Candidate Jason McCutcheon's comment on public safety is what I am looking for in Ward 1 and a Eureka Councilmember; Victor Garcia, if you plan to run, you are already two steps behind

 

I did this post on McCutcheon. 

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2026/01/leslie-castellano-eureka-city.html?m=1

He left a comment on the post I did today and I was the first to report on the anticipated litigation from the California Judicial Council and Humboldt Superior Court against County of Humboldt.

From Jason McCutcheon's comment, I am looking forward to speaking with him more. This is what I am looking for in a Eureka City Councilmember; especially one representing the ward I live in; so Victor Garcia, if you are planning on running, first step is to file paperwork to see if you even qualify. Second, I have been blunt how I feel about public safety and lack of action from the current ECC, Mayor and Eureka City Manager. That is an important factor in my vote.

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2026/02/anticipated-litigation-against-county.html?m=1

Anticipated litigation against County of Humboldt from the CA Judicial Council and Humboldt Superior Court

 

On February 25, I was the first and only one; again; to report on proposed changes with Courthouse security. At the March 3, Humboldt County Board of Supervisors meeting, under closed session is anticipated litigation against the County. A San Francisco firm representing the California Judicial Council and Humboldt Superior Court has sent a letter to the Sheriff, County Counsel and Board of Supervisors. I have added  documents to the post you can read yourself.

The letter states, "Last week the Court informed the Judicial Council that the Sheriff has begun preparing plans to 1) remove Weapons Screening stations from the 1st Floor and relocate the stations to the 2nd Floor of the building, and 2) to remove bailiffs from certain Courtrooms to perform Weapons Screening Services in lieu of attending court and performing bailiff functions there.

Both proposed measures raise challenging legal issues."

The first time changes were proposed, I informed the public. The second time I did the same. Aside from legal challenges, these proposed changes are cumbersome, will add to stress and frustration and endanger the public.

Reed Smith LLP letter identifies the same concerns I have. 

The tools that pose as local media never challenge those in power. They provide the spin the County wants instead of speaking up for the public. For all the money and resources and staff the rest of the local media has compared to me; just in the last week what have they informed you about that significantly impacts your life and takes on those in power?

The County Board of Supervisors refuse to take a pay cut, adjust expenses of their sycophants, refuse to look at the cost of retired annuitants and extra help at the HCSO as well as other departments instead expect the public to pay for their incompetence and failure to properly budget. 

Humboldt judges have to move courtrooms if they are calling a different calendar because the bailiffs don't like transporting inmates to certain courtrooms. Who is paying the salary of anyone employed by the County including the Supervisors? This happened recently when Judge April Van Dyke was calling a calendar in Courtroom 5 which is Judge Lawrence Killoran's courtroom. He was calling the mental health calendar.

47 year old Nicholas Lund arrested on Ramey warrant for possession of child pornography

 

47 year old Nicholas Jacob Lund was arrested yesterday by HCSO on a Ramey warrant and booked for two counts of PC 311.11 (a) possession of child pornography. Lund posted bond.

His Facebook profile is either restricted or scrubbed. Same with instagram. The profile photo matches the booking photo but it has children in the background. Since he posted bond, it could take months to know if charges will be filed.

Here is a copy of the email about Chief Stephens that City of Eureka claims does not exist and it needs to be investigated by Destinee Rhamy's attorney

This is the email City of Eureka told me does not exist. My source had told me Monday Oct. 20th 10:26 a.m. complaint about Police Chief Stephensemailed to council and city attorney.

When I followed up with my source saying City of Eureka says records do not exist, my source speculated, "unless they stripped it from the servers." I am not suggesting the City of Eureka did that but they seem to have lied to me about the no records exist. 

Earlier today, I did these two posts. City of Eureka responded to me faster than ever saying no records exist. The time line I gave the City of Eureka for the email complaint was" October 1, 2025 to February 26, 2026." I did not tell them I had a screenshot of the email and the exact time and who it was sent to on purpose.

Last month, I did these two posts on another PRA and another no records exist response and then ultimately, EPD Chief Stephens said, "It is still an ongoing and active investigation and we will not be making any other comments at this time.  Thank you!"

This is the second time in two months, the City of Eureka claims records do not exist, it involves EPD and the criminal justice system.

I do not like Destinee Rhamy. But I do believe in constitutional rights, due process.

