Former Templeton group chair arrested again, facing more time in jail

October 8, 2026

David Leader

By KAREN VELIE

Former Templeton advisory group chair David Leader is behind bars for allegedly violated a restraining order multiple times, and is now facing additional charges.

In August, a judge sentenced 71-year-old Leader to 30 days in jail for one felony count of vandalism and seven charges of violating restraining orders based on his harassment of seven neighbors. He was also sentenced to two years felony probation.

As part of the court order, Leader is required to stay at least 100 yards away from seven of his victims from the date of the sentence through the end of his probation.

Leader was supposed to turn himself in to the San Luis Obispo County Jail on Oct. 31 to begin his 30 day sentence.

However, knowing that several of his victim were planning to attend a Templeton advisory group meeting near the end of August, Leader not only attended, but at first refused to leave.

In addition, he emailed a friend asking them to contact several restrained parties, again violating the judge’s restraining order.

Earlier today, Leader admitted to violating his restraining order on two occasions. Deputies then booked him in the SLO County Jail. If he violates probation again, he could be required to serve his suspended two-year jail sentence.

In addition to the current case, another neighbor filed for and received a restraining order. The victim, who rents a home from Leader, said he violated her restraining order on Oct. 1 and  Oct. 3.

On Thursday, SLO County Deputy District Attorney Hunter Starr filed a new misdemeanor complaint against Leader for allegedly violating his renter’s restraining order. The new criminal case is not connected to his previous charges.

“The San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office takes violations of protective orders seriously and will continue to enforce these orders to protect the victims,” according to the SLO County District Attorney’s Office.