Bay Area/ North SF Bay Area

Montana Man Arrested in Petaluma for Multi-Home Burglaries and Assaults, Bail Set at $1.5 Million

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Published on January 03, 2024
Montana Man Arrested in Petaluma for Multi-Home Burglaries and Assaults, Bail Set at $1.5 MillionSource: Google Street View

Chaos erupted in a quiet Petaluma neighborhood where police say Hans Schweitzer, 37, of Montana, wreaked havoc as he allegedly committed multiple residential burglaries and acts of violence. The Petaluma Police Department revealed in a statement that Schweitzer is facing a list of charges, including burglary, attempted burglary, assault with intent to commit sexual assault, and false imprisonment.

Early yesterday morning, Eden Lane and Cherry Street residents were the targets of a spree feared by suburbanites everywhere. Schweitzer reportedly started his rampage around 0844 hours on Bodega Avenue but was thwarted by a resident's dogs. He then moved to Eden Lane, where his attempts to enter multiple homes were reported to authorities shortly before 0900 hours.

According to the police report, Schweitzer tried to force himself into one residence, only to be stopped by a locked door. He then gained entry to another home where he assaulted a woman before she managed to break free with her young child and call 911. Undeterred, Schweitzer continued his intrusion spree, later clashing with a male resident before locals detained the aggressor.

The Petaluma Police have praised the community's quick response, instrumental in Schweitzer's capture, who was eventually booked with bail set at a staggering $1.5 million after intervention from authorities. 

Residents and officers alike hope for swift justice after this alarming episode. For further updates, the media is encouraged to contact Lieutenant Garrett Glaviano as the investigation continues.