Oct 31, 2014

"No one can replace Steve Knight"; Steve you will be missed

With November 7 being Steve's last day, I expect Lt. Steve Knight will be honored during this Tuesday Board of Supervisors meeting. I am sure a resolution will be presented and many people will show up to show Steve their appreciation in person. I have known Steve since I first moved here. Even I am looking forward to hearing about all the different positions he has held. The information in this post is just from my personal knowledge.

Business community, his co-workers are only few of the people whose lives Steve has touched. I don't want to give away all the surprises so here a few select remarks.

John Fullerton: He will be missed. Too young to retire !

Liana Simpson: Way too young! Love him!

Steve, Liana wants you to stay around so do many of us, so do not get used to that retirement idea.

Sheriff Mike Downey: "Steve and I started at with HCSO at the same time, he has only been a subordinate in the last three years . I consider him a very valued friend and confidante. I am sorry to see him  go and wish him the best in his future endeavors."

I first wrote about this on Oct 27:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/10/always-read-second-press-release-it-is.html

Supervisor Rex Bohn: "Always read the 2nd press release it is usually accurate.  Great guy with a sense of humor to back it up."

Steve has worked for the County for 30 years. He began his career with the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office in April 1984, and was hired by the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office as Deputy Sheriff on April 1986. In his career, he has worked in several capacities with the HCSO and that includes the Humboldt County Drug task Force , Marijuana Eradication Team, Animal Control division and most recently Public Information Officer.

Ly. Wayne Hanson will be taking over as PIO. Here is what he had to say about Steve.


Lt Wayne Hanson: "Steve has been a close friend for several decades, we started out together as correctional officers in the jail and we have followed almost the same career path. It is great working with your best friend. The friendship will continue but the day to day working with him will be missed."

Lt. Hanson has talked to news media on a regular basis for 14 years, including national media, due to the nature of his duties  so being the choice to take over when Steve leaves was a logical one. Of his new position, Lt. Hanson said, "No one replace Steve Knight."




LA Times headline: :Once a crusader against big money, Gov. Brown is collecting millions" applies to local politics

http://www.latimes.com/local/politics/la-me-pol-brown-money-20141031-story.html#page=1

The headline of the story is: Once a crusader against big money, Gov. Brown is collecting millions

So big money is not limited to Republicans, or developers; it is a part of anyone who wants to influence politics these days. To blame just one side for it, in local politics, is hypocritical.

Talking about being for the working class is one thing, representing them is another. Living their struggle is another. And once in power, any one can be influenced.

Activists from one side like to paint certain elected officials and all people who support them as being flush with the money. Don't just take their word.




Oct 30, 2014

Media shame causes sexual battery suspect to turn himself in

This kind of update after media posts a press release does happen quite a few times. The local media seems to be an effective tool in capturing some fugitives. Sometimes more effective than anything else.

Update:

Daniel Wiggens turned himself  in to the Fortuna Police Department at 11:50 a.m. this morning after learning he was wanted by law enforcement. He was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked. His bail is set at $50,000.00.

Previous press release:

On 10-29-2014, at approximately 5:00 p.m.  the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a  sexual battery which just occurred at Murrish Market, Hydesville.  A deputy responded to the market and met with the 18 year old female victim. The victim told the deputy she works at the market and she recognized a customer known to her as Daniel Jerry Wiggins, 21 years old, from Scotia. After he entered the store she saw Wiggins enter the store restroom, where he stayed for approximately 45 minutes. The victim noticed when Wiggins exited the restroom he was acting bizarre. He came up behind the victim, hugged her and made sexual comments to her.  The victim told Wiggins to get away. The victim went back to work. When the victim was working at the cash register, Wiggins came to her line to purchase his groceries. Wiggins repeatedly asked the victim for her telephone number, and the victim repeatedly refused. Wiggins then grabbed the victim on her buttocks on his way out of the store. The victim told the investigating deputy she knows Wiggins from high school, but has never had any relationship with him..

Deputies checked the area for Wiggins but could not locate him. A be-on-the-lookout has been issued for Wiggins who is wanted for sexual battery.

Anyone with information for the Sheriffs Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriffs Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriffs Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

Oct 29, 2014

GO-Biz Launches New Web Page - Breaking Through Barriers to Doing Business

Building on the state’s efforts to streamline the permitting process and make it easier to business in the state, the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) today launched a new web page to highlight the best practices of business groups and state and local permitting agencies that are making their programs more user friendly for businesses.

“GO-Biz and our partners are working to improve California’s business climate by streamlining permitting and incorporating efficiency measures developed by the private sector,” said GO-Biz director Kish Rajan. “The Breaking Barriers to Doing Business web page captures those efforts and encourages more state and local agencies to follow our lead and improve their process.”

Those highlighted in the program are recognized as B³ Champions. “B³ Champions” are recognized for their hard work and innovative efforts to help the business community start up, grow and expand in California while at the same time upholding state standards.

Over a dozen cities, counties and state agencies have been recognized including City of Elk Grove, City of Turlock, City of Anaheim, City of Rancho Cordova, CA Department of Industrial Relations, CA Department of Fish and Wildlife, CA Department of Business Oversight, North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board, CA Department of Toxic Substances Control, Department of Resources, Recovery and Recycling, Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board, State Water Board.  The Los Angeles Building & Safety Department has implemented to a program to help businesses navigate through the building and construction permitting processes quicker and improve customer service relations. Applicants have given high praise to this improved process.

“It saves a great deal of time over the standard, non-expedited, plan check process,” said  Christian Kienapfel from Architekt Germany. “On scale of 1 to 10, 10 being the best, my experience with the program has been a 10.”

“Through our new B³ program, GO-Biz is able to shine light on the good work that is done within California state and local agencies that improves the permitting and regulatory climate for businesses,” said GO-Biz permitting specialist Poonum Patel. “The program will not only give our team the opportunity to share improvement plans with government agencies but will also encourage those interested in making changes to lead by example.”

GO-Biz is actively working to improve permitting at all levels of government. Earlier this year, GO-Biz partnered with the Government Operations Agency to offer Lean 6-Sigma Training to state agencies to specifically address process-based issues within state departments that were causing delays in services to both internal and external stakeholders. Over a 6 month period, participants received training on complex analytical and statistical tools that identify waste and inefficiencies in processes. In July, GO-Biz announced that 26 state officials across various agencies and departments completed the Lean 6-Sigma training program.

More allegations of child molestation forthcoming against Randy Cook

Randy Cook, who recently finished serving time for a plea of child endangerment against his own grandaughter will be facing new allegations of child molestation. The orginal charge against his own granddaughter was child molestation.

His son and daughter in law are currently in process of divorce and in midst of custody proceedings. Since the last trial, family members that supported him and accused his daughter-in-law are having some change of heart.

He is not currently living home with his wife. At the next hearing, there will be information provided about allegations that he molested his adopted daughter and niece.

I received quite a few calls and emails during the last trial from women who claimed he molested them but due to statute of limitations and other reasons, they did not pursue justice.

Cook's last trial, which was never covered anywhere in the media. He is a prominent figure in the business community and past allegations never made it to trial.

Previous posts:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/02/personal-perspectives-on-cook-case.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2013/12/randy-cook-local-realtor-guilty-of.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/03/local-realtor-randy-cook-sentenced-to.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/05/on-march-20-he-gets-270-days-on-march.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/05/next-court-date-for-randall-miles-cook.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/06/randall-miles-cook-expected-to-be.html

Field's Landing Boat ramp dedicated to former Supervisor Jimmy Smith

Right now, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors are at the Field's Landing boat ramp launching facility, which is being dedicated to former CountyvSupervisor Jimmy Smith.

Jimmy is still just as popular and loved as he was in office. Private donations are covering the cost for signs. This dedication will be approved as a part of the Board of Supervisors meeting next week.

Wine Spot in Eureka to fundraise and donate 100 % for the Wounded Warrior Project on November Arts Alive

The Wine Spot in Eureka, located  at 234 F St, Eureka is hosting a fundraiser on November 1 for Arts Alive. They will donate a 100 percent of the ticket sales to the Wounded Warrior Project that are sold this Friday through Sunday. Tickets for the fundraiser are $3.

On Arts Alive, Wine Spot will have music by local favorite Michael Dayvid and the November local artist featured is Jackson Falor-Ward.

The WWF ticket also entitles you to  a drawing held on November 2nd; you don't have to be present to win. In addition, when you buy a drink at the Wine Spot, they give you a free ticket to put in for their monthly drawing which usually is for four free bottles of wine and candy.

Wounded Warrior Project is to honor and empower wounded warriors. WWP's purpose is to raise awareness and to enlist the public's aid for the needs of injured service members, to help injured servicemen and women aid and assist each other, and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. WWP is a national, non-partisan organization headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. For more information, visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org

The Wine Spot has a facebook page and their phone number is (707) 497-6236.




County to pay $700 one time money to employees instead of pay raise; Will Measure Z be used for public safety or for union contracts?

We have a County tax measure Z on this November's ballot for more money.

I heard something to the effect that the County just negotiated with their employees that they would not get a pay raise next year but they get a $700 bonus this year and the day after Christmas as an extra day off instead.

So I called Dan Fulks, the Personnel Director for the County. He clarified that the $700  is one-time money being paid to all members of the bargaining unit instead of ongoing raises. They do not have the money to commit to ongoing raises. This does not apply to extra help. This negotiation expires June 30 of next year.

