Pismo Beach man convicted of violating domestic violence order
– A San Luis Obispo County jury convicted Paul James Meagher, 36, of Pismo Beach, on July 17 of violating a criminal protective order, a misdemeanor, following an incident in September 2025, District Attorney Dan Dow announced in a press release.
On the early evening of Sept. 10, 2025, Pismo Beach Police Department officers responded to a report of a domestic disturbance at a local residence. Officers contacted Meagher, who was reportedly arguing with the protected victim and refusing to leave the location.
A records check showed Meagher was the subject of an active criminal protective order that prohibited him from harassing, threatening, striking, assaulting, or disturbing the peace of the victim.
According to the victim, the argument escalated after Meagher became aggressive when she attempted to contact his probation officer. The victim reported that Meagher knocked items off walls, threw objects, made threatening statements, and intentionally struck her with his shoulder while walking past her.
“Domestic violence has no place in our community, and we take violations of a protective order seriously,” District Attorney Dan Dow said. “Our criminal and victim justice system is committed to enforcing these orders, holding offenders accountable, and ensuring the safety of victims who rely on the court’s protection. We thank the jury for their service and for ensuring a just and truthful outcome.”
Meagher faces a maximum sentence of up to one year in county jail. Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 12 in Department 7 of the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court, with Judge Erin M. Childs presiding.
The Pismo Beach Police Department investigated the case. Deputy District Attorney Bianca Aguayo prosecuted the case. Victim services were provided by the District Attorney’s Christopher G. Money Victim Witness Assistance Center, including Supervisor Beth Raub and Witness Coordinator Iris Martin.
The District Attorney’s Office encourages anyone experiencing domestic violence to seek help. Confidential support and advocacy services are available through the District Attorney’s Victim Witness Assistance Center and other community partners.
Victims are encouraged to report abuse to local law enforcement so it can be investigated and stopped. Reporting can help protect others and connect victims with available support and resources.
