Quentin Bocanegra Held to Answer on Criminal Threats and Stalking Charges in Modoc County

Modoc County DA announces defendant remanded into custody after preliminary hearing

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:28pm

An extreme close-up of a pair of metal handcuffs against a pitch-black background, the harsh lighting creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The harsh flash photography of criminal evidence underscores the serious nature of the charges against the defendant.Alturas Today

Quentin Bocanegra has been held to answer following a preliminary hearing on all charged counts, enhancement and special allegations in Modoc County, California. The defendant was remanded into custody after the court found sufficient evidence for felony violations of criminal threats and stalking, along with accompanying special allegations and a strike enhancement.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and prosecutors in Modoc County to address serious criminal threats and stalking behavior, which can have significant impacts on public safety and victims' wellbeing. The application of California's Three Strikes Law also reflects the severity with which repeat offenders are treated.

The details

Bocanegra was charged with felony violations of Penal Code section 422(a) (criminal threats) and Penal Code section 646.9(a) (stalking), along with several accompanying special allegations. The court also held the defendant to answer on the enhancement alleging two prior strike convictions, making the matter eligible for sentencing under California's Three Strikes Law.

  • The preliminary hearing took place on April 3, 2026.
  • The next court hearing is scheduled for April 16, 2026 for Arraignment on the Information.

The players

Quentin Bocanegra

The defendant who has been held to answer on felony criminal threats and stalking charges, with accompanying special allegations and a strike enhancement.

Nina Salarno

The Modoc County District Attorney who announced the charges against Bocanegra.

Frankie Widby

An Alturas Police Officer who was commended for his work on the investigation and handling of this case.

Gerald Schmidt

A California State Parole Officer who was commended for his work on the investigation and handling of this case.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold repeat offenders accountable and protect the safety of our community.”

— Nina Salarno, Modoc County District Attorney

What’s next

The defendant will be arraigned on the Information on April 16, 2026, where he will enter a plea and the court will set further proceedings.

The takeaway

This case demonstrates Modoc County's commitment to addressing serious criminal threats and stalking behavior through the justice system, particularly when it involves repeat offenders who pose an ongoing risk to public safety.