Six Arrested in Major Drug Bust by Moorpark Special Enforcement Unit

A multi-agency investigation led by Moorpark’s Special Enforcement Unit has resulted in the arrest of six individuals tied to a drug distribution operation in east Ventura County. The bust marks one of the largest coordinated drug enforcement actions in the city this year.

📍 Where It Happened

The investigation focused on a residence located in the 14000 block of Avenida Colonia. Detectives targeted the property after identifying it as a location involved in the sale of illegal narcotics.

🕵️ How It Unfolded

Detectives built their case through surveillance and intelligence gathering. A judge from the Ventura County Superior Court authorized a search warrant, which was executed at around 7:10 a.m. on December 5. The operation involved officers from the Moorpark SEU, the Investigations Bureau, the East County SEU, and additional law enforcement units.

Inside the residence, detectives found:

• 4.6 grams of methamphetamine
• 0.61 grams of fentanyl
• 200 grams of marijuana
• Drug paraphernalia and items commonly associated with narcotic sales

🧑‍✈️ Who Was Arrested

Authorities arrested the following individuals:

• Vanessa Gonzalez, identified as the primary suspect
• Kevin Aguilar
• Arnoldo Gonzalez
• Emilio Solis
• Salvador Zavala
• Hernan Castillo

Each suspect faces various charges ranging from possession of controlled substances to intent to distribute. One other individual, Lorraine Hatcher, was cited and released.

Vanessa Gonzalez faces multiple charges, including possession of controlled substances for sale, possession of narcotics paraphernalia, and two or more prior convictions for narcotic possession.

📈 What It Means

This operation is part of an ongoing effort to crack down on drug-related crime in Moorpark and surrounding areas. Law enforcement officials stressed that this kind of coordinated effort is essential to keep communities safe from the growing impact of fentanyl and methamphetamine abuse.

🎯 Looking Ahead

Investigators are continuing to analyze evidence seized from the scene and are not ruling out further arrests. Ventura County Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to additional arrests in this case.

Community members are encouraged to contact authorities with any information that may help ongoing investigations.