Is this sizzle to fizzle case case even news anymore or just because it involves the Littlefields?

Today, there was a hearing on this case. I did not go to it because I was covering other cases and news.

I have not been updating it because not much to say. I will check tomorrow to see for any new developments.

Jun 2, 2016

Seven co-defendant marijuana case with star line up of defense attorneys fizzles to no big deal

Timothy Littlefield, Sr.

Who says police don't have a sense of humor? Captain Watson should write headlines for local news

Captain Steve Watson's tweet:


Chief's trip to a natural food store for lunch + DUI driver with incredibly bad timing = 7 lbs of meth (not organic) https://t.co/f2veVrHDJh

CalFire Humboldt Del Norte to take over tomorrow; Tully fire 85% contained

Wednesday evening update:

85% contained.

"Firefighters have shifted their focus to mop up and patrol of the fire perimeter and will remain
committed through the weekend to ensure hot spots are extinguished and the threat of fire spread is
mitigated.
Suppression repair is continuing in conjunction with tribal experts to minimize long term impacts to
the landscape and culturally significant sites.
The demobilization of firefighting resources continues as some firefighters prepare to move to other
significant fires across the state.
Residents are advised to watch for slow moving fire apparatus and firefighters operating in the area.
Tomorrow, at 10:00 AM, command of the Tulley Fire will transition from CAL FIRE Incident Management Team 3 to the Humboldt – Del Norte Unit of CAL FIRE."

Doesn't look like Humboldt is going to get approval for construction of a new courthouse anytime soon

I will have a follow up post on this from local and state officials and the Judicial Council.

Excerpt:

"Facing a shortage of state funding for the courts, plans to build a new Superior Court building at the downtown railyard have derailed following action by the state Judicial Council to postpone construction of 17 new courthouses across California."

Read more at:

http://www.bizjournals.com/sacramento/news/2016/08/30/state-to-postpone-work-on-downtown-railyard.html
Status:

http://m.newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/status-of-california-s-courthouse-construction-projects

Older related post:

http://m.newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/judicial-council-delays-four-more-courthouse-projects

Bail bond exonerated for George Daniels, still on the lam; most recent case was for alleged possession of 800 lbs of marijuana; previously arrested for alleged police car theft

A warrant surrender was scheduled today in Courtroom 5 for George Preston Daniels' latest case from 2016.

Here is what glimpse of the cases in the court computer that Daniels has; he is on the lam and efforts to locate him, despite a reward have been unsuccessful.

This is a copy of the minutes today where his bail bond was exonerated.

Jury trial scheduled for Benjamin Heidmann and Konnor Wright for alleged attempted murder of David Seigl; will the Crazy White Boys connection be confirmed?

Yesterday afternoon Benjamin Heidmann and Konnor Wright were arraigned on information for their jury trial.

Pleas of not guilty entered.

A pre-trial conference is scheduled for September 13; Trial conformation for October 6, 2016 and Jury trial is scheduled for October 24.

I spoke with Mr. Marek Reavis, who represents Wright and he will not be filing a 995 motion.

Aug 27, 2016

Benjamin Heidmann and Konnor Wright to be arraigned for jury trial on Tuesday; charges are the same as preliminary hearing

Benjamin Heidmann and Konnor Wright are scheduled to be arraigned on information on August 30.

The DA's office already filed the information for jury trial on August 19. Charges are exactly the same as the preliminary hearing.

I will update this post with dates on Tuesday.

Aug 16, 2016

Benjamin Heidmann and Konnor Wright held to answer on all charges in alleged attempted murder of David Seigl

Autopsy to determine cause of death for dead body found in Eel River

Update (Sept 1):

The decedent in this case has been positively identified as 26 year old Joshua Deyo of Wisconsin. An autopsy has been scheduled for Saturday, September 3rd.

The investigation is ongoing.

On Tuesday, August 30, 2016 at about 5:26 p.m. Humboldt County Deputies responded to Bear Canyon Bridge near Garberville for a report of a dead body in the Eel River.

Upon arrival, deputies located a white male adult face down in the river. Detectives responded to the scene to investigate. The decedent’s identity is unknown at this time. An autopsy is scheduled to determine cause of death.

Dumbest criminals of the year crash their car in front of Chief Mills; have meth in car

Chief Mills Tweet:


When you have pounds of meth in the car and crash your car in front of the Chief and Det Sgt. #not smart @EPD https://t.co/WcbEvdOHdz

Fish and Game makes one of Jimmy Smith's wishes come true; razor clam regulations amended and Clam Beach gets a new name

Former Supervisor Jimmy Smith still watching out for Humboldt County from heaven.

"Jimmy had started this project before he left office," Supervisor Sundberg told me. "The creek that has been used as a boundary had meandered in such a way that north and south were not split evenly."

Supervisor Sundberg took the project on and was very happy to see this wish on Jimmy Smith's list come closer to fruition.


