Man Arrested for Assaulting, Holding Girlfriend Hostage in San Luis Obispo

Travis Pease faces multiple charges after alleged violent incident on Friday night.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:03am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a pair of metal handcuffs against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conveying a sense of restraint and the gritty nature of law enforcement.The harsh flash photography of a pair of handcuffs symbolizes the grim realities of domestic violence cases and the need for stronger intervention.San Luis Obispo Today

A 35-year-old man named Travis Pease is facing criminal charges after he allegedly assaulted his girlfriend and then held her against her will in San Luis Obispo on Friday evening. Police were called to the scene and were able to locate and detain Pease, who had several firearms and brass knuckles in his car. Pease was booked into the San Luis Obispo County jail on charges of false imprisonment with force, vandalism, domestic battery, and possession of brass knuckles.

Why it matters

Domestic violence incidents like this one highlight the ongoing need for law enforcement, victim support services, and community-based solutions to address intimate partner abuse. This case also raises concerns about the presence of firearms in domestic disputes and the risks they pose to victims.

The details

According to the report, a 9-1-1 caller informed dispatch that Pease and his girlfriend had gotten into a physical altercation after Pease had been drinking. Pease had left the property, but the caller believed he had guns with him. Police were able to locate Pease walking up Prefumo Canyon Road and detained him. Officers then found several firearms and brass knuckles in Pease's car. Further investigation revealed that Pease had pushed his girlfriend multiple times, prevented her from leaving the house, and poured juice and gasoline on her car.

  • The incident occurred on Friday, April 11, 2026, shortly before 11 p.m.
  • Police were able to locate and detain Pease a short time later.

The players

Travis Pease

A 35-year-old man who was arrested and charged with false imprisonment with force, vandalism, domestic battery, and possession of brass knuckles.

Pease's girlfriend

The victim in this incident, who was allegedly assaulted and held against her will by Pease.

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What they’re saying

“Out of an abundance of caution, a reverse 9-1-1 alert was sent out to nearby residents to shelter in place.”

— Police Officer

What’s next

Pease is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, April 16th, where a judge will determine whether to grant him bail.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing need for comprehensive solutions to address domestic violence, including stronger laws, improved access to support services for victims, and community-based programs aimed at preventing abuse and promoting healthy relationships.