Full Notification

District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced today that Frank Leslie Blessing (DOB 06/26/67), of Simi Valley, has been charged with multiple felony offenses stemming from a violent incident that resulted in significant property damage and the attempted murder of a police officer. Blessing is charged with one count of attempted murder of a peace officer, one count of assault upon a peace officer, three counts of felony vandalism, and two counts of battery on a peace officer or nurse. He also faces several special allegations and aggravating factors, including use of a deadly weapon, and the crime involved great violence. Blessing made his first court appearance on June 1, 2026, where his arraignment was continued. Judge Paul Feldman called the alleged conduct “egregious” and held Blessing in custody with no bail after prosecutors successfully argued he remains a danger to the community.

“The allegations describe a deliberate and escalating series of violent acts,” said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “Using a car to allegedly attempt to murder a police officer is a heinous act that requires the strongest of consequences.”

On May 27, 2026, at approximately 3:30 a.m., Blessing is accused of attempting to enter a donut shop located on Erringer Road in Simi Valley while the business was closed. After being unable to gain entry through the front door, Blessing allegedly used a Chevrolet Tahoe SUV to ram through the front entrance multiple times, causing extensive damage to the building. A responding Simi Valley Police Department (SVPD) officer observed the damaged SUV leaving the area and conducted a traffic stop. During the encounter, Blessing allegedly reversed his vehicle into the officer’s patrol car twice before accelerating toward the officer. The officer was forced to dodge the vehicle to avoid being struck. Blessing’s vehicle ultimately became immobilized after crashing into a wall near a neighboring residence.

As officers attempted to take Blessing into custody, he is accused of throwing a fixed-blade knife at one officer, missing him. Following a prolonged struggle, officers arrested Blessing. After being transported to a local hospital, Blessing allegedly continued to resist and kicked both a police officer and a nurse.

Deputy District Attorney Kalin Woodward, a member of the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office Crimes Against Police Officers Unit, is prosecuting the case.

Blessing’s continued arraignment is scheduled for June 22, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. in courtroom 13 of the Ventura County Superior Court.

Case: 2026013743
Defendant Information:
Frank Leslie Blessing (DOB 06/26/67)
Simi Valley

Charges:
• PC 664/187(a) – Attempted murder
• PC 245 (c) – Assault upon peace officer
• (3 counts) PC 594(b)(1) – Vandalism over $400
• PC 243(b) – Battery upon an officer
• PC 243(b) – Battery upon a doctor or nurse

Special allegations:
• PC 664(e) – Attempted murder or peace officer
• PC 12022(b)(1) – Use of deadly weapon
• CRC 4.421(a)(1) – The crime involved great violence
• CRC 4.421(a)(2) – The defendant was armed with and used a weapon
• CRC 4.421(a)(3) – Victim was vulnerable
• CRC 4.421(b)(1) – Defendant has engaged in violent conduct