Listed below is an excerpt from an email from  to Fifth District Supervisor Ryan Sundberg:

Today the Fish and Game Commission authorized publication of their notice of intent to amend sport fishing regulations for razor clams at Clam Beach (scanned and attached). They will change the boundary from “Strawberry Creek“ to a boundary marker and accompanying latitude reading at the county parking lot at the former creek mouth. They will maintain the north/south every other year seasons. They are also making a minor name change (Little River Beach to Clam Beach). In short, it will be like it was before the creek migrated south.

A discussion hearing will be held October 20 (in Eureka at the Red Lion) with adoption hearing on December 8 (in San Diego) and an effective implementation date of March 1, 2017.

Budget Motel alleged male victim refuses to cooperate with EPD investigation

   

On August 30, 2016, at about 5:15 p.m., officers with the Eureka Police Department responded to the Budget Motel on the 1100 block of 4^th Street for the report of three subjects in a physical altercation and one known injury.    

Upon arrival, all involved parties had fled the scene.  Officers located a hatchet and blood on the ground and on a parked vehicle.  A witness stated the victim had been transported to the hospital by a family member.  

Officers responded to the hospital and made contact with the victim, an 18 year old male of Eureka.  The male was being treated for non-life-threatening lacerations and refused to cooperate with the investigation.  

Statements provided to officers provided little information about what occurred.  The primary suspect was only described as a heavy set Hispanic male with long hair and was last seen riding a beach cruiser bicycle east on 4^th Street.  Based on the investigation, it appears the hatchet found on scene had been in the victim's possession during the altercation.  

The Budget Motel has been a chronic source of crime and nuisance complaints with nearly 200 calls for service in the past 12 months.  

Ewa Misztal to be arraigned today for alleged assault on a child causing death; will Judge keep bail at half a million?

Arraignment at 1:30 today for Misztal in Courtroom 4. The complaint states Jane Doe's birth as 7/6/2016.

Public Defender's office was appointed; Ms. Kelly Neel was in court today for arraignment. Misztal was crying as she spoke with Ms. Neel.

Count 1 Felony PC 273ab Assault on a child causing death. Deputy District Attorney Brie Bennett is prosecuting the case.

Bail was raised to one million. This is not a crime listed on the bail schedule; in this case, the bail is then set based on time of commitment.

If convicted, the sentence for this charge is 25 years to life.

Intervention is on September 6. Preliminary hearing is on September 14.

Ewa Misztal, a 28yr old woman, was arrested on August 27 for  alleged felony child abuse PC 273a (a)  in Arcata. The bail was 50k; it was enhanced to half a million because the child died..

She is still in custody. Four days in jail.

Today, I spoke with the Arcata Police Department to verify that Misztal had been told by police that the child died of a fractured skull and that she told law enforcement she had no idea how it happened.

Previous post:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2016/08/50k-bail-for-polish-national-28-year.html

70k Measure Z funds used to get safely from Mckinleyville schools is reason for temporary road closure

"This is the safety project for $70K of Measure Z  to get kids safely from the Little Pond and Halfway Ave to Mck High and Morris Elementary Schools," said Fifth District Supervisor Ryan Sundberg.

Mckinleyville Avenue between Murray and Gassaway to be closed temporarily

McKinleyville Avenue between Murray and Gassaway is scheduled to be closed temporarily on Wednesday, Sept. 7 from 9 am to 3 pm for maintenance. There will be no through traffic. The work will consist of repaving the roadway.

If you have any concerns or questions, please contact Art Reeve, Deputy Director
Humboldt County Public Works Department at 707-445-7421. We thank you in
advance for your patience and look forward to the completion of the project.

County Building and Planning Department to get a new director; want the job, you have until this Friday to apply

Rob Wall, Interim Planning and Director of the County's Building and Planning Department, who was appointed last year, is going back to his old job as Supervising Planner, when they find a replacement.

The deadline for applicants for his job is this Friday.

I ran into Mr. Wall this morning. He told me he is looking forward to returning to his old job and spending more time with his family. And that he had informed the Board of Supervisors back in January 2016 that he did not want the Director position permanently.

Firefighters had to hose down blood from the black Nissan where the alleged stabbing at Budget happened today

Spoke with EPD Sgt. Gary Whitmer who was just leaving as I arrived at the Budget motel.

So were the firefighters.

EPD officers and detectives are at the hospital speaking to the one person who was allegedly stabbed in the fight. The person was already at the hospital before EPD arrived.

All evidence has been gathered and crime tape removed. Witnesses at scene interviewed.

Three people involved. Firefighters had to hose blood off the black Nissan, said Sgt. Whitmer.

They recovered a hatchet in a sheath by the black Nissan. Not known if there is blood on it yet or if it was used in the alleged fight.

Kudos to North Coast News for the first and live report on 4th street motel incident; allegedly hatchet involved

Kudos to North Coast News for their live report on the EPD call to the local motel on 4th Street.

Haven't seen these details on any other media source.

