Case investigated by CSLEA/SPPOAC Member, RangerTyler Dempewolf and DA Investigator John Magana

“State Parks rangers work tirelessly to protect both park visitors and Parks employees. Their presence in our state parks helps deter crime and allows for quicker response times when incidents do occur.  With so much ground to cover, there is a tremendous need for more rangers to help keep our parks and communities safe. Thank you, Ranger Dempewolf, for your dedicated service to Parks employees and the public. Your commitment and presence are truly appreciated!”

CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

MONTEREY COUNTY – On September 2, 2026, after a two-day jury trial, David Carl Goad, 69, of San Simeon, was found guilty of felony assault by means likely to cause great bodily injury and misdemeanor battery committed on State Parks property.

On May 17, 2026, Goad began to disassemble a toilet in the restrooms at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park in Big Sur, to fix an issue with the toilet. The victim, a State Parks maintenance employee, asked Goad to stop what he was doing and leave the restroom to allow State Parks maintenance staff to fix the problem. Goad became hostile and combative with the victim, ultimately attacking the victim from behind when the victim turned his back to close and lock the restroom door. The victim testified that Goad placed his hands around the victim’s neck and applied pressure. The victim was able to break free after a brief struggle and report the incident to State Parks Rangers. Rangers observed visible red marks on the victim’s neck.

Sentencing is scheduled for October 2, 2026. Goad faces up to three years in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

This case was investigated by State Parks Ranger Tyler Dempewolf and DA Investigator John Magana.