Alleged molestor Trinidad Gomez' jury trial is scheduled for next Monday, this reader's tip is very timely and concerning

 

I have been the only one to cover alleged molestor Trinidad Gomez's arrest and case. I have been adding updates to the original post. That post has details about Gomez' arrest, the complaint, bail and updates on hearings in his case. Gomez is on a no bail status. His jury trial is scheduled for 4/6 last time I checked.

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2025/07/trinidad-gomez-arrested-by-hcso-forlewd.html?m=1#more

On 3/31, I received this email. I recognized the name.

"Hello, 

You're already covering this case (thank you for continuing to update the page regularly) and I'm sure it'll come up in trial, but I just wanted to add some context for your reporting. Maybe you already know. 

Trinidad Gomez was a custodian at McKinleyville Middle School. He's being charged with lewd acts with a minor under the age of 14. I left Humboldt over a decade ago, so you'll have to confirm with someone local if he was still working there, but my guess is that he was during the alleged incident. Anyone who went to public school in McKinleyville during the 2010s will be familiar with who he is. 

Please keep my identity anonymous. "

Internet searches for payroll are never current. The alleged incidents for this HCSO arrest took place between 2020 and 2024. Regardless of whether Gomez is working at Mckinleyville Union Elementary now, he did at some point. This arrest may cover alleged incidents from 2020 to 2024 but there could be other potential victims.

Courts and Humboldt County were closed on 3/31. Despite this being another day that I am trying to take off to rest; this is an alleged crime involving children and that is important and a priority.

I have contacted one of the Mckinleyville Union School Board Members, Thomas Chavez who I know from previous community and business dealings. There is no email on the website for MUSD Suprintendent Julie Giannini-Previde and I asked Thomas to  forward my inquiry to her. 

He did so and provided me the email for Ms. Giannini-Previde. I thank Thomas for his prompt initial response. The District is looking into my inquiry. I will update when I hear from the MUSD.

I did hear from someone who confirmed Gomez worked for MUSD with specifics. I am waiting to hear back before I share the response. The person is an adult now and not harmed in any way by Gomez. The person gave specific details. That message will encourage others to step forward. I did get permission but there are some details I cannot share as it will identify the person 

4:43 p.m.:

"Yes, he did in fact work for MUSD for several years as a janitor and would do repairs at Morris Elementary. I went to Morris from 1st-5th from (years redacted to protect tipster's identity) and he was a heavy presence at the school. He acted very nice and friendly with everyone. I remember him always being at the front gate to greet students as they came onto campus in the morning. He had a girlfriend who also worked at the school and they seemed very cute together and happy. He was also very close with my uncle who worked at (details redacted to protect uncle's identity but specifics were provided) who has also supported Gomez through out the years and even (another detail redacted to protect the tipster and family)

I remember one weekend my little sister and I went to Morris to go play on the playground and burn off some steam. Our (family member's location redacted to protect identity) from morris and it was completely normal at the time for us to go over there by ourselves and play. I remember seeing Gomez on a ladder on the Morris building towards the front office at the time. He called my sister and I over. We approached him and he that he was thirsty and if he could come across the street for some water at (family members location redacted). My (family member) wasn’t home for some reason and I felt extremely uncomfortable with the request. I remember looking at my little sister, grabbing her hand, and told her to run with me back to our (family member's location redacted). I remember us laughing together and were looking out (detail redacted)and he was standing across the street looking trying to see us. I remember us talking about how weird it was that he wouldn’t have brought his own water or just drink out of the water fountain as there were several at the school. When we told my (family member) about it he was very happy that we did what we did. “He should get his own damn water why is he asking my little girls to come in (location redacted) when I’m not here.” From then on I felt extremely uncomfortable around him and would avoid him at school. Even with the encouragement from my (family member) to “be nice to Gomez and say hi back.” I just felt like something wasn’t right, I’m so glad that I listened to my instincts that day. I hope this is an appropriate avenue to give you this information and to illustrate his history with trying to gain access to children at the time.

Over the past twenty six-ish years my (redacted) has worked with Gomez in different positions in MUSD beginning at Morris School in the early (years redacted) and they were really good friends. Throughout the years my (family member) was a huge support for Gomez and Alejandra his wife (and was the girlfriend that I mentioned previously who worked at Morris Elementary school with him for several years.) 

(I have redacted a few sentences and locations because it would identify the tipster and the family. Some of the redactions are also a request from the tipster)

But during that time Gomez beat on Alejandra and the abuse got so bad that my (family member) had him kicked out and stopped associating with him. My (family member) says he’s a bad man. My (family member) completely took Alejandra’s side and has supported them as much as he can post Gomez living there.

