SRPD arrests local security guard for assault and is seeking assistance in identifying additional possible victims 

In early August 2025, an adult woman came to the Santa Rosa Police Department (SRPD) to report being a victim of a violent sexual assault. She told officers that while sleeping in her vehicle in the 90 block of Montgomery Drive in early July 2025, a man identified himself as “police” and threatened to call Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as he forced his way into her vehicle. The victim stated the man was wearing a uniform and had a badge. The man, identified later as Peni Cere, a 42-year-old resident of Santa Rosa, then proceeded to sexually assault her. The victim said she was scared to report the incident due to the threat of ICE being contacted, but was convinced to file the report by a supportive family member. 

With the assistance of the brave victim, SRPD officers were able to identify Cere. They also learned Cere was employed as a uniformed security guard at various locations in Santa Rosa and often worked night shifts. After a two-day investigation, SRPD officers, along with officers assigned to the Special Enforcement Team (SET) and detectives with the SRPD Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Team (DVSA), conducted an extensive search and surveillance operation to locate Cere. At approximately 9:15 PM, officers observed Cere exit a vehicle shortly after entering a parking lot in the 1100 block of College Avenue. Cere was immediately detained without incident.  

Cere was later booked into Sonoma County Main Adult Detention Facility for assault with attempt to commit rape per 220(a)(1) PC, and threatening arrest or deportation to commit sexual assault per 289(g) PC. A Sonoma County Superior Court judge authorized a bail enhancement of $250,000. 

Based on the boldness of Cere’s actions, and the fact he identified himself as “police” and threatened the victim he would report her to ICE, we believe there may be more unidentified victims who have been too scared to come forward. We encourage all victims and witnesses of crimes to come forward, regardless of immigration status. Pursuant to the California Values Act (SB 54), the Santa Rosa Police Department is prohibited from assisting in federal immigration enforcement efforts, including investigations, detentions, or arrests based solely on an individual's immigration status. SRPD policy goes even further by explicitly prohibiting officers from inquiring about a person’s immigration status or cooperating with ICE enforcement actions.  

Our priority is public safety, and we are here to support every member of our community without fear of deportation or immigration consequences. If you have information about this case or believe you have been victimized by the suspect in this incident, please contact the SRPD DVSA Team at 707-543-3595. 

Victims of sexual assault in Sonoma County have access to free, confidential support services through trusted local organizations. The Family Justice Center Sonoma County (FJC), located at 2755 Mendocino Avenue (707)565-8255, offers a safe and welcoming environment where survivors can receive wraparound services, including advocacy, legal support, counseling, and safety planning, all without needing to report to law enforcement.  

Verity, Sonoma County’s sole rape crisis and trauma center, provides 24/7 crisis support, counseling, and prevention education. Survivors and their loved ones can access confidential help through Verity’s crisis line at (707) 545-7273 or visit their office at 1311 W. Steele Lane for walk-in support. Verity advocates are also onsite at the FJC. Both organizations are committed to serving all survivors, regardless of immigration status, and offer services in multiple languages. 

Based on the sensitive nature of this incident and to protect the identity of the victim, no additional details about the crime will be released. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the victim for her bravery and trust in our department.  

Santa Rosa Police Department case number 25-8657. 

Media inquiries can be directed to Sgt. Patricia Seffens, Public Information Officer, at 707-543-3634 or pseffens@srcity.org.