Make note that this was sent to Sacramento Bee, Lost Coast Outpost in October 2025 and there was no reporting or follow up. 

The Grand Jury was cced on this email. The Eureka City Council was cced on this email.

The person who sent this to those who did nothing for months instead of sending it to me and is supposedly connected to the Humboldt criminal justice is either clueless or petty or both. That person does not care about justice or due process or Miranda Rights. This person stayed silent despite those who it was sent to doing nothing for months. 

Before criticizing Chief Stephens, that person should look in the mirror. A different, decent human being got it to me and I took action within hours despite obstacles and an extremely busy schedule. Destinee Rhamy is in trial right now for the murder of Holland Elbik.

Resentencing hearing and defense motion to strike enhancements requested by defense in two of convicted murderer Ryan Tanner's cases

 

There was a resentencing hearing scheduled in two of convicted murderer Ryan Tanner's cases this morning. There is also a defense motion to dismiss enhancements. The People filed an opposition.

It was a special set before Humboldt Superior Court Presiding Judge Kelly Neel. Deputy District Attorney Whitney Timm appeared on the case for the People. 

Tanner's current attorney is Gregory Kreis. Gregory Kreis took over for Tanner's previous attorney, Russ Clanton. Read court minutes where it states Kreis filed a motion to dismiss enhancements which is not a motion defendant can file.

Matter under submission. There will be a written ruling.

Sale of a home led to speculation that EPD Chief Stephens maybe retiring; he responded, "I have no plans to retire in the foreseeable future."

 

I got this message with the image above.

"Stephen's girlfriend Danah Palmers house pending sale?  He lives with her, is he retiring?"

I sent another PRA to City of Eureka asking about retirement or resignation and a separate email to Eureka Police Chief Brian Stephens about this sale. I did this before this post.

Chief Stephens responded promptly. "Good Morning John, We rent, We don’t own a home. I have no plans to retire in the foreseeable future. Have a good day! Godspeed." 

Chief Stephens' response matches with the owner of that house not being him or his partner.

I still want City of Eureka to respond given my other PRA. 

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2026/02/submitted-pra-about-tip-claiming-there.html?m=1

The City of Eureka responded to me at 11:59 saying, "No records exist."

I have written about Chief Stephens and his partner before in 2023. I spoke to Chief Stephens about the former post in 2024 after former EPD Chief Todd Jarvis spoke with me privately as a friend of Chief Stephens. Reporting and investigating what others ignore puts me in an awkward, difficult position often but that does not change the facts. Nor should it deter a real reporter from covering anyone.This is a small county and all public figures are under scrutiny. That is local or national. 

I have had lies written about me, often anonymously and gossip spread to financially destroy me and my reputation. Not a single lawyer, First Amendment group or this community has stood up for me in public or helped me. Except for Ms. Heidi Holmquist Wells. That took guts. I am not rehashing that again. And Deputy DA Roger Rees did as a part of his job addressing a motion but I am still grateful to both Ms. Wells and Mr. Rees.

I get targeted for having the gall to report and not be a PR tool for those in power and call out the criminals, trolls and exposing what needs to be covered in Humboldt.

What I reported in 2023 and now was correct. You can read the rest of the post if you want or not. There were reasons for me to report it then and check into it now. I appreciate Chief Stephens' response. The sale of the house alone isn't the reason I reached out to Chief Stephens. I have done a second PRA and earlier post. Also contacting Chief directly puts the kibosh to any speculation.

"She was a EPD trainee dispatcher, married to Eureka Firefighter Joel DeVries, when she had an on duty affair with FTO Brian Stephens,  Joel caught them in the act at his home (not unlike the former Sheriff Lt case), brian's been dating her for years, but only recently publicly acknowledged the relationship after his divorce finally happened."

If you didn't read the related post below, you should.

Many experienced and good officers did leave EPD when Brian Stephens was promoted. It is a fact. Told to me personally and my own observations about where people went and when. There is stuff in the 2023 about City Eureka Manager Miles Slattery and it is relevant. I am not typing all that again. I also mentioned the affair and it was other sources who told me that and it corroborates the source who is quoted in this article.