So the question is do we need Measure Z? Is Sacramento taking away the money the problem or union contracts? People are paying hoping for better response time which means it should go towards extra "boots on the streets" not for raises for employees that have a pretty good job in a County where many people are unemployed or struggling.

When do the unions negotiate a contract where raises go to the employees that are struggling instead of an across the board. Some people can afford to stay at the pay scale they are at present. If you are making $100,000 a year, you can forego a raise or two.

Oct 28, 2014

Salzman column not nixed, that rumor untrue

Just got answer from Hank Sims. Lesson of the day, check first before posting because sometimes rumors are too good to be true. However, this was from two sources very reliable, usually.

LOCO nixes Richard Salzman's column ?

Great decision by LOCO, if it is true.


County Counsel says "expedited abatement" for small parcels is almost 1 month

In response to concerns brought up by CLMP's Bonnie Blackberry, Deputy County Counsel Davina Smith said "expedited abatement" means 1 month.

She reiterated that this is a complaint driven ordinance, which means the County is not going out to enforce or inspect unless a complaint is filed.

Breaking down the timeline from when the complaint is filed and the procedure of notification and abatement, it can take up to 26 days.

There was discussion about appeals, vindictive neighbors, show of good cause, Board discretion in an appeal.

The County posts documents, minutes, there are attachments regarding this ordinance on the County website. You can also watch the entire discussion on Access Humboldt.


Medical Marijuana ordinance on small parcels passed with unanimous vote

Two and half hours later, it passed. The gist of it is in the response to the comment below.
There was one modification to the draft.

Supervisor Rex Bohn asked for clarification and was told by staff that this is a "complaint driven enforcement program."

In response to some of the speakers comments, Supervisor Sundberg said, "The goal of this is not water quality or to reduce marijuana on the landscape. The only goal is to have a tool for code enforcement for a neighbor towards a neighbor who is not acting inappropriately."

"This is a big issue for a lot of people who do not grow and are impacted by it," said Supervisor Bohn.

This ordinance has been discussed and redrafted over a year and was the result of complaints and feedback to the Supervisors from constituents all over Humboldt. Today, there were speakers from Fortuna, Shelter Cove, Willow Creek, Redway and Supervisor Estelle Fennell said she had received complaints from Shelter Cove, Redway, Scotia and Garberville.

"We are trying to balance the needs of medical marijuana users with the needs of their neighbors."

I rememember a year ago being the only one covering and reporting on the meeting discussion when this was proposed. Today, only myself and Times-Standard reporter Will Houston were present.

How refreshing to have our District Attorney elect attend Board of Sups meeting

This was at the medical marijuana ordinance discussion today. Thank you Maggie.

Medical marijuana ordinance "highly flawed" and is a "medicinal and civil liberties " issue

The Medical Marijuana Outdoor Land Use Ordinance for outdoor cultivation on small parcels Oct 28th draft version was presented to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors this afternoon. Public hearing going on now. So far lot of opinions. No one happy but for different reasons.

Only 14 people are in the audience including Richard Marks, consultant and cannabis organizer representing California Cannabis Voice Humboldt. District Attorney Elect Maggie Fleming attended and listened. Local attorney Kathleen Bryson also attended.

One speaker from Fortuna said his major concern was "impact on kids". Another speaker who said he is from Redway and 25 years in marijuana business. He called the ordinance "highly flawed" and said this was a "medicinal and civil liberties" issue. He spoke and laughed while other speakers were at the podium.

Speaker from California Department of Fish and Wildlife objected due to "impact on natural resources" and called for greater regulation. Said this ordinance "was step in the right direction."

Another speaker, from Willow Creek, said he spoke a year ago, and"here we are back now." He said he represented seniors "who are afraid to come out of their house before noon and after dark." He said people have to go get medicine because "the stench is making them sick. We are not against 215 or people who are seriously ill, we are against those making a profit."

Another speaker said he "did not care if people grow" but 40 feet was not enough. His issue was odor. "If Iit up in this room, everyone would go, Can you smell that?"

A speaker from Cannabis Voice said, "This is a step in the right direction, the problem is the intent behind this is phony."

Humboldt County CAO and Board of Supervisors take a needle in the arm on camera

To promote flu vaccination. Supervisors Bohn and Bass had already had their flu shot. You can watch Access Humboldt for the Public Health presentation and visuals.

Voters have a choice in a week, is it an informed one?

Every election, this is said, every election it needs to be repeated. Voting is a basic right, available to all citizens, rich or poor. It is the one time, every person is equal.

Local elections dialogue is polarized, due to a small minority of voices on both sides. And lost in emotion are facts. Take away social issues, endorsers on both sides, what are you left with?

I have been here for several years, involved in local politics, more actively, since 2010. I won't address accusations, especially anonymous, of my motives, because to me the opinions that matter are those in the community that know me and what I have invested of my time and my money. And those without an agenda.

I do not vote or support candidates I do not know personally. These are people I have seen out and about the community and I have seen how they treat average people. Then I got to know them personally.

I knew Mike Newman before he was elected to City Council. There is more to Mike than what you see on Access Humboldt or read on the blogs and the media. Chet, same thing. Chet and Mike are successful in their businesses in Humboldt County. Mike rebuilt a business. That is not easy in Humboldt. They do understand the struggles of jobs and housing. They cannot fix a nationally broken system. They can use their qualifications to improve the situation if they are allowed to continue the work they have started.

They are involved in their community.

To be an elected official in this County, of small towns, is to endure insults, lack of gratitude, and to be judged by people who do not know you based on talking points thrown out there by who?

As an elected official, you have to deal with complex issues, have financial acumen and know you are responsible for the future of your voters.

So when you vote next week, have you done your research? Have you weighed the endorsement and support of people supporting candidates? Are you deciding on emotion or facts? Have you met all the candidates personally?

Vote for who you want. I will. Make an informed decision.


AT and T Director of Communications responds to my question about outage cause

John – the following is our statement and all I can provide currently:

Due to a fiber issue, some customers in the Humboldt County area may have experienced issues with their wireline, wireless, and U-verse services. AT&T technicians worked diligently to resolve the issue and service is currently running normally. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Alex Carey
Director of Communications and News Relations
California and Pacific Northwest


Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to vote on Medical Marijuana Land Use Ordinance this afternoon

Public comment is at 1:30, then there are two other items. If you have an opinion about this ordinance, which affects small parcels, read the attachments, show up and speak.

What action will be taken depend on your participation or lack thereof.

Item No. 3: Zoning Ordinance Revisions. Medical Marijuana Land Use Ordinance Phase II - Regulation
of Neighborhood Impacts from Outdoor Cultivation on Small Parcels. Case Number
OR-14-001 Applies Countywide

Recommendation:
That the Board of Supervisors introduce the Modified Ordinance No. _____ by
title and waive further reading [Attachment 1]; open the public hearing, receive
and consider the staff report and proposed determination of exempt status under
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and accept public comment;
deliberate on the Recent Modifications to the Draft Ordinance; accept the recent
modifications to the ordinance performed by staff pursuant to prior Board
direction; approve Resolution No. _____ [Attachment 2] adopting the proposed
Zoning Ordinance changes and making the CEQA findings. Approval of the
proposed changes to Chapter 4 of the Zoning Regulations (Outside the Coastal
Zone) will become effective 30 days from the date of its passage. Approval of
the proposed changes to Chapter 3 (Inside the Coastal Zone) will become
effective upon certification by the Coastal Commission; adopt Ordinance No.
_____ [Attachment 1] amending sections 313-55.1 and 314-55.1, and adding
sections 313-55.2 and 314-55.2 to Title III of the Humboldt County Code,
regulating the Outdoor Cultivation of Medical Marijuana on Small Parcels;
direct the Planning & Building Department Current Planning Division to
transmit the Local Coastal Program Amendment to the California Coastal
Commission for certification in accordance with the Coastal Act; direct the Clerk
of the Board to publish a Summary of the Ordinance within 15-days after
adoption of the ordinance by the Board, along with the names of those
Supervisors voting for and against the ordinance [Attachment 3] and to post in
the Office of the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors a certified copy of the full
text of the adopted ordinance along with the names of those Supervisors voting
for and against the ordinance; direct the Clerk of the Board to record in the
minutes of the Board meeting that the ordinance has been duly published and
posted, and to give notice of the decision to any interested parties; close the
Public Hearing.

These two attachments can be found on the Humboldt County website:
Medical Marijuana Outdoor Cultivation on Small Parcels.pdf
Public Comment on Medical Marijuana Outdoor Ordinance.pdf

Oct 27, 2014

Service restored just as I published last post

I am still switching to Verizon. For people who need cell service and internet to make a living, it is more than a matter of incovenience.

Unconfirmed citizen tip regarding cell service being down

I do not have phone service, text or internet but for a few minutes that I have wifi, thanks to a nice local business, I got an unconfirmed citizen tip that adds fuel to my hunch.

Why were there fire trucks, ambulances and cellular service vans near the AT and T tower near Arcata?

When I lost all service around 4, the first thought that came to my mind was cell tower down. Second thought, very similar to the Christmas when this happened. Third thought, is this an act of vandalism?

I can only use the internet, no phone or text. So can't confirm my hunch tonight.

As soon as I can, I am switching to Verizon. AT and T, Sprint, US Cellular, can you hear me now?



