Suspect Recorded on Video Is Arrested for Pepper Spraying a Man at a Mosque
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NOVATO — A suspect was arrested after a worshipper was pepper sprayed at a mosque during a scuffle recorded on surveillance video. David J. Margoliash, 48 of San Rafael, allegedly sprayed the man at the Islamic Center of North Marin.
The incident occurred on March 11 the first night of Ramadan celebration for Muslims. The suspect entered the mosque carrying a bag. The victim believed the bag might contain a firearm and attempted to restrain the suspect. The victim was pepper sprayed during the commotion shortly before 8:30 p.m. Then the suspect ran away from the mosque at 7078 Redwood Boulevard.
Responding Novato officers set up a perimeter and a California Highway Patrol helicopter searched for the suspect. However, he was not immediately found. Meanwhile, the victim was transported to a hospital to receive medical treatment for minor injuries.
San Rafael police and the Marin County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation culminating in the arrest. Novato detectives arrested Margoliash at his Clark Street apartment in San Rafael, March 12 at 12:56 a.m.
Margoliash is at Marin County Jail. He was booked for disturbing a religious meeting, felon in possession of and unlawful use of tear gas. He remains in custody on open charges in lieu of $250,000 bond.
Evidence further implicating Margoliash was found when his apartment was searched. However, no firearm was found. Novato police said in a prepared statement. “There is insufficient evidence to support any hate crime-related charges. It does not appear the (mosque) was explicitly targeted.”
The investigation of the incident is ongoing. Anyone with information can call the Novato Police Department at 415-897-4361.
