Crime & Safety

Dangerous Sea Giants, Ocean Plunge: Santa Cruz County Police Log

Massive waves caused damage and led to dangerous rescues, along with other police, fire and court news from across the region.

A man standing on a rock at Bonny Doon before being swept into the ocean by a giant wave.
A man standing on a rock at Bonny Doon before being swept into the ocean by a giant wave. (County of Santa Cruz)

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — Here's this week's collection of police, fire and court stories from around Santa Cruz County:

Killer(s) Of Former Santa Cruz Man Sought: $50K Reward Announced

The body of Spencer Hodgson, 31, was found April 8 around 9 a.m. near Yreka Walker Road in the Klamath River area.

Find out what's happening in Santa Cruzfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

VIDEO: Vehicle That Plunged Off Cliff Still Missing, Leads Sought
If you recognize the vehicle in the video or have anyone missing/unaccounted for, contact CHP immediately.

High Surf Damages Wharf In Capitola
Recent strong swells caused some major damage at the popular wharf.

1 Person Dead In Crash East Of Watsonville
The crash occurred just south of Gilroy and about 20 miles east of Watsonville.

Find out what's happening in Santa Cruzfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Suspected Gang Member Leads Short Police Chase In Watsonville
Geovanni Lopez, 32, faces several charges, including being a felon in possession of a firearm and resisting arrest, police said.

2 Men Arrested During Vehicle Burglaries' Investigation: Felton
The two men were booked on various drug charges, warrants, probation violations and evading law enforcement.

VIDEO: Monster Wave Sweeps Man Into Sea At Bonny Doon
Beachgoers are advised to stay back from the water's edge and to not turn their backs on the ocean.

Earthquakes Shake Near Santa Cruz County
The earthquakes were near Santa Cruz County borderlines.

Suspected Drug Dealer Nabbed By Santa Cruz County Deputies
Michael Rodgers, 57, was booked on multiple felony charges.

Santa Cruz Police Announce New Year's Eve Arrests
The city rang in 2020 without any major incidents.

Crazy New Year's Day Surf In Santa Cruz County: 25-Foot Waves
Breaking waves exceeding 25 feet in some areas are forecast Wednesday.

Watsonville Fire Captain Returns Home After Hunting Accident
Watsonville Fire Department Captain Danny Lucas got a surprise homecoming.

Triple Fines For Lawbreakers On New Year's Eve: Santa Cruz
There will be a “Triple Fine” levied for certain Municipal Code violations.

Multiple Drivers Cited For Racing On Highway 1 In Aptos: CHP
About 20 vehicles were involved in the broad-daylight race, according to the California Highway Patrol.

NWS Warns Of New Year Beach Hazards: Santa Cruz County

Potentially deadly waves are forecast through 9 p.m. New Year's Day.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.