Recent Crimes – Offering Rewards

The Santa Cruz Police Department is announcing a $5,000 REWARD for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the following recent crimes:

Homicide of Pauly Silva Case #13S-01203
On February 9, 2013 at approximately 12:30 AM, Mr. Silva was shot during a confrontation that occurred outside The Red and The Red Room bars at Locust St and Cedar St. Mr. Silva was shot several times and pronounced dead at the scene. The police department arrested three individuals on the night of the shooting, but none have been charged at this point.

Robbery and Attempt Homicide of UCSC Student Case #13S-01291
On February 11, 2013 at approximately 7:30 PM, a UCSC student was shot during the course of a robbery while she sat at a bus bench on Natural Bridges Drive near Delaware St. Initially, the victim believed she was hit in the head with the rifle; however, a later medical examination showed she had actually been shot and the bullet was still lodged in her skull. The victim is expected to make a full recovery from her injuries. The victim’s stolen backpack was found near a dumpster on the east side of Santa Cruz. Video footage from the area shows a white or silver Chevy HHR as being associated with the drop off of the backpack. A sketch has been released in this case.

Additionally, a $2,500 REWARD is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the responsible suspects in the following case:

Robbery at Food Bin, Case #13S-01348
On February 13, 2013 at approximately 7:30 PM, two masked men entered Food Bin, 1130 Mission Street. One was armed with a rifle while the other armed with a large knife. The suspects ordered everyone to the floor and demanded money. They robbed the business of cash as well as an iPad and iPhone from one of the customers. The suspects also kicked a customer in the face during the course of the robbery.

Chief Kevin Vogel stated, “We are committed to solving these crimes and arresting the responsible individuals. Our detectives are working tirelessly on all available leads in these cases. We are hopeful that key pieces of information will come forward. ”

The police department believes there are individuals who have additional information and might be encouraged by the prospect of a reward.

Community members interested in donating to the Police Department’s Community Care Fund and increasing potential reward offerings may do so.

Witnesses who are reluctant to be identified can leave an anonymous tip via the department’s Tip Line, or through their iPhone and Droid mobile app listed below. Anonymous Tips are not eligible for rewards.