Earlier today, Sonoma County deputies working together with Ukiah Police Department arrested Anthony Pelfrey, 43 years old, Ukiah, for a hate crime, felon in possession of pepper spray, and illegal use of pepper spray.
The incident unfolded at approximately 10:18 am when deputies were dispatched to Pinnacle Gulch Trail in Bodega Bay for a male intentionally pepper-spraying people. The first victim, an Asian male, was sprayed in the face with Bear Deterrent spray by Pelfrey for no apparent reason in the parking lot. The second victim, a Hispanic male, was walking out of the restroom and was sprayed as well. Pelfrey walked to his car, a white Honda Civic, as witnesses took photos of him and his car. Witnesses at the scene recognized the male as Pelfrey from their Yoga class. Pelfrey was at the location, attending an outdoor Yoga session. Pelfrey left the scene in his car.
A records check revealed the car belonged to Pelfrey with an address in Ukiah. Ukiah Police Department was notified and conducted surveillance at Pelfrey's home. Pelfrey was arrested at his home.
Ukiah Police Department and Mendocino County Sheriff's Office were both investigating two similar incidents involving Pelfrey, where earlier in the week, he used bear Deterrent spray on people.
In 2009 Pelfrey was convicted of attempted murder in Mendocino County after attacking two men with a machete.
Pelfrey was arrested and later transported to the Sonoma County Jail and booked for a hate crime, felon in possession of pepper spray, and illegal use of pepper spray. Pelfrey is currently in custody and being held on $50,000 bail after a judge approved a bail enhancement.
We want to thank the community members who called us with information. This case is another example of how we can better protect our community when we all work together.
Prepared by: Sergeant Juan Valencia, Public Information Officer
Case No: 200613-002
Media Inquiries: (707) 565-3941
