Pismo Beach man convicted of violating domestic violence protective order

By Staff Report · Thu Jul 23 2026

PISMO BEACH — A San Luis Obispo County jury has found a Pismo Beach man guilty of violating a criminal protective order stemming from a domestic disturbance last year, the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney's Office announced.

On July 17, a jury convicted 36-year-old Paul James Meagher of a misdemeanor violation of a domestic violence criminal protective order. Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 12 in San Luis Obispo County Superior Court.

According to prosecutors, Pismo Beach police responded to a domestic disturbance on Sept. 10, 2025, where Meagher was allegedly arguing with the protected victim and refusing to leave the residence. Officers determined Meagher was subject to an active criminal protective order prohibiting him from harassing, threatening, assaulting or disturbing the peace of the victim.

Prosecutors said the victim reported the argument escalated after she attempted to contact Meagher's probation officer. She alleged Meagher knocked items off the walls, threw objects, made threatening statements and intentionally struck her with his shoulder as he walked past.

"Domestic violence has no place in our community, and we take violations of a protective order seriously," said District Attorney Dan Dow in a statement. "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.