Woman Allegedly Attacks Tree Trimmers

Aug 18, 9:18 PM (ET)


FREMONT, Calif. (AP) - A woman incensed at utility tree trimmers was arrested after allegedly chasing workers with a chain saw and twisting the fingers of an arresting officer, police said.

Diane Kaiser, 57, was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, theft and resisting arrest. She posted bail and was released.

"The woman apparently has had some issues with PG&E," Fremont police Sgt. Jeff Swadener said. "She likes her trees."

Four tree trimmers contracted with Pacific Gas & Electric knocked on Kaiser's door Tuesday, called into the house and heard no answer. When workers walked to the back of the house, Kaiser allegedly ran from the home cursing and screaming.

She then picked up rocks and began throwing them at the workers, according to police reports.

Kaiser then allegedly picked up a tree trimmer's chain saw and pointed it at the workers, causing three to flee and call police. A fourth worker climbed a tree to escape.

Kaiser could not be immediately reached by phone Thursday for comment.

The trimmers told police that Kaiser had been notified June 21 that they would be removing tree branches around power lines near her home.