Officers with the Irvine Police Department were performing what authorities called a “proactive check” on a former Marine Corps air station Friday when they found a makeshift living space containing a large cache of allegedly stolen items.
In a post to social media, police said the alleged trespassers were at the former Marine Corps Air Station El Toro. The suspects had decked out a room in the hangar complete with disco lights, a fog machine, and what appeared to be a music recording studio, along with more traditional home furniture like a couch and TV. Car batteries powered all of the equipment inside, police said.
In addition to the night-club-like atmosphere, there were several items inside the room, some allegedly stolen. They included 11 bicycles, numerous spools of copper wire, an illegal M-800 firework, personal property from Irvine residents, two airsoft rifles, and drug paraphernalia.
Two Anaheim residents, 29-year-old Joshua Michael Rosario, and 53-year-old Patricia Lynn Ratliff, were arrested on warrants and other charges. Rosario was also arrested on suspicion of burglary and drug possession. Irvine police said the pair had been cited or arrested “multiple times” before on suspicion of trespassing at El Toro.
The discovery of the makeshift living space at the former air station highlights the ongoing issue of trespassing and illegal activities at the site. The Irvine Police Department’s proactive check not only disrupted the illicit setup but also recovered stolen items that will be returned to their rightful owners.
The social media post from the police department praised the officers for their diligence and quick action in addressing the situation. “This case is a great example of the importance of proactive policing,” the post stated. “By regularly checking known problem areas, we can prevent crime and keep our community safe.”
The El Toro Marine Corps Air Station has been closed for years, but it remains a frequent target for trespassers. The Irvine Police Department continues to monitor the site to deter illegal activities and ensure the safety of the community.
As the investigation continues, Irvine residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities in their neighborhoods to the police. The proactive efforts of the police department, combined with community vigilance, play a crucial role in maintaining the security and well-being of the area.
Rosario and Ratliff are expected to face multiple charges related to burglary, possession of stolen property, and drug offenses. Their repeated arrests for trespassing at El Toro underscore the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in managing such sites.