Will there even be a case left to try?

◼ Murder charge dismissed, bail reduced, now Benjamin Carter's attorney files appeal to stay jury trial and challenges order adding new allegations; will there even be a case left to try? - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/31/15

I suppose it can be argued that he was protecting himself, and others.

Dan Dobbs plea deal and fresh charges

◼ Teflon Dan Dobbs pleads out assault (not arson) case, picks up new charges while this case was in jury trial - John Chiv/Words Worth

Plea deals that release repeat offenders are not a good thing.

Another retrial, cleaning up the mess UPDATED from 5/11

◼ Deal? Trial? What will the next court date for twice tried alleged child molestor Timothy Littlefield be? - John Chiv/Words Worth May 28, 2015

Timothy Littlefield has come close to prison twice. The decision in the last trial is under appeal and so Round 3 is in limbo. There is a court hearing on June 11 for disposition and reset. I bet it will be continued.

◼ Next court hearing for Timothy Littlefield set for June 11, guess round 3 is on, alleged charges include sodomy with child under 10 - John Chiv/Words Worth May 12, 2015

◼ "Looks like we will be going round 3 in the Littlefied case", will the third time be justice for Timothy Littlefield - John Chiv/Words Worth May 8, 2015

If you are not familiar with the Timothy Littlefield case, you may want to click on the links below. For those following the saga, the above quote is from Littlefield's attorney Russ Clanton....

Follow John Chiv's blog for ongoing coverage of this and other Humboldt County court cases...

Background:

◼ Molestation trial in