On January 24, a break-in in Camarillo, California, escalated into a high-speed pursuit and a violent collision, leading to the charging of Jalen Amir Yoakum, a known gang member from Los Angeles.
Yoakum, a 24-year-old Lancaster resident, was allegedly apprehended stealing goods from a Camarillo Target shop.
Yoakum tried to flee the store without paying after concealing items in his possession, according to the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office.
When store security challenged him, he ran away, and the Ventura County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the theft.
Officials recognized Yoakum as the suspect after looking over security footage, and detectives found his car close by.
Yoakum smashed his automobile into an undercover car in an attempt to avoid being arrested when police attempted to arrest him.
Deputies were chasing after them as a result of this fast-paced pursuit. Yoakum continued to pursuit until he violently collided with two cars on Santa Rosa Road.
The driver was gravely hurt, and three other passengers were hurt when one of the cars overturned due to the force of the collision.
Even though the collision was severe, Yoakum tried to escape on foot but was apprehended by police right away.
Along with his criminal charges related to the chase and collision, a loaded gun with an extended magazine was found, which was thought to have been dropped by Yoakum during his escape attempt.
Yoakum’s allegations are more serious because he is a restricted person and cannot own firearms.
To make matters worse, investigators discovered that Yoakum had pending warrants in Los Angeles County for robbery, weapons possession, and a probation violation.
In addition to careless driving, many firearm crimes, avoiding police and causing injury, and two hit-and-run misdemeanor counts, Yoakum is currently facing six felony accusations. He is also charged with petty theft in connection with the initial Target break-in.
A “strike prior” from prior offenses and a claim that the incident featured significant violence were among the special allegations and aggravating circumstances that the District Attorney’s Office also presented.
When Yoakum was arraigned on January 30, he entered a not guilty plea to every allegation. On February 10, he is expected to appear in court again.
His bond has been set at $2 million, and he is still being held at the Ventura County Jail.
Texas High School Band Competition Turns Violent as Gunman Shoots 1, Parent Intervenes
The risky nature of the pursuit, the seriousness of the injuries sustained, the use of a pistol, and Yoakum’s lengthy criminal record have all contributed to the case’s increased attention.
The incident serves as a reminder of the difficulties law enforcement encounters when attempting to capture violent offenders and those with a history of firearm violations.
Leave a Comment