From KAEF, it is a motel that has received a lot of calls for service. Alleged suspects had fled the scene, hatchet involved, one injured person at the hospital. EPD gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.

Clearly from the address, it's the Budget. I could walk down there,  but will just wait for the update on KAEF at 10 and the press release. Taylor Torregano is at the scene.

Five new faces join HCSO including two deputy Sheriffs

Sheriff Mike Downey is pleased to announce the swearing in for five new Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office employees. The new employees and their positions are as follows:

1. Katrina Gutierrez – Correctional Cook
2. Roque Flores – Correctional Deputy
3. Richard Sanchez – Correctional Deputy
4. Tyler James – Deputy Sheriff
5. Tim Jones – Deputy Sheriff

CalFire continues to make progress with Tully Fire, 60% contained

At the end of today, CALFire has 60% of the Tully Fire contained.

Tuesday morning 6 am update: Tully fire 70% contained. 5:45 evening update 75% contained.

"Firefighters have begun to shift their focus on mop up to ensure that any remaining hot spots are
extinguished while containment lines continue to be strengthened.
Suppression repair is continuing in conjunction with tribal experts to minimize long term impacts to
the landscape and culturally significant sites.
The demobilization of firefighting resources continues as some firefighters prepare to move to other
significant fires across the state.
Residents are advised to watch for slow moving fire apparatus and firefighters operating in the area."

Wednesday evening update:

85% contained.

"Firefighters have shifted their focus to mop up and patrol of the fire perimeter and will remain
committed through the weekend to ensure hot spots are extinguished and the threat of fire spread is
mitigated.
Suppression repair is continuing in conjunction with tribal experts to minimize long term impacts to
the landscape and culturally significant sites.
The demobilization of firefighting resources continues as some firefighters prepare to move to other
significant fires across the state.
Residents are advised to watch for slow moving fire apparatus and firefighters operating in the area.
Tomorrow, at 10:00 AM, command of the Tulley Fire will transition from CAL FIRE Incident Management Team 3 to the Humboldt – Del Norte Unit of CAL FIRE."

Half a million bail each for two suspects arrested in Dinsmore bust; no legal documentation or registration alleged

On Friday, August 26, 2016 at about 9 a.m. Humboldt County Deputy Sheriffs, a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) agent, California Department of Fish and Wildlife (F&W) officers, members of the California State Water Board (CSWB), and a member of the Humboldt County Code Enforcement (HCCE) served a search warrant on two parcels located off Hwy 36 near Dinsmore, California.

Upon service of the search warrant deputies detained three individuals. The first individual was identified as 32 year old Sean Christopher Appelbaum. The second individual was identified as 18 year old Shane Jordan Edwards. The third individual was not associated with the marijuana grow and released on scene. Appelbaum and Edwards could not provide deputies with legal documentation supporting their marijuana grows, nor were they able to provide documentation of being in the process of registering their marijuana grow with the County of Humboldt’s Medical Marijuana Land Use Ordinance.

Deputies searched both parcels and located a total of 9,525 green growing marijuana plants, 11 firearms, 375 grams of Butane Honey Oil, 148 grams of Psilocybin Mushrooms, 172 lbs of marijuana shake, 73.1 lbs of processed marijuana bud, indicia of marijuana sales, and ammunition.

Deputies also located two man made water storage ponds each with a water pump. The ponds were made of plastic tarp and supported by rocks, downed trees, and rope. F&W, CSWB, and HCCE observed extensive environmental damage while examining the property.

Appelbaum and Edwards were taken to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility. Appelbaum was booked for cultivating marijuana, possession of marijuana for sale, manufacturing a controlled substance, conspiracy, being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm while in commission of another felony, and being a felon in possession of ammunition. Edwards was booked for the cultivating marijuana, possession of marijuana for sale, possession of concentrated cannabis, manufacturing a controlled substance, conspiracy, possession of a firearm while in commission of another felony, possession of a non-serialized firearm, possession of a firearm with multi-burst trigger device, and possession of an assault weapon. Each had their bail set at $500,000.

Humboldt County Drug Task Force arrests two for alleged posession and transportation of marijuana

Blizzard

Silverman

Update (August 31):

On 08-29-2016, Sheriff's Deputies were following up on the activity of Peter Blizzard and Jacob Silverman prior to their arrests.  During their investigation, Deputies learned that both subjects rented a room at a motel located in the 900 block of Redwood Drive, Garberville.  Deputies were also alerted that several people had attempted to access this room while Blizzard and Silverman were in custody.  The Humboldt County Drug Task Force (HCDTF) was notified and a search warrant for the room was obtained.  During the search of the room, HCDTF agents located approximately 68.5 grams of suspected heroin along with $6,380 in cash.  Additional charges of possession of a controlled substance for sales were added to Blizzard's and Silverman's booking.  Both subjects are currently held at the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where their bail has been set at $125,000. 

