VENTURA : More Time Given in Beach Shootout Case

Prosecutors and defense attorneys have not had enough time to sift through evidence and line up witnesses to a Ventura beach shootout between alleged gang rivals earlier this month, a judge ruled Thursday.

Alejandro Garcia, 19, and Ramiro Montano, 20, will face separate preliminary hearings despite a joint complaint that alleges the two engaged in a gunfight at a crowded beach near the Ventura Harbor’s south jetty earlier this month, Municipal Judge Bruce A. Clark said.

“There are many, many witnesses and it’s a very serious case,” said Deputy Public Defender Todd W. Howeth, who represents Garcia.

Both men are charged with reckless discharge of a firearm and possession of a concealed weapon. Garcia also faces charges of assault with a deadly weapon and shooting from a vehicle.

Hundreds of beach-goers scrambled for cover as gunfire between rival Santa Paula gang members began Aug. 5, police said. No one was injured.

The preliminary hearing for Garcia was rescheduled for Oct. 1. A hearing for Montano, who will be represented by Charles L. Cassy, was scheduled for Sept. 3.

Two juveniles also arrested in the shootout face criminal proceedings next week. A 17-year-old may be tried as an adult and a court trial is scheduled for a 16-year-old.