2 Men Arrested On Suspicion Of Burglarizing Santa Paula Home On Christmas Eve

SANTA PAULA (CBSLA.com) — Two Santa Paula men suspected of burglarizing a home on Christmas Eve have been arrested, police said Thursday.

According to the Santa Paula Police Department, Germain Ramos, 24, and Alejandro Castro, 31, are being held at the Ventura County Jail.

Just after 1 p.m. on Dec. 24, officers were sent to a home located in the 400 block of Dartmouth Road for a report of a subject running from a residence carrying a television.

Upon their arrival, authorities determined the residence had been burglarized.

"It was found that the suspects had made entry into the residence and proceeded to ransack and take the Christmas presents that were under the Christmas tree," said Sgt. Cody Madison. "Other electronic property was also taken from the home, [including] four televisions, a computer, an iPad and personal items of jewelry."

During a preliminary investigation, detectives identified Ramos -- who is known for his criminal record and was currently on probation for a theft conviction -- as one of the primary suspects involved in the burglary.

During a probation search of his room, authorities located stolen property linked to the burglary. Ramos was not home when authorities searched his room. A warrant was subsequently issued for his arrest.

On Tuesday night, officers located Ramos near his home. He was arrested on suspicion of burglary.

According to police, further investigation led to the identification of Castro. Around 3 p.m. on Wednesday, officers observed him driving in the 200 block of East Harvard Boulevard and conducted a traffic stop.

Castro was taken into custody on suspicion of burglary and conspiracy. A search of his vehicle revealed additional property that was stolen from the victim's home.

Ramos and Castro are each being held on $50,000 bail. An arraignment date was not immediately released.