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Citizen’s concern over graffiti vandals results in three arrests

July 27, 2007
Santa Paula Police Department

A concerned citizen notified Santa Paula Police Tuesday night that graffiti vandals were tagging an alley behind a strip mall, leading to the arrest of three people - including two juveniles - according to a Santa Paula Police Department spokesman.

By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesA concerned citizen notified Santa Paula Police Tuesday night that graffiti vandals were tagging an alley behind a strip mall, leading to the arrest of three people - including two juveniles - according to a Santa Paula Police Department spokesman.Lt. Mike Saviers said that the incident occurred July 24 at 8:09 p.m. when the SPPD was notified that taggers were using spray paint to deface an alley wall off of the 400 block of Ojai Road. The alley is behind a strip mall where Domino’s Pizza is located, off of Highway 150.When SPPD officers arrived on scene, they observed three people fleeing the area and were able to detain two of the subjects immediately. The third subject was found a short distance away. After a brief investigation, all three were arrested for conspiracy to commit a crime and vandalism.
Two of the suspects were juveniles, 15 years old and 17 years old, and both are Santa Paula residents. The third was identified as Juan Magana, 19, also of Santa Paula, said Lt. Saviers.The three were transported to Santa Paula Police Station, where they were booked on the charges. The two juveniles were transferred to Ventura County Juvenile Hall; Magana was transported to Ventura County Jail.Lt. Saviers said that the SPPD encourages citizens to contact the department when they believe a crime is occurring or if there is suspicious activity. “A concerned citizen called in the report of the graffiti” that resulted in the three arrests, said Lt. Saviers. To report graffiti or vandalism in progress, call the SPPD at 525-4474; if there is an emergency dial 911.