On January 7, 2025, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in Los Angeles County and Ventura County due to the significant destruction caused by the Palisades Fire. Under California Penal Code section 396, during a state of emergency it is unlawful for sellers to increase prices by more than 10% for essential items such as food, fuel, medical supplies, and lodging, unless justified by legitimate cost increases. Additionally, residents are protected against excessive rent hikes and unjust evictions during the emergency period. Violations of Penal Code section 396 are punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $10,000.

“Price gouging during an emergency is against the law and a vicious way of ripping off those who have already lost so much,” said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “We strongly encourage anyone who suspects price gouging to report it immediately to local law enforcement for a thorough investigation.”

Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced today that Uriel Gamboa (DOB 09/28/93), of Thousand Oaks, has been charged with the murder of Aliya Pitts. Gamboa also faces special allegations for use of a deadly weapon, the crime being committed with great bodily injury, and the crime involving great violence. He made his first court appearance on January 14, 2025. The arraignment was continued.

Gamboa’s continued arraignment is scheduled for February 10, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. in courtroom 13 of the Ventura County Superior Court. He remains in custody without the chance for bail.

January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, and today the Ventura County Board of Supervisors officially recognized it with a formal proclamation. The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office reaffirms its commitment to combating this crime and supporting victims. While human trafficking is a global issue affecting millions, it also impacts communities here in Ventura County.

“Human trafficking is a heinous crime that preys on those in desperate situations,” said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “We remain relentless in our efforts to seek justice for survivors, hold offenders accountable, and prevent this exploitation from occurring in Ventura County.”

District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced today that Jaylin Edwards (DOB 12/28/96), of Oxnard, was sentenced to 64 years and 8 months to life in state prison for a 2019 shooting that injured two people, including a young girl who was left paralyzed. Edwards was convicted on November 15, 2024, of attempted murder, shooting at an inhabited dwelling, and two counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm.

Deputy District Attorney Stephanie Horlick, a member of the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office Major Crimes Unit, prosecuted the case.

“This sentence reflects the serious nature of the defendant’s conduct and the immeasurable harm and trauma it caused multiple victims,” Ms. Horlick said. “I am hopeful that as of today, the victims can move forward in peace, knowing justice has been served.”

District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced today that Javier Gomez (DOB 11/22/05) and a 14-year-old juvenile, both from Thousand Oaks, have been charged for a hate crime attack on an African American victim. Charged separately in adult and juvenile court, the defendant and minor each face one count of assault with a deadly weapon with the special allegations that the crime was committed for the benefit of a criminal street gang and committed as a hate crime.