Bay Area real estate investor Luke Brugnara, also known as "Lucky Luke," was arrested after allegedly evading a warrant for more than six months. His apprehension was followed by a volatile court hearing where he repeatedly interrupted a U.S. Magistrate Judge.
Brugnara, 62, was taken into custody at his San Francisco home by U.S. Marshals. Prosecutors allege he attempted to evade authorities by climbing onto a neighboring church roof, a claim Brugnara vehemently denied in court, stating, "I never climbed on any church. The church roof is eight stories tall. OK, how can I go eight stories when it’s a one-story house? It’s a lie."
He also asserted he was unaware of the federal hearing that led to the warrant for his arrest, stating his attorney had not notified him. "I did not appear because I was not notified of the hearing," Brugnara told the judge.
Fraud Allegations and Beach Dispute
The confrontation is the latest development in Brugnara's legal issues, which include federal allegations of fraudulently obtaining $422,000 through a pandemic-relief program. Prosecutors claim he misrepresented his company's size and payroll to secure the funds, which he allegedly used to purchase a house.
A warrant for his arrest was issued after he failed to appear at a February bond hearing. Prosecutors contend Brugnara was aware of the warrant but did not surrender.
These allegations surfaced as Brugnara became involved in a separate controversy at Thornton State Beach. A trust linked to Brugnara acquired property near the beach in December. In January, he fenced off approximately six acres at the entrance to the coastal area, despite owning only a portion of the land. This action angered local property owners and regular beachgoers who had used the trail.
Signs posted near the fence warned of an armed owner and threatened that trespassers would be shot. The dispute intensified when Brugnara was accused of threatening individuals who approached the barrier, with one couple reporting he warned, "If you get near the fence, I will shoot and kill you."
Criminal History and Court Proceedings
Police stopped Brugnara's girlfriend as she drove away from the scene, finding a 9mm Glock in an unlocked case in the front seat. Brugnara, who was in the back seat, was arrested on charges including being a felon in possession of a firearm and making threats.
This incident adds to Brugnara's prior criminal record, which includes approximately nine years in federal prison for mail and wire fraud. His history also involves tax-related convictions and accusations of threats and obstruction.
During his recent hearing, Brugnara sought release on a $50,000 cash bond with electronic monitoring. He expressed concerns about his health, telling the judge, "This my liberty that you’re playing with." The judge, Lisa Cisneros, ordered that Brugnara remain in custody as the case progresses. His attorney has filed a motion to withdraw from the case, which is still pending. Brugnara's next court appearance is scheduled in approximately two weeks.