the shooting. Detectives are continuing to follow up leads and looking for video surveillance. The police department is asking anyone with information or who may have witnessed the shooting to contact investigators 831- 420-5820.

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.

Help Us Identify Suspect Involved in a Drive-By Shooting

This is a sketch of one of the suspects involved in the drive-by shooting on December 26, 2017.

The suspect is described as Hispanic, 30-35 years old, light complexion, wearing a dark colored beanie.

The victim is in stable condition and recovering from his injuries in a Bay Area trauma center.

Background:
On Monday night December 26th, 2016 around 8:59 Hrs., Santa Cruz Police responded to the intersection of Raymond St at Leibrandt St. for a report of a drive-by shooting. Officers found one victim who had been shot in the leg. Several witnesses had seen or heard the gunshots and were interviewed by officers while the victim was receiving aid from the Santa Cruz Fire Department and paramedics.

The victim is a 19 year old male. The victim received a significant wound to his upper left leg and was flown to a Bay Area trauma center.

The victim and witnesses said that victim had been approached by occupants of a vehicle and shot at. Several rounds were fired striking both the victim and a concrete wall in Beach Flats Park.

One round also struck a vehicle that was unoccupied and parked near the intersection. The shooting appeared to be gang motivated.

The occupants were last seen driving the wrong way on Raymond St towards Beach St.
-Suspect descriptions- 2 to 3 Hispanic males in a light colored 4 door compact with tinted windows.

The Santa Cruz Police Department is asking anyone with information or who may have witnessed the shooting to contact Det. Brian Warren at 831 420-5837. Anonymous tips can also be sent to the police department through our Tip Line (831) 420-5995, or from our Website www.santacruzpolice.com

SCPD Notable Cases Over the Labor Day Weekend

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.

SCPD Arrest Suspect in Gang Related Shooting

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.

Washburn Ave. Shooting Investigation & Arrest

The Santa Cruz Police Department is investigating a shooting that occurred on May 22, 2016 at approximately 4:09 am in the 200 block of Washburn Ave. Officers responded to reports of multiple gunshots in the area. Arriving Officers discovered a drive-by style shooting occurred at a home in the 200 block of Washburn Ave. Several shots were fired into the front door of the home. A 20 year old male victim from Santa Cruz was struck in the foot. He was transported to a Bay Area trauma center for treatment. The victim’s wound was not life threatening.

SCPD Officers established a crime scene and recovered several bullets. During the investigation, witnesses reported seeing a light colored Volkswagon Jetta fleeing the scene.

The investigation has revealed that the victim and the suspect became involved in an argument during a house party at the residence. The male suspect left and then returned a short while later and fired several shots from a car into the doorway of the home. There were other people attending the party in the home at the time of the shooting. Fortunately, no one else in the home was harmed.

Anthony Jimenez, 29 years old, from Watsonville
Detectives worked diligently over the last three days following leads and identified the suspect in the shooting. At approximately 6:30 pm on Tuesday 5/24/16, the suspect Anthony Jimenez was arrested at his workplace in Scotts Valley. Mr. Jimenez was in possession of the vehicle that matched the description from witnesses. He is 29 years old and a Watsonville resident.

On Wednesday 5/25/16, detectives served a search warrant at Mr. Jimenez’s home in Watsonville and recovered additional evidence. However, the gun used in the drive-by shooting has not yet been located.

Anthony Jimenez was arrested for the following charges: attempted murder, shooting into an occupied dwelling and criminal threats.

If anyone has any information regarding this case please call the Santa Cruz Police Department Investigation Unit at (831) 420-5820.

Arrests Made in Recent Gang Violence

The Santa Cruz Police Department has responded to an increase of gang activity and gang-related crime over the last several days. SCPD employs a constant strategy to proactively address gang involvement and suppress gang violence.  Some of these strategies include working with at-risk kids through our P.R.I.D.E. and BASTA programs.  Suppression strategies include extra patrols in known gang areas; contacting, identifying, and documenting potential gang members; and conducting probationary compliance checks.

2/28/16 Shooting Investigation - Case 16S-01777
On Sunday 2/28/16 at about 11:35 p.m., Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to the area of the 500 block of Center Street for a report of gunshots in the area. Santa Cruz Police Officers were patrolling the area due to prior reports of several fights as a concert was letting out on Pacific Avenue.