"Always read the second press release, it is usually accurate"

HCSO's Lt. Steve Knight to retire, effective November 8.

I knew this was in the works for a while but Steve is such a fair guy, that he would not let me scoop it before he sent it out to all media. That is the kind of guy Steve is, fair and kind.


Thirty years of serving the public. Anyone who can work in law enforcement for that long and still have smile on his face is one of a kind. So Steve, I will let the rest of the media do the bio. You know I have been working on some quotes from those who really know you.

Here is one quote:

"Always read the 2nd press release it is usually accurate.  Great guy with a sense of humor to back it up."

It is from Rex. The rest of the roast, I mean tributes, will follow soon.

Mckinleyville churches vandalized, damage estimated over $1,000

On 10-24-2014, at approximately 7:00 p.m. the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office was notified by two passing motorists who reported witnessing a vandalism in progress at the New Hope Church of God, 2202 Sutter Road, McKinleyville. Both motorists described the suspect as a white male wearing all black, riding a bicycle. When deputies arrived on scene they saw red spray painted graffiti covering several exterior walls and the windows of the church building, along with several areas of the building that had been written on with blue ink. The graffiti stated, “Zero down”, “Zero” and “Down on walls”.  Sheriff Deputies and California Highway Patrol (C.H.P.) Officers checked the area, but they were unable to locate the suspect.

Deputies also discovered the Abundant Life Center at 1947 Sutter Road, which is directly across the street from the New Hope Church had been vandalized also. The graffiti was the same and in red paint.

The estimated damage to both churches is estimated to be well over $1000.00.



Oct 25, 2014

PG and E update on Humboldt County outages; over 70 crews working in Northern region

The following is from Mark Van Groder to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors. Fifth District Supervisor Ryan Sundberg shared this with me, in response to my calling him and he wanted to get the most current information out to voters.


According to PG and E, Humboldt County is experiencing outages in groups of less than 500 +/- customers per outage. Several hundred customers are out of power due to the ongoing storm. The outages are in various and remote areas. 

Wind and trees related damage is causing outages with downed power lines and broken poles in the Humboldt County area.

At 1500 a total of 3,217customers are without electricity in 53 outages.

PG&E has over 70 crews serving the northern region to address these multiple outages and working to restore power as quickly as possible.

PG and E government representative told the Humboldt County Supervisors to call him if they have urgent concerns about repair and restoration.

Multiple crews responding but some restoration may take several hours due to restoration locations and storm conditions.

Humboldt Rants and Raves disses TS and gives a shut out to LOCO

The rant below sums up what people across political lines feel. It is not just TS, traditional newspapers whose websites are cumbersome and not user friendly lose viewers.

Locally, blogs are current and giving the people what they need.

The online free ride won't last forever, and even LOCO should not be guilty of falling prey to hubris. In the current world of social media, viewer loyalty is as permanent as the next click and the next fascination.

LOCO is smart to link all the local blogs and news sources that people are reading. When the TS folds, a smart entrepreneur would be planning now for some competition for LOCO.

Let editorial do their job, funders do yours. Someone saw Hank's vision, and it is the editorial decisions that bring in the advertising numbers.

Overwhelmingly, we have local media that leans left because they have funders. Advertisers need to realize if they want a voice and results, they need to put their money behind people who have vision. Someone believed in Hank.

CLhumboldt >personals >rants & raves
 reply  x prohibited[?]  Posted: 22 hours ago ◀ prev ▲ next ▶
 `Times Standard` ... We are done !!! (Fortuna, Ca.)
Your piece of shit paper and I are DONE ! I used to enjoy the Times Standard very much (30 years), but I guess that I`ve just been reading out of habit, because your paper has went steadily down hill for the last few years to the point that it is a total joke ! (I am referring to the `E` edition ... I no longer get the `paper` edition) Constant web problems, and old stories repeated on the guise that "they are the most popular" ? Really ??? When ? Certainly not still after 2-3 years are people trying to read these every day. You`re supposed to report news ... remember ? The only thing that really has kept me looking lately is the `Obits`, but you can`t seem to get that working right for the last couple of MONTHS either. Anyway, probably enough said. Although, when I called to cancel my subscription today, the person answering the phone didn`t know how. She tried (nice girl), but after a few minutes I was told that perhaps it would be better if "I`d contact my bank, and have them cancel any future monthly payments. So that`s what I did, and good bye Times Standard ! Guess I`ll just have to get it all from the `Lost Coast` on-line. They don`t yet have a lot of content, but I`m willing to watch them grow. At least their news is current.
do NOT contact me with unsolicited services or offers


post id: 4730031953 posted: 22 hours ago email to friend ♥ best of [?]
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Oct 24, 2014

Who cares about Brad Pitt, the real sighting in Old Town was Sims and Goff

I could care less about Brad Pitt. Seeing Hank Sims and Andrew Goff in Old Town made me wonder what LOCO post were they investigating now. I wanted to tail them to the new Eureka office but  the sights and shops of Old Town distracted me and Hank and Andrew disappeared into the Humboldt sunny afternoon.

I told Hank, Goff'd should be a new column. If Ryan Burns had been there, it would have been a flashback of former NCJ staffers on the beat.




Prayers for Sacramento and Washington State High School

Pryers for the deputies and their families in Sacramento and for the students and their families at Washington State.

Oct 23, 2014

Ian Henry, Bodhi Tree witness, busted for marijuana

This is a small town and from the booking photo, that looks a lot like Bodhi Tree witness Ian Henry.


HCSO Press Release:


On 10-22-2014, at approximately 7:00 p.m., a Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Deputy stopped a red GMC pickup truck for a traffic violation on Glendale Road at State Route 299, Blue Lake. After the deputy stopped the truck, he spoke with the driver who was identified as Jacob Paul Swagert, 25 years old from Eureka. Swagert told the deputy he did not his driver's license with him. A check with dispatch confirmed Swagert's driver's license was suspended and Swagert was on probation. A male passenger in Swagerts truck was identified as Ian Henry, 24 years old, from Arcata.  The deputy learned Henry was also on probation. The deputy searched the truck and located over two pounds of marijuana bud behind the driver's seat, along with indications of sales of marijuana. Henry claimed responsibility for the marijuana.

Swagert was arrested for driving on a suspended license and violation of probation. Henry was arrested for violation of probation, possession of more than an ounce of marijuana, possession of marijuana for sale and transportation of marijuana. Both were transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility and booked. Swagert was booked and released on his own recognition.

Protest at the Courthouse, maybe this election distraction will work?

The court summon stunt may not work, in time for November 4. We are getting hammered with facts on Measure R, spin on the Bergel bankruptcy issue isn't guaranteed.

What can we do two weeks before the election to distract the public? Let's protest outside the courthouse! Let's sensationalize an unfortunate death and protest a City measure outside the County building.

Occupy, Fair Wage, now these protestors. Same tactics every time. Can't get candidates to win on their merits, then just distract the public.

So far, the protest seems orderlly and free speech isn't being curtailed.  It isn't the cause that is the problem, it is the timing and where the protest was first publicized that should raise questions. Who is the master mind behind this exercise of free speech?





Oct 22, 2014

Media and public help HCSO locate motorcycle rider suspect

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office has identified the suspect involved in the pursuit on
10-16-2014, as Jason  Andrue Meisner, 40 years old, from Eureka.   A be- on -the lookout for Meisner has been issued to all law enforcement agencies. Mesiner is wanted for felony evasion of a police officer and violation of felony probation. Mesiner is on formal probation for cultivation of marijuana.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the media and public for their assistance in identifying Meisner.  The Sheriff’s Office received over twenty calls.

Previous press release:


The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying the motorcycle rider who evaded deputies on 10-16-2014. The investigating deputy was able to obtain a photograph of the man from Bear River Casino Security. The man had been at Bear River Casino prior to the pursuit.

On 10-16-14, at approximately 11:45 p.m. a Humboldt County Deputy Sheriff driving a marked patrol car near Bear River Casino was flagged down by a citizen. The citizen told the deputy two motorcyclists had been involved in the purchase of multiple pounds of marijuana and just left the area. One of the motorcyclists was carrying a large army duffle bag which contained the marijuana.

The deputy began checking the area for the motorcyclists. The deputy saw two motorcyclists matching the description provided in the area of Singly Hill Road and the Casino. As the motorcyclists turned onto Singly Hill Road, one of them failed to stop for the stop sign. The deputy attempted a traffic stop on the motorcyclist who failed to stop and who was carrying a large army duffle bag. The motorcyclist was riding a blue Yamaha 2006 motorcycle.  Instead of yielding to the deputy, the motorcycle sped off and entered onto southbound US 101. The motorcycle accelerated to over 90 mph. The motorcycle then exited at Palmer Boulevard and then re-entered US 101 northbound with the deputy still pursing it. The motorcycle again accelerated to high speeds, this time accelerating to over 110 mph northbound on US 101. Due to the extreme speed, the deputy terminated the pursuit in the interest of public safety.

Additional deputies responding towards the area from Eureka saw the motorcycle enter College of the Redwoods parking lot. As the deputies arrived at College of the Redwoods to look for the motorcycle, it again fled the deputies, back onto US 101. The deputies did not pursue the motorcyclist as it traveled southbound on US 101 in the northbound lanes at a high rate of speed, weaving in and out of traffic. The deputies lost sight of the motorcycle at Hookton Road where the motorcycle exited the freeway.