Original Press Release:

On 08-26-2016 at 6:00 p.m., Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Deputies, with the assistance of Humboldt County Drug Task Force, conducted a traffic enforcement stop in the 400 block of Maple Lane, Garberville.  

Deputies contacted the driver of the vehicle, Peter Blizzard (age 39), and front passenger, Jacob Silverman (age 40).  When speaking to Blizzard and Silverman, Deputies could smell the odor of marijuana emitting from within the vehicle. Silverman made several furtive movements with his hands and was reaching for the center console area.  It was later discovered that Silverman was attempting to conceal a large stack of currency.  Silverman, who was wearing a wig, in what was believed to be an attempt to disguise his appearance, provided false identification to the Deputies.  Silverman was subsequently placed under arrest.  

The vehicle was searched and approximately eight (8) pounds of processed marijuana was seized.  Deputies also located $8,288 inside the vehicle which will be held for possible asset forfeiture.   

Both subjects were transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility.  Blizzard was booked for possession of marijuana for sales, transportation of marijuana, and probation violation.  Silverman was booked for possession of marijuana for sales, transportation of marijuana, providing false identification to a peace officer, and felony warrants issued from the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office.  Silverman will be extradited to Mendocino County at a later date.    

Surfside Burger Shack owner Chad Smith busted for DUI?

Chad Allen Smith arrested for DUI by Fortuna Police Department on August 28.

A Chad Allan Smith is the owner of Surfside Burger Shack.

Typos are made in reports and records all the time.

While the middle names are similar,  Chad Allen Smith is 35 years old; Chad Alan Smith is 42.


Checked court records further.

Both have court records for exceeding speed limit. Chad Allan Smith has four traffic cases; one dismissal for traffic school, three listed as convictions, disposed before hearing; charges include exceeding speed limit, and mandatory use of seatbelts required). Cases from 2008 to 2015.

Chad Allen Smith only has one other traffic infraction.

So far, no confirmation on Surfside Burger Shack connection.

Fortuna Police Department confirmed the arrest and time.

Other verification  including booking photo in progress.

Problem with people with several court cases is that fines are not a detetrent, behavior continues, and often escalates.

Tully Fire 50 percent contained

Tully Fire 599 acres; 50  % contained, according to today's Cal Fire report.

Hezekiah Allen disses North Coast growers in Press Democrat article

Excerpt:

Growers in nearby Humboldt County are bogged down in disagreements and an “anti-regulation vibe,” Allen said.

“Mendocino growers have come to understand that regulation done right provides a clear pathway forward,” said Allen, a former Humboldt grower.

Sonoma County growers are pursuing a similar zoning but it is in the beginning stages, said Sebastopol attorney Omar Figueroa, who represents growers across the North Coast.

Full article at http://www.pressdemocrat.com/news/5958381-181/mendocino-county-growers-plan-pot?artslide=11

Rape, domestic violence, human trafficking of a minor, assault, gang participation are "non violent felonies?"

Prop 57 or the Public Safety and Rehabilitation Act, another misleading name like Prop 47 considers the following "non violent felonies".

50k bail for Polish national, 28 year old woman arrested for alleged child abuse; child died, bail expected to go up

A 28yr old woman arrested for  alleged felony child abuse PC 273a (a)  in Arcata. Bail is 50k.

There will  be a bail enhancement  because the child died.

Child was born 7/6/2016.

Alleged suspect's name is Ewa Misztal. She is a Polish national, and not a US citizen, according to my source. She is in custody, and has not yet posted bail.


Update: (August 28) Bail was enhanced to half a million.

Mother alleges assault by adult son on 1100 block of A street in Eureka; EPD checking it out

According to scanner traffic, approximately around 6:40 p.m. this evening, a call came im about a possible assault on the 1100 block of A street. Mother alleged adult son assaulted her. EPD went to the location.

This was an unofficial "scanner report on LOCO" page, I am trying to confirm/follow up but it is the weekend, and if any of the other "unofficial" reports pan out, EPD is having a busy night.

Thomas Lusk found mentally competent and criminal proceedings have been reinstated; jury trial scheduled for October 17

On August 25, after Dr. Ramirez found "defendant is mentally competent", criminal proceedings were reinstated.

Trial confirmation is on for October 6 at 2 p.m. Jury trial is scheduled for October 17 at 8:30 p.m.

Deputy District Attorney Stacey Eads is prosecuting the case. Conflict Counsel's Mr. Greg Elvine-Kreis is representing Lusk.

Aug 5, 2016

Criminal proceedings suspended for Thomas Lusk who was charged with alleged torture, rape and forcible copulation

Trial Confirmation was scheduled for August 4 for Thomas Lusk. Instead criminal proceedings suspended because Lusk's attorney declared doubt regarding his mental capacity.

Dr. Ramirez has been ordered to evaluate Lusk.  A report is expected on 8/25.

Jun 26, 2016

Thomas Lusk arraigned for jury trial, 13 counts include torture, human trafficking, forcible rape, sexual penetration, assault and forcible oral copulation

Thomas Lusk was arraigned on 6/23 for the jury trial in the 2016 case against him.

