SRPD detectives arrest suspect for brandishing several firearms at SCSO helicopter, “Henry-1” 

On November 18, 2023, at approximately 7:45 pm, officers with the Santa Rosa Police Department (SRPD) were dispatched to the 500-block of Courtyard Circle to a report of a possible disturbance inside of a residence. The caller told the SRPD dispatcher the person causing the disturbance was intoxicated and gathering several firearms. 

While officers were investigating the incident, members of the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) Helicopter Unit, “Henry-1”, quickly arrived overhead to assist SRPD officers in safely investigating the disturbance. Henry-1 routinely responds to assist allied agencies during high-risk situations, crime scene photography, medical emergency evacuations, search and rescue operations, and more. In this case, their ability to hover above the residence allowed for our officers to remain at a safe distance while conducting the initial investigation. 

Multiple times during the investigation, the suspect was seen by the team aboard Henry-1 exiting the residence and pointing firearms at the helicopter. The firearms included a rifle and a handgun. The suspect did not fire any of the weapons during this incident. A video showing the most significant instances of the suspect brandishing firearms at Henry-1 has been provided by the SCSO, and is attached to this release. 

Eventually, the suspect returned to the home and remained inside. For the safety of the neighbors, officers, and team aboard Henry-1, it was decided to not escalate the situation by forcing the suspect to engage with law enforcement. Detectives with the SRPD Violent Crimes Investigations Team (VCI) took over the investigation and on November 20, at approximately 12:30 pm, Rodolfo Cervantes, a 54-year-old resident of Santa Rosa, was arrested by detectives in the 600-block of Santa Rosa Avenue. 

Following the arrest of Cervantes, VCI detectives served a search warrant at his residence. Detectives seized three handguns, three rifles, one shotgun, and over 100 rounds of various ammunition. All of the firearms were legally possessed by Cervantes. 

Cervantes was later booked into Sonoma County Main Adult Facility for 417(c) PC, felony brandishing of a firearm in the presence of a peace officer. 

The Santa Rosa Police Department wishes to thank the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Department, specifically the Henry-1 team, for their continued partnership and assistance. 

Media Contact:

Sgt. Patricia Seffens
Public Information Officer
707-543-3634