EPD officer Whitchurch was off duty in the Pine Hill area at the time of his arrest; several minors were in the vehicle

 

Just spoke with CHP Humboldt Public Information & Recruitment Officer and Court Liaison Officer Jason Esselman about the arrest of EPD Officer James Whitchurch. 

"On December 24, 2025, at approximately 2110 hours, CHP Humboldt Area responded to a call for service within the unincorporated area of Eureka (Pine Hills). Upon arrival, CHP Officer B. Berry contacted James Michael Whitchurch. Officer B. Berry conducted a driving under the influence investigation and determined Whitchurch operated a 2016 Honda Pilot while under the influence of an alcoholic beverage and Whitchurch was placed under arrest under suspicion of DUI. Through Officer B. Berry’s investigation, it was discovered Whitchurch had several minors within the vehicle at the time of the violation. Whitchurch was transported to the Humboldt County Jail where he was booked without further incident. Whitchurch was not on duty at the time of the violation or arrest."

The investigation is ongoing. Whitchurch is out of custody. When the Humboldt DA receives the report, they will review and if they decide to file charges and do it as misdemeanors, it could take months, the case could resolve before any charges are filed.