Lusk had another preliminary hearing for the 2015 case and was held to answer on all counts. That case was dismissed after the preliminary hearing.

He was arraigned on the 2016 case  for the following charges.

Nick Johnson's attorney requests "any and all information pertaining to David Ganfield as a suspect" and gets those records

On August 25, there was a hearing held at the request of Nick Johnson's attorney, Mr. Neal Sanders. The reason; records subpoenaed from the Humboldt County Sheriff and this included "any and all information pertaining to David Ganfield as a suspect", Mr. Sanders told Judge Joyce Hinrichs.

Those records were given to Mr. Sanders. Deputy District Attorney Roger Rees, who is prosecuting the case, stipulated to Mr. Sanders receiving and keeping the records.

Trial confirmation remains scheduled for November 3; Jury trial for November 14.

Aug 16, 2016

Nick Johnson, who shot at DA investigators in a standoff arraigned for jury trial today

Nick Johnson was arraigned on information this afternoon in Courtroom 5 for his jury trial for his alleged role in the  murder of David Ganfield.

Count 1 Murder, with special allegation using deadly and dangerous weapon, a bat.

Count 2 First degree Burglary, person present.

Deputy District Attorney David Christensen was present for the People. Mr. Neal Sanders represents Johnson.

Trial confirmation is on November 3. Jury Trial is on November 14.

His co-defendant Jonas Semore has already been convicted  by a jury and is set to be sentenced on September 15.

Benjamin Heidmann and Konnor Wright to be arraigned for jury trial on Tuesday; charges are the same as preliminary hearing

Benjamin Heidmann and Konnor Wright are scheduled to be arraigned on information on August 30.

The DA's office already filed the information for jury trial on August 19. Charges are exactly the same as the preliminary hearing.

I will update this post with dates on Tuesday.

Aug 16, 2016

Benjamin Heidmann and Konnor Wright held to answer on all charges in alleged attempted murder of David Seigl

A preliminary hearing was scheduled on 8/15 for Benjamin Heidmann and Konnor Wright. It was continued to this morning in Courtroom 5; sent to Courtroom 1.

Count 1: attempted, willful deliberate, premeditated murder with a special allegation that they "personally used firearms"; rifles, causing this to be a serious and violent felony.

Count 2 assault with a semi-automatic firearm, also a felony.

Count 3 Shooting at an inhabited dwelling. If they are convicted of this charge, there is minimal jail time.

The special allegation in Count 3 only applies to Heidmann, that he wore a body vest in the commission of the offense alleged in Count 3.

Alleged victim is Daniel Anthony Siegl.

Deputy District Attorney David Christensen is prosecuting the case. Bail was $1 million for each. Public Defender Mr. Robinson was present with Heidmann. Mr. Marek Reavis was present with Wright.

The People presented one witness APD Field Training Officer Don Arminio. Defense did not present any witnessses.

Arraignment on information is on August 30 at 2 p.m. Both defendants were held to answer on all charges after the preliminary hearing.

Family members and other supporters were present for both defendants. No other media was in court.

Kirby Bay bails out of custody after $150,000 cash bond is paid

Kirby Bay bailed out of custody last night. His bail was $150,000. According to one source, a cash bond was paid for, allegedly by his parents.

Trial confirmation is scheduled for August 7. Jury trial September 19.

Jul 27, 2016

Defense intends to file 995 motion in Kirby Bay case regarding Count 3

Kirby Bay was arraigned on information for jury trial this afternoon.

The complaint filed by the DA has three counts. Count 1 stalking. Count 2 Criminal Threats. Count 3 Possession of a firearm by a felon with a prior; the firearm being a handgun. A special allegation for all three counts is prior conviction of a serious or violent felony or juvenile adjudication for negligent discharge of a firearm.

Bay's attorney, Mr. Marek Reavis said he intends to file a 995 motion because Bay was not held to answer on Count 3 at the preliminary hearing.

Hillary's idea of affordable healthcare? Epi pen; then throwing a major donor under the bus when gets politically inconvenient

Mylan donates to Clinton Foundation. Hillary Clinton expresses outrage at epi pen cost.

Is this Hillary's idea of affordable health care?


Then she throws a $250,000 donor under the bus.

http://mobile.nytimes.com/2016/08/25/business/mylan-epipen-senate-manchin.html?_r=0&referer=https://www.google.com/

http://fortune.com/2016/08/24/mylan-ceo-epipen

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-09-23/how-marketing-turned-the-epipen-into-a-billion-dollar-business

http://www.snopes.com/mylan-ceo-clinton-foundation/

Earl Orr pleads out before jury trial for the death of Jessica Hare of Philipsville

Earl Orr's jury trial was scheduled for August 29.

Instead he plead out this afternoon to voluntary manslaughter and will be sentenced to the maximum, which is 11 years plus 3 years for the use of a firearm; total 14 years.