In the December 2023 post, I wrote, "Firearms and finding another man in bed and threats have been allegedly made in at least one other situation where the two men were both first responders and at least one allegedly had gun. But only one person mentioned that to me and no one else had heard about it so did it happen? I finally got confirmation from other sources and the details match my orginal source. All the sources said that one of the parties was EPD Assistant Chief Brian Stephens (soon to be EPD Police Chief) and "years ago he cheated on his wife with a dispatcher who was married to a fireman and that set back the relationship between the two departments for years." Allegedly, Stephens pulled a gun on the fireman. I say allegedly because while the affair has been mentioned by various sources; there are different versions circulating at EPD about Stephens allegedly pulling a gun on the fireman. Depending on who you talk the basics about the affair are the same but not everyone was at EPD when this supposedly happened while others were so was this alleged gun pointing by Stephens truth or embellishment? 

If the affair allegation isn't true, then Asst. Chief Stephens and Humboldt Bay Fire can put out a written statement and refute it on record."

No one contacted me then.

Former Eureka Police Chief Todd Jarvis approached me personally saying Chief Stephens was hurt when I published the 2023 article. He didn't say it was not factual. He personally asked me to speak to Chief Stephens. I told him I would think about it. In December 2024 when I  was covering a live arrest; I did speak to Chief Stephens. However, since then I found out more information from more sources and I am not going to apologize for facts or investigating news and exposing those who are needed in a small County . Those in Humboldt who are butt hurt over my reporting need to look in the mirror. They would have no issue if I reported about Biden or Trump or whatever suits their agendas and bubbles. 

I was the first to RSVP for a press briefing this Monday about EPD's Assistant PIO. My recent coverage better not impact my attending that briefing. 

Will Slattery run Lost Coast Outpost again to detract from my two PRAs as he does with some tidbit no one is interested in when he needs a spin and they do his bidding instead of investigating Eureka City Hall or Stephens or other news they ignore. I challenge LOCO groupies and Humboldt insiders who fund and read the Patrick Cleary owned rag to find me one example of anything negative about Slattery. Loser Cleary couldn't be elected and he has no business owning any media because it will never be unbiased news and does not hold good ole Humboldt boys and gals accountable.

If the local media owners and publishers had any cajones, they don't; they would look into the symbiotic relationships in this town that affects and destroys many lives.

Related post on Brian Stephens:

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2023/12/epd-hcso-lose-more-experienced-staff-to.html?m=1#more

Submitted a PRA about a tip claiming there was a City of Eureka investigation into EPD Chief Stephens about the Elbik murder case which is currently in trial

I am currently covering the jury trial for homicide suspect Destinee Rhamy.

The victim in that case is Holland Renee Elbik.

I received a tip "that there was a City Hall investigation launched about Brian in regards to his conduct during the Elbik murder case investigation from emailed complaint back in Oct'25, have you heard anything?  Might be worth a FOIA"

The arresting agency is Eureka Police Department and Brian refers to current EPD Chief Brian Stephens.

I did send a PRA to the City of Eureka before publishing this post.

The City of Eureka responded to me at 11:56 saying, "No records exist."

I am glad I have the City of Eureka response in writing. Stay tuned.

New charges filed by Placer County DA against serial child molestor David Funston who was granted early parole

 

On Monday, I did a post on the California Parole Board 's decision to granted parole to David Allen Funston, a serial child molester. 

There was outrage from the public, law enforcement Republican elected officials and national headlines.

The Placer County District Attorney has filed new charges against Funston.

I have included a statement released today by the Placer County DA.

The Placer County District Attorney’s Office has filed charges against David Allen Funston, age 64, for violating Penal Code section 288(a), lewd and lascivious acts upon a child. A no-bail warrant was issued, and the defendant is now in custody in the Placer County jail. 

The charges stem from the sexual assault of a young child in Roseville in 1996. At the time of the original investigation and prosecution, the defendant was convicted in Sacramento County and sentenced to three life terms in prison for his crimes. In the interest of justice, and because these life sentences ensured the defendant would be removed from society, the Placer County District Attorney’s Office did not pursue a separate prosecution at that time. 

However, due to recent developments under California’s elder parole program, the defendant has been released from CDCR, effectively overturning the permanence of the prior life sentences. As the interests of justice have changed with recent legislation and parole board decisions, our community safety is no longer assured. The Placer County District Attorney’s Office has refiled the 1996 charges within the statute of limitations to hold the defendant accountable for the crimes he committed in Placer County.  

