Crime in the ‘Cito: Sheriff’s Blotter 93108

Fraud / Plaza Pacifica — Monday, April 7, at 15:01 hours

Victim called to report being defrauded of approximately $10,000 by a company that went out of business but was still charging his credit card every month. 

Missing Person / off Santa Cruz Island — Saturday, April 12, at 22:05 hours

39 area units were advised the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) was conducting a search of Santa Cruz Island for a missing diver and requested Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office (SBSO) assistance. On April 9 the missing male left the Santa Barbara Harbor on his boat at approximately 09:00 hours. It is believed he was alone on the vessel. When he failed to appear at his place of work, colleagues contacted the USCG. The Coast Guard had been searching for him since 08:00 hours. At approximately 15:38 hours, the boat was located floating south of Santa Cruz Island, vacant. On board, Coast Guard located personal effects, his clothing was folded neatly, and one dive tank was missing. The vessel’s batteries were dead, so the boat was towed to Santa Barbara Harbor. At the harbor they recharged the batteries and per the boat’s GPS, the boat was last anchored north of Santa Cruz Island. They believe at some point the boat broke anchor and floated south with the tide. Coast Guard stated they had boats and aircraft checking the island but requested a land search by SBSO. Search and Rescue was contacted, and a team traveled to the Island on the morning of April 13 to begin the land search. A missing person’s report was authored, and he was entered into MUPS. At this time, the investigation will remain with the USCG and SBSO Search and Rescue.