 More details in press release by DA which will be out shortly.

Only one HCSO deputy named in gunfire exchange with David Fulton

The Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) investigation continues for the August 18th officer involved shooting that took place at 1770 Sutter Rd in McKinleyville.

The investigation has determined the deputies who fired at the armed suspect, David Allan Fulton, were Humboldt County Deputy Sheriff James Mowrey, Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) Lieutenant Jason Caudillo, MCSO Sergeant Joseph Comer, MCSO Deputy Sheriff Ze Manuel Lima, MCSO Deputy Corey Bender, and Ukiah Police Officer Jason Chapman. HCSO Deputy James Mowrey was the initial deputy to engage with the armed suspect just past 9 a.m. The five remaining peace officers were involved at the conclusion of the incident.

No officers were physically injured during the incident. The CIRT investigation is ongoing and further information will be released to the public as it comes available.

At the conclusion of the CIRT investigation, it will submitted to District Attorney Maggie Fleming for review.

$500,000 Ramey warrant issued for one of the suspects who allegedly shot at Fish and Wildlife warden

On Sunday, August 21, 2016 at around 12:40 a.m. a California Fish and Wildlife Warden was on patrol on Redwood House Road in Carlotta, when he observed a vehicle and persons engaged in spotlighting deer. The F&W Warden attempted to conduct an enforcement stop on the vehicle when a person who was in the rear of the vehicle opened fire on the Warden. A vehicle pursuit ensued with the suspects crashing the vehicle off the road. The suspects fled into the woods and disappeared.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office took over the investigation along with the District Attorney’s Office. Investigators from the Sheriff’s Office and DA’s Office learned through their investigation that 24 year old Shawn Eugene Hof Jr. was one of the suspects. The Sheriff’s Office has obtained a $500,000 Ramey Warrant for Hof’s arrest.

Shawn Eugene Hof Jr. is described as 5’9’ tall, 150 lbs, with brown hair and brown eyes.

Stay tuned for release of names of officers involved in gunfire exchange with David Fulton

Sheriff's office to release names of officers involved in gunfire exchange with David Fulton, possibly by 5 p.m. today.

Humboldt Hill shooting suspect Brian Swan's jury trial continued at request of defense

Today, at the request of defense at the trial assignment calendar, the Brian Swan jury trial scheduled for August 29 was continued until October 31.

Brian Swan is the alleged suspect in a Humboldt Hill shooting that occurred in April 2016. The alleged victim is Robert Babb aka Robert Waters.

Tully fire, all evacuation orders lifted, fire 20% contained

Today:

571 acres

25% containment

ty OES, American Red Cross, Yurok Tribe, Hoopa Tribe, BIA, USFS, HIA, CCC, PG&E, NDF, and NDC.
SITUATION
Current
Situation:
Firefighters made significant progress today aided by more favorable weather conditions. Tonight,
firefighters will continue to construct and strengthen control lines and concentrate on the portion of
the fire that crossed Cappell Creek. Firefighters continue to survey the fire area to confirm that
acreage estimates are accurate.
Residents are advised to watch for slow moving fire apparatus, utilities vehicles and firefighters
operating in the area.
For more information visit www.fire.ca.gov and www.readyforwildfire.org

Yesterday:

 Acreage: 505 Containment: 20% Expected Containment: 9/2/2016 

Injuries: 0 Structures Threatened: 40 Structures Destroyed: 2 Structures Damaged:

Current Situation: Firefighters continue to construct and strengthen control lines. The fire is burning in steep, rugged terrain with difficult access. Surveys have identified two structures that have been destroyed by the Tulley Fire; one residence and one outbuilding. As additional assessments are performed, the number of structures damaged or destroyed could change. The evacuation center that had been established at the Hoopa Neighborhood Facilities has been closed by the Red Cross. Anyone needing assistance from the Red Cross can call 1(866) 272-2237 Mandatory Evacuation Orders have been lifted. Residents are advised to watch for slow moving fire apparatus and utilities vehicles operating in the area. For more information visit www.fire.ca.gov and www.readyforwildfire.org Evacuations: Mandatory: All mandatory evacuation orders have been lifted. Warnings: The areas formerly identified under a mandatory evacuation have been downgraded to evacuation warnings. Residents in warning areas should remain vigilant should the need arise to leave the area. Evacuation Centers: None Closures: None 

Setting of preliminary hearing for Broc and Colt Tuel continued until October 12

A disposition and reset hearing is scheduled today, August 25 for Broc and Colt Tuel at 2 p.m. There is also a motion for discovery filed by Colt Tuel's attorney, Mr. Michael Robinson, scheduled for the same time. Mr. Patrik Griego is representing Broc Tuel.

Today's hearing was continued until October 12th for the discovery motion and setting of preliminary hearing.

Jun 26, 2016

Defense requests continuance for preliminary hearing for Broc and Colt Tuel, alleged suspects in Humboldt Hill shooting

Since the Tuel brothers, Broc and Colt, made bail this week, there was no need for a OR/Bail hearing June 23.

