On Wednesday, December 4, 2024, the Modesto Police Department was called to the area of 9th Street and K Street to look into a possible hate crime. A victim had found a note on their car filled with hateful language and threats because of their race. The Violent Crimes Unit immediately started investigating and found that similar hate-filled signs had been reported recently in another part of Modesto, just outside the city limits. These incidents all targeted Mexican immigrants with racial slurs and threats.
The very next day, on December 5, 2024, the Sheriff’s Office shared a tip with Modesto Police about a potential suspect: 39-year-old Anthony Rodriguez. Detectives recognized Anthony’s name right away. He already had a warrant out for his arrest, issued by the Modesto Police, for a separate case from October 2024. In that case, Anthony was accused of stalking and making death threats.
On Thursday, deputies from the Sheriff’s Office arrested Anthony outside his home on Morgan Road, in an unincorporated area of Modesto. Modesto Police detectives were there to help search his home. During the search, they found evidence connecting Anthony to the hate crime on December 4 at 9th and K Streets, as well as to a similar case reported in the Sheriff’s jurisdiction.
When detectives interviewed Anthony, he admitted to being involved in the December 4 incident. He was arrested and charged with a felony hate crime under California law (422.6 PC). On top of that, he was booked for the earlier charges of stalking and making threats. Detectives also asked for Anthony’s bail to be increased to $400,000, and a judge approved it.
Modesto Police Chief Brandon Gillespie emphasized the department’s firm stance against hate crimes, saying, “Modesto has zero tolerance for this kind of behavior. Any reported acts of hate or violence based on race, religion, gender, or identity will be taken seriously and fully investigated. We’re committed to keeping public spaces safe and welcoming for everyone.”
This case shows how seriously law enforcement in Modesto takes hate crimes, and it’s a reminder that any form of hate will not be ignored. The investigation is ongoing, and officials are working to ensure justice is served.
