A man was arrested after he attacked a clerk at the Pinole Police Department, officials said.
The incident was reported around 4 p.m. Tuesday.
Police said the man came into the lobby, walked up to the counter, and ringed the bell several times. The man then grabbed the clerk by her arm, and climbed over the counter and through the service window.
The clerk was able to break free and make her way into another area with the help of another staff member.
"He approached the counter, rang the bell three times and she greeted him," said Matt Avery, commander of the Pinole Police Department. "Very scary, very traumatic for the employee, fortunately there were other employees in the building that were able to help her get into an administrative office and secure the door there."
The man was identified as 65-year-old Chester Victor of San Pablo. According to officials, Victor said that he "wanted to start the conversation and prove that he's a man."
"We deal with people who are not having the best day or may have some animosity toward us but nothing like this," Avery said.
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The clerk sustained minor injuries and is seeking medical attention.
Police said they are unsure of Victor's motive, but that the investigation continues.
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Victor was charged with kidnapping, battery and assault.