 A deputy traveling on Thompkins Hill Road spotted the motorcycle in the 3100 block.  The motorcycle was parked and partially covered up with wooden pallets.  Deputies and a Eureka Police K-9 searched the area for the rider and did not locate anyone. The motorcycle was impounded and the Sheriff’s Office is following up on leads as to the rider’s identity.



Stolen property arrest while detectives patrol for recent rash of residential burglaries

On 10/22/14 at about 1:58 p.m., Problem Oriented Policing (POP) Detectives were patrolling Eureka in response to the recent rash in residential burglaries.  Detectives recognized Rajean Achane, 31 of Eureka near Cedar and A Streets from previous police contacts.

A warrants check of Achane revealed that he had an active felony warrant for possession of stolen property.  Detectives contacted Achane and arrested him for the warrant.  During the course of the investigation officers found Achane to be in possession of stolen property from a burglary that was reported earlier this morning.

Achane was transported to the Humboldt County Jail and booked on the felony warrant charge and a new felony charge of possession of stolen property.

Anyone with information regarding the possible identity of the suspect(s) responsible for these burglaries is asked to call the Eureka Police Department at (707)441-4388.

"We are trying to find Mr. Gallegos"

Humboldt County justice came to a standstill today for several minutes in Courtroom 4 because no one could locate District Attorney Paul Gallegos. Calling of the case was delayed twice today because of him. "We are trying to find Mr. Gallegos," said DDA Zach Curtis, the first time Judge Dale Reinholtsen tried to call the case.

The second time Judge Reinholtsen tried again, Mr. Gallegos was still missing in action. Mr. Curtis, the bailiffs and two of the co-defendant's attorneys Ms. Jennifer Dixon and Mr. Benjamin Okin tried to locate him.

Paul did saunter in 20 minutes later and apologized to the Court twice. The rest of the people waiting for the cases to be called, two public defenders and a private attorney, who needed to be in other courtroom for other cases had to spend time twiddling their thumbs while Mr. Gallegos was nowhere to be found.

The 3 p.m. calendar was delayed but hey, we all got nothing to do but to sit and wait around for our outgoing DA.

At least he showed up.

Ferrer case continued again until Nov 10

After District Attorney Paul Gallegos finally appeared in court, he then appeared to change his mind about the agreement he made with Ms. Jennifer Dixon, Nicholas Stoiber's attorney,

They discussed briefly in court and then went outside after I overheard Ms. Dixon tell Mr. Gallegos, "That is not what we agreed to, I might renege on the agreement."

So then she had to talk to her client, again and Mr. Benjamin Okin with his client, Sophie Rochealeau.

Mr. Marek Reavis, who represents Juan Ferrer had ample time to talk to Juan Ferrer in the "box" while waiting for Mr. Gallegos.

Half an hour after all this, the case was called.

"It was our hope that we would resolve parts of the case today," said Mr. Okin. "However due to notifications, if we continue the case until November 10, we can take care of the housekeeping matters."

Ms. Dixon reiterated the request adding, "We were also hoping to resolve the case but due to intracacies of Marcy's law, we hope to enter a plea on November 10."

Mr. Reavis had no objection.

The 995 motion to dismiss the case against Rocheleau and other matters such as the status of discovery which has still to be addressed will be dealt with on November 10 at 2 p.m. in Courtroom 4.

Will Paul show up this time? Will the Arcata chef stabbing case ever go to trial?

This afternoon, yet another hearing is scheduled to discuss the ongoing soap opera of the case involving the stabbing of Arcata chef, Douglas Anderson-Jordet. It is on for status of discovery, again, in Courtroom 4 at 2 p.m. with Judge Dale Reinholtsen.

District Attorney Paul Gallegos, who is prosecuting the case, makes ocassional guest appearances, often leaving either ADA Kelly Neel or DDA Zach Curtis to cover for him. The "every week we come back" will put that statement in context.

Juan Ferrer, is charged with stabbing Anderson-Jordet, is being represented by Mr. Marek Reavis, from the Conflict Counsel office. Co-defendant Nicholas Stoiber is being represented by Ms. Jennifer Dixon from the Public Defender's Office and co-defendant Sophie Rocheleau is being represented by local private attorney Mr. Benjamin Okin.

Last time, a disposition had been proposed for Stoiber? Will it be resolved? Will the motion by Mr. Okin to dismiss the case against his client be granted? Will Paul show up?

Stay tuned for an update later this afternoon.

Some of the previous posts:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/09/ferrer-cases-joined-back-again.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/07/motion-to-sever-ferrer-stoiber-and.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/10/disposition-reached-for-stoiber-all.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/09/every-week-we-come-back-and-hear-same.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/07/gallegos-gets-dress-down-in-defenses.html


Domestic violence call results in arrest for marijuana and hash

On 10-21-2014, at approximately 11:30 p.m. the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a call regarding a domestic disturbance occurring in the 3600 block of Murray Road, McKinleyville. When deputies arrived at the residence, they met with the adult female victim who told the deputies her boyfriend, John Walter Wilson, 56 years old, had just exited the rear of the residence. Deputies located and detained Wilson who is on active parole.

 Deputies spoke with the victim who told them she and Wilson live together and were in a relationship and had been arguing. During the argument, Wilson accused the victim of stealing his marijuana and keeping the profits. Wilson grabbed a pellet rifle and threatened to strike the victim with it. He also threatened to kill her.

Deputies arrested Wilson for domestic assault. The deputies searched the residence and located the pellet rifle along with a can of bear mace and a can of CS tear gas. When deputies searched the garage they located a Hash Lab which consisted of numerous bottles of butane, sifters, PVC pipes, and loose marijuana, approximately 61 pounds of marijuana and 15 ounces of suspected concentrated cannabis. Deputies also located a nine week old chocolate lab puppy in the garage with the hash lab and marijuana. Deputies saw the puppy did not have food or water. Deputies had been at the residence approximately a week prior on an unrelated call, and saw the puppy had lost significant weight during that time period. Deputies took custody of the puppy which was transported to the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Animal Shelter.

Wilson was arrested for domestic battery, threats to commit a crime, being a felon in possession of tear gas, manufacturing a controlled substance, possession of concentrated cannabis and possession of over one ounce of marijuana. He was transported and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility. His bail was set at $500,000.00.

The victim did not require medical attention.

Oct 21, 2014

GO-Biz hosts free Small Business Seminar and Resource Expo in Roseville on October 30


The Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) will be hosting a resource table at the Board of Equalization (BOE) Small Business Seminar and Resource Expo in Roseville.  GO-Biz staff will be available to discuss the services available to small businesses from the GO-Biz Small Business and Permit Assistance units.

Topics on the agenda include:

Avoiding Common Sales and Use Tax Problems - presented by the Board of Equalization (BOE)
Employee or Independent Contractor - presented by the Employee Development Department (EDD)
Better Business through Better Records - presented by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Forms of Ownership - presented by the Franchise Tax Board (FTB)
Loan Programs and Services - presented by the California Capital Financial Development Corporation (CCFDC)

The event is free, but registration is required.  .

Thursday, October 30, 2014
9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (check-in at 8:30 a.m.)
Maidu Community Center
1550 Maidu Drive
Roseville, CA 95661
Free Parking

Register online or by calling 1-888-847-9652

Garberville death being investigated as homicide

On 10-18-2014, the Humboldt County Coroner’s Office conducted an autopsy on the deceased body located off US 101 near Alderpoint Road, Garberville. The autopsy revealed the body was a male and he died of gunshot wounds. The case is now being investigated as a homicide.

The Humboldt County Coroner’s Office is close to identifying the deceased male and upon confirmation and notification of next of kin, will publicly release the identity.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the case. Humboldt County Sheriff’s Detective Jennifer Turner is the lead investigator and is requesting anyone with information regarding this homicide to call her at 707-268-3642 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

Oct 20, 2014

Judge Feeney grants continuance for Curry case, Eddie Lee released

Eddie Lee has to appear in Oregon for the case that he was on probation for when he was found with an ounce of marijuana he was trying to sell. Curry County requested that Eddie Lee be cited and released to appear in Oregon on 9/27 for this case.

Local attorney Kathleen Bryson, who has specially appeared for Lee on behalf of his Bay area attorney Darryl Stallworth, was present in court on behalf of Eddie Lee today. She told Judge John Feeney that now that the murder case against Lee in Humboldt has been dismissed, "the plan is to get this Oregon case terminated." The Oregon probation case is from 2009.

Ms. Bryson also thanked Judge Feeney for his "courage in dismissing the Humboldt case."
So, Eddie Lee is a week away, from possibly being a free man.

Some of the previous posts on Eddie Lee:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/09/eddie-lee-fell-in-love-with-this-area.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/09/eddie-lee-to-take-stand-he-has-waited.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/10/i-never-gave-much-thought-about-going.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/09/father-son-like-relationship-triumphed.html

ADA Kelly Neel and Limmie Curry's public defender, Mr. Casey Russo, agreed to a new jury trial date of January 26. The People did not oppose the defense's motion to continue the trial, and Judge Feeney granted the request for "good cause."

Pre-trial is Nov 10 at 2 p.m. and Trial Confirmation is January 12 at 2 p.m.

