A Fresno man is accused of violently attacking his estranged wife and her friend. Scott Penley, 48, apparently hunted the women down just one day after bailing out of jail. Police say he was arrested for battery on Saturday. After getting out on Sunday, he tracked the victims down and beat one of them so bad, she was in the hospital for days.
The violent attack happened inside a northeast Fresno home on Monday afternoon. Police say Penley kicked the door in, trying to get to his estranged wife.
“He had shown up with an aluminum bat and started hitting the ex wife's friend, causing major injuries to her.” said Sgt. Daniel Macias of the Fresno Police Department.
Macias says Penley then turned on his ex, choking her. A neighbor says someone banged on his door, screaming hysterically.
“She was trying to get some help. She said her boyfriend broke in and she needed a phone because he had taken all her phones,” said Dan Murphy who lives a few houses away.
When police got there, Penley was gone. About 45 minutes later, he crashed his SUV . The California Highway Patrol says he was on Academy near Highway 168. He crossed into oncoming lanes and went head-on into a big rig trailer that was parked on the side of the road.
Penley is now under 24-hour police watch at Community Regional Medical Center. The repeat-offender slipped through the system once before.
“Emergency protective order had been issued to the victim. [Penley] was booked in the Fresno County jail. He bailed out and then basically hunted her down,” said Macias.
Advocates for women hope victims see signs of abuse before things turn violent. The Marjaree Mason Center can help.
“If you feel uncomfortable or you feel like this isn't good for you, or you see change that's occurring over time, definitely seek help,” said Katie Quinn-Crask of the Marjaree Mason Center.
While both women are now recovering from their injuries, one neighbor is disturbed the attack ever happened.
“I don't know why people do stuff like that. It shouldn't happen really,” said Murphy.
Police are still investigating the case. Officers hope to charge Penley with attempted murder, which could put him away for decades.
October is domestic violence awareness month. If you or someone you know needs help, call 233-HELP (4357).
