Incoming Fresno County Supervisor Garry Bredefeld is bringing back a convicted domestic violence abuser to lead his staff. He calls Danny Gai a changed man.

Gai, who served as an assistant to Bredefeld at Fresno City Hall, pleaded no contest to five felonies in 2021 for a 2019 incident against his then-fiancée and her mother. The court found him guilty of two other felony criminal threat charges.

Bredefeld told GV Wire Gai “was involved in a domestic violence incident while inebriated. His actions that evening were completely reprehensible and unacceptable. He accepted responsibility for his actions, acknowledged he had an alcohol dependency problem, pled guilty to felony charges, and consequently lost his job as my Council assistant.”

After working for Bredefeld for four years, Gai resigned in 2021 after entering his plea. Shortly before leaving, Gai’s presence became a matter of debate on the city council.

“Since that incident nearly six years ago, he has not consumed any alcohol, has remained in AA treatment and programming, has maintained consistent and excellent managerial employment, and rebuilt his family relationships. Because the judge in his case gave him a second chance, Danny has met every requirement of his probation and has clearly turned his life around,” Bredefeld said.

During his trial, Bredefeld testified on behalf of Gai, according to published reports at the time.

Bredefeld is scheduled to take his oath of office on Jan. 6.

Gai Reacts

A judge in January 2022, sentenced Gai to four years’ probation. Gai was also ordered to attend an alcohol treatment program and counseling. Court records show Gai completed the program.

Gai, who had been working as a manager at an agricultural firm, sent GV Wire this statement, through Bredefeld:

“Over five and a half years ago, I faced challenges that profoundly changed my life. I made serious mistakes, took full accountability for my actions, and have worked tirelessly to rebuild my life, earn back trust, and give back to others. Through counseling, a commitment to sobriety and a recovery program, and the unwavering support of my family, I am proud to say that my family is now healthy, happy, and harmonious — a testament to the power of second chances and being honest, open, and willing to make positive changes in my life,” Gai said.

Gai and his fiancée have since reconciled, raising their family. The court record shows no transgressions since the 2019 incident.

“I am deeply grateful to Supervisor-elect Bredefeld for recognizing the importance of redemption and valuing my professional experience, skills, and dedication to public service. Before these challenges, I was honored to serve the residents of District 6 in the City of Fresno, and I remain as committed as ever to ensuring the needs of the constituents of District 2 in Fresno County are met and their voices are heard,” Gai said.

Bredefeld Praises Gai

In his statement, Bredefeld praised Gai’s prior work.

Bredefeld said Gai was “an exemplary employee, was respected by other City Hall staff, and did phenomenal work in the district and with our constituents.”

“I’m very pleased Danny will be my Chief of Staff and I know that he will serve our District 2 constituents extremely well just as he did when he worked as my Council Assistant at City Hall. He is very bright, is extremely talented, and will work very hard to help me meet the needs of our constituents and move Fresno County forward in very positive and bold ways,” Bredefeld said.

2019 Violent Attack

Fresno County Sheriff’s deputies arrested Gai on May 16, 2019.

A restraining order, filed shortly after the incident, described a violent attack.

“Mr. Gai came home drunk. We got into an argument and he attacked me three times. He choked me, threw me against the wall, crib and dresser. Threatened to kill me and (another woman who was present). He threw me against the wall and bed while (our daughter) was in my arms,” the victim said in the restraining order application.

A sheriff’s office report said Gai also attacked the victim’s mother.

“Gai made his way over to his girlfriend and told her to let him hold the child. When she said no, he pushed her down with the baby in her arms and began choking the woman again. The other woman then hit him in the back of the head with a hammer, causing him to stop his attack,” the report said.