Suspects accused of violating court order, obstruction
Hollister police recently arrested two local men—including one who had a loaded handgun—on suspicion of violating a restraining order and obstructing officers, according to authorities.
About 10:20pm Feb. 18, officers were dispatched to a home on the 800 block of Central Avenue in Hollister on a report of violation of a restraining order, according to a press release from the police department. The suspect, Randy Casarez, Jr., 27, of Hollister, was at the residence in violation of a court order prohibiting him from being there.
When police arrived, Casarez fled out the back door and into a neighboring backyard, according to police. Officers immediately responded to the neighboring home, where police obtained permission from the homeowner to search outside for Casarez.
Once in the backyard, officers encountered Efren Villareal, 28, of Hollister. Villareal lives at the home, and suggested he had the right to shoot officers because they were on his property, according to police.
The officers could see Casarez hiding behind Villareal, police said. Villareal refused to cooperate when asked to show his hands. After a “very short standoff,” Villareal was taken into custody. A loaded high-capacity magazine was found on his person.
Casarez was found hiding nearby and also arrested, according to police. He was booked on suspicion of disobeying a court order and resisting arrest. Villareal was booked on suspicion of threatening officers, obstruction and being in possession of a high-capacity magazine.
Anyone with information about this incident can contact Hollister Police Officer Evan Umstead at (831) 636-4330. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME. Information provided to WeTip may qualify for a reward.
