Jury Finds Man Guilty of Violating a Domestic Violence Protective Order

Author: District Attorney
Date: 7/20/2026 4:36 PM

District Attorney Dan Dow announces the jury conviction of Paul James Meagher for violating a domestic violence criminal protective order.

District Attorney Dan Dow announced today that on Friday, July 17, 2026, a San Luis Obispo County jury found Paul James Meagher (36) of Pismo Beach guilty of violating a criminal protective order, a misemeanor, in September 2025.

On the early evening of September 10, 2025, Pismo Beach Police 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 revealed that 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 two had an argument that escalated when Meagher became aggressive - knocking items off walls, throwing objects, and making threatening statements - after she attempted to contact his probation officer. The victim also reported that Meagher 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," said District Attorney Dan Dow. "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 August 12, 2026, in Department 7 of the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court, the Honorable Erin M. Childs presiding.

This case was investigated by the Pismo Beach Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Bianca Aguayo. 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 and know that they are not alone. 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 that it can be investigated and stopped. Reporting can help protect others and connect victims with the support and resources they deserve.

Here is a copy of the defendant's booking photo. Here is a copy of the charging document.

Members of the media may contact Assistant District Attorney Eric J. Dobroth at 805-781-5819 for additional information.
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