May 24, 2023 - Monterey County Sheriff's Office officials reported that Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced yesterday that on May 17, 2023, Mike Riddle, age 65 and a resident of King City, was convicted following a two-and-a-half-week jury trial of two counts of assault with a firearm, in violation of Penal Code section 245(a)(2), along with enhancements for the use of a firearm pursuant to Penal Code section 12022.5(a).

On January 16, 2022, Riddle’s neighbors, John Doe and Jane Doe, called 911 to report that Riddle appeared to be intoxicated in the middle of a field in rural southern Monterey County near their property. They stated that Riddle lit a fire in the middle of the field.  John Doe and Jane Doe also reported that Riddle retrieved a rifle, pointed it at them, and began shooting towards them, their property, and Jolon Road.

Monterey County Sheriff’s deputies responded quickly to the scene where they encountered Riddle, who was armed with a firearm, under the influence of alcohol, and belligerent.  Mr. Riddle resisted the deputies’ attempts to safely detain him and render any firearms safe.  Sheriff’s K-9 Bond was also deployed at the scene. Ultimately, Mr. Riddle surrendered to the deputies.

Deputies Baugh, Lilga, and Wise from the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. District Attorney Investigator Rachel Maldonado provided crucial follow up investigation and assistance. John and Jane Doe were assisted by Victim Advocates Mayra Sandoval and Kristin Peterson.  The Honorable Rafael Vazquez will sentence Riddle on June 15, 2023.

Source: Monterey County Sheriff's Office