“To be clear, this individual was previously sentenced to multiple life terms for extremely heinous crimes,” said Placer County District Attorney Morgan Gire. “However, subsequent changes in state law and recent parole board failures have altered the practical effect of those life sentences for the victims and communities at large. When changes in the law put our communities at risk, it is our duty to re-evaluate those cases and act accordingly. David Allen Funston committed very real crimes against a Placer County child, and the statute of limitations allows us to hold him accountable for those crimes.” 

The defendant is scheduled to be arraigned early next week in the Placer County Superior Court. 

How many of you recognize every single name of arrests yesterday during HCSO saturated enforcement operation?

 

HCSO issued a press release an hour ago on "a saturated enforcement operation in the Hoopa Valley and carried the operations to Blue Lake." 

This was based on a request from the Hoopa Tribe for crime suppression activity on February 25, 2026.

As you read the names of the arrests with arrest warrants, bench warrants and failures to appear; anyone who follows court and crime regularly or checks the daily jail log will recognize these repeat offenders.

This press release shows the failure of California and Humboldt leadership to address the attitude and prevalance of drugs and the consequences of soft on crime California laws.

Rest of Destinee Rhamy jurors excused early because a juror is sick

 

I just did a very detailed post on homicide suspect Destinee Rhamy's case on Monday. That post has all previous coverage on the case.

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2026/02/jury-selection-started-late-this.html?m=1

This is my second post on the trial with some key observations and information. I have included court minutes from yesterday. 

On 2/24, jury was sworn around 3:30 p.m. From what I saw, two male alternates and one female alternate and 6 women, 6 men? It is very crowded at the courthouse, I am busy and I got a quick look. Yesterday, there were four people sitting on one side of the courtroom and two family members for the victim, Holland Renee Elbik, sitting on the other side with Victim Witness Advocate MH.

Since my last post, the criminal clerk supervisor and local civil attorney, Randall Davis  criminal were both excused.

On 2/25, Deputy District Attorney Roger Rees and Ms. Andrea Sullivan gave opening statements. Today, the rest of the jury was excused early morning and shortly after court was in session because a juror is sick.

Attorneys met with Judge Killoran later today informal discussions about jury instructions. Rhamy waived her presence for these discussions.

CA AG Bonta and Shasta County DA reach settlement with Redding Property Management Company for violating Tenant Protection Act

 

California Attorney General Rob Bonta today, in partnership with Shasta County District Attorney Stephanie Bridgett, announced a settlement with a Redding property management company, Property Upsurge, and its property-owning affiliates. The settlement resolves allegations that Property Upsurge, which manages approximately 1,300 rental units across Northern California, improperly issued eviction notices, imposed rent increases above what state law allows, and charged higher rents to tenants using Section 8 vouchers, among other egregious conduct in violation of California law. As part of the settlement, Property Upsurge must pay $550,000 to tenants and provide an additional $200,000 in debt relief, pay $50,000 in civil penalties, and take specific actions to ensure compliance with injunctive terms. 

After intervention, attempted murder suspect James LaBranche's case is scheduled for a change of plea on the same day as the preliminary hearing

 

Attempted murder and criminal threats suspect James LaBranche already has a conviction for domestic violence.

Yesterday, Humboldt Superior Court Judge Steven Steward met with Deputy District Attorney Victoria Reierstad and Deputy Public Defender Casey Russo. Tomorrow a preliminary hearing was previously scheduled; now a change of plea has been entered.

I reported previously that at his bail hearing on 1/15, alleged victim Jane Doe asked for the criminal protective order to be modified to peaceful contact so a potential resolution is not a shocker.

I am not doing another new post on this case tomorrow so whatever happens; I will add an update to this post.

Thank you Judge Steward for not allowing yet another needless continuance for "Chicago John" and "KGB"'s criminal case

 

Human trafficking and money laundering suspects Uonan Uonan aka "Chicago John" and Nicholas Machado and "KGB"'s Humboldt Superior Court 2024 criminal case has been dragging on with needless continuances and the same reasons for years.

All three incumbent Humboldt Superior Court judges are guaranteed re-election since no challenger filed paperwork by the deadline

 

I knew this but I wanted to confirm with Humboldt County elections before sharing this with readers.