Some of the previous posts on Limmie Curry:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/04/eddie-lee-and-limmie-greg-curry-pre.html

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/06/eddie-lee-and-limmie-greg-curry-cases.html

Douglas Flowers "White Power" case will not be tried a second time

Due to a witness being unavailable, People cannot proceed with the trial, the second time around. The second trial would have been prosecuted by DDA Jessica Watson.

The first trial resulted in a jury verdict of Douglas Flowers guilty of battery; not guilty on 1 count and mistrial on 1 count. Flowers was represented by Mr. Glenn Brown.

Coverage of the first trial:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/08/jury-currently-deliberating-fate-of.html

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/08/river-bar-suspect-douglas-flowers.html

Public Defender files for continuance in murder suspect Limmie Curry trial

This afternoon, a trial confirmation hearing is scheduled for murder suspect Limmie Curry. The public defender's office is representing Curry and a motion for continuance has been filed.

Curry has been charged by the Humboldt County District Attorney's office for the murder of Billy Reid. Curry's alleged co-conspirator, Eddie Lee, just had his case dismissed at the conclusion of his jury trial.

Previous posts:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/10/will-limmie-curry-trial-proceed-now.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/10/eddie-lee-case-dismissed-judge-feeney.html

Man shot and killed in Shelter Cove, one of the women at residence admits to shooting him

On 10-19-2014, at approximately 1:20 a.m. the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call regarding a man shot at a residence in the 200 block of Olson Road, Shelter Cove. Deputies and medical personnel responded to the scene, along with medical personnel who staged, until deputies arrived, due to the suspect still being in the residence. When deputies arrived, they secured the weapon used in the shooting and met with the 48 year female suspect and a 43 year old female witness.

Medical personnel entered the home and determined the 32 year old male, identified as Ethan Loren Stroud, who resided in the home, was shot and was deceased. Sheriff’s Detectives responded to the scene and a search warrant was obtained for the residence.

During their investigation, detectives learned that Stroud was the boyfriend of the 43 year female.  Earlier in the evening, Stroud showed up at the residence intoxicated and assaulted the 48 year old female and the 43 year old female. During the assault, the 48 year old female was able to obtain a semi- automatic  handgun which she brandished at Stroud, and told him to quit assaulting the females. Stroud not only refused, but aggressively came at the 48 year old female who was holding the handgun, who then shot Stroud.

Witnesses’ statements and evidence at the scene were consistent with what the 48 year old female told detectives. The female victims had visible injuries and complaint of pain. The 48 year old female was transported and treated at a local hospital for her injuries. The 43 year old victim refused treatment.

No arrests have been made at this time, the investigation is ongoing and detectives will be sending the case to the Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office for their review and final determination on whether any charges will be filed.

Oct 19, 2014

A decade old bankrutcy paid in full or current bankruptcy with money owed to local businesses? Which is more relevant?

Eric,

Thank you for your comment.

In either post, I did not put the reason why you went into debt. If you would like to explain the circumstances, I would be glad to post that information.

Mike Newman's bankruptcy was years ago and he has made full restitution. His bankruptcy was over a decade ago. Mike took on debts accumulated during his marriage as a result of his divorce and made all payments in full. Mike's debt was approximately 50 thousand in credit card debt.

Yours and your wife's bankruptcy for half a million dollars was filed in 2012 and includes money owed to local businesses and the payment cycle is not complete so it is relevant information to voters for this election.

Mike Newman had no idea I was doing this post. In fact, I called him after the first post was already up.

Eric's comment:

John, before you go too far down the road of moral superiority, perhaps you should investigate and report on Mike Newman's 2004 Chapter 7 (non-repayment) bankruptcy.
I'd be curious to know if his pre-economic bankruptcy was a result of a nearly fatal accident as ours was. I'd also be interested in ascertaining whether or not he made an effort of nearly four years duration to avoid bankruptcy as we did.

Rest assured Kim is very unlikely to engage in a mud-slinging campaign. Mike may be similarly inclined. But if you want to get into it, I can certainly oblige you.
ReplyDelete

Previous posts:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/10/bankrupt-you-too-can-pay-off-524248.html
http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/10/is-bankruptcy-filing-by-eureka-city.html

Bankrupt? You too can pay off $524,248 with just $51,720


http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/10/is-bankruptcy-filing-by-eureka-city.html?m=0

The link from yesterday gives background to this post and no one was aware of this until I reported it.

 Consider the following before the November 4 election.

Is the Kim Bergel Bankruptcy, a sweet deal?

Total debt $ 524,248.

Kim Bergel and her husband file Chapter 13 on July 27, 2012. According to paperwork, two months payment was suspended in November and December 2013, so they paid $900 per month for 15 months. Payments were to resume in January 2014,$ 910 was the monthly amount in the amended plan.

In Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you keep your property, but pay back all or a portion of your debts over a three to five year period. The Bergel's Chapter 13 plan is to conclude in five years from start of case, according to court documents. Let us assume, payments will be made until July 27, 2012. So 42 months of $910.

The total amount above was with cents rounded off to $524,  If they make all their payments, they pay $51,720 and the rest of the debt is forgiven.

Since they don't have to surrender their property, what is stopping them from racking up more debt?

Low income and poor folk are ineligible for Chapter 13 because you have to afford the payments.

Kim Bergel endorses Measure R. She can stiff paying her workman's comp but those big bad employers and non-profits with 25 employees are the ones we need to go after?

Supporting local businesses must mean not paying them what is owed.

Should you trust her endorsers current Councilmembers Linda Atkins and Melinda
Ciarabellini, and former Councilmember Jeff Leonard and former Humboldt County Supervisor Bonnie Neely?

Are they, along with all your Labor Councils and Humboldt County Democrats watching out for regular folk? They didn't even vet the candidate they support.

Can you trust a candidate with your money and your future? If you and I are in debt, could we afford the same sweet deal?

Also, to clarify why I didn't contact Kim, I stopped trying after my calls were not returned. I was the first one to report she was running, way before her media announcement. Way before I knew who was supporting her. Still, no response. That does not change the facts above which are from court documents.







Oct 18, 2014

Is a Bankruptcy filing by a Eureka City Council candidate relevant information?


Is a Bankruptcy filing by a City Council candidate relevant information?

One would think so.

It would seem that if you were running for City Council you might want to divulge that you filed a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy petition, just a little over 2 years ago. After all, it is the Eureka City Council that has final authority over the city of Eureka’s 80 million dollar plus budget. Kim Bergel and her husband filed bankruptcy in July of 2012 and listed $222,514 in unsecured creditors along with $233,794 in secured and priority creditors for a total of $524,248.

In addition to substantial credit card debt, there were dozens of local businesses who were not paid. There was even a small debt to the City of Eureka, the very city Kim Bergel now wants to exercise financial authority over. In addition to the numerous small businesses who were harmed, over $5300 was not paid for workers compensation on their employees. This is a fact that would seem to question one's judgment and just how much they even care about the people who work for them.

One would think that maybe, just maybe, someone who left so many unpaid bills might want to consider getting their own financial house in order before deciding to run for city council and  taking on the responsibility of the cities $80 million dollar yearly budget. Even if one were to overlook the fact that a lot of folks were harmed by their gross financial mismanagement, you can't overlook the fact that Kim Bergel should have come clean with the voters. Voters are now left with the pressing question of whether this is the kind of person they want to represent them?

Creditors--unsecured claims:

Alnquist Lumber $965                                      American Express Correspondence $$9.724
Arcata                                                                El Paso, Texas

American Express Correspondence $8,442      AT & T Universal Card $16,413
El Paso, Texas                                                   The Lakes, Nevada

Bank of America $25, 592                                 Bank of America $25, 139
El Paso, Texas                                                    El Paso, Texas

Bank of America $9,446                                    Bank of America $112
El Paso, Texas                                                    El Paso, Texas

Barbara Gallian $5,557                                      Bracut International Corp.
El Segundo, CA                                                 Arcata, CA 95518

Caroll Johnson $46,600                                      Chevron $405
Eureka, CA                                                         Concord, CA

Citi $8,188                                                           Citicorp Bank $1,794
Sioux Falls, South Dakota                                   Des Moines, Iowa

City of Eureka $72.42                                         Corsetti and Noyes LLP $824
Eureka, CA                                                          Eureka, CA

Cruz Plumbing $4,548                                        Cunningham, Malone and Morton $5,549
Eureka, CA                                                          Eureka, CA

Eureka Internal Medicine $48.13                         Eureka Ready Mix $2,427
Eureka, CA                                                           Eureka, CA  

Expert Tire $452                                                   GE Money Bank $1,506
Eureka, CA                                                            El Paso, Texas

HCC Surety Group $4,000                                    Hensel Hardware and Gifts $1,485
Los Angeles, CA                                                   Arcata, CA

IRS Special Procedures $7,731                             Les Schwab $576
Philadelphia, PA                                                    Bend, OR

Mad River Hospital $185                                      Marcus & Partners $660
Arcata, CA                                                             Berkley, CA

Miller Farms Nursery, Inc. $272                           Northwood Auto $2,304
McKinleyville, CA                                                Eureka, CA

PG & E  $ 749                                                       Pierson Building Center $1,710
Stockton, CA                                                         Eureka, CA

Platt $465                                                               Sherwin Williams $2,847
Portland, Oregon                                                    Eureka, CA

St. Joseph Hospital  $15                                         St. Joseph Hospital $15
Eureka, CA                                                             Eureka, CA

State Compensation Insurance $5,383                   Suddenlink $148
Pleasanton, CA                                                       Eureka, CA

Trinidad Electric Inc. $3, 616                                 United Rentals Northwest $1,439                        
Trinidad, CA                                                          Eureka, CA                            

It is never your fault Paul, take responsibility for once

In the Littlefield case, it wasn't your incompetence but Judge Feeney's ruling in the second mistrial. In the Lee case, again you question Judge Feeney.