I had no idea about my (family member) cutting ties with Gomez post abusing his wife and possibly children until about 30 minutes ago. But I’m extremely proud of my (family member) for helping Alejandra and the kids and making sure that Gomez was not allowed to be on (redacted).

There is a family law case and Alejandra is now divorced from Trinidad.

The other local media may cover the case or the trial now that they see the community response but they were MIA until it benefits them. I cover these arrests and cases before information comes out because every single survivor matters. 

I have paid a very high price for exposing the darkness in Humboldt and every single person who has betrayed me, tried to silence me, harm me and made me struggle financially and in other ways; if you think there is a difference between the evil I report and you; then you are deluded and you do not believe in good, God or have a moral compass.

On 4/1/26, I received this response from Ms. . Giannini-Previde. "Yes, Trinidad Gomez was employed by the District until November 30, 2021. The District never received any formal complaints against him. The District takes any concerns about potential harm to students seriously. If anyone has a complaint or concern regarding interactions with this or any other staff member, I encourage them to bring the concerns to me so I can investigate and take action."

4/6/26: Defense continuance granted due to interpreter issues for a witness. Readiness Conference on 5/5; jury trial on 5/11.

Two years probation and clarity needed regarding jail sentence for convicted sexual batterer Arda Kizilay

 

I reported on convicted sexual batterer Arda Kizilay's plea on February 18. There are exclusive details in my February 19 post about what Jane Doe endured and my observation in court which indicates Kizilay lives "far away". I have also provided links to previous coverage. As usual, I was the first to report on his arrest and then regularly follow the case through the court process.

Kizilay resolved his case before the preliminary hearing. The court minutes say 364 days in jail with credits for 17 days and two years probation. Jail says his release date is 9/19.

I have taken time off this week and courts are closed tomorrow but I will follow up on the jail sentence when I have time.

At least, Jane Doe got to see Kizilay cuffed in court and remanded into custody.

I have included court minutes from sentencing today by Judge Lawrence Killoran. Deputy District Attorney Carolyn Schaffer is the prosecutor for this case. Ms. Kathleen Bryson is Kizilay's attorney.

If you want to join Nicole's pity party; your choice. If you want to feed her need for attention and enable her; your choice. What Nicole does not get to do is avoid paying her bills or dictate coverage because it is inconvenient to her

Nicole Fryer, owner of Humboldt Bay Social posted this on Facebook an hour ago.

Ok, since inquiring minds want to know… here it is…

As you’re reacting to sensational headlines, I’m living this in real time. 

When I took this on, it wasn’t  funded. It was a distressed property with debt already attached to it. I had to keep alive in real time.

No safety net. No bailout. Just me figuring it out.

I tried to secure funding the right way. Nothing came through.

So I made a hard call and took on high risk financing to keep the doors open and people employed.

And let’s be clear about the numbers.

Those are inflated MCA payback totals, not what actually hit the business.

And they pull money daily. Not monthly. Daily.

Working capital was being drained every single day.

At the same time, I lost real income managing short term rentals for Oyster Beach when the county shut that down.

That income didn’t slow down. It stopped.

I was also dealing with real property issues

Leaking Hangar roof

Electrical problems that cost over $7,500 in generators, gas and an electrical contractor. 

Ongoing infrastructure issues

The property passed inspection in July 2024. The electrical issues came up after that.

This wasn’t someone just deciding not to pay rent.

This was me trying to keep a business alive with limited options and real obstacles.

And still I showed up.

As for the article, I didn’t participate. That was intentional.

The narrative was already being laid down.

I asked for a short delay so it could be accurate. Loco published anyway.

Deadlines don’t excuse incomplete reporting. 

Call it what you want.

Just don’t call it complete, or thorough, or professional journalism. 

HBSC is open

I’m operating

And I’m not going anywhere

No membership required. Just good vibes.

#judgementoverknowledge #hbsc #realrecognizereal #iykyk

Hundreds of people do business in Humboldt County. Some never end up in the news because there is no reason. Others do not end up in the news because this is a small County with selective enforcement. Some end up in the news and are smart enough to stay quiet. Most of who those who end up in a lawsuit have the brains to listen to a lawyer or have the common sense to stay quiet.

Nicole Fryer thought this Facebook post would help her?

Nicole Fryer called Lost Coast Outpost out so this isn't my fight. LOCO can respond to it; if they wish. My opinion of LOCO and their so called "journalism" is well known. 

I reported on the City of Eureka lawsuit involving Nicole before LOCO. 

