Fire Prevention Operation
February 7, 2025 – Ventura County Sheriff's Office officials report that on February 3, 2025, the Ventura County Sheriff's 
Office Homeless Liaison Unit arrested Michael McCullar and Jamie Jacobson for felony arson that occurred in the river bottom south of Olivas Links Golf Course.
On February 3, 2025, at approximately 6:00 p.m., the Homeless Liaison Unit and the Unmanned Aerial Systems Unit conducted a nighttime fire prevention operation in the Santa Clara River bottom south of Olivas Links Golf Course. The goal of this operation was fire prevention through proactive policing.
The Unmanned Aerial Systems Unit launched a drone with thermal capabilities and was able to identify an active reckless fire in the Santa Clara River bottom, which was being tended by two unknown individuals. Deputies observed embers flying from the fire, into the arundo in the river bottom. At the time of the fire, the wind was blowing approximately 8mph, with gusts up to 14mph. Due to the high risks of fire in the area, the risk of life and property damage, the Homeless Liaison Unit contacted the individuals tending the fire. Deputies identified McCullar and Jacobson as the people responsible for the fire. McCullar and Jacobson were arrested and booked at the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility for one count of felony arson each.
The Sheriff’s Office Homeless Liaison Unit is comprised of 2 sergeants and 8 deputies who are tasked with addressing issues related to people experiencing homelessness. The Ventura County Sheriff's Office Homeless Liaison Unit is committed to utilizing modern based policing methods, evidence-based policing, and a proactive approach to prevent future fires and crime in the river bottom.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the public to report suspicious behavior by calling Ventura County Sheriff’s Communications Center at (805) 654-9511 or 911 for any emergencies. When reporting suspicious behavior, please be a great witness and provide as much detail as possible.
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Nature of Incident: |
Fire Prevention Operation |
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Report Number: |
25-14694 |
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Location: |
Unincorporated Area of Ventura, Santa Clara River Bottom |
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Date & Time: |
February 03, 2025, 6:00 PM |
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Unit(s) Responsible: |
Homeless Liaison Unit |
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Suspects |
City of Residence |
Age |
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Michael McCullar |
Ventura |
53 |
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Source: Ventura County Sheriff's Office
