California man posted $25,000 bail after Gillette bar fight

Ricardo Marin, a 32-year-old man from Yucaipa, California, was released from Campbell County jail on Tuesday after posting a $25,000 bond through Liberty 360 Bail Bonds. His initial court appearance took place on Monday.

Marin faces two felony charges arising from a disturbance at Albertano's Mexican Restaurant on North Highway 14/16. Police responded to the location around 2:41 a.m. on Sept. 27 after a caller reported a man threatening to shoot a woman. The caller described the suspect as short, wearing a vest, and very muscular, and noted he claimed to be associated with a cartel.

Gillette Police Sgt. Johnson, Cpl. Kris Hunter, and Officer Paul Nolan arrived and located a man matching the description sitting at a table. In a sworn affidavit, Nolan wrote that Marin refused to identify himself, stating he was protecting his girlfriend. When officers asked him to step outside, Marin said he intended to finish his food.

According to the affidavit, Marin resisted when Johnson grabbed him. Police stated that he pushed officers through occupied tables and caused Nolan to fall backward onto the restaurant floor. Johnson deployed his Taser twice into Marin's back, but the man continued to fight and pulled his hands away. Nolan noted in his report that officers forcibly placed his hands behind his back before handcuffing him.

A witness told investigators that Marin had gotten in her face during an earlier argument and told her he knew people. Police also discovered an outstanding Campbell County bench warrant for Marin. The confrontation reportedly continued during the ride to the jail. Nolan wrote that Marin asked for his name and then inquired about his wife and children.

Marin allegedly told Nolan, "Wait until I get out, you'll find out what it's like to have to protect your girl." When Nolan asked if he was threatening his family, Marin allegedly replied, "You'll find out." Prosecutors charged him with influencing or intimidating a witness and interference with a peace officer. Both felonies carry potential prison sentences of up to 10 years each.

On Monday, a judge set several conditions for Marin's release. He cannot leave Wyoming without court permission, must abstain from alcohol, and must submit to alcohol monitoring. He is also barred from entering bars and liquor stores. The judge added a condition that he avoid threats or acts of violence.