Members of the jury, those of us who attended the  trial, agree with Judge Feeney and Mr. Stallworth. You come ill prepared for trials, in the Lee case, you spent more time apologizing for your mistakes instead of properly presenting a case.

Let's see, who should we believe? A stellar Judge like Judge John Feeney, a confident and excellent defense attorney or you?

I did not attend every day of the Lee trial but "the media" did not attend a single day. Suddenly, after the case is dismissed and a post appears on my blog, an article appears in the Times-Standard. Just as other articles when they weren't aware of the case or could not bother to show up.

Questioning you Paul would get rid of those exclusives and special chats after court, and most of the time it is the TS.

If you cared about the victims Paul, you would not be buddy buddy with certain defense attorneys and put a sham of a case on, you'd let any other prosecutor in your office, try the case.

When your DDAs try and do their job and your defense attorney buddies state openly in court, they will be talking to your office, justice is not being served.




Oct 17, 2014

Will Limmie Curry trial proceed now that Eddie Lee case is dismissed

Limmie Curry, who Eddie Lee said is the one who shot Reid, has a trial coming up. Wonder if that will still proceed?

Eddie Lee case dismissed, Judge Feeney grants defense motion

Right before the jury would decide Eddie Lee's fate and whether he was responsible in any way for the murder of William Reid, Judge Feeney granted the defense's oral motion and dismissed the case on the basis of CA Penal Code 1118.

This decision cannot be appealed.

Mr. Darryl Stallworth, who represented Eddie Lee, told me that "It is rare that a Judge will grant such a motion and have the courage to make such a decision." Judges are reluctant to take the decision away from the jury but "this is a prima facie" case, said Mr. Stallworth. "Normally, there is some evidence you can give the jury."

Mr. Stallworth argued that there was not enough evidence presented by the People for the jury to consider and the only basis to charge Eddie Lee was based on the defendant's own statement.

"You cannot convict a person based on his own statement," said Mr. Stallworth.

Eddie Lee will soon be a free man if his probation hold from Oregon can be lifted and that is the next step.

Some of the previous posts:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/10/eddie-leea-defense-attorney-accuses.html

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/09/eddie-lee-to-take-stand-he-has-waited.html

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/09/eddie-lee-fell-in-love-with-this-area.html

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/09/witness-and-da-in-eddie-lee-case-make.html

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/10/i-never-gave-much-thought-about-going.html

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/09/father-son-like-relationship-triumphed.html

Oct 16, 2014

Cash Mob descends on local business in Old Town

$h Mob is back and it's mobbing a much-requested local business in Old Town, Eureka. Which business? That will remain a well-guarded secret until the evening of November 14. Community members are invited to form a mob—unruly or otherwise—in front of Gallagher's Irish Pub at 2nd and C Street in Eureka at 5:15 p.m. Kazoos will be distributed.

What is Ca$h Mob? It's a collaborative effort between Fund Humboldt and Redwood Region Economic Development Commission and Humboldt Made to support local businesses. Humboldt County residents gather and descend on a small business, wallets in hand, to deliver a much needed cash infusion. Past Ca$h Mobs have stormed businesses in Rio Dell, Ferndale, Arcata, Fortuna and McKinleyville.

Nancy Zimmerman, the owner of Times Remembered in Ferndale, describes the excitement of seeing the mob enter her store on April 3.

“Everyone who came in had a good time,” she says, “For my store, it was a wonderful blessing.We sell a lot of consignment items from local artisans, and the Ca$h Mob people bought a lot of those. It was great to be able to get that money to the people who made those items.”

Humboldt County residents are strongly encouraged to use the Humboldt Ca$h Mob Facebook page or call RREDC at (707) 445-9651 to suggest businesses to mob.

Oct 15, 2014

Labor, retired, and the Salzman link to Measure R and Bergel and Arroyo

According to the paperwork filed with the city, the following people donated and supported Measure R, with amounts of $100 unless otherwise noted.

 Elaine Gray, progressive activist George Clark, Humboldt Unitarian which donated $440, former progressive activist turned attorney Neal Latt, Humboldt County Democratic Central Committee's Milt Boyd, Ron Kuhnel, local attorney Neal Sanders $250; Ken Miller, Mike Buettner, Carole Beaton (donated twice), Local 1000 Labor Representative Mark Greenleaf, Peter Shaffar (from Arcata), Peter Martin, Humboldt Del Norte Labor Council $500; Local SEIU, Building and Construction Council, Humboldt County Democrats $200; Janelle Egger (from Fortuna).

Lot of retired folk, lot of self-employed folk who will not be affected by the Measure and do not have to pay 25 employees or more and meet payroll. Clark, Miller, Martin have ties to Richard Salzman. Labor Councils and HCDDC, what a surprise, those who are anti-private industry and then of course people from Arcata and Fortuna who  do not live in Eureka but want to have a say in Eureka's business.

Peter Martin who sues the City of Eureka and other cities frequently. All of them lean progressive to liberal politically.

Some of the same names show up supporting Kim Bergel and Natalie Arroyo, I only noted some high amounts.

Carole Beaton and Mark Greenleaf are also supporting Kim Bergel. So is Ken Miller, HCDCC with a $500 donation; Central Labor with $500; and as an individual, HCDCC member Phillis Seawright (spelling from 460); and progressive candidate backer Bill Pierson.

Bill Pierson, Ken Miller, Phyllis Seawright, Central Labor Council with $500; and HCDCC with $500 supporting Natalie Arroyo. Others supporting her Hezekiah Allen (residence Arcata/McKinleyville in June 2014 election), Melanie Kuhnel, Kerrigan for Supervisor with $250; Stephen Lovett (from Arcata), Joshua Asarian (from Weaverville) and attorney Marion Miller (who has an office in Eureka) but listed Kneeland a sher address.

When you are running for a Eureka City Council position, and quite a few of your supporters are not from Eureka, that says something.

All this talk about moneyed interests and special interests controlling the City of Eureka and County is true of the Pierson backed candidates in every election. Labor has quite a vested interest in these November elections. And this is just from paperwork that is from the reporting periods before the election.

Vote for who you want, support who you want but is the media and the blogs you read equally applying the money trail to all candidates?

I support and endorsed Mike Newman and Chet Albin and that fact as well as my feelings on Measure R have been stated on this blog previously. These observations were made when I looked at all the paperwork for all candidates.

Kiwanis Club of Henderson Center to honor three Eureka businesswomen at their first annual fundraiser,including Barbara Groom

Kiwanis Club of Henderson Center is holding it's first annual event and fundraiser on October 22 at a special lunch at the Adorni Center. October was picked because it is Professional Business Women's Month.

Kiwanis Club of Henderson Center President John Friedenbach said that the event will always be held in October and that the idea is modeled after Fortuna Kiwanis. "They have been doing this for years. We have a lot of fantastic women in our club and we would like to honor them each year at this time."

The Master of Ceremonies is Fourth District Supervisor Virginia Bass, who was the first woman president of the Kiwanis Club of Henderson Center. Three awards will be presented. The Business Woman of the Year will be given to Lost Coast Brewery's Barbara Groom; Woman of Distinction will be given to Fatima Naylor, President of Families Advocating Autism Now; and Non-Profit Business Woman of the Year will be presented to Judy Sloma, Humboldt Sponsors.

Since this is the first event, the board did not designate a specific charity but keeping with the mission of Kiwanis, the funds will be used for the community. Mr. Friedenbach did not want to commit but said this year's funds, most likely, would be used for the Humboldt Area Foundation scholarship the Club sponsors.

Table of eight can be purchased for $300 or individual tickets for $25.

Kiwanis Club of Henderson Center meets every Wednesday at Rita's on 5th and L in Eureka. For more information, go to their Facebook page.

Purpose:

The purpose of this event is to provide Kiwanis service to our community through a recognition
luncheon which honors a local business woman, woman of “distinction” and local non-profit
organization which have demonstrated commitment and improvement to our community through
their actions.

Award Criteria:

The Kiwanis Club of Henderson Center (Club) is solely responsible for the selection of the
recipients of these awards. The determination of the Award Recipient(s) is final as determined
by the Club and is not subject to any appeal or application process.
Based on the selection criteria, the Club in closed meetings shall present worthy candidates for
consideration, deliberate on their individual merits and through a simple majority vote of the
Club’s Board of Directors, select the recipient(s).
The six Objects of Kiwanis shall be the overall guiding principles for implementing the selection
criteria listed below for the respective awards. The Objects are:
 To give primacy to the human and spiritual rather than to the material values of life.
 To encourage the daily living of the Golden Rule in all human relationships.
 To promote the adoption and the application of higher social, business and professional
standards.
 To develop, by precept and example, a more intelligent, aggressive and serviceable
citizenship.
 To provide, through Kiwanis clubs, a practical means to form enduring friendships, to
render altruistic service and to build better communities.
 To cooperate in creating and maintaining that sound public opinion and high idealism
which make possible the increase of righteousness, justice, patriotism and goodwill.

