Suspects In Homophobic Assault Released From Custody: SCPD

Santa Cruz CA

29 April, 2022

7:19 PM

Description

SANTA CRUZ, CA — Two suspects in a homophobic hate crime that occurred Saturday have been released from custody due to new information from two independent eyewitnesses, Santa Cruz police said Wednesday. Police arrested Richard Wood, 28, of Santa Cruz, and Victoria Van Sandt, after an alleged assault that took place Saturday on Blackburn Street in Santa Cruz. Police said that the couple was walking their dog when they ran into a gay couple also walking their dog. When the two dogs began fighting, Wood allegedly assaulted one of the men and caused minor injuries, according to a police press release. Van Sandt allegedly joined in. Both suspects allegedly fled the area on foot. Officers were able to identify the suspects with the help of surveillance video, and both were arrested and booked into Santa Cruz County jail on charges of assault, conspiracy, and violation of one's civil rights, more commonly known as a hate crime. However, on Monday, two independent eyewitnesses contacted police and provided "additional evidence that sheds new light on the initial statements made to officers by the individuals involved in the altercation," according to a Wednesday SCPD news release. SCPD said that it consulted with the Santa Cruz County District Attorney's Office, and decided to release the suspects from custody pending further investigation of the new information. The District Attorney will decide whether or not to file charges. The case remains an active investigation, police said. Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact Santa Cruz PoliceInvestigations Unit at (831) 420-5820. Anonymous tips can be sent through the Tip Line at (831) 420-5995 or www.santacruzpolice.com.