Oxnard, CA – A three-month narcotics investigation in Oxnard ended with the arrest of a 52-year-old man and the seizure of large amounts of drugs, illegal firearms, and dozens of dogs kept in inhumane conditions, authorities reported. The operation involved the Oxnard Police Department and the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.
Raid Details
Detectives from the Sheriff’s Special Crimes Unit and Oxnard police executed a search warrant around 10 a.m. on September 19 at a residence in the 2000 block of North Ventura Road. During the raid, officers seized nearly $11,000 in cash and approximately 2.2 pounds of fentanyl, enough for an estimated 51,350 potentially lethal doses.
Officials also recovered:
- More than six ounces of cocaine
- Methamphetamine and heroin
- Evidence of narcotics sales
Illegal Firearms
Authorities discovered a stolen Winchester 30-30 lever-action rifle and a 7.62 x 39 SKS rifle. The suspect, Darrell Rutledge of Oxnard, has prior felony convictions, which prohibit him from possessing firearms or ammunition, police said.
Animal Cruelty Concerns
During the search, officers found 22 dogs, including 11 puppies, many confined in small crates inside the apartment. Oxnard Animal Control responded and transported the animals to the Ventura County animal shelter. Four of the dogs required immediate medical treatment for respiratory issues. The investigation into possible animal cruelty is ongoing, as per KTLA.
Arrest and Charges
Darrell Rutledge was arrested on suspicion of:
- Possession of controlled substances for sale
- Possession of an assault rifle
- Felon in possession of firearms and ammunition
- Possession of stolen property
- Resisting a peace officer
Community Involvement
Authorities credited community tips for helping lead to the arrest and encouraged anyone with information about illegal drug sales or animal neglect to contact the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office or Oxnard Police Department.
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