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2026/03/i-have-been-reporting-on-zephyr-lawauit.html?m=1

Unlike LOCO, I consistently report on many lawsuits to inform the community whether it is about child molestors or businesses that are being sued. 

I already expressed my opinion on LOCO following up on this one lawsuit days later and selectively singling out Fryer as LOCO often does. When LOCO actually risks and takes on powers to be in this town; I will check to see if pigs are flying.

I am surprised by Michaele Whiteley's comment on this FB post. She certainly has received a lot of free publicity from LOCO. Again, I could care less about LOCO but it is telling of Michaele Whitley.

I have removed Humboldt Bay Social from my feed because Facebook's annoying algorithm interrupted my peaceful day off.

Nicole sent me an email with a similar request . It either got accidentally deleted or I cannot find the email address it was sent from and I did the obvious searches. I ignored it because I reported  on the lawsuit from court records. Unlike Nicole's desperate spin, court records are not biased. Those who still support her or think she knows journalism and didn't bother to read the information are the problem in Humboldt.

If Nicole had provided a statement to me instead of trying to tell me what to do or deter me from covering valid news; I would have printed it whether I believed it or not.

Journalism is not defined because a biased party with egg on their face finds it inconvenient. That is a major problem in Humboldt. Just as Humboldt's addiction to Facebook and drama. I temporarily deleted my FB news page and it was so peaceful. I cover news that is not Humboldt focused and I post on other platforms. My crankiness is directly related to being on Facebook and how much time I spend at Humboldt Superior Court. 

If Nicole did not want to be a part of the news, she could have released a simple statement at any time saying that she did not want to comment on ongoing litigation. She could have put something on Facebook before the City of Eureka filed anything in court. I did a post when Nicole first bought Humboldt Bay Social. Never heard from her. No thank you. Not very professional of Nicole. 

Nicole screwed up and expects reporters to jump at her command and dictate what and when reporters should do their job?

If Nicole has made arrangements with the City of Eureka or anyone else she owes money to; then she had a choice to say so; her ego that inquiring minds were sitting around wondering about someone most people in Humboldt have never heard of before news was published about this lawsuit is her hubris.

According to Nicole's own Facebook post, she took on a distressed property. Now she cannot pay her rent and bills. But it isn't her fault. Instead of looking that she maybe the problem, she is whining and blaming everyone else. 

Lot of people face challenges. Not because they made make poor decisions like Nicole but because life isn't fair. They pull themselves up by their bootstraps with no support.

If you want to join Nicole's pity party; your choice. If you want to feed her need for attention and enable her; your choice. What Nicole does not get to do is avoid paying her bills or dictate coverage because it is inconvenient to her.

CA AG Bonta warns public of fake court notice scam

California AG Bonta just sent out a statement about a court notice scam which alleges you owe money for a traffic or toll ticket and demand immediate payment.

Anthony Horst arrested for criminal threats; Donovan Larimore arrested for false imprisonment and domestic violence

Anthony Milo Horst was arrested yesterday by HCSO for PC 422 (a) criminal threats. Donovan Lee Larimore arrested by Arcata Police Department yesterday for PC 236 false imprisonment and PC 273.5(a) domestic violence.

Tuesday is yet another County and Court holiday

 

Finally finished all my updates from last week. If you want the current information and exclusive information on Georgi Tonev, Josalyn Spagel, Andrew Tuttle, Daniel Fidler, Tavin Evans, Analia Martinez and others check the previous posts. Betwen the repeat offenders, new arrests, cases being continued four, five, six times in a week and all these attorney conflicts; not every case gets a new post. 

Few cases from Friday were continued to Monday.

First Humboldt crime Truth Social style post was funnier; hard to be witty when you spend your weekend updating SSDD

 

What I wrote on 7/21/2025:

What is going on with you "boys" and in some cases, "gals?" Those of you at the too clean Humboldt Hilton with three hots and a cot you losers don't deserve. You are really putting a damper on the Humboldt fog. Law enforcement, attorneys, correctional deputies, court staff and law abiding public and I are on one team. Make Eureka Safe Again. Crescent City, San Francisco, Oregon are really not sending us their best. It is summertime.  We are tired of seeing your mugshot, fed up of seeing you out on the street, not interested in your sob story for the 10th time about how you will change. Put on some "big boy" and "big girl" pants, enough of this arson, robbery, vandalism DEI.  We need a break from your crime. Thank you for your attention to this matter!

If only Humboldt law enforcement, attorneys, correctional deputies, court staff and law abiding public could address Humboldt criminals "Truth Social" style. Since they can't or won't, I will as the local reporter and blogger regularly covering court and crime.

I was going to do one for the family law litigants but they have no sense of humor.