I took Austin Allison's sister's offer up to share her facebook post about contributions from out of the area

So Austin Allison needs contributions from out of the area?

Linda Atkins, North Coast People's alliance and all those "local" backers could not garner enough support locally?

Just like Austin Allison changed his facebook to state living in Eureka, after that was pointed in comments; let's see how fast this profile gets switched to private. Text included below.

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10210656377710712&id=1386115
401

Sally Allison DeLeon, who lives in Colorado, shared this on her facebook:

$100,000 bail set for Raymond Preschern arraigned on one count of voluntary manslaughter

Raymond Preschern was arraigned in Courtroom 5 this afternoon on one count of voluntary manslaughter. Alleged victim is Khanh Lam.

$100,000 bail. Time not waived. Preliminary hearing September 8.

DDA Roger Rees and Carolyn Schaffer prosecuting; public defender appointed for Preschern.

Preschern had glasses on in court today.

He was recently arrested on a Ramey warrant.

Previous post:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2016/08/help-hcso-with-another-sohum-suspucious.html?m=1

Dept of Homeland Security contacts Humboldt County Drug Task Force about alleged cocaine shipment from Costa Rica

     

 In early August 2016 the Humboldt County Drug Task Force was contacted by the Department of Homeland Security regarding a package containing approximately 3 ounces of suspected cocaine that had been shipped to an address in Arcata from Costa Rica.  The Drug Task Force began an investigation into the parcel and its recipients.

"He been committed to this for a while; he didn't jump in at the last minute"

Service for David Fulton on August 29 at New Hope Church

Family and friends of David Fulton will gather August 29 to remember Fulton. Anyone who wishes to pay respects can go to the service, which will be on  Monday, August 29 at 1pm at New Hope Church of God on Sutter Road.

Second alleged victim in McMullens motel sorta defends Maxx Robison, says there were 4 men involved; does law enforcement have the right guy?

I was contacted by the second alleged victim in the Maxx Robison case, Elisha Mansell.

He was with Rhianna McKenzie in the car at the time of the alleged shooting.

I have talked with Elisha, I have verified his contact information. I have a voicemail message from him.

In that message, Elisha told me he tried to leave a comment on my last post in this case.. He gave me permission to use his photo and what he said in the voicemail message.

Any information in this post is what has been told to me by Elisha. I think it deserves further investigation because if more people are involved, then public safety is at risk with only one person in custody.

Elisha said "there were four men waiting for them...Maxx was one of them...he called Maxx a pawn in this whole thing...said that he has never spoken to Maxx to get his side of the story."

Some evacuation orders lifted for Tulley Fire; acces through area coordinated by Yurok Tribe

 The road closure at the intersection of Highway 169 and Martin’s
Ferry Bridge will be opened to residents only from 7:30 PM until midnight tonight. From midnight until 8:00 AM tomorrow, all access will be denied.
Access through the area will be coordinated by the Yurok Tribe.
The road closure at Highway 169 and Cappell/Kep’el Road will remain in effect.
Please exercise caution when travelling through the area. Emergency responders will be working
throughout the evacuation and fire areas.
The cancellation of additional evacuation orders are being evaluated based on a variety of factors,
including potential fire behavior, and the re-establishment of crucial infrastructure.

As if CHP isn't busy enough, overturned box truck blocks Marin-Sonoma line

As if CHP isn't busy enough.


According to State Senator Mike MGuire:

"Big, big challenges tonight @ the Marin-Sonoma line. SB Hwy 101 remains blocked by by an overturned box truck. CHP will be opening up the dirt shoulder shortly. pic: CHP."

As of 6:20, "SB Hwy 101 at the Marin-Sonoma line is now open. Significant delays continue."

McMullens motel shooting suspect Maxx Robison's preliminary hearing vacated

McMullens Motel shooting suspect's preliminary hearing on August 30 has been vacated after a defense motion for a continuance was granted this afternoon.

A disposition and reset hearing is scheduled for October 12.

Deputy District Attorney Roger Rees was present for the People. Public Defender Ms. Jennifer Dixon is representing Robison.

In the defense motion, the defense said that the Public Defender's office had technical issues with accessing substantial discovery given on August 1; they had received additional discovery this week and their investigator was unavailable due to medical issues until recently.

The court granted the defense motion. Robison entered a 60 day time waiver today.

Previous post:

http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2016/08/mccullens-motel-shooting-suspect-maxx.html?m=1

Help HCSO with another Sohum suspicious death investigation

On July 6, 2016 Raymond Earl Preschern was arrested by the Portland Bureau of Police in Oregon on a Humboldt County Superior Court Ramey warrant for the murder of Khanh Lam. Preschern was extradited and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility on Friday, August 19, 2016.

Over 400 surveys received for Cooper Gulch Common Ground first phase input; on to Phase 2

Aaron Ostrom is thrilled with the response to the first request for input.

