We have all fumbled with keys while standing in front of the incorrect entrance, often followed by nervous laughter and a hurried retreat. Officer Matthew Rodarte’s version of this scenario concluded in a far different manner. Based on information from the Madera County Sheriff’s Office, the 28-year-old officer from the Fresno Police Department was taken into custody in the early hours of Sunday morning following accusations that he tried to break into a residence that was not his own.
The event occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. close to Cathedral Court and Peters Road within the Riverstone Development. Authorities reported that Rodarte was under the influence and grew agitated when residents refused to open the door, a reaction that is far more understandable now that it is known the property was not his. The individual who answered the door in the middle of the night deserves recognition for maintaining composure.
Rodarte was booked into the Madera County Jail on charges of attempted burglary, making threats with the intent to terrorize, and disorderly conduct, reported ABC 30. He posted bail on Sunday afternoon and has since been released. He started as a cadet with the Fresno Police Department in 2020 and became a full officer in 2022, so this incident did not occur during his first week on the job.
The Fresno Police Department announced that Rodarte is currently on administrative leave as the incident is being reviewed. It remains unclear how the investigation will be concluded, but law enforcement officers are not above the law, and it appears Madera County deputies handled this incident like any other routine call.
Current Understanding
Investigators have not yet disclosed many specifics, which is typical at this initial stage of an investigation. The following information has been verified:
Rodarte supposedly went to the incorrect location within the Riverstone Development.
Authorities claim he was drunk and tried to get inside after being refused.
He is facing three accusations: attempted unlawful entry, making threats to commit a crime to cause fear, and disturbing the peace.
He has posted bail to leave jail and is currently suspended from work within the department.
It’s still unclear how he arrived at that specific house or what occurred when the conflict began. These questions are expected to be resolved as the legal proceedings progress.
Cops are Not Immune
Mistakes involving the wrong location occur frequently, yet the majority of people do not wear a uniform while working and shoulder the associated obligations that accompany it. This is not a criticism, only a recognition that individuals in official attire are judged by a stricter standard, which is reasonable.
The Fresno Police Department appears to be managing this appropriately by pausing and allowing the procedure to unfold instead of hiding it. We will monitor this situation as additional information becomes available.