I have earned the right after what reporting truth, especially about courts, has cost me personally, financially and done to my health.

The post I did on July 21, 2025 still applies today, except things have gotten worse.

What is going on with you Humboldt repeat offenders? Those of you with constant visits to the Humboldt Hilton. Conflicts of interests, multiple continuances in a week have overloaded the Humboldt court system. There are no beds for the new Humboldt man buns and gals with shaved heads. Slap on the wrist plea deals for four or five cases?! Even San Francisco's mayor, a moderate Democrat is trying hard! Fix your crime issue or expect a visit from Tom Homan. Thank you for your attention to this matter!

I admit, the first one was funnier. I am also exhausted and ready now to start my staycation. 

Child pornography suspect Alias Hensel faces federal charges; Humboldt case will be dismissed

 

I have been adding updates to child pornography suspect Alias Hensel's 2025 case to the November 2025 post. It includes the 8 felonies he is charged with in the Humboldt case and all developments until this new post.

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2025/11/alias-hensel-arrested-for-sending.html?m=1#more

On 3/26/26, setting of preliminary hearing/change of plea was continued by the Humboldt County DA to 4/17/26. After Hensel is arraigned on the federal indictment; the Humboldt case will be dismissed.

4/17/26: Due to power outage, continued to 5/1.

After several warnings and issuing a citywide tactical alert for Los Angeles, there were several arrests today by LAPD and more are expected

 

A candidate from the local left who is already being selective about access and treating all fairly

Victor Garcia chose who he sent his press release to; Victor you are a month behind my reporting that you planned to run. Does not bode well that as a potential candidate, you do not treat all local media sources fairly. Those who support you are aware who I am.

Victor still has not filed any paperwork with the City of Eureka so his campaign announcement is meaningless.

Victor, we already have enough activists on Eureka City Council. What we need is people who know how to run a business, can budget and increase opportunities for private industry.

3/30/26: Looks like calling out potential Eureka Ward 1 candidate Victor Garcia twice worked. He finally filed paperwork with the City of Eureka. 

This post is for the survivors, the families, the lawyers and law enforcement

 

Christopher Diven's father in law thanked me again for the updates on the case. Two other local media covered the preliminary hearing. So did I while covering 20 to 30 defendants with multiple cases daily. He contacted me twice because  he is not local and I have covered Diven regularly and for years. 

Many people contact me whether other media covers a random hearing or any case because I have been there for years and continue to be the one to inform and help. You don't hear about all the people I help at the courthouse, even on a busy day or respond to, in addition to the content I provide. As exhausted as I am, what makes it worthwhile is the survivors, the families who rely on my consistent, detailed coverage. Lawyers, law enforcement, others at the courthouse follow me to see what is going on. These are the people who never demand anything for me and appreciate me. The people who support me personally, financially or both; even those who give what they can once; could contact me but they are the ones who give me space and ask for nothing.

After I finish another weekend of updates and new posts, I am taking some time for me next week. When and how long, no one needs to know. Whatever and whenever that time is, I may or may not do minimal posts, you may not see a difference in my daily content.

If I don't respond to tips, if you have to wait for some update, that is just how it will be. Taking an entire day off has not happened in 22 years. I am going to try. It won't be enough. As long as I am in Humboldt, it is never a day off completely but it will be a break from the toxic den of evil at 825 5th street and around that building.

For all those who aren't loyal, take me for granted; don't worry. The time I take off will still have sloppy local error filled clickbait from other local media. Pigs might fly and the other local media may even apologize for their error. Link for related reference.

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2026/03/getting-arrested-for-dui-near-epd.html?m=1

A Humboldt small claims lawsuit filed by Sacramento couple mentions habitability issues; $6,806, Complete Property Management and a defendant with the same name as a Humboldt Deputy DA

 

I noticed a small claims hearing on calendar this morning with the name exactly the same as Humbolt Deputy DA Victoria Reierstad. I was not in the courtroom today so I cannot confirm if this case involves Ms . Reierstad. I did not see her on the second floor at all today. It is not a common name.

Michael Taney is an attorney at Humboldt Superior Court. He is listed on this case as pro tem judge. Humboldt Commissioner Sarah Kaber usually hears small claims cases.

"A pro tem judge (pro tempore) is a temporary judge—often a qualified attorney or retired judge—appointed to act in place of a regular judge who is absent, disqualified, or when a court vacancy exists. They handle cases, such as small claims, with the same authority as a regular judge. " Legal Information Institute

The case was filed on December 5, 2025. There was one hearing on 3/13/26. The parties did not stipulate to Mr. Taney hearing the matter. It was continued to today. E court lists that at the request of Ms. Reierstad, the small claims hearing was continued to 4/24/26.