"We've received over 400 surveys! Thank you! Now we are on to Phase 2, Social Pin Point. Check this out. We would love your direct input here as well. This will have a direct connection, as well as the surveys, as to what we will focus on in the Master
Plan!"

Mckinleyville Chamber of Commerce Mega Mixer tomorrow at Azalea Hall

"Join us at Azalea Hall tomorrow from 5:30 to 7 pm for this year's MegaMixer sponsored by Mad River Radio and McKinleyville Community Services District.  Visit with our participating businesses:  Bay Point Mortgage, Cal Or Life Flight, Dalianes Travel, Eureka Payments, Green Diamond, JB Maryn, McKinleyville Lions Club, Master-Mind Alliance, McKinleyville Parks & Rec, Ming Tree Realtors, New Trend Wireless, Quilts for Comfort, Redwood Parks Conservancy, Tensor IT, Rodan & Fields, Serv Pro of Eureka, Shred Aware, Bio Waste, Developed Employment, State Farm Insurance and Wayne's Automotive!"

Cal Fire Incident Management Team takes over Tully fire operations

At 12:00 PM on August 24, 2016, CAL FIRE Incident Management Team 3 will assume command of the Tulley Fire in Humboldt County. CAL FIRE operates 6  Type 1, all-risk incident management teams whose members are drawn from public safety agencies across California.

The teams are organized to provide command and control of emergency incidents and support of communities and agencies stressed by large-scale emergencies.

Fire related information will be distributed by the team through established channels already existing in Humboldt County.
Law enforcement related information will continue to be distributed by the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department through established channels. The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department can be contacted at (707) 445-7275.

Humboldt County OES will continue to distribute health and other related information. They can be contacted at (707) 268-2500.

Vegetation fire this morning at Crescent City contained

Vegetation fire this morning at Crescent City Airport at 0733.

2.5 acres of grass and light brush, slow rate of spread, contained by initial attack resources.

Responded: CALFIRE, Crescent City Fire, Fort Dick Fire.

Cottage Cannabis Farmer's Bill awaits Governor Brown's signature

Today, Assemblymember Jim Wood’s “Cottage Cannabis Farmers Bill” moves to the Governor’s office. AB 2516 will create a new medical cannabis cultivator license category for “micro farmers.”

PG and E on scene; 780 fire personnel at Tully fire

Just spoke with CalFire Humboldt Del Norte Unit Division Chief Jonni Mayberry. Ms. Mayberry said, if conditions do not worsen, the estimated containment date is next Tuesday; however at this point determing how long it will take to contain the fire is not something that can be predicted.

CalFire has been very responsive to messages and returning phone calls, which is very appreciated.

Yep, Tulley fire was arson, just as reported this afternoon

Confirmed with CALFire Div Chief Jonni Mayberry earlier this afternoon but see earlier post at 2:10 where males in white truck were seen setting fires.

John Fullerton to announce candidacy for Ward 4 on August 25 at Bayfront

  

"John Fullerton will officially kick off his campaign for Eureka City Council Ward Four this Thursday at 12.15pm on the Boardwalk near the Bayfront Restaurant.

John is a Certified Public Accountant who started his business in Old Town 33 years ago and now employs 8 people.

John is a long time resident of Eureka and a current Eureka Planning Commissioner.  He also is a former Eureka School Board member and has a long history of community service.  He spent 3 1/2 years as a CASA Advocate for CASA of Humboldt and has served in a leadership role for numerous Eureka non-profit organizations.  He is looking forward to serving the people of Eureka as a city councilmember."

Redway homicide victim identified as Stephanie Gawboy

The decedent in this case has been identified as 52 year old Stephanie Faye Gawboy of Redway, Ca. Sheriff’s Detectives are investigating this incident as a homicide. Anyone with information in regards to this case is encouraged to call Detective Jenn Turner at (707) 268-3642 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.

Autopsy reveals David Fulton died of multiple gun shot wounds

An autopsy was performed on decedent David Fulton. The autopsy revealed the cause of death to be multiple gunshot wounds. Toxicology reports should be returned in approximately one month.

Yurok Tribe sending ferry to rescue people affected by Tulley Fire; young males in white truck suspected of setting fires

I just heard from a tribal member regarding the Tulley Fire.

"Right now, all I know is that individuals have set these fires. Young males in a white truck were seen setting them. No names have been released yet. At least one house has burned down and one standing structure. My mom and dad just learned that a mandatory evacuation is now in place for McKinnon Hill residents because the fire jumped Kepel Creek and is quickly burning further down the river. They are refusing to leave until they absolutely have to. I know that the Neighborhood Facilities building in Hoopa has been set up as an emergency shelter and Red Cross station. I was just informed that the Yurok Tribe is making plans to send a ferry up the river to rescue people since the road is closed. I have heard that Notchko River Bar is where people are meeting if they need an immediate rescue- as there is a jet boat there on stand-by."

Update: CALFire investigators determine arson as cause.