Mendocino

Santa Rosa Man Receives 7-Year Sentence for Spree of Vandalism and Domestic Violence in Mendocino County

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Ukiah, CA — A Mendocino County Superior Court jury recently concluded its deliberations, delivering guilty verdicts on several counts against a local man accused of significant vandalism and trespassing offenses. The announcement of the verdicts ended a four-day trial overseen by Judge Victoria Shanahan. The individual in question, Jesus Anthony Herrera, 41, of Ukiah, faced multiple accusations, including three felony counts of vandalism where the damage exceeded $400 each, the employment of a splitting maul in committing one of the felonies, and a misdemeanor count of aggravated trespass. In March 2023, Herrera wrought havoc by … Read more

Mendocino County Man Faces Retrial in Devastating Hopkins Fire Case as New Jury Convenes

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San Rafael, Calif. — A Marin County court is revisiting the case of Devin Lamar Johnson, a Mendocino County resident implicated in igniting the destructive Hopkins Fire, which devastated over 257 acres and destroyed 30 homes in September 2021. A new jury commenced proceedings this week, delving back into allegations that have gripped the local communities impacted by the tragedy. Johnson, 23, stands accused of arson, accusations rooted in surveillance footage which purportedly captures his movements near the origin of the blaze before it erupted. The severe wildfire, accelerated by modest winds and high temperatures, … Read more

Mendocino County Jury Acquits Woman Accused of Cannabis-Impaired Driving

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UKIAH, Calif. — In a notable legal decision, a Mendocino County jury recently acquitted a woman accused of driving under the influence of cannabis, bringing attention to the complexities of laws regarding marijuana-impaired driving. The verdict underscores ongoing debates and legislative efforts addressing the prosecution of drug-impaired driving, a topic that has gained relevance following the legalization of marijuana in various states. Cannabis DUI cases are particularly challenging due to the scientific and legal ambiguities surrounding marijuana impairment. Unlike alcohol, where a consensus on impairment is supported by specific blood alcohol content levels, no such … Read more

Calling All Citizens: Apply Now to Serve on the Mendocino County Civil Grand Jury and Make a Difference!

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Ukiah, California – The Superior Court of California, County of Mendocino is inviting qualified citizens to apply for the 2024/2025 Mendocino County Civil Grand Jury. The deadline for applications is Friday, May 31, 2024. The Civil Grand Jury, consisting of 19 members, serves for one year and plays a crucial role in investigating the operations of county, city, and district governments. They also provide civil oversight of local government departments and agencies, responding to citizen complaints. By participating in the Civil Grand Jury, individuals have the opportunity to gain insight into the inner workings of … Read more