I have included court documents which include the claim filed by plaintiffs and the 3/13 court minutes. Between the 3/13/26 court minutes which do not list Complete Property Management properly with other parties; the omission of Complete Property Management in e court under parties and no idea if Alyssa and Samuel Wilson filed out the small claims form properly; I will have to wait, clarify and update, if neccessary the role of parties. 

The dispute is about $6,806, a Humboldt property rental and habitability issues which the Sacramento couple claimed was sustained by "Humboldt County Building Department."

If the Wilsons provided any evidence, it was not in e court. I do not know this Sacramento couple but just based on the filing, I can sense drama from them and I am not buying the " poor me victim" routine.

I have only had one interaction with Ms. Munger and she is very professional. If this is Deputy DA Reierstad, I have had interactions with her. She is professional and kind. 

Another judicial appointment release from California Governor Gavin Newsom and Humboldt Department 6 MIA; again

 

Another judicial appointment release from California Governor Gavin Newsom and Humboldt Department 6 MIA; again

I have been reporting on Zephyr lawsuit, Nicole Fryer, owner of Humboldt Bay Social Club for months

 

As usual Lost Coast Outpost is a day late and a dollar short. I have been reporting on the Zephyr lawsuit, Nicole Fryer, Humboldt Social Club for months. There are regular updates in my posts. The 2/20/26 update in the February 11, 2026 post has the judgement and court minutes.

LOCO recently apologized for one error with their RCEA debacle . I pointed out other errors by LOCO recently. If you want court documents and accuracy and haven't read my posts on Zephyr, check out the three posts I have done.

LOCO runs to City of Eureka manager Miles Slattery a lot and vice versa whenever LOCO wants to pretend they are publishing some big deal for the first time or the City of Eureka and Slattery need a distraction from the public pissed about something. All local media follow my blog and Facebook. This news is months old and I reported it because I actively research news and cases of public interest.

LOCO is cowardly. They report on this lawsuit months later because Fryer is not someone with resources or money and in a vulnerable position. Unlike them, I report on all lawsuits involving people in power and with money in a small county based on newsworthiness.

Instead of Slattery vs Fryer and he said, she said, you can check out all court documents I provide with my reporting.

Of course, the other local media never give credit to my reporting first. People who read more than one source know.

The good ole boys and gals who own most of the local media and their staff are petty, unprofessional. I work very hard without the money and resources they have and those of you who enable them by your silence also deserve to be called out.

Kai Jones who pleaded guilty in case for human trafficking and sexual exploitation of minors sentenced to 8 years in prison

California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the sentencing of Kai Jones for the human trafficking and sexual exploitation of two minors. Operating out of Los Angeles, Alameda, Monterey, Contra Costa, and Sacramento counties in 2022, Jones lured his underage victims with promises of protection and a bright future in exchange for the money they received from performing commercial sex acts. As a result of the investigative work and prosecution by the California Department of Justice (DOJ), Jones was charged with seven felonies, including human trafficking of a minor, pimping of a minor, and unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor. On February 13, 2026, he pleaded guilty and, today, he was sentenced to eight years in prison.

"Remove him"; Judge Killoran orders court staff to put guy smoking blunt on Zoom put in cyber jail and timeout

**The You Tube video is of a Tennesse man who was charged with possession of marijuana and decided to light up a joint in court.**

Typical Humboldt criminal. 

While covering the Destinee Rhamy case, Humboldt Superior Court Judge Lawrence Killoran and attorney Ms. Andrea Sullivan noticed a guy dressed in a red shirt "smoking a blunt" on Zoom. Ms. Sullivan also said "he had an illegal weapon behind him."

Judge Killoran asked court staff to "Remove him." He was put in cyber jail for a time out so Judge Killoran could complete proceedings on the Rhamy case.

The guy in Humboldt was so stoned. He didn't even flinch as Judge Killoran addressed him.

Based on yesterday's arrests and who was on the Courtroom 5 calendar, I have at least two names to check out. 

Judicial intervention this morning in Destinee Rhamy case; retrial scheduled in June

Holland Elbik's mother, Kay Elbik, despite an admonition from Humboldt Superior Court Judge Lawrence Killoran during the first trial was disrespectful to the court, other people in the courtroom 5 this morning and chose to talk with Victim Witness Rep before the Destinee Rhamy case, while other cases were called and while I was covering the Rhamy case. She was seated behind me. No other media was in court. Rhamy and her family were respectful. 

Ms. Andrea Sullivan said, "I discussed options with my client. She has elected to go forward with a new trial."

