John Chiv: Unlike others, Judge Neel made sure minors were protected if Tatro wanted supervised release

Jan 5, 2023

Unlike others, Judge Neel made sure minors were protected if Tatro wanted supervised release

In my last post on alleged molestor Darrel Tatro, I reported he failed to appear for his preliminary hearing. A bench warrant was issued for $35,000 and held until 1/26/23.

Two days after my post,on 12/24, Tatro was booked into custody after surrender by his bail bond company.

On 12/30, Judge Kelly Neel ordered supervised release but she put appropriate conditions on Tatro's release protecting minors in the community by prohibiting contact and communication with anyone under the age of 18. Tatro was ordered to provide passwords and passcodes to devices he has access to or owns.

Tatro had previously claimed a medical emergency. Unlike other Judge's cookie cutter condition of obeying all laws; Judge Neel put specific conditions. If Tatro violates them, there are consequences.

This is why she is my favorite Judge on the current Humboldt bench. She puts a lot of thought and time into her rulings. She applies the law as it applies to that individual case.

Judge Neel and Retired Judge Marilyn Miles will always be my two favorite Humboldt Judges. Humboldt Superior Court is lucky to have both of them.