Berkeley, California (Tuesday, July 13, 2021) - On July 8th at 9:44 pm, a 51-year-old man was asleep at his encampment in the area of Shattuck Avenue and Blake Street when he was attacked by a suspect. Using the man’s nearby guitar, the suspect repeatedly struck the man in the face—along with several punches and kicks. During the attack, the suspect made disparaging comments toward people of the LGBTQ community.
As a result of the attack, the man was taken to a local hospital with injuries to his head and upper body.
Although the suspect fled the area before officers could arrive, witnesses were able to provide a description of the suspect and knew the suspect’s nickname. Because they frequently patrol the Shattuck Avenue corridor, Bike Force officers recognized the description of the suspect as someone they were familiar with and began to search for him.
On the morning of July 9th, Bike Force officers located the suspect (a 31-year-old man, no address) on the 2500 block of Haste Street and arrested him.
On July 12th, the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office charged the suspect with PC 245(a)(1)—Assault with a deadly weapon, PC 12022.7(a)—Special allegation for causing serious bodily injury, PC 422(a)—Criminal threats and PC 422.6(a)—willfully threatening a person based on their perceived characteristics. PC 422.6(a) is considered a hate crime.
A hate crime is a crime against a person, group, or property motivated by the victim’s real or perceived protected social group (see Information Bulletin on Hate Crime Laws).
The Berkeley Police Department recognizes and places a high priority on the rights of all individuals guaranteed under state and federal law. The commission of a hate crime is a serious offense, which will not be tolerated in the City of Berkeley.
For more information about Hate Crimes and reporting, visit the CA Attorney General’s website resources.
Case 2021-00030333
