A Novato man was arrested on suspicion of a hate crime for allegedly spraying a man with bear repellent because of his race, police said.
The alleged crime happened on Aug. 2, Novato police said. The victim reported he was sitting on the ground when the suspect threatened to “sic his dog” on him and then fired the can of bear spray in his face.
The victim was treated by medics and transported to a hospital.
Bear repellent spray, similar to pepper spray, is an aerosol irritant that causes a burning sensation and temporary blindness. It is approved only for use on bears.
Through witness information, police learned the suspect thought the victim might be developmentally disabled and made related derogatory comments.
The suspect was identified as Bret Chappell, 57, of Novato. Police executed an arrest warrant at Chappell’s home on Thursday.
Chappell was booked into Marin County Jail on suspicion of illegal use of tear gas, being a felon in possession of a tear gas weapon and commission of a hate crime.
Police withheld the victim’s race and the location of the incident to protect his privacy.
Chappell could not be reached for comment Tuesday.
No criminal charges stemming from the incident had been listed against Chappell as of Tuesday in the Marin County Superior Court online index.