Oxnard Police Arrest Juveniles on Gun Charges During Patrol Focusing on Gang Activity

On the afternoon of Sept. 25, a routine patrol took a serious turn when Oxnard police arrested a group of youths, an encounter that led to the arrest of a 15-year-old on weapons charges, according to an Oxnard Police Department press release. The officers, part of the Special Enforcement Unit known for targeting gang activity, were responding to reports of underage drinking in public on Jane Dr. in Port Hueneme.

During the intervention, a 16-year-old fled on foot but was quickly captured and cited for resisting arrest before being released to his mother. The police saga played out in a neighborhood known to struggle with the shadows of gangs and gun violence. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement and communities face in addressing youth crime and access to firearms, particularly in areas plagued by gangs and the specter of youth falling prey to their ranks.

The 15-year-old in question, who was already on probation for possession of a loaded firearm, was found with a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm semi-automatic pistol, complete with a 34-round extended magazine, among his belongings following a probation search of his residence. “Officers conducted a probation search of the minor’s residence and located a loaded, Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, 9-millimeter, semi-automatic pistol and a loaded, 34-round, 9-millimeter extended magazine among the minor’s belongings,” Oxnard police said. The minor was immediately charged with several firearms offenses and transported to the Juvenile Justice Center.

In partnership with the Oxnard Police Department, the police department encourages the public to report any relevant information or criminal activity with anonymity through various reporting channels, including Ventura County Crime Stoppers.