Tag: Ventura Police Dept.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police urge responsible celebrations this holiday season

by Community Contributor • December 17, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — As holiday celebrations ramp up, so does the risk on our roads. In December 2023, 1,038 people across the U.S. lost their lives in alcohol-impaired driving crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Ventura Police Department joins agencies statewide in urging drivers to celebrate responsibly and keep impaired driving out of their holiday plans.

Tthrough New Year’s Day, Ventura Police Department will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The high-visibility enforcement effort is part of a national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, with the goal of stopping suspected impaired drivers who put others at risk.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police spread holiday cheer at annual Shop with a Cop

by Community Contributor • December 12, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department helped make the season brighter for local families on December 10, 2025, during its annual Shop with a Cop event, held at Walmart and hosted in partnership with the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura and the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation.

This year, 30 children from low-income households and families facing childhood cancer were paired with Ventura Police officers for an unforgettable evening of one-on-one shopping. Each child received $150 to choose gifts for the people they love, turning what can be a challenging time of year into an afternoon of joy and connection.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department opens applications for Teen Explorer Program

by Community Contributor • December 9, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department invites local teens to step behind the scenes of real police work as applications open for the Teen Explorer Program. Designed for high school students ages 14–18, the program offers a rare, hands-on look at law enforcement while helping young people build confidence, leadership skills, and lasting connections in their community.

Bilingual report — Office of Traffic Safety awards $185,000 grant to the Ventura Police Department for Traffic Enforcement Program to increase safety on roads

by Community Contributor • November 24, 2025 • Comments Off

“We are grateful to receive this grant, which will strengthen our traffic enforcement efforts and improve road safety,” said Traffic Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “Through a combination of education and enforcement efforts, our goal is to reduce dangerous driving behaviors, prevent crashes, and make our roads safer for everyone.”

Bilingual report — Child Passenger Safety Week: Protect your child with the right car seat

by Community Contributor • September 24, 2025 • Comments Off

“Every child deserves to travel safely,” Sergeant Mark Knackstedt said. “We urge all parents and caregivers to know for sure that their children are in the right seats and that those seats are installed correctly. Keeping a child in the right seat for their age and size can make all the difference in a crash.”

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department launches community questionnaire to help shape next strategic plan

by Community Contributor • September 15, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department invites residents, business owners, and community stakeholders to participate in its Strategic Plan Community Questionnaire. This short, accessible feedback form, available in English and Spanish, gives the community a direct voice in shaping the department’s priorities and goals.

Bilingual report — The Ventura Police Department announces DUI checkpoint planned for Aug. 29

by Community Contributor • August 29, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit will conduct a DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the city limits on Friday, August 29, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring residents from driving impaired.

During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police prepare for increased traffic during Ventura County Fair

by Community Contributor • July 30, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — With thousands expected to attend the Ventura County Fair from July 30 through August 10, the Ventura Police Department advises the public to expect traffic congestion near the Ventura County Fairgrounds and throughout the surrounding area. Attendees are encouraged to plan ahead, utilize public transportation, or take advantage of off-site parking options to minimize delays and support pedestrian safety.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Dept. warns drivers: Speeding catches up with you

by Community Contributor • July 28, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Focused on eliminating driving behaviors that contribute to traffic-related fatalities on our nation’s roads, the Ventura Police Department and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) calls on drivers to recognize speeding as an aggressive driving behavior that endangers all road users and to put an end to it because Speeding Catches up with You.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura releases 12th episode of Ventura Voices podcast featuring new Police Chief David Dickey

by Community Contributor • July 9, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is excited to announce the release of Episode 12 of its Ventura Voices podcast, now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube. This latest episode features a conversation between City Manager Bill Ayub and Ventura’s new Chief of Police, David Dickey.

In this engaging interview, Chief Dickey shares how he got his start in law enforcement, what inspired his journey to Ventura, and his vision for the future of the Ventura Police Department. He discusses the importance of community policing, building public trust, and investing in strategies that strengthen neighborhood safety.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department urges public to skip illegal fireworks

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — As Independence Day celebrations approach, the Ventura Police Department (VPD) is ramping up efforts to prevent illegal fireworks activity by increasing patrols and expanding the use of drone technology for the second consecutive year.

This proactive enforcement strategy builds on the success of 2024, when the department responded to over 300 fireworks-related 911 calls and issued $9,000 in citations through drone deployments that helped pinpoint illegal activity in real time.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department opens applications for 2025 Community Academy

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department is now accepting applications for the 2025 Community Academy, a free program for 30 Ventura residents and business owners. Participants will gain an inside look at local policing through interactive classes, ride-alongs, demonstrations, and hands-on activities. Applications are open through Friday, July 4, 2025.