It is too late for any challenger and all three incumbent Humboldt Superior Court judges who are running for re-election will serve another term. As I have reported several times; those judges are Humboldt Superior Court Presiding Judge Kelly Neel; Assistant Presiding Judge Timothy Canning and Judge Kaleb Cockrum.

This was confirmed by Humboldt County Office of Elections Administrative Analyst II, Christina Strevey.

"John,

It is too late for anyone to challenge the incumbent judges who have filed. Candidates for three superior court judge seats had from January 26th to February 4th to file a Judicial Declaration of Intent. If the Incumbent judges had not filed theirs, that period would have extended until February 9th for any candidate except the incumbents.

As of February 9th the regular filing period rules become effect for the rest of the filing documents. Since the incumbents did file, they had until March 6th to file nomination papers and the their Declaration of Candidacy, but as you noted have already done so."

DHS told secretaries of state that no federal immigration agents will be at polling locations in November

 

(This 2024 photo of Honey was taken by Mark Scolforo / AP and has been published on various sites )

Heather Honey, DHS' deputy assistant secretary for election integrity, told secretaries of state today that federal immigration agents will not be stationed at polling locations during the November midterm elections. This has been confirmed by Democrat and Republican election officials.

Registered sex offender wants to represent District 7 on Fresno City Council

I looked up information on Megan's Law and am using that photo instead of the touched up, posed photo on this registered sex offender's campaign website.

Rene Campos wants to represent District 7 on Fresno City Council. Campos was charged with being in possession of child pornography. Acvording to Campos and some other California media reports, that was in 2018 and the same reports claim he pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge.

Fresno County Clerk and Registrar of Voters James Kus said that state law does not prevent Campos from running for office.

I am not going into details of California election code but even certain felony convictions do not disqualify someone from running from office. I do recall a conversation with Humboldt County Clerk, Recorder and Registrar of Voters Juan Cervantes that only certain felony convictions prohibit someone from running for office.

Tanner is HCSO bound from Ferndale PD

 

(Photo of Tanner Gardner with Ferndale Police Chief Ron Sligh courtesy Ferndale PD)

"Former Ferndale Police Officer Tanner Gardner stopped by the office today.  Tanner recently started the field training program with the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department after serving the Ferndale community for several years.  Ferndale Police Chief Ron Sligh presented Tanner with a plaque and thanked him for his dedication to the community and wished him luck in his current endeavor with HCSO." Ferndale PD.

Word is that the Newsom's appointment to Humboldt Superior Court Department 6 is local

 

Maybe this gif is what I should email to the Governor's Press Office next time.

I am not sure why the California Governor Newsom's Office of Judicial Appointments is taking so long to announce who will be temporarily appointed to Humboldt Superior Court Department 6.

I have been the only one following, reporting on potential candidates and developments for months and years now.

I did receive one response last June from Izzy Gardon who is Director of Communications for Governor Newsom last. He said a formal announcement would be made and applications were being reviewed.

I followed up last month with the Governor's Press Office as Mr. Gardon suggested.

Word is that they are close to a decision, the candidate is local and background checks have been done. Humboldt Superior Court Commissioner Sarah Kaber is one of the names that keeps coming up in informal conversations. If it is Commissioner Kaber, they would have to find someone to take that position.

Yesterday, I saw someone with Risa Waddell on the second floor. She is one of the Humboldt Superior Court judicial secretaries. It could be a regional judge filling in this week.

I only got a quick look but if it is who I think it is;  that would be a good choice for the new Department 6 judge. When I first wrote about Retired Judge Joyce Hinrichs leaving early, I mentioned she wanted input in who got to fill her seat. That is another reason who I saw got me curious.

Humboldt DA concludes OIS of Nicholas Anderson was legally justified

 

"District Attorney Stacey Eads has completed her review of the investigation, which includes extensive video surveillance as well as body worn camera footage, regarding the June 5, 2025, Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Officer-involved shooting of 29-year-old Nicholas David Anderson of Simi Valley, California. A Humboldt County Critical Incident Response Team, including members from the Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office, Eureka Police Department, Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, Arcata Police Department, Fortuna Police Department, Ferndale Police Department, and California Highway Patrol, conducted the investigation.  Additionally, the Humboldt County Coroner’s Office and the California Department of Justice- Bureau of Forensic Services, contributed to the investigation." -- From first page

"District Attorney Stacey Eads has concluded the shooting was legally justified, in that the actions of Cpl. Anderson complied with California Penal Code Section 835a.   Mr. Anderson’s family has been notified of her findings and legal determination. " Conclusion.