At request of defense, a judicial intervention is happening this morning. Trial dates were set. Readiness Conference on June 2; jury trial on June 15. Deputy District Attorney Roger Rees is the prosecutor for the case. The intervention did not result in a resolution today.

Depending on judicial intervention, there maybe changes.

The search feature on the blog provides access to all prior coverage. I have exclusive information on this case and if you have not read it before; you should for additional context to understand this post. The 3/12/26 post has links to trial and other coverage on the Rhamy case.

Lloyd Snyder arrested for intimidating a witness, continuous sexual abuse of a child and child endangerment

Lloyd Allen Snyder was arrested by HCSO yesterday for PC 136.1(a)(1) intimidating a witness, PC 288.5(a) continuous sexual abuse of a child and PC 273a(a) child endangerment.

There is very little information, no court documents in older cases and no middle name listed in four family law cases with the sane woman for a Lloyd Snyder in Humboldt Superior Court. One of the cases was dismissed.

3/30/26: DA filed complaint charging Snyder with 8 felonies. He was arraigned on 3/30; Humboldt Superior Court Judge changed his custody status to no bail pending OR hearing;  Conflict Counsel appointed. OR on 4/2; preliminary hearing on 4/9.

4/2/26: OR & SR denied by Humboldt Superior Court Retired Judge Marilyn Miles; criminal protective order filed & served in court.

4/9/26: Preliminary hearing continued to 5/15 by defense for outstanding discovery.

Whether it is a message in 2014, 2019 or today, the messages I receive from survivors is what reporting is about and should be

 

Thank you for your work in Humboldt. It is so hard to get information and as a survivor of someone you have been covering, you were the only place to find information that allowed me and my daughter to feel safe. 

California let us down and we return to our lives of fear, but for that time he was in jail, your reporting kept us informed. I cannot believe they would allow a three strike felon to trade it for a misdemeanor, I wish they knew how many things this man has gotten away with in his life. 

Thank you for all that you do.

I miss Humboldt so much and life is so much harder when you have no family, but even thousands of miles away, that man scares me. 

Thank you again for your work, I truly appreciated being able to know what was happening and had over a year where I could sleep knowing he was behind bars where he belonged. 

This is part of an email I received today. There are those who say they believe in God and there are those who live it through their actions and their lives.

If you have followed my reporting in Humboldt from the beginning, the emails and messages I have received from the survivors over the year are the ones that matter. 

These are just two of them.

From my very first job as a journalist in Philadelphia right after college, even when I worked in traditional, mainstream media; my reporting included  news that helped gave survivors a voice. At that time, I had editors and publishers and there were weeks I had to convince them to cover those stories in meetings versus the fluff some advertiser wanted. I put in the extra time; if needed.

Now, I am my own boss. I don't have sales reps.  I don't have a steady paycheck every Friday. I still do the reporting. I am the sales rep.  I am very grateful to those who support my work in Humboldt.

Records subpoenaed from Building and Planning and St. Joe's in Humboldt human trafficking suspect case

 

(HCSO's arrest of Tonev)

Human trafficking suspect had two 2026 cases on calendar today on 3/26. CR2600915 is the case filed first and is scheduled for preliminary hearing. In this case, the Humboldt County DA has subpoenaed 4 manila envelopes from Humboldt Building and Planning yesterday. I already reported that on 3/18, DA subpoenaed records from St. Joseph's Hospital.

CR2601052 the second case is on for motion to examine bail. In that second case, preliminary hearing is scheduled for 4/3.

Deputy DA Carolyn Schaffer appeared on the case instead of Deputy DA Rebecca Buckley-Stein this week. Ms Andrea Sullivan is Tonev's attorney.

Whether the preliminary hearing in the first case proceeds or not is unknown until the case is called and certain other issues are addressed.

I am posting this preview before the hearing. 

10:56 a.m.: Tonev released on first file without having to pay $465,000 bail. DA choses to have contested hearing on $25,000 in second case which will be held this afternoon. If defense wins that as well, Tonev will be released from custody. Both preliminary hearings now on 4/3. Defense had two witnesses ready today. Humboldt Superior Court Judge Kaleb Cockrum asked attorneys today to come back at 1:30.

If you followed my coverage on this case, you know the background. HCSO Deputy Justin Pryor was ordered to be here today by Humboldt Superior Court Judge Steven Steward. Instead he is at the training in Illinois. There were no consequences for the deputy.

No other media in court. No other media has been at every hearing.

