Uber Driver Held to Answer on Rape and Kidnapping Charges
Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced today that Simranjit Singh Sekhon (DOB 01/07/90), of Bakersfield, has been held to answer on charges of rape of an unconscious person and kidnapping to commit rape. On April 15, 2026, following testimony by both the victim and the investigating detective, the court found sufficient evidence to hold Sekhon to answer on both counts and aggravating factors. Sekhon is scheduled to be arraigned on the information April 29, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in courtroom 12 of the Ventura County Superior Court. He is out of custody after posting $500,000 bond.
District Attorney Erik Nasarenko Testifies in Support of AB 2075 to Strengthen Wildfire Prevention Laws
Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko testified this week before the California State Assembly Committee on Natural Resources in support of Assembly Bill 2075 (AB 2075), legislation aimed at strengthening wildfire prevention laws and clarifying fire safety requirements during vegetation clearing operations. The bill passed unanimously out of the Assembly Natural Resources Committee on a 14-0 vote as amended and will now be re-referred to the Assembly Judiciary Committee.
Ohio Man Convicted of Committing Forcible Rape While on Vacation in Oxnard
Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced today that Christopher Baum (01/11/67), of Fairlawn, Ohio, was convicted by a jury of one felony count of forcible rape. An aggravating factor that the crime involved great violence was also found to be true. Deputy District Attorney Julia McAndrew, a member of the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office Sexual Assault Unit, prosecuted the case. “This verdict affirms that survivors of sexual violence have the right to be heard, believed, and protected, and that those who commit these crimes will be held accountable,” Ms. McAndrew said. “It is my hope that this outcome brings the victim of this case a meaningful measure of justice.”
Military Equipment
District Attorney’s policy pursuant to AB 481 Military Equipment. Click here to view Policy 703 – Military Equipment Click here to view 2023 Military Equipment Annual Report Click here to view 2024 Military Equipment Annual Report Click here to view 2025 Military Equipment Annual Report
Why am I a witness? I didn’t see the crime happen.
Witnesses are not limited to eye witnesses. You may not have seen the crime happen but you may know something about it. You may also know something about a piece of evidence, or you may know something that contradicts another witness’s testimony. If you wonder why you are testifying in a particular case, you may ask the prosecutor who issued the subpoena.
If I miss work to testify, will the district attorney pay for my loss in wages?
Generally, witnesses, apart from experts retained by the parties, must come to court to testify about matters that they have knowledge of without payment. It is a civic duty imposed upon all citizens in order to insure a just and fair judicial system.
If I get a subpoena do I have to go to court?
When you receive a subpoena from the District Attorney’s Office, please call our Witness Coordination Unit for further instructions. From Camarillo, Ojai, Oxnard, Point Mugu, Port Hueneme, Saticoy and Ventura, please call (805) 654-3006. From other areas inside California, call (800) 692-8887. From outside California, you may call collect to (805) 654-3006. Para asistencia en Español, llame (805) 654-3708.
As a witness, do I have to talk in front of the defendant when I am in court?
Yes. The defendant has the right to be present in court to hear what all the witnesses say about him or her. Both the prosecutor and the defendant’s attorney will ask you questions.
Who is the victim advocate assigned to my case?
Please call our office at (805) 654-3622 to obtain this information.