Four arrested following vandalism investigation

T.O. resident Johnny Lomeli, 18, and three juvenile males were arrested earlier this month, culminating a gang graffiti investigation that began in January.

Lomeli, one 17-year-old male and two 16-year-old males, all of Thousand Oaks, had allegedly used spray paint to vandalize various locations throughout the city of Thousand Oaks, according to authorities.

The three juvenile suspects were arrested at their homes the evening of Fri., Aug. 4. Lomeli was arrested while in custody in Santa Paula on an unrelated vandalism charge.

The investigation was conducted by Senior Dep. Dan Hawes of the T.O. Police Special Enforcement Unit.

Lomeli was arrested for 19 counts of misdemeanor vandalism; the 17-year-old on 15 counts; and the 16-year-olds were booked for 14 and seven counts respectively. The city's public works department spent a minimum of $7,500 to remove the graffiti, an official said.

Residents are encouraged to immediately report graffiti vandalism at (805) 449-2488.