Stanislaus

Stanislaus Executive Director Placed on Leave Amid Grand Jury Allegations of Misuse of Funds and Toxic Work Culture

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Modesto, Calif. — The Stanislaus Council of Governments has placed its executive director on paid administrative leave following a grand jury report that raised serious allegations regarding her spending practices and work environment. The report accused Rosa De Leon Park, who took on the role in 2015, of misusing public funds for extravagant expenses, including luxury hotel stays, first-class travel, and high-priced rental cars. During a special meeting on Monday, the policy board voted to keep Park on paid leave while an investigation into the allegations is conducted. Members expressed varied opinions on the decision. … Read more

Stanislaus County Pays $22.5 Million to Settle Malicious Prosecution Claims in Dramatic Legal Battle Over Defense Attorney’s Wrongful Arrest

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Modesto, Calif. – Stanislaus County has resolved a protracted legal battle involving the wrongful arrest and prosecution of a noteworthy defense attorney and several others linked to the 2012 death of a Turlock man, settling the lawsuit for $22.5 million. This decision came after a tumultuous series of events that raised questions about judicial integrity and prosecutorial overreach. The settlement, agreed upon by the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, concludes a malicious prosecution lawsuit filed by the estate of Frank Carson, along with his wife Georgia DeFilippo, his stepdaughter Christina, three California Highway Patrol officers, … Read more

Stanislaus County Welcomes New Civil Grand Jury Members for 2024-2025, Aims to Boost Local Government Accountability

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Modesto, Calif. — In a ceremony held on June 27, the Stanislaus County Superior Court moved forward with the traditional selection and swearing-in of the 19 members set to serve on the Civil Grand Jury for the 2024-2025 term. Presided over by Judge Carrie Stephens, the event marked the initiation of the new jury’s responsibilities which officially begin on July 1, 2024, and will conclude on June 30, 2025. The Civil Grand Jury, a fundamental element of local governance in California, plays a critical role in ensuring transparency and accountability within various government bodies. By … Read more

Applications Open for Stanislaus County Civil Grand Jury 2024-2025: Serve as a Watchdog for Local Government Agencies!

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MODESTO, Calif. – Applications are now open for individuals interested in serving on the Stanislaus County Civil Grand Jury for the 2024-2025 term. The selection process involves interviews conducted by a panel appointed by Judge Carrie M. Stephens, the Presiding Judge of the Superior Court. Out of the pool of applicants, 30 finalists will be chosen through a random drawing, from which a 19-member Civil Grand Jury panel and six alternates will be selected. To qualify for service on the Civil Grand Jury, candidates must meet the same requirements as trial jurors. The term of … Read more