Skateboarder was involved in traffic collision passed away, investigation on his intoxication level being conducted

On Wednesday, October 8th, 2014, at approximately 11:59 PM, the Eureka Police Department investigated a traffic collision at the intersection of Broadway and W. Henderson Street in Eureka.  A skateboarder, later identified as Russell Busch, was riding his skateboard westbound down the W. Henderson Street hill, toward Broadway.  He was unable to stop before entering the intersection and collided with the driver’s side of a vehicle that was being driven southbound on Broadway.

Busch was not wearing a helmet and suffered life threatening head injuries.  Bush was quickly transported to the hospital by ambulance for treatment.  He remained there in critical condition, but ultimately passed away due to his injuries.  Drug paraphernalia was found on Busch’s person and his level of intoxication is still under investigation.  The driver of the vehicle Busch collided with was evaluated, but no signs of impairment were observed.

The Eureka Police Department is asking anyone who witnessed the collision to please contact Senior Traffic Officer Tim Jones at 441-4109.

Man walking on 299 with an axe arrested for outstanding drug warrant

On 10-14-2014, at approximately 5:30 p.m. the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received an anonymous call that Joseph Scott Huff Anderson, 32 years old from Fields Landing was walking westbound on Highway 299 near the Trinity County Line. The caller told Sheriff’s Office Dispatch he was wearing all camouflage and was carrying a double bladed axe.  A warrant check revealed Anderson had a warrant for his arrest for possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.

Two deputies located Anderson walking on Highway 299 carrying a double bladed axe. When they approached Anderson they ordered him to drop the axe. He initially refused, but eventually complied with their demands. After dropping the axe he tried to walk away from the deputies. When the deputies attempted to take him into custody he resisted their efforts. Anderson was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was searched.  During the search a small amount of useable suspected methamphetamine and two glass smoking pipes were located.

 Anderson was arrested for possession of illicit drugs, resisting arrest, possession of drug paraphernalia, providing a false name to a police officer to avoid arrest, and on the outstanding arrest warrant. His bail was set at $30,000.00.


Burglary alarm results in arrest for marijuana and firearms


In the early morning hours of 10/15/14, the Eureka Police Department received a call regarding an audible burglary alarm in the 400 block of Cooper Lane. Upon the officer's arrival, they discovered the front door to the residence had been forced open. Officers entered the residence to check for suspects, or possible victims. No one was located inside, however, during their initial sweep officers located a large amount of processed marijuana inside.

Detectives from the Eureka Police Departments Problem Oriented Policing unit were summoned to the scene and took over the investigation. A Search Warrant was obtained for the residence and the house was processed for evidence. During their search, detectives located and seized approximately 138 pounds of processed marijuana, 208.5 grams of concentrated cannabis, and four firearms….one of which was an AK47 assault rifle.

No arrests have been made at this time. This is an ongoing investigation.

*Anyone with information concerning suspected drug activity, or other nuisances occurring in the City of Eureka is encouraged to call the Problem Oriented Policing Unit at (707) 441-4373.

Possible sexual assault of juvenile in Loleta area



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE



On 10-13-2014, at approximately 3:45 p.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office was notified by Fortuna High School of a possible sexual assault that occurred off campus in the Loleta area, on
10-11-2014 during the evening. The teenage juvenile female student reported being assaulted by two teenage juvenile male students.  The Sheriff's Office is conducting a criminal investigation into the incident and a detective has been assigned to the case. Fortuna High School is conducting an administrative investigation into the incident and is assisting in the investigation. There have been no arrests and the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff's Office regarding this case please contact Detective Sam Williams at 268-3645.




HCSO says body of transient found dead in Garberville too decomposed to difficult to determine gender and identity

Sheriff’s Office Detectives and the Humboldt County Coroner’s Office continue to investigate  the death of a human body located off US 101 near Alderpoint Road, Garberville. The gender and identity of the deceased, along with the cause of death has not been determined due to the body’s decomposition. An autopsy is being scheduled in the near future to assist investigators in determining the cause of death. Further information will be released as it becomes available.

Previous press release:

On 10-14-2014, at approximately 10:00 a.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 regarding a possible deceased male at a transient camp off Sprowel Creek Road near the Alderpoint Crossing, Garberville.

Deputies responded to the area described by the caller and located a deceased male. Due to body being partially concealed, Sheriff’s Office Detectives were notified and requested to respond to the scene along with the Humboldt County Coroner prior to moving the deceased. At this time the cause of death is known, and it is being treated as a suspicious death. Further information will be released as it becomes available.

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this investigation or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriffs Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriffs Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.

Timothy Littlefield case keep getting continued, now next hearing on January 18

Timothy Littlefield case, the mystery case that lately does not always make the court calendar has had several disposition/reset dates since July. The latest date is January 18, 2015 at 2 p.m. in Courtroom 2.

Some of the previous posts:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/07/yet-another-delay-in-timothy.html

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/06/timothy-littlefield-deal-in-works.html

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/05/the-timothy-littlefield-story.html

Fieldbrook murder suspect preliminary hearing continued at request of defense

Jason Arreaga, the suspect in the Fieldbrook case, was scheduled to have his preliminary hearing today. It was continued at the request of hisdefenseattorney, Heidi Holmquist.

A disposition/reset hearing is now scheduled for November 17 at 2 p.m. in Courtroom 1.

Ms. Holnquist filed this motion yesterday and informed DDA Zach Curtis before court, he said. She explained why to Arreaga in court.

Ms. Holmquist said she only received police reports last Monday and needed time to prepare. People did not object.

Judge Joyce Hinrichs granted the motion.

No media was present in the Courtroom,

Previous post:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/09/fieldbrook-homicide-suspect-arraigned.html

Oct 14, 2014

Melvin Matthews of Bodhi Tree and Eddie Lee case fame gets bench warrant shortly after release

They call em repeat offenders for a reason.

Former Chesbro opponent and local activist Hezekiah Allen booked for DUI

The recent election results were a tough pill to swallow, I guess.

Janelle Egger tries to serve court summons to Supervisor Rex Bohn during public comment

Who says Humboldt County Board of Supervisor meetings are dull? Today, during public comment, former Occupy Eureka supporter Janelle Egger tried to serve BOS Chair Supervisor Rex Bohn with a court summons!

No one was sure what her beef was and Janelle was not sure of the serving process nor was the person trying to help her. Eventually, Rex came down from the dais and received the summons so that the meeting could proceed.

Janelle had  previously filed a lawsuit against the County regarding the emergency ordinance which was largely a result of Occupy Eureka protestors camping and holding every one else hostage from using the Courthouse.

Even TS reporter Will Houston couldn't figure out what Janelle's beef was but the general consensus is something to do with due process violations.

Rex took the summons, did not read it because it was not properly served. Janelle's concerns are important to him and he wanted her to feel heard.

I was wearing my Rex for Supervisor sweatshirt today. I joked with Rex that had I been in the BOS chambers instead of Courtroom 5 this morning, maybe I could served him the papers correctly!

Go-Biz and Japanese Government Agree to Feasibility Study for an Electric Vehicle Pilot Project in California


 Building on the state’s efforts to add more zero emission vehicles to California roads, the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) and the Japanese governmental organization New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) today agreed to conduct a feasibility study for an Electric Vehicle (EV) demonstration project in California. A letter of intent (LOI) was concluded between GO-Biz director, Kish Rajan and NEDO executive director, Hiroshi Kuniyoshi, which facilitates a partnership to develop new fast charging electric vehicle stations in California.

“California is working towards meeting the most ambitious zero emission vehicle goal in the U.S.,” said GO-Biz director Kish Rajan. “Today’s agreement furthers that effort and also expands our international partnership with Japan.”

Through this joint project, GO-Biz and NEDO will seek to ease range anxiety, increase intercity trips and promote EV adoption. Project partners plan to install direct current (DC) fast chargers along California highways and provide innovative services for EV drivers including charger location guidance.

“We have high hopes that the results of this project will be disseminated throughout the world.” said NEDO executive director Hiroshi Kuniyoshi. “I am confident that this demonstration project will be successful because of the strong relationship and collaboration between California and NEDO.”

Vincent Sanchez case resolved, plead 40 to life, second degree murder


Vincent Sanchez, the Harris street double murder suspect plead guilty to two counts of second degree murder and one special allegation of personal use of a firearm. All other charges were dismissed.

His stipulated sentence is 40 years to life and he has to serve the entire 40 years before he is even eligible for parole. He got 15 to life for each murder and on the special allegation, Judge Reinholtsen gave him the maximum terms of ten years. Even if he was paroled, he would be on parole the rest of his lif and any violation would mean he woyld then be back in prison and serve the rest of his sentence behind bars.

He coherently answered Judge Reinholtsen's questions and the only time his voice choked up and was soft was when the Judge read the charge against him for murdering his half brother.

The case has been referred to Probation for a pre sentencing report so that the victims can present a statement and weigh in if needed, even though the sentence has been negotiated and stipulated.

In contrast to Bodhi Tree, Vincent Sanchez was respectful, polite and even though he did not show much obvious emotion, his remorse was evident in his demeanor and the way he responded to the Judge's question about understanding what he wa pleading to. At one point, when his attorney Ms. Jennifer Dixon asked if he had any questions, he said no.