Officers quickly identified that the gunfire came from Center and Elm Streets. Several witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing two cars speed away in opposite directions. Witnesses described a gold colored Acura traveling northbound on Cedar Street. The other car was described as a dark color sedan speeding away southbound on Cedar Street. When Officers arrived at the scene they located several shell casings.

Officers spotted the Acura driving away from the scene. Officers noted the car had several bullet holes along the driver’s side. The Acura was stopped in the 700 block of Chestnut Street in a high-risk car stop.

The occupants were contacted and the car eventually searched. During the search, Officers located a loaded .45 caliber handgun in the purse belonging to a passenger. This weapon did not match smaller caliber shell casings found at the scene.

The driver was identified as a 20 year old male from Salinas. The passenger in the front seat was a 27 year old female from Salinas. There was an additional passenger in the back identified as 30 years old male from Salinas. SCPD will not release the names of these individuals as they are victims of the attempt homicide. The involved parties claimed not to know why they were shot at.

The driver and female passenger were arrested/ cited for possession of a loaded and concealed firearm.

Currently, there is no suspect information on the shooting. Detectives are continuing to follow up leads and looking for video surveillance. The police department is asking anyone with information or who may have witnessed the shooting to contact investigators 831- 420-5820.

2/29/16 Suspect Arrested in Stabbing Investigation - Case 16S-01719

Adolfo Pantoja has been identified and arrested as the suspect in the stabbing investigation from 2/26/16. He is 18 years old and a Watsonville resident. SCPD Detectives identified Adolfo Pantoja as the suspect, securing an arrest warrant and issuing a “Be on the Lookout” to law enforcement agencies. Pantoja was spotted near his home on Ford Street by Watsonville Police. He was taken into custody and turned over to SCPD. SCPD Detectives served a search warrant on the suspect's home looking for evidence from the stabbing.

Adolfo Pantoja is arrested for the following charges: (1) Attempted Murder and (2) Participating in a Criminal Street Gang.

Stabbing Investigation Background:
On Friday 2/26/16 at 11:45 p.m., Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to the 7-11 on Ocean Street on a report of a victim with multiple stab wounds. The victim, a male, age 19 from Watsonville claimed to have been stabbed in the area of Pacific Ave and Center Street. The victim waved down a Good Samaritan who began to drive the victim to the hospital. While enroute, the victim’s injuries worsened and his condition declined. The Good Samaritan driver called 911 and stopped at the nearest parking lot so that the victim could be treated by EMS staff.

The victim sustained multiple knife wounds to his face and torso. He was transported to a Bay Area trauma center where he is still undergoing treatment.

2/27/16 Shooting Investigation Case 16S-01721
On Saturday 2/27/16, approximately 12:08 a.m., the Santa Cruz Police Department responded to reports of gunfire in the area of Cedar Street and Cathcart Street. Upon arrival SCPD Officers located a victim of gunshot wounds on the sidewalk near the intersection. The victim is a male, age 27, from Watsonville. He sustained gunshot wounds to his hand and lower back and transported to a Bay Area trauma center. The victim is recovering from surgery and is in stable condition. No one else was injured during the attack. The suspects are still at large.

Based on preliminary statements from the victim and witnesses, the information suggests the shooting is gang related. In the course the attack, a suspect chased after the victim and fired multiple times.

SCPD Officers and Investigators closed a majority of the area for an in-depth search for evidence. Multiple casings and bullet fragments were found in the parking lot downtown. One downtown building was struck multiple times. One of the rounds shattered a window. SCPD Officers also canvassed the businesses and neighborhoods contacting potential witnesses.

Both suspects fled the area. The suspects and the firearm are all still outstanding.

Santa Cruz Police Detectives are continuing to examine evidence, interview witnesses and collect video surveillance. Anyone with information relative to the suspect’s identity is encouraged to contact the Santa Cruz Police Department Investigation Unit at (831) 420-5820.

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.

