2 suspects arrested for allegedly starting fire in Ventura County

Two suspects were arrested for allegedly starting a fire in Ventura County. 

The suspects were identified as Michael McCullar, 53, and Jamie Jacobson, 37, according to the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.

On Feb. 3, the sheriff’s Unmanned Aerial Systems Unit conducted a nighttime operation in the Santa Clara River bottom just south of Olivas Links Golf Course. 

“The goal of this operation was fire prevention through proactive policing,” authorities explained.

The team launched a drone with thermal capabilities and eventually discovered an active fire in a brush area near the river bottom. The two suspects were seen tending to the fire, deputies said.

Authorities with the Homeless Liaison Unit approached the pair and took them into custody. They were arrested and booked at the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility for one count of felony arson each.

“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 sheriff’s department said.

Anyone with additional information or reports on suspicious behavior can call the Ventura County Sheriff at 805-654-9511.