Petaluma Man Arrested for Threats Over Pride Flags

Josh Garzoli, a 54-year-old Petaluma man, was arrested on Thursday after allegedly making escalating threats against a Petaluma City Schools district official over Pride flags displayed on campus, including a specific threat to have the official 'executed' if the flags were not removed. The threats began on May 30 with a voicemail, continued with an agitated visit to the district office, and culminated in a time-sensitive email on June 5. Police arrested Garzoli without incident and booked him on felony charges of making criminal threats, setting his bail at $750,000. The Petaluma City Schools district, which has flown Pride flags annually since 2022 to recognize Harvey Milk Day and Pride Month, reaffirmed its commitment to diversity and respectful dialogue. Authorities have increased security measures to ensure the safety of school staff and students. Garzoli is scheduled for a court appearance on Monday.