The full press release is lengthy. You can read it at:

https://humboldtgov.org/m/newsflash/home/detail/6164

Was Kelly Helms fired by CR as the softball coach and was it over a racist text message?

 

I received this email half an hour ago. College of the Redwoods has no email listed for the President or Board of Trustees and after wasting time and finding zilch online, I finally decided to do this post. I did leave a message with Dr. Keith Flamer' secretary.

I did email attempt Kelly Helms and Humboldt Fast Pitch.

The tipster provided a screenshot and some other evidence which is enough for an initial post. 

On 2/27, I heard back from Ms. Julie Gilbride who provided me her and President Flamer's email addresses. I sent them an email with questions and a deadline of March 2 by the end of the day.

All flags at City facilities "will be lowered to half-staff on February 26 in solemn remembrance of the Wiyot people who lost their lives in the February 26, 1860 massacre on Tuluwat Island in Humboldt Bay."

 

City of Eureka just issued this press release. I added the image and summary from google.

All flags at City facilities "will be lowered  to half-staff on February 26 in solemn remembrance of the Wiyot people who lost their lives in the February 26, 1860 massacre on Tuluwat Island in Humboldt Bay."

American Guard texts security that their hours are changing, staff and Board unaware of potential change mentioned by Sheriff Honsal

Once again, you heard it here first.

This morning, I heard these two Courthouse security guards talking about some changes. I also heard them talking to County staff. I waited until there was no one around to find out more details.

Two weeks ago, Humboldt County Sheriff William Honsal spoke to head of security, who I spoke to this morning.  Sheriff Honsal said he was thinking of changing hours for the security guards. HCSO oversees Courthouse security.

Nothing came of it until today when American Guard sent a text to head of security at this site saying effective 3/2/26, security hours are going to be cut and the new hours are 7:30 to 5:15 with a mandated hour lunch. American Guard does not even pay the security guards what they get from the County and courts. It is a reduced rate with two of the three guards making minimum wage. Prior hours were 7 to 5 and anyone could come into the building; not just certain County employees. 

HCSO, certain County and court employees, Supervisorsand  judges already have access via the secure basement entrance on I street.

A separate source said  employees will get key cards with these change in hours,; unclear whether only those who used to come in at 7 a.m.

The staff member did not know anything about this and is going to follow up because this has to go through the Board be approved, changes need to be posted and the County needs to send out press releases.

Sheriff Honsal is out of the office today. I know HCSO PIO is in training and not back until tomorrow. I have cced Humboldt Superior Court Judge Kelly Neel, Second District Supervisor Michelle Bushnell and Humboldt County CAO Elishia Hayes asking for comment.

Supervisor Bushnell was the first to respond, "Good morning, John. I have not heard of the changes , but would expect if something is to change it will come back to the board for discussion."

There is no point in contacting American Guard until I hear from Sheriff Honsal.

County Administrative PIO Cati Gallardo responded to me on 2/26. "Hi John, Thanks so much for checking in on this. The county is still working through courthouse security logistics in partnership with the Superior Court of Humboldt. The Sheriff has confirmed that no official decisions have been made about American Guard Security's operational hours. Operational hours have not been finalized, and there is no confirmed start date for any potential changes that the county is aware of.

We expect the Sheriff will provide an update to the Board on the security plan in the near future.

It's also important to note that if courthouse security hours do change, the Board of Supervisors would not need to approve it since county office hours for the public would remain the same. This change also wouldn't affect staff work hours or building access, as courthouse employees already have badge access to enter through the front door as needed."

Bad Boy Ruben Ramirez gets cuffed and hauled back into jail yesterday in his 2026 case

 

I covered Ruben Ramirez from 2022 to 2024. He is now 21 and was arrested again in January 2026 by the Fortuna Police Department. He was released on O.R.

No DUI charges filed from that arrest but yesterday he had an arraignment for his probation violation. On 2/6, Humboldt County Probation filed the petition.

Ramirez was on a no bail status. He was remanded into custody in court yesterday and hauled back to jail. Retired Humboldt Superior Court Judge John Feeney granted the People's request for remand; no bail status remains; Public Defender's office appointed. Another OR bail hearing on 2/26; VOP hearing on 3/18.

