Placerville, CA (Dec 15 2023) — In a chilling incident, a jury in El Dorado County delivered a guilty verdict on December 13, 2023, against Michael Christopher Hammond for threatening the life of a police officer using garden tools. The verdict came after a brief 90-minute deliberation, finding Hammond guilty of “attempting to deter and resisting an executive officer in the performance of his duties.”
Deputy District Attorney Yvan Flores presented evidence that painted a vivid picture of the confrontation between Hammond and Placerville Police Officer Pullmann. The incident unfolded at the Chevron gas station in Placerville when Officer Pullmann, investigating a possible trespassing, instructed Hammond to leave the property.
In a sudden escalation, Hammond seized a 3-foot stick resembling a pickaxe, lifting it over his head while vociferously declaring, “I’m going to kill you!” Undeterred, Hammond dropped the makeshift weapon only to immediately grab a metal shovel head. Once again, he raised it menacingly, repeating the chilling threat. Officer Pullmann managed to handcuff Hammond, but the threats continued, with Hammond vowing to shoot the officer with a .22 when released from jail.
Profile of Michael Christopher Hammond:
- Age: 57
- Sex: Male
- Race: White
- Height: 5′ 4″
- Weight: 201 lbs
- Hair: Gray
- Eyes: Blue
- Build: Stocky
- Complexion: Light
Arrest Details:
- Booking Date: 09/28/2023 18:54
- Arresting Agency: PPD
- Arrest Location: 1312 BROADWAY DR
Charges:
- 1 count of 69(A) PC – Obstruct/resist exec ofcr – Intimidation (F) [Felony]
- 1 count of 148(A)(1) PC – Obstruct/resist/etc public/peace officer/emergency med tech (M) [Misdemeanor] Bail: $3000
- 1 count of 602(O)(1) PC – Trespass:refuse to leave property:peace officer request (M) [Misdemeanor] Bail: $0
- 1 count of ENHANCEMENT – FOR BAIL PURPOSES ONLY [Felony] Bail: $0
Upcoming Sentencing: Michael Christopher Hammond is scheduled to be sentenced in Department 1 of the El Dorado County Superior Court on January 26, 2024. If convicted, he could face up to 3 years in County Prison.
This incident underscores the risks law enforcement officers face daily and highlights the importance of addressing threats against public servants. The El Dorado County community awaits the sentencing as justice takes its course in this alarming case.