Family of ex East Bay detective arrested on attempted murder thanks police who resolved standoff

MARTINEZ - Muehaw Saelee, the mother of a former Pittsburg police detective, expressed her gratitude to the law enforcement officers who, during two intense standoffs lasting 36 hours last month, were able to apprehend her son peacefully. Chunliam “Nai” Saechao was at the center of a confrontation that led to the closure of a Pleasant Hill neighborhood and involved police, SWAT teams, and FBI members. Saechao's mother thanked the police outside the A.F. Bray Courthouse Thursday, saying, "you saved my son’s life."

Saechao pleaded not guilty to all charges during his arraignment at the courthouse. His mother expressed gratitude to the many officers who risked their lives and family's happiness during the standoffs. Saechao, 40, faces two counts of attempted murder of a police officer and six counts of assault with a firearm on an officer, charges linked to events in the Sherman Acres neighborhood on Dec. 7-9, 2021.

During the incidents, Saechao reportedly barricaded himself in his home and then surrendered after two tense standoffs. Pleasant Hill Police Chief Scott Vermillion defended their decision to withdraw from the scene temporarily during the standoffs, but said they maintained continuous surveillance of the situation.

Saechao’s attorneys argue that their client's actions could be rooted in mental health issues stemming from the pressures of law enforcement and his service in the U.S. Marines. Saechao’s defense team plans to highlight his experiences to spotlight the potential mental health challenges some law enforcement officers face in retirement.

Attorney Tyler Smith commended the law enforcement officers involved in the standoff for their professionalism and patience, pointing out that the situation could have ended more tragically.

On the same day, Saechao’s lawyers requested the court to lift a temporary restraining order that prevented Saechao from contacting his wife, who he allegedly shot during the incident. She suffered leg injuries.

Saechao’s attorneys also intend to highlight the potential mental trauma that military members or police officers may suffer as a result of traumatic experiences on duty. Saechao had retired from the Pittsburg Police Department in 2022 when he was 39 years old.

The retirement followed several incidents, including one where someone pointed a firearm at Saechao’s head and pulled the trigger, but the gun didn't fire. Attorney Curtis Briggs explained the severe distress this caused Saechao, and the detrimental effects of retirement that left him feeling isolated and without identity.

Outside the arraignment, supporters, including Saechao’s father and several of his family members, rallied in his favor, carrying encouraging messages such as “Justice for Nai”.

Saechao pled not guilty during the Thursday arraignment and continues to be held without bail.