By Jim Emerson
NOVATO — A contractor allegedly threatened and swung a hammer at another man. The
suspect identified as Mathew D. Malouf, 58, of Novato, was arrested on November 23,
following a standoff with police.
Officers forced open a door to apprehend Malouf and search his residence. Novato officers
were assisted by a San Rafael police K-9 officer. Malouf remains in custody at Marin County
Jail in lieu of $50,000 bond.
A witness helped the victim and reported the attack at approximately 3 p.m., according to a
prepared statement from Novato police.
“The victim, who was not hurt, told officers that Malouf followed him. Malouf threatened to kill
the victim and raised a hammer as if to strike him. The victim, with limited mobility, was unable
to run away. The assault was interrupted by a passerby who called 911, and caused Malouf to
flee.”
Before responding officers arrived at the scene, Malouf barricaded himself inside his
residence.
Police set up a perimeter the 800 block of Tamalpais Avenue. A standoff ensued, while police
tried for three hours to convince Malouf to surrender himself, but he refused. After obtaining
arrest and search warrants they finally broke open his door.
Malouf surrendered then, and he was safely taken into custody. The hammer that he allegedly
used during the attack was recovered as evidence.
Malouf was booked for the following open charges:
- Assault with a deadly weapon not a firearm likely to cause great bodily injury
- Making criminal threats with intent to terrorize
Photo: Stock Image