 Will Houston from the Times-Standard, the court staff, bailiffs and attorneys were the only ones in the courtroom today and one family member who has attended all hearings.


What the County needs is public speakers to state facts, not politically motivated blather, Sylvia De Rooy incorrect on campaign finances

The Humboldt Board of Supervisors passed Campaign Finance Reform by a 4-1 vote today, which limits contributions to $1,500 in any four-year campaign cycle (through the June primaries).

Sylvia De Rooy, who attended the BOS meeting said that no candidate has ever received more than $20,000 during a campaign cycle.

She was incorrect. 2010 461s from Blue Lake Casino, who gave $94,475 that year including $27,475 to then 4th District Supervisor Bonnie Neely, $25,000 to 5th District Supervisor candidate Patrick Cleary and $20,000 to District Attorney Paul Gallegos).

The title is a takeoff on Sylvia's recent My Word: What the County needs is reform, not blather.

I will update the 460s shortly.

Silverio Sanchez preliminary waived; attempted murder charge dropped

Arraignment on information for Jury trial on November 3 at 2 p.m. DDA Zach Curtis stipulated with Silverio Sanchez's attorney, Mr. Ben McLaughlin, to drop Count 1 which is the attempted murder charge and the special allegation associated with it and Sanchez agreed to waive the preliminary hearing.

When Sanchez is arraigned on information for the jury trial, the other counts have been modified to add a special allegation of great bodily injury to Counts 2 and 3 and this was part of the stipulation to waive the preliminary hearing. Sanchez will be charged with Count 2 which is battery on law enforcement; Count 3 which is evading law enforcement with injury and two counts of intimidation of witness.

Judge Joyce Hinrichs explained his rights to Sanchez before reading the waiver on record and then she read the modified counts.

"Our aim this morning was to get the attempted murder charge dropped and to litigate the rest of the trial," Mr. McLaughlin told me after the hearing. "By waiving the preliminary hearing, we are not acknowledging that Mr. Sanchez was driving the vehicle."

Only Channel 3 and myself present in courtroom for the hearing this morning.

Oct 12, 2014

"Fair Wage folks have fooled a lot of people"; text of ad in today's TS

Fair Wage Folks” have fooled a lot of  people, Measure R was never about a living wage

Measure R has never been about a “Living Wage” or improving the local economy. Measure R has always been about the Occupy movement’s disdain for Walmart. An honest byline would have read “Get Walmart”.  If their true intentions are in doubt, look at the early content of their social media pages and consider these questions: Why does this stop at the city limits? Why is it only companies with over 25 employees? Why is there an exemption for unions? Does a union employee not also deserve a “Living Wage”?  Does a worker in a small cafe not deserve a “Living Wage”? Does an

employee who works in Myrtletown not deserve a “Living Wage”? The Unions and local Occupy Movement have their crosshairs on Walmart, but a lot of good, locally owned Eureka businesses, and many organizations serving the elderly and poor are being caught in the crossfire.

People are struggling, and I’m sympathetic. Early on, I lived in the back room of a body shop in  Mckinleyville until I found my footing working multiple jobs. The last four businesses I worked for all closed down when they succumbed to financial pressures. I still have my last paycheck from one of them. It never cleared the bank.

Now I work for a good company. 20 years ago I started with City Ambulance, who operates Humboldt Dial-A-Ride and City Cab, earning $3.35 per hour as a part-time EMT. After paramedic school, nursing school, a bachelor’s degree, and a lot of hard work, I make significantly more. I’ve always had an opportunity to succeed on my

efforts, but I see that opportunity disappearing for my kids who are just entering the workforce. I see how companies are responding to the increasing pressures from minimum wage hikes, health insurance, increases workman’s compensation insurance increases, and regulatory changes.

City Ambulance gives a portion of profits to the employees at the end of each year.

5 years ago, we paid over $100,000.00 in performance bonuses. Perfect attendance- $200.00; Accident free- $300.00; No customer  complaints $200.00; and the list goes on. Many good employees received a full month’s check or more in the form of a bonus, and we gave away a cruise each year at our company picnic. Last year, that number was down to $25,000.00. The bonus may not even exist this year. So who lost out in favor of wage pressure and excessive regulation? The employee who showed up for work on time with a good attitude and took care of our customers.

In 2007, we had over 100 employees and used local work assistance programs to help the unemployed and disabled re-enter the workforce. We discontinued the program in 2008, after an 18.5% increase in the minimum wage over just two years, and we’ve since cut our staff down to about 90 employees.

Benefits? You can’t find five taxicab companies in all of California like ours that have health insurance, retirement and vacation for their taxicab drivers. All of that is in jeopardy as we look for ways to survive. We could add a surcharge of $1.50 on Eureka taxicab fares, but fares have already doubled over the last five years. How much will the market bear? The fact is we will find some creative way to restructure. There won’t be any winners.

Those benefits that atrophy in favor of wages are all pretax, so we ALL feel the sting when they are reduced. Just 5 years ago, we paid for a very generous health insurance plan for employees. Today, that’s been scaled back to a minimum plan and employees must contribute 5-9% of their wages. Unlike this proposal, the City of Seattle had the good sense to recognize that benefits should be factored into the minimum wage.

Our Dial-A-Ride services? Well, if Measure R passes, the City of Eureka will have a choice. Pay significantly more for service or cut back on transportation for the elderly and disabled. Which do you think will happen? We are not alone in this plight. Senior nutrition programs, childcare services, afterschool programs, parks and recreation, and other transportation programs are caught in the crossfire and many are preparing for cuts to service.

City Ambulance will adapt in a way that will sadly upset some lives. Not because my boss is a greedy corporate fat cat, but because this family business that has supported our little league teams, community non-profits, our employees, and has given back to the community in immeasurable ways for over five decades, is caught in the crossfire. Measure R is what happens when the desire to punish Walmart trumps concern for the community.  I trust that voters will see the forest for the trees and vote “NO” on Measure R. One more thing. If you think our taxicab drivers deserve more, I agree. Don’t wait for the inevitable fare increases forced by regulation. Give it to them directly with an extra $1.50 in your tip. I always do.

Jaison Chand,  Eureka

Jaison Chand ad in TS against Measure R spot on

He had to pay to get the message out.




Oct 11, 2014

Even with the trial over, Sean is not safe; his sister's account

This is what Sean Butler-Smith's sister told me. Sean testified to the first assault during the Tree trial and the risk he would take by testifying against Tree.


"He was assaulted by some inmates in dorm 219. He was tied down to his bed and beaten with a bar of soap in a sock.  He was moved back to PC, but he should have never been move to any general population dorm in the first place. I don't know what the DA's office is doing about it. Sean won't give up the names of the inmates that assaulted him. It's probably better that way, so there is no more retaliation against him for being a "rat".

The morning after I found out it happened I contacted the district attorney's investigator, Seans public defender and my old probation officer who was able to advocate for him in a way that I can not as I take meetings into the jail or contact him, other than through phone."

My opinion:

This is why it is hard to change your life in Humboldt. This is the risk Jason Losey, Tyrel Brannon and all who testified took. These are the people Tree's public defenders character assasinated to defend an unremorseful man who continues to wreaks havoc. While ther is no proof that the assault is connected to Tree, where are the inmates who assaulted him?

This is why extra jail space is neccessary so certain criminals do not let go repeatedly. But the blood of Sean is on the hand of those with money and power that have left Sean, you and me vulnerable. Those that oppose growth here and those that do not create jobs so that young men and women cannot escape poverty and crime.

Those in power who are Decline to State, Democrats and Republicans that rather fund media that ignores the human condition than have the truth exposed about people's struggle.

There are those that are trying who have money and power but we are too divided and polarized to support them.

Key witness in Tree trial assualted the second time in jail

On Thursday Sean Butler-Smith's sister tried to contact me, yesterday because of the Tree sentencing, we were not able to talk until later. The building was closing, we all left. Juror #7 contacted me last evening and I will be posting another post from Sean's sister.

It is the weekend and Monday is a court holiday so I may not have comment from the jail or the DA's office until Tuesday.


Dear Mr. Chiv:

I hope others share my outrage about what happened to Sean Butler-Smith, the drug addict who risked his life to testify against double-murderer Bodhi Tree. He was brutally assaulted in HumCo  jail within the last 3 days.

He is now in the super max part of the jail (where he's in his cell 23.5 hrs!) for his own safety. But why was he ever put in general population?

This is not the first time Butler-Smith has been assaulted in Humco Jail.  He lost some teeth and wound up in the infirmary last year after testifying in Tree's preliminary hearing.

HumCo is lucky that Butler-Smith's family hasn't filed a lawsuit for the jail's repeated negligence in not keeping Butler-Smith safe.

The DA's office is trying to move his case to another county for his safety. Unfortunately, Butler-Smith's family doesn't have the funds to get him and keep him there.

He needs a (locked) rehab center in another county.  He has to have support after rehab: some safe place to stay and money to live as he reintegrates into the community.  A family member to live with - and be accountable to - would give him the best chance, but moving is expensive.

Yes, Sean is far from innocent; he has been living the life of a homeless heroin addict. He steals and cheats and scams to feed his addiction. But he is the person most responsible for protecting our community from double-murderer Bodhi Tree.  We owe him and the HumCo Jail (especially) owes him.

I hope he isn't forgotten as the Tree trial winds down.

Juror #7.