Police file criminal complaints against man suspected of threatening peaceful MLK Day marchers

A man suspected of threatening protesters during a Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Jan. 18 has been identified, Alameda police said Friday.

A two-count criminal complaint was filed Friday by city prosecutors against 33-year-old Alameda resident Jonathan Gee, who was identified following an extensive investigation.

Officials said the case “has been a top priority for our investigating detectives,” who interviewed witnesses to the confrontation in the Bay Port neighborhood, reviewed video and attempted to contact participants in the march.

During the investigation Gee admitted being the person seen confronting participants by “holding what appeared to be a long gun and threatening the peaceful protesters.”

Gee told investigators the weapon was a replica air gun, but that he got rid of it, according to police, who are trying to confirm that account.

A search of his residence turned up evidence connecting Gee to the case, including “distinctive clothing” worn while confronting protesters, police said.

No firearm or replica weapon was found, police said.

The two counts in the complaint filed by the department are for disturbing the peace in a manner likely to provoke a violent reaction and unlawful alteration of an imitation firearm, police said.

Police ask anyone who was threatened during the confrontation to contact them at (510) 337-8340.

Last modified February 14, 2021 4:17 pm

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