This week, we have two Retired Humboldt Superior Court Judges; Judge Feeney and Judge Christopher Wilson; filling in since some of the judges are at a judicial conference.  Judge Feeney and Judge Wilson are more than familiar with repeat offenders and have years of experience. They know all the defense tricks and Humboldt criminals. Judge Feeney has been denying a lot of OR and supervised release recently which is a postive development for public safety. I was telling a few people who work in the courts yesterday that it takes a lot to exhaust Judge Feeney's  patience and if he is denying release, the criminal and  defense attorney should read the tea leaves.

All these wannabe bad boys of Humboldt need to take their time in the Humboldt Hilton reflect on their behavior in custody,  look at their case realistically and take a plea deal; if offered. Red states don't coddle criminals and they don't allow criminals and defense attorneys to drag out cases for years.

2/26/26: OR bail continued by defense to 3/10 for assigned attorney to appear; there are discussions about possible resolution.

Of course California Public Defenders Association opposes Senate Bill 1373 which is needed to stop the misuse of pre trial mental health diversion

 

(Senator Grove: Facebook)

Of course California Public Defenders Association opposes Senate Bill 1373 spearheaded  by state Sen. Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) and which has bipartisan support and calls for more stringent limits to revise the ill intended consequences of pre trial mental health diversion created by Assembly Bill 1810 in 2018. 

Senator Grove has been quoted in media coverage SB 1373 today saying a well-intended reform has given criminals a “get out of jail free card” to wipe their records clean. This was according to the California Post.

SB 1373 would require that a defendant’s mental disorder be diagnosed within five years of the charged offense. 

It would also expand the list of disqualifying crimes to include attempted murder, kidnapping, carjacking and human trafficking, and it would bar diversion for defendants with two prior felony convictions or a prior strike under California’s Three Strikes law.

Assemblymember Maggy Krell, a Democrat and former Sacramento County district attorney supports the bill.

If you read my court coverage regularly, you have seen me speak against mental health diversion, especially repeat offenders, who show no remorse or change in behavior. I have been threatened and harassed by people who got a slap on the wrist and overwhelmingly, it is clients from the Humboldt County Public Defender's Office and several from one particular Deputy Public Defender. I have called out Humboldt Judge Kaleb Cockrum in two specific cases. The Deputy DA and law enforcement in one of those cases not only believed me and the DA got the police reports I had, tried to help me and agreed with me about the defendant; but they acknowledged the law was an issue. Judges have discretion. A different judge may have made a different ruling. 

This deputy public defender does not know me. Has never spoken with me. He has never risked his life or been targeted like I have on a daily basis. He is the typical far left die hard believer who cannot see past his bubble of misguided beliefs that have real consequences for public safety. Glaring at me every time I am at the Courthouse is not going to change that coddling criminals does not work. Giving a pass when there is no remorse, no change in behavior, no responsibility is stupid and dangerous for public safety.

The same week I wrote about an encounter on 4th street and having to call EPD that resonated with thousands of Eurekans; this deputy Public Defender's client who should have never been granted mental health diversion tried to intimidate me again and have a friend who was driving me ram me with her car. Right in front of the Public Defender's Office on a weekend. Fortunately, I have quick reflexes. This fool needs to look in the mirror instead of blaming everyone else. California's mental health diversion is a disaster.

Mental health diversion is not the only abuse in the California criminal justice system. So is not guilty by reason of insanity as used in California. 

 

Judge Wilson temporarily revokes Kimberly Felder's release from the State Hospital

 

No other media covered the defense petition for outpatient treatment in Kimberly Felder's 2017 case. It was granted by Humboldt Superior Court Judge Timothy Canning last year.

Felder was convicted of attempted murder of her own daughter and sent to the State Hospital

I noticed a hearing on today's calendar which was not a review hearing date. Retired Humboldt Superior Court Judge Chris Wilson has been in Courtroom 4 this week which is assigned to Judge Canning.

Today, Judge Wilson made an interim order to revoke Felder's release from the State Hospital until Judge Canning can hear arguments from counsel.  See court minutes for more details.

Deputy District Attorney Carolyn Schaffer is the prosecutor for this case. Deputy Public Defender Ehvan Schectman is now handling the case for his office.

Next court date is on 3/11/26.