1:35: Waiting for Courtroom 3 to open.  Part of the hearing was completed today. Rest will be completed tomorrow. Ms. Schaffer has a homicide preliminary hearing tomorrow morning so schedule will be flexible. A referral was made to supervised release on the second case.

If you followed my coverage on this case, you know the background. 

The hearing on bail will conclude tomorrow. When I finish updating this post, there are details that were revealed in court like an undercover operation that led to Tonev's arrest. 

3/27/26: Judge Steward will issue his ruling on 3/30/26. Once again, with last minute notice; the DA will either advance or continue the preliminary hearing.

I was at the hearing and took detailed notes. HCSO conducted an undercover operation. Tonev is a U.S  citizen, he own property in L.A. Judge Steward found there was no evidence presented by the DA about alleged statements tgat Tonev would flee to Bulgaria.

I do have concerns about this CA bill charging for public records but I blame people like Kent Sawatzky

Assembly Bill 1821, authored by California Democrat Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco would allow public agencies to charge if government workers spend more than a certain amount of hours within a month looking for documents requested by the same person. 

I have mixed feelings about this and it is because of the next two paragraphs I highlighted in italics.

The proposal would apply to most people, with exemptions for journalists and educational or scientific institutions.

Californians have a constitutional right to government records but Pacheco says it aims to discourage filers who abuse.

For those familiar with Kent Sawatzky in Humboldt; I know the County PIOs and local media are; he is the kind of person who should pay. Unfortunately as many First Amendment experts have pointed out; this will affect others.

There is another possibility behind this bill that you won't see covered by the Democrat spin media. The timing of this is suspicious when California fraud is being uncovered.

Lost Coast Pest Control loses Mother Bernard lawsuit, wins against Redwood Cabins but that judgement maybe temporary

On March 21, I did a post on a lawsuit filed by Lost Coast Pest Control against Mother Bernard House. LCPC lost that small claims case.

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2026/03/another-lawsuit-against-providences.html?m=1#more

Lost Coast Pest Control has filed another small claims hearing against Redwood Cabins and RV resort. On 2/26/26, there was a small claims hearing and judgement was entered in favor of Lost Coast Pest Control. 

Whether LCPC's win is permanent is yet to be determined.

Redwood Cabins filed a motion to set aside that judgement but there was no proof of service because they did not know the other party had to be notified. You don't even have to be a lawyer to know that basic concept; just have common sense. The 3/25/26 hearing on the motion to vacate was continued to 4/24/26.

For those who don't want to read the court minutes, another lawsuit about money owed for rest of contract.

Max Wolfe arrested by Fortuna PD for forgery and check fraud

Max Allen Wolfe was arrested by Fortuna Police Department yesterday for PC 470 (a) forgery and  PC 476 check fraud.

The name looked familiar and when I searched my blog, I found a November 2024 post about Fortuna resident Max Wolfe who was injured in a hit and run being investigated by CHP.

Max Allen Wolfe has two traffic cases and four criminal cases in Humboldt Superior Court. He has a failure to appear in one 2024 case which is for petty theft. He has convictions in both traffic cases and convictions in the other criminal cases for two probation violations, firearm charges with some firearm and drug charges dismissed in one of the cases as a part of the plea.

On 3/27, Wolfe was arraigned on his 2024 petty theft case in which he had a failure to appear and the 2026 case which was filed on 3/27. Trial confirmation is scheduled for 4/15 in the 2026 case; jury trial on 4/20.

The 2026 complaint filed by the Humboldt County DA lists this is a merged EPD case. In addition to the forgery and check fraud charges, Wolfe is also charged with possessing fentanyl, vandalism of three U.S. Post Office mail cabinets and receiving stolen property; a mountain bike.

4/15/26: Defense continuance granted because deputy public defender has not met with client. Wolfe ordered by Retired Humboldt Superior Court Judge Christopher Wilson to meet with the attorney assigned to his case by 4 p.m. today. Trial confirmation is on 6/8; jury trial on 6/15.

LA law firm representing former French Laundry employee in California labor code violations lawsuit

 

Elena Flows Beteta worked at the French Laundry as a worked as a dishwasher from 2022-2025. Beteta s suing French Laundry Corporation, French Laundry Partners, LP and KRM, Inc. which does business as the Thomas Keller Restaurant Group over alleged pay and break violations of the California labor code.

The lawsuit was filed on March 19, 2026 in Napa Superior Court by LA's Koul Law Firm.

Beteta is suing on behalf of her and “over fifty current and former aggrieved employees."

LA deputy arrested for three felonies involving a minor; bail is $300,000

 

A Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputy has been arrested after an investigation into allegations of off-duty sexual misconduct.

