OXNARD, Calif. — A 19-year-old man has been found guilty in connection with a brutal assault against a juvenile in Ventura County, a case that highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by gang violence in the region. Sergio Contreras, a known gang member from Oxnard, was convicted by a jury on multiple charges, including assault with a deadly weapon and conspiracy to commit a crime.
The incident occurred on August 19, 2024, when the victim, who has not been publicly identified, was in a parking lot near a restaurant in the El Rio neighborhood. Surveillance footage captured Contreras and three companions driving by, spotting the victim before parking next to him. After exchanging words, Contreras suddenly struck the victim and then placed him in a headlock, initiating a violent group assault.
According to prosecutors, the three other teens joined in the attack, throwing punches and kicks at the victim. At one point, the victim managed to escape but was quickly subdued again, tripped, and knocked to the ground. The violence escalated further when Contreras pulled out a folding knife and stabbed the victim in both the leg and arm, using significant force.
After the attack, Contreras and his accomplices fled the scene, reportedly taking one of the victim’s shoes. Law enforcement soon apprehended the four suspects, aged 19, 18, and 15, in September 2024, following an investigation. During a search of their homes, deputies recovered the stolen shoe but did not find the knife used in the assault.
On December 10, 2025, a jury delivered its verdict against Contreras, confirming all the special allegations tied to the case, including that the assault was carried out by gang members and involved significant violence. Among these findings was confirmation of his prior felony record, which included violent offenses.
The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office underscored the severity of the case, with Prosecutor Lauren Malan stating that gang-related crimes present a serious danger to community safety. She expressed gratitude for the jury’s decision and acknowledged the collaboration of local law enforcement in bringing the case to trial.
In addition to Contreras, two other suspects had previously entered guilty pleas relating to assault and gang involvement, while the youngest suspect, a 15-year-old, also pled guilty to similar charges.
Contreras remains in custody without bail and now faces a potential sentence of up to 18 years in prison. A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for February 9, 2026, in Ventura County Superior Court, where the final determination of his penalty will be made.