Each year, the academy provides participants the opportunity to learn firsthand about the diverse operations of the Ventura Police Department. The program features a variety of topics, including patrol operations, investigations, crisis negotiations, K9 deployment, DUI checkpoints, and community outreach initiatives. Each night features a new topic with different speakers, demonstrations, and discussions.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department launches first Mounted Patrol Unit to enhance community engagement and public safety

by Community Contributor • June 5, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever Mounted Patrol Unit, featuring four trained horses and experienced officer riders. This new initiative aims to strengthen community engagement while enhancing public safety in high-traffic areas throughout the city.

The Mounted Patrol Unit will be deployed for proactive patrols focused on crime deterrence, crowd management, special events, and parades. Residents and visitors can expect to periodically see mounted officers in key locations such as Downtown Ventura, the Ventura Promenade, the Ventura Harbor, and local parks, both during the day and at night. In addition to their operational value, mounted officers foster more approachable, face-to-face interactions with the public.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police ignite Flame of Hope for Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run on June 5

by Community Contributor • June 3, 2025 • Comments Off

This annual, non-competitive relay kicks off at historic Ventura City Hall, making its way east through the community. Ventura PD will then pass the torch to the Ventura Harbor Patrol, continuing the flame’s journey through Ventura County and toward the Southern California Summer Games in Long Beach, June 6–8, 2025.

“The Flame of Hope represents the courage and perseverance of Special Olympics athletes,” said Sergeant Ryan Reynosa, Special Olympics Liaison for the Ventura Police Department. “Team Ventura PD is honored to carry the torch, support fundraising, and champion inclusion and awareness for these inspiring individuals.”

Bilingual report — Community members urged to use shuttles and off-site parking for Strawberry Festival

by Community Contributor • May 15, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — With thousands expected to attend the California Strawberry Festival at the Ventura County Fairgrounds on May 17-18, 2025, the Ventura Police Department advises visitors to expect traffic congestion throughout the weekend. Attendees are encouraged to use off-site parking, the free Strawberry Express Shuttle system, or rail services to avoid delays and enhance pedestrian safety.

“While the City of Ventura is not the host of the Strawberry Festival, the event has a significant impact on our streets and neighborhoods,” said Traffic Unit Supervisor Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “Our role is to help ensure public safety by managing increased traffic, preventing collisions, and providing for pedestrian safety.”

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Dept. — “Click It or Ticket” campaign reminds Californians to always buckle up

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2025 • Comments Off

“Buckling up takes seconds, but it can save your life,” said Corporal David Curtis. “Every person in every vehicle — no matter their age or where they’re sitting — deserves that protection. Wearing a seat belt should be second nature, every trip, every time.”

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department honors officers during National Police Week

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — During National Police Week, happening May 11–17, the City of Ventura recognizes the people behind the badge and the vital roles they play in making our community safer and stronger. Behind every call for help, traffic stop, or community event is a Ventura Police Department employee working with purpose, compassion, and resolve.

“National Police Week is a powerful reminder of the commitment our officers make every day and of the very real risks they face to protect our community,” said Interim Police Chief Tony Lee. “Our employees are our most valuable asset, and the work they do is the backbone of public safety in Ventura. We are deeply grateful for their service, sacrifice, and resilience.”

Bilingual report — Ventura PD urges drivers to stay alert during National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — With the return of warmer weather and an increase in motorcycles on the road, Ventura PD reminds drivers to share the road, reduce crashes, and help save lives throughout May, recognized nationally as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

“Motorcycles can easily be overlooked in traffic, making it essential to check your mirrors and blind spots carefully,” said Corporal David Curtis. “A simple second glance can prevent a tragedy. Unlike drivers in cars, motorcyclists lack the protection of a vehicle frame. We all share the responsibility to help keep our roads safe.”

Bilingual report — May is National Bicycle Safety Month: Ventura PD encourages safer streets for all

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2025 • Comments Off

To help protect bicyclists and pedestrians, the Ventura Police Department will conduct a focused traffic safety operation throughout the month, aimed at addressing violations that endanger people walking and biking. Enforcement efforts will focus on speeding, illegal turns, failure to yield, and stop sign or red light violations.

Bilingual report — Ventura PD honors dispatchers’ vital role in emergency response

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2025 • Comments Off

“Public safety dispatchers truly are the first responders,” said Interim Police Chief Tony Lee. “They manage intense situations with clarity, compassion, and focus—providing essential support to both the community and our officers in the field. Their work often goes unseen, but it is absolutely vital to every emergency response.”

Among VPD’s team of 17 skilled dispatchers, Megann Williams is being recognized as the 2024 Dispatcher of the Year for her outstanding contributions to public service and officer safety. With a calm, steady presence and an exceptional ability to multitask, Williams exemplifies the critical role dispatchers play in public safety.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police to hold DUI Checkpoint on Friday, Jan. 17

by Community Contributor • January 16, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department will conduct a driving under the influence (DUI) Checkpoint on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. The checkpoint will be held at an undisclosed location within the City of Ventura.

Carefully chosen based on data reflecting incidents of impaired driving-related crashes, DUI checkpoints play a pivotal role in enhancing public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the road.