Getting arrested for a DUI near EPD headquarters

 

Getting arrested for a DUI near EPD headquarters. At least the DUI suspect was drunk. 

What's the excuse for LOCO's errors?

LOCO thinks EPD and RDPD are the same? Photos by RDPD. The text says contact RDPD Sgt.

The press release is also days old because David Bourland was arraigned this afternoon.

Since I was not in the courtroom, I dont know what other errors were made in LOCO's reporting of the Christopher Diven preliminary hearing. The name of the witness who had a medical emergency is one error. 

I have court minutes which I have added  to yesterday's post.  I hope enough readers saw the LOCO screenshot posted below before the court minutes. LOCO has access to my blog and Facebook page as well as other coverage just as anyone else and they could edit the article. I posted earlier about the morning developments in Diven's hearing. If LOCO staff is going to sit in a courtroom, they can also add some quotes . The information in the court minutes has the same information and more relevant information than what LOCO posted.

Robert Schaulis from the Times Standard spelled the witness' name  spelled and posted two articles on the same case. Maybe LOCO should have hired Robert?

I covered several other cases this week instead of wasting time on the Diven case which is yet another Humboldt drama homicide of a woman sleeping or having an affair with two men and one ends up dead. Whether Retired Judge Christopher Wilson strikes the MIA witness' testimony or not; at a jury trial, she is not a credible witness. The DA should make Diven an offer for a plea.

Another error by another LOCO reporter.

Regretting the error in this instant age of social media means nothing. I previously pointed out an error Dezmond made while covering a court case. Maybe LOCO should work on getting facts correct instead of hiring a bunch of people from the woke colleges and schools who train activists; not journalists.. People who cannot spell, get confused and can't read data. These "reporters" work on one story for days and can't even do the basics. 

Aside from LOCO moderator Angie, the website barely garners comments. This one got a few. LOCO getting called out in these comments.

LOCO didn't post their correction on FB. This reader made sure others knew.

Criminals should not dictate the system; "judge shopping" adding to an already chaotic busy Humboldt court calendar

 

Two cases were continued from today to tomorrow. In the Georgi Tonev case for good cause. Both the DA and defense had valid reasons.

In the Analia Martinez case, the Public Defender Luke Brownfield made an oral motion in court to disqualify Humboldt Superior Court Judge Lawrence Killoran because they knew that repeat offender Analia Martinez stood no chance with a law and order judge. Her OR bail is now in front of Judge Cockrum is the one who let Analia Martinez out on diversion. She failed. Judge Cockrum remanded her on Monday. 

It is already another busy day tomorrow with another 20 court cases, all day long. What's two more defendants with multiple cases? Continuances like the Analia Martinez case are unnecessary because "judge shopping" does not change the facts of repeat offender's actions. It does endanger public safety.

The judges are exhausted, the attorneys are exhausted, the court staff is exhausted and law enforcement is exhausted. My readers already know I am exhausted. After 12 years, this schedule and chaos is impossible and the ones who created this mess aka elected officials and the soft on crime California Governor Gavin Newsom are in their ivory towers letting the criminals work the system.

San Jose man sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for child pornography conviction

 

San Jose resident Christopher Schuette was sentenced yesterday to 30 years in federal prison. This was for his conviction for possession of child pornography and attempted enticement of a minor.

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of California just issued a press release.

Maybe if California did not make breaking the law and crimes such as violating a protective order a misdemeanor, victims would not be repeatedly in danger

 

Travis Danial Nelson arrested by HCSO for PC 273.6 violating a protective order. Another arrest which is a waste of law enforcement's time and court resources.

Nelson had one 2026 case filed on 2/24/26 which for a HCSO arrest for Count 1 PC 273.6 (d) disobeying a domestic relations court order as a felony. The court order was issued for a Butte County case. That charge included that Nelson had been previously convicted of a violation of Section 136. 2 (i) and Count 2 was vandalism. The DA dismissed this case with a Harvey waiver. 

Nelson had another 2026 case which was for a Eureka Police Department filed 2/10/26 in which he entered a plea on 2/24/26 and entered a guilty plea to Count 2 PC 243 (e) domestic battery (1) as a misdemeanor instead of PC 273.5 (a) domestic violence and Count 4 PC 594 (b) (2) (a) vandalism. Same victim in both 2026 cases.

Counts 1 violation of a protective orderas a felony  and Count petty theft 3 were dismissed by the DA. Humboldt Superior Court Judge Cockrum placed Nelson on three years probation with no jail time. He has a review hearing in this case on 4/3/26.

Maybe if California did not make breaking the law and crimes such as violating a protective order a misdemeanor, victims would not be repeatedly in danger.