SCPD Shooting Investigation & Arrest

The Santa Cruz Police Department is investigating a shooting that occurred 2/10/16 on Berry St. near Avalon St. at approximately 10:30 pm. This incident is being investigated as a gang motivated shooting. The victim is a 20 year old Santa Cruz resident. He was struck in the arm and transported to a Bay Area trauma center for treatment. The victim’s wound was not life threatening.

SCPD Detectives worked throughout the night and identified two suspects in the shooting. The suspects were located at approximately 3:00 am near an apartment complex in the 200 block of Button Street. Both suspects were in custody within a few hours thanks to the combined efforts of SCPD Detectives, SCPD Neighborhood Enforcement Team and the Santa Cruz County Anti-Crime Team.

Misael Acosta-Vences, 20 years old, Santa Cruz resident 

Misael Acosta-Vences was identified and arrested as the suspected shooter. He is 20 years old and a Santa Cruz resident. Misael Acosta-Vences was arrested for the following charges: attempted murder, shooting into an occupied dwelling and multiple gang enhancement charges.

Jocelyn Acosta, 22 year old, Santa Cruz resident

Jocelyn Acosta has been arrested as an accessory to the crime. She is 22 years old and a Santa Cruz resident. Jocelyn Acosta was arrested for the following charges: attempted murder, shooting into an occupied dwelling and participating in a criminal street gang.
At this time, there are no other suspects being sought.

SCPD Officers recovered several bullets at the crime scene. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots fired in the area. One stray bullet entered a nearby residence and lodged into a wall. The family was home at the time of the shooting. Fortunately, no one in the home was harmed.

The police department is asking anyone with information or who may have witnessed this shooting to contact Santa Cruz Police Department Investigations Unit (831) 420-5820.

Shooting Investigations & Firearms Arrest

The Santa Cruz Police Department is investigating two separate shootings over the weekend. In a separate case, SCPD Neighborhood Enforcement Team arrested a juvenile in possession of a loaded concealed firearm.

Incident #1
On January 1, 2016 around 8:27 p.m., SCPD Officers responded to the area of West Cliff Drive and Swift Street on a report of shots heard. Police interviewed a witness who reported seeing a flash and heard two shots coming from a dark colored Dodge Charger. There were no reported injuries.

Witnesses told Officers that the individuals in the Dodge Charger had followed the victim who was driving up Swift Street. A shooter from the Dodge Charger fired two shots at the occupants in the victim’s car. One bullet entered the trunk of the victim’s car.

The suspect vehicle was described as a black or dark blue Dodge Charger with tinted windows, and black rims. The shooter was described as an adult Hispanic male wearing a black beanie. The shooter was sitting in rear left passenger seat of the car. The driver was described as an adult Hispanic male with long dark hair. The front passenger is described as an adult Hispanic male wearing a black beanie.

SCPD Officers were able to recover a bullet from the victim’s car and a shell casing in the area of Swift Street and Sunset Street.

Incident #2
On Saturday, January 2, 2016 at approximately 11:34 p.m., Santa Cruz Police responded to several reports of shots fired into an apartment residence in the 300 block of La Fonda Avenue. Officers observed that one bullet had penetrated the rear fence, shattered the sliding glass door and lodged inside a living room sofa. No one inside the apartment was injured. SCPD Officers recovered approximately twelve bullet casings throughout the street. Witnesses reported seeing a dark color 4 door sedan drive away north on La Fonda Avenue.

The following day Officers responded to another home in the area to recover a bullet found by a child in the yard.

Both investigations are ongoing. Detectives are continuing to follow up leads and looking for video surveillance. The police department is asking anyone with information or who may have witnessed the shooting to contact investigators 831- 420-5820

Incident #3
Juvenile Arrested in Possession of a Loaded & Concealed Firearm
On Sunday January 3, 2016 at 5:32 p.m., Santa Cruz Police Department’s Neighborhood Enforcement Team Officers were patrolling with a focus toward the recent shootings. The Officers conducted a traffic stop on a BMW near the intersection of Wharf Road and Grace Street. The 17 year old driver is a known gang member. A search of the car revealed a loaded semi – automatic handgun. The juvenile was the sole occupant in the car. In addition to the loaded handgun, he also had drugs, drug paraphernalia and ammunition in his possession. The juvenile was arrested for various drug and drug sales charges, possession of a loaded, concealed firearm and participant in a criminal street gang.