Let's hope Judge Canning reconsiders his decision to release Felder from the State Hospital. After covering hearings on the release of several sexually violent predators and the dismal failure of the State Hospital to monitor them; I don't believe any report and the State Hospital's credibility is worse than a non functioning toilet.

I am not linking all my posts on this case from 2017. They can be accessed for free via the search feature on the blog. Advertisers, subscribers and contributers can contact me for the benefits of supporting independent reporting and a customized request for this or any other case.

Judge Graf denies defense request to disqualify Utah County prosecutors in the Tyler Robinson murder case

 

(Judge Graf: this photo is from Utah State Court website)

Utah Fourth District Judge Tony Graf was scheduled to give a ruling today on the defense request in murder suspect Tyler Robinson case to disqualify the Utah County Prosecutor's Office and eletronic media access.

Since Robinson's arrest, I have covered this case with detailed information not provided in other reporting from the Utah County Prosecutor's office as well as live court coverage of every hearing.

I already posted live on other platforms.

With the exception of defense attorney Ms. Nester who is in another trial, all other attorneys in court today for Tyler Robinson. 89% discovery provided.

Defense request to disqualify Utah County prosecutors from the Tyler Robinson case denied by Judge Graf.

Judge Graf is reading his ruling regarding disqualification. The judge is reading and reiterating many of the prosecution's arguments which, if you read the documents, were well presented. Tyler is not in court, in person today.

Judge Graf was very clear May preliminary hearing in Tyler Robinson hearing will proceed. Next court hearing on 3/13, could take up to 3 hours & then 4/17 all day hearing. These involve media access & other issues of what documents media and public can see. These other rulings are of interest mostly to media and I may not cover them live.

Attorney names for both teams are in all past coverage. Links have been provided. I covered this hearing live while also covering Humboldt courts which keep me busy, all day, daily.

At the last minute on the day his trial was supposed to start, Troy Friedman pleads guilty to an added count

On the day, forcible rape suspect Troy Friedman's trial was supposed to start, late yesterday afternoon he pleaded guilty to an added count 2 false imprisonment. Count 1, the forcible rape charge was dismissed. 

Humboldt Superior Court Judge Kaleb Cockrum took the plea. Deputy District Attorney Trent Timm is the prosecutor. Deputy Public Defender Ben McLaughlin is Friedman's attorney.

Court minutes do not list a sentencing date; list a P.O. report  and "two years probation with jail term open." Jane Doe was present via Zoom. Victim Witness Advocate read a statement.

I reached out to Ms. Timm for clarification. "Hi John, He will be sentenced March 23rd. The plea was for felony 236 for probation, but additional jail time is open to the court."

Sentencing is on 3/23/26.

I did have permission from her months ago to put this on the blog but waited for since a jury trial was scheduled. Friedman has now entered a plea. He is Humboldt Superior Court clerk Bonnie Jennings' ex. She told me that when she knew him, there was nothing to indicate he is capable of such behavior.

After 5 days of deliberation and readback of testimony, verdict in Richard Sanderson trial

(I will have a better booking photo when HCSO responds to my request)

Verdict in Richard Lyle Sanderson aka Dick aka Ricky Lyie's assault, false imprisonment and domestic violence  case. Court minutes cover sheet is up but details on verdict not up yet. 

On, at 2/19 9:17 a.m. jury started deliberation, came back with a verdict on 2/23 in the afternoon. Humboldt Superior Court Judge Steward changed Sanderson's custody status to no bail.

Court trial on circumstances and aggravation is on 3/13; sentencing on 3/18/26.

Sanderson has another case in which he is charged with possession of meth which is trailing. Deputy Public Defender Ben McLaughlin is Sanderson's attorney.

Since the assigned prosecutor Deputy District Attorney Brandon Boozari is still out of the office; Deputy DA Trent Timm has been appearing on the case.

This is a previous post I did on the trial.

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2026/02/humboldt-juror-in-richard-sanderson.html?m=1

2/26/26: As of 2/26/26, verdict was still not entered in the system. The criminal clerk supervisor has to check it. I spoke with Mr. Boozari. The jury convicted Sanderson of Count 1 lesser charge PC 240 assault as a misdemeanor; Count 3 felony PC 236 lesser attempt to commit false imprisonment and Count 4 felony PC 273.5 (a) domestic violence. The jury found Sanderson not guilty of Count 2 PC 422 criminal threats.