Walnut Creek Security Guards Charged For Battery During Protest

WALNUT CREEK, CA — Last year, two private security guards were hired for a protest at Planned Parenthood. The two guards were slapped with misdemeanor charges on Friday on suspicion of battery during the rally, according to the Contra Costa District Attorney's office.

The two security guards — Ishtapal Momi, 27, of Elk Grove and Peter Reves, 45, of Sacramento — were hired by 40 Days for Life, a group that was rallying against Planned Parenthood on Oct. 13 of last year.

During the protest, an altercation broke out between demonstrators and counter protesters that prompted Momi and Reeves to deploy cans of pepper spray against the opposing protesters, officials said. Altogether, four people were hit by the pepper spray, officials said.

The pair were also illegally armed with tear gas, the county D.A.'s office said in a statement. Both were also carrying firearms and large canisters of pepper spray.

The canisters of pepper spray used by the guards were too large and were illegal in the state, the office said. In California, only 2.5 ounces or smaller can be carried legally, officials said.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Simon O'Connell filed charges against Momi and Reeves for battery and illegal possession of tear gas, officials said. Both will be given notice to appear for an arraignment.