SAN JOSE, Calif. — In a rare judicial decision, a judge has approved the release of two Arizona men to a South Bay treatment facility while they face charges related to a recent violent incident involving a police vehicle. Brothers Gabe Durbin, 26, and Tyler Durbin, 22, had been held without bail following their arrests on June 19, after allegedly participating in an attack on a police car during a chaotic street event near Santana Row.
The decision to relocate the brothers from jail to a sober-living facility was made by Judge Hector Ramon, against the strong objections of the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office. The court denied the brothers’ request to return to Arizona, citing concerns about their likelihood of returning for future court appearances.
The allegations against the Durbins include involvement in an assault on a peace officer and vandalism during what are locally known as ‘sideshows’ — informal and often illegal assemblies of cars performing stunts. These events can attract large crowds and frequently result in chaotic and dangerous situations.
On the evening of June 15, police responded to a report of an individual being struck by a car performing dangerous maneuvers at a sideshow. The first officer on the scene encountered a hostile crowd, some of whom concealed their identities with ski masks. Eyewitness video, later circulated on social media, captured several attendees attacking a police SUV, with one individual even stomping on the vehicle’s hood.
The officer, while attempting to reverse away from the advancing crowd, sustained minor injuries from broken glass after the vehicle’s windshield was shattered.
Court documents reveal that Gabe Durbin allegedly attempted to break into the patrol SUV, while Tyler Durbin is said to have struck the windshield with his fists. Following their arrest, Tyler admitted to hitting the police vehicle but expressed regret, claiming he was swept up in the moment.
Opposition to the treatment facility placement by Deputy District Attorney Timothy Moore was based on concerns that Tyler Durban displayed no evidence of substance abuse issues, questioning the relevance of such rehabilitation in ensuring public safety. However, defense arguments highlighted the brothers’ lack of violent history and the supportive environment a treatment facility could offer.
The brothers’ legal representatives pointed out their prior brief residencies in the area, and their visit to vacate a storage unit rented by their mother as reasons for their presence in San Jose at the time of their arrest.
In addition to charges related to the assault and vandalism, the brothers also face charges of resisting arrest. As the case progresses, authorities continue their search for other participants involved in the sideshow incident.
The court has mandated that as part of their bail conditions, the brothers must comply with electronic monitoring and avoid any search or involvement with sideshow activities, emphasizing the judiciary’s measured approach in balancing rehabilitation opportunities with community safety concerns.