A 72-year-old Oxnard man has been found guilty of a racially motivated attack against a Black married couple in Ventura. The jury delivered the verdict on May 7, 2026, following a trial that detailed a terrifying encounter.
George Albert Pierce was convicted on several felony charges, including criminal threats and exhibiting a deadly weapon. The jury also determined that the crimes were specifically driven by racial bias.
The incident occurred on October 12, 2025, outside a business located on East Thompson Boulevard. According to court records, the victims had just arrived at the location when Pierce began shouting racial slurs.
The situation escalated rapidly as Pierce began pounding on the business's front door. He reportedly kicked and body-slammed the entrance while brandishing a knife.
The victims were forced to barricade themselves inside the building to escape the assault. They contacted emergency services, and responding officers were able to apprehend Pierce shortly after the incident.
Senior Deputy District Attorney Hayley Moyer emphasized the severity of the case during the proceedings. She stated that the verdict serves as a firm message that racially motivated violence will not be tolerated in the community.
The prosecution highlighted how the attack undermined the fundamental sense of safety for the victims. The legal team worked closely with the Ventura Police Department to ensure the case was handled thoroughly.
Pierce, who was born in 1953, remains in custody without the possibility of bail. He faces a potential sentence of up to seven years in state prison.
The sentencing hearing is currently scheduled for June 4, 2026, at the Ventura County Superior Court. This case has drawn significant attention from local residents concerned about the prevalence of hate crimes.
Community leaders have expressed support for the victims throughout the judicial process. The conviction marks a significant step in addressing the impact of this violent encounter on the local population.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as the final sentencing date approaches. The case remains a sobering reminder of the ongoing challenges regarding racial intolerance and public safety in the region.