Kern

Community Outcry: Kern County Grand Jury Highlights Dysfunction in Lamont Storm Water District’s Flood Protection Efforts

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LAMONT, Calif. — A recent report by the Kern County Grand Jury has criticized the Lamont Storm Water District, labeling it ineffective in fulfilling its responsibilities to the community. Established in 1984, the district was intended to provide flood protection, but the report indicates it has failed to deliver on that promise. Residents have expressed their frustrations, noting that their voices are not being acknowledged due to the district’s lack of operational presence and advisory capacity. According to the Grand Jury, the district has struggled to maintain a quorum necessary for conducting business, leaving community … Read more

Child Protective Services Workers Demand Better Pay as Union Protests Amidst Grand Jury Findings in Kern County

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BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — A recent report from the Kern County Grand Jury underscores the ongoing struggles faced by the Child Protective Services Department, highlighting the need for improved compensation and staffing levels. The findings coincide with a year-long protest by union employees advocating for better working conditions and pay. Members of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) have been vocal in their demands, pushing for changes as they await a response from the Kern County Board of Supervisors. Should the Board’s response fail to meet their expectations, union leaders have signaled plans for a two-day … Read more

Family of Man Fatally Shot by Kern County Deputy Wins $30.5 Million in Court Settlement

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Bakersfield, CA — A California jury has awarded $30.5 million to the family of a man who died after being shot by a Kern County sheriff’s deputy during a traffic stop nearly eight years ago. This substantial monetary award reflects both compensatory and punitive damages directed at the involved deputy and was unanimously decided by the jury. The case involved Nancy Garza, the mother of the deceased, who filed a lawsuit against the sheriff’s office alleging unreasonable use of deadly force that led to her son’s death in November of 2015. The lawsuit pointed to … Read more

$30.5 Million Verdict: Kern County Loses Major Lawsuit After Officer-Involved Shooting Shocks Mojave Family

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Bakersfield, CA — In a significant legal decision, a federal jury in California awarded $30.5 million to a family from Mojave, after finding Kern County and two sheriff’s deputies responsible for the wrongful death of their family member and violation of civil rights. The verdict stems from a 2017 incident in which a man was fatally shot by law enforcement in his home. The confrontation began when deputies responded to a late-night call regarding a domestic disturbance at the residence of the deceased. According to court documents, upon their arrival, one of the deputies fired … Read more