FREMONT, Calif. — A shocking case in Fremont has drawn attention to the dangers of online offender registries. Fremont police are leading an active investigation into the fatal stabbing of a registered sex offender who, authorities say, was deliberately targeted through California’s Megan’s Law website.

Last Thursday, a 29-year-old man allegedly arrived at the home of 71-year-old David Brimmer on Solstice Court. Police say the confrontation quickly escalated into a violent struggle, ending in Brimmer’s death. The suspect’s name has not yet been released, as reports it will be withheld until arraignment.

Story Highlights

• Main Keyword: Fremont police investigation into fatal stabbing of a registered sex offender.

• Victim: David Brimmer, 71, convicted of sex crimes against children in 1995 while serving as a pastor in San Jose.

• Suspect’s Approach: Allegedly used Megan’s Law website, posed as an accountant, and went door-to-door seeking a “worthy” victim.

• Legal Insight: Attorneys warn of risks for listed offenders and stress adherence to the rule of law.

According to court documents, Brimmer was convicted of multiple sex crimes against children nearly three decades ago. Records show he lived on the cul-de-sac where the stabbing occurred. The Megan’s Law website publicly listed his name and address, making his status visible to anyone searching online.

Attorney Roland Soltesz, Senior Partner at the Law Offices of William V. Pernik, said the case highlights the vulnerability of people on the registry.

“They’re like sitting ducks in so many ways,” Soltesz said.
“In fact, I’m shocked that we don’t hear more of these types of offenses out there.”

Fremont police investigators say the suspect admitted to using the Megan’s Law site to locate potential targets. He reportedly told officers he was looking for both sex offenders and elderly individuals, acknowledging that such victims would be less able to fight back.

“He told the police he was looking for sex offenders and people who were elderly,” Soltesz added.
“Which means he was cognizant of the fact that someone couldn’t fight back and they’re particularly vulnerable.”

The Bay Area News Group reported that the suspect posed as an accountant, moving from door to door before arriving at Brimmer’s residence. According to records, he allegedly claimed he sought someone “worthy” of being killed, linking the justification to the seriousness of past crimes.

Fremont police described the encounter as a violent struggle. They say Brimmer tried to flee and was chased into another home before the fatal stabbing occurred.

“He’s young, he’s preying after (someone who is) 71 — there’s something going on in that guy’s head,” Soltesz said.
“I guarantee you that there’s going to be significant psychological evaluations done. I mean, he’s being charged with capital murder.”

Legal experts also weighed in on the broader implications of the Fremont police investigation. Jo-Anna Nieves, a criminal defense lawyer based in Oakland and owner of the Nieves Law Firm, stressed that while public outrage over sex crimes is understandable, vigilante violence undermines the justice system.

“I know that there’s this feeling, this emotionally satisfying feeling when you hear somebody has been punished in a way for doing something to such a vulnerable population,” Nieves said.
“But at the same time it’s just legally unsustainable and we have to follow the rule of law.”

On Tuesday, visited Brimmer’s cul-de-sac in Fremont. Neighbors declined to open their doors or comment on the incident, reflecting the shock and tension gripping the quiet street.

This Fremont police investigation is ongoing. Authorities say more information about the suspect and the circumstances surrounding the killing will be released after arraignment.

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