By Bay City News
Mendocino County sheriff’s deputies arrested a local man after a reported domestic violence incident Thursday afternoon.
According to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office, at about 12:25 p.m., a 37-year-old woman reported being attacked, choked, and threatened with a firearm by her ex-boyfriend, Riordan Wilhelmi, 41.
The woman was allegedly attacked while returning Wilhelmi’s belongings. She managed to escape to safety and notified law enforcement, sheriff’s officials said.
The Sheriff’s Office said authorities were advised that the suspect’s mother was still at the scene and had been allegedly assaulted and injured as well.
Upon arrival, authorities found Wilhelmi had barricaded himself inside his studio attached to a garage on Alderwood Road. After unsuccessful attempts to contact him, deputies decided to hold their positions and await the arrival of the sheriff’s SWAT team.
A tactical drone was used to locate Wilhelmi inside, which led to his surrender and arrest without further incident.
Wilhelmi was booked into Mendocino County Jail on suspicion of domestic battery, assault with deadly weapon, and other charges, according to authorities. He is being held on a no-bail status for violating the terms of his probation.
