April 30, 2024 - Fresno Police Department officials report shortly before 4:00 pm on Saturday, April 27, 2024, officers from the Central Policing District responded to a call of a physical disturbance occurring at Echo Avenue and Hedges Avenue. Officers arrived and contacted several females who had set up a booth for the Porchfest event occurring in the Tower District. The females stated that an intoxicated male, later identified as 49-year-old Francisco Samaniego, approached them and began an argument over their support of Palestine. The argument escalated to a physical confrontation. Samaniego fled on foot after the altercation but was found by assisting officers. The victim’s injuries did not require immediate medical treatment.

Samaniego was arrested for following charges and booked into the Fresno County Jail.

• • PC 211 – Robbery (felony)
• • PC 242 – Battery on a Person (misdemeanor)
• • PC 422.6(a) – Violation of Civil Rights/hate crime (misdemeanor)
• • PC 594(a)(s) – Vandalism (misdemeanor)

“The equal protection of all members of our community, regardless of their political affiliation, social status, race, creed, or sexual preference is a top priority for the Fresno Police Department. The assault which occurred last Saturday at Porchfest is being investigated as a hate crime, and we are happy to say the perpetrator was arrested. The Fresno community does not stand for hate or lawlessness, and we will continue to work with all members of our city to make sure everyone can express their beliefs without fear of violences," said Chief Paco Balderrama.
Source: Fresno Police Department