Tires Are Slashed on 2 Patrol Cars

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the recent vandalism of two of its cars.

Five tires were punctured early Tuesday morning, and “CVLS” was scratched into one car and “CV” was scratched into the other, authorities said. On May 20, a deputy’s car tire was slashed and “CVLS” was scratched into the paint. The two incidents are not necessarily related, said Det. Margaret O’Donnell.

The vandalism was classified as a gang-related misdemeanor.

“CVLS” is the moniker of one of the city’s three active gangs. However, officials are not jumping to any conclusions, O’Donnell said.

“The graffiti doesn’t necessarily mean the vandalism was by gang members or someone gang-affiliated,” she said. “We’re looking into all possibilities.”

The recent vandalism occurred after two deputies parked their cars in the 300 block of Ramble Ridge Drive, a residential neighborhood, and patrolled the area on foot, O’Donnell said. Damage was estimated at $1,000.

The May vandalism occurred in the evening on the 1400 block of Moorpark Road, a business area, O’Donnell said.

“This kind of vandalism doesn’t happen very often,” said Cmdr. Keith Parks, who is in charge of the Thousand Oaks sheriff’s station. “It’s very unusual to get damage like this. If we can, we will prosecute.”