Man Arrested After Making Multiple Threats to Petaluma School Official Over Pride Flags

Josh Garzoli, a 54-year-old Petaluma resident, was arrested for making threats against a school official over the display of Pride flags on campuses. The threats began on May 30 with a voicemail demanding their removal, escalating to a visit to the school district's office where he expressed agitation. On June 7, Garzoli sent an email threatening to "execute" the official if the flags were not taken down by the day's end. Police characterized the threat as specific and time-sensitive, leading to Garzoli's arrest without incident. He faces felony charges of making criminal threats, with bail set at $750,000.

The police department is collaborating with Petaluma City Schools to enhance security measures for staff and students. Petaluma City Schools has displayed Pride flags since 2022, following a unanimous school board resolution, and officials reiterated their commitment to diversity in response to the threats. The incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding LGBTQ+ representation in educational settings.