SRPD and RPDPS Seek Community Assistance in Sexual Assault Investigations

In late February 2025, the Santa Rosa Police Department (SRPD) received a report of a sexual assault by a male acquaintance of a female victim. The victim reported that in June 2024, the suspect lured her into his vehicle, a black Toyota Highlander, under the guise of conversation before forcibly raping her. The case was turned over to the SRPD Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Team (DVSA), and during their investigation, they identified the suspect as 34-year-old Santa Rosa resident, “Shammy.” Shammy is the suspect’s legal and only name. He is also known as “Sam” or “Sammy” and has used the last name Verma.  The DVSA team also learned that detectives with the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety (RPDPS) were investigating a similar incident involving possibly the same suspect. 

In January 2025, it is alleged Shammy was in Rohnert Park when he forced himself on the second female victim and sexually assaulted her inside his vehicle.  

Detectives from SRPD and RPDPS began collaborating on their investigations, and on April 24, 2025, Shammy, was arrested and booked into Sonoma County Main Adult Detention Facility by both agencies for the following felony charges: 

SRPD case number 25-2209: 

261(a)(2) PC – Forcible rape 

289(a)(1) PC – Forcible sodomy  

RPDPS case number 25-0276: 

220(a)(1) PC – Assault with the attempt to commit rape 

Because of Shammy’s predatory nature, both SRPD and RPDPS detectives requested a bail enhancement because of the risk posed by Shammy. A Sonoma County Superior Court judge ordered Shammy held without bail.  

Shammy’s actions are still being investigated by SRPD and RPDPS. Based on his pattern of developing relationships with women, then allegedly sexually assaulting them, we believe there may be additional victims that have yet to come forward. Sexual assault victims often hesitate to come forward due to a variety of fears and concerns. Many worry that they won't be believed or that their experiences will be dismissed as exaggerations. Others may feel shame or guilt, mistakenly thinking that the assault was somehow their fault or that they could have prevented it. These feelings are compounded by the fear of facing judgment or retaliation from the perpetrator or others. It's crucial to understand that sexual assault is never the victim's fault; the responsibility lies solely with the perpetrator. Victims deserve support, understanding, and justice.  

If you or someone you know has any information about these incidents or others that may not have been reported, you are encouraged to contact SRPD DVSA Detective Kelsea Nelson at 707-543-3595. 

Victims of sexual assault in Sonoma County have access to several supportive resources. Verity offers comprehensive services, including a 24/7 crisis hotline, counseling, and advocacy to help survivors through their healing journey. You can reach Verity at (707) 545-7270. Additionally, the Family Justice Center Sonoma County provides a safe environment where victims can receive wrap-around services, including legal aid, emotional support, and assistance with safety planning. Contact the Family Justice Center at (707) 565-8255. If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to these organizations for support and guidance. Your courage in seeking help is vital, and these resources are here to assist you every step of the way. 

SRPD Media Contact: Sergeant Patricia Seffens, Public Information Officer, 707-543-3634 or pseffens@srcity.org. 

RPDPS Media Contact: Sergeant Justin Wax, Investigations Sergeant, 707-588-3545 or jwax@rpcity.org.