Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On 04/09/2024 at about 4:40 p.m., Humboldt County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a residence on Berry Road in Trinidad regarding a report of threats against another individual. 

Black

Upon arrival, the suspect Michael Matthew Black had left the scene. During the investigation, it was discovered that Black had threatened another individual with a hatchet. Deputies then searched the greater Trinidad area for his truck that he was reported to be associated with and located it at his residence.

There had been other reported incidents where Black had threatened other individuals with weapons within the last few weeks and had displayed aggressive behavior.

Deputies developed the probable cause to arrest Black for Criminal Threats and other criminal charges. Black was believed to be armed and dangerous. Deputies attempted contact with Black at his residence, however, he fled into the wooded area behind his home on a tractor. Black was acting erratically, refusing surrender commands. Black made suicidal statements and threatened to shoot law enforcement if they did not leave his property. Black went back into his residence and barricaded himself inside. Deputies on scene attempted to deescalate the situation, and after several minutes Black exited the front door and deputies were able to approach Black and he subsequently surrendered without further incident.  

Black was arrested and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility on charges of Threaten Crime with Intent to Terrorize (PC 422(A)), Brandishing a Deadly Weapon (PC417 (A)(1)), Elder Abuse (PC 368(B)(1)), Felon in Possession of a Firearm (PC29800(A)(1)), Felon in Possession of Ammunition (PC30305(A)(1)), Obstruct/Resist a Police Officer (PC69(A)), & Probation Violation (PC 1203.2(A)(1)).  

Anyone with information about this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.