Two Deputy DAs and DA Investigator honored at Rio Dell Council meeting

(Deputy DA Bernthal and DA Investigator Ryan Hill at the Rio Dell Council meeting)

(Deputy DA Timm)

I covered the cases both Deputy District Attorney Whitney Timm and Deputy DA Luke Bernthal prosucted. DA Investigator Ryan Hill is assigned to sexual abuse cases and is the investigator for former court mediator Joe Hale's case.

City of Rio Press Release:

Two ceremonial matters dominated the first half of the Rio Dell City Council’s September 5th meeting. 

The City Council issued a Proclamation of acknowledgement and thanks to former Chief of Police Jeffrey Conner, Sergeant John Beauchaine & Corporal Crystal Landry for their successful investigation into two separate cases of sexual abuse with minor. Both cases had multiple victims and involved countless hours of investigation, court appearances and the stress of dealing with such cases. The quick arrests and the cases built by the Rio Dell Police Department helped to present solid cases for judicial system to process.

Proclamations were also issued to Humboldt County District Attorney Investigator Ryan Hill, Deputy District Attorney Whitney Timm and Deputy District Attorney Luke Bernthal.

During the ceremony, Rio Dell Mayor Garnes stated, “Your professionalism and dedication to serving and protecting this community are a shining example to your peers and an inspiration to us all. Your efforts have not only brought a sense of justice to the affected parties but have also reaffirmed our confidence in the law enforcement system.”

During the meeting, Officer Agustin Sierra was sworn in as Rio Dell’s newest law enforcement officer.  Previously, on June 20, 2023 Officer Aimee House was also sworn in before the City Council. Despite increased competition for officers, Rio Dell continues to remain fully staffed.

“All of this is a great testament to the leadership of Chief Greg Allen. From the officers, court process, jury, witnesses and the victims being brave and speaking out, justice has to be a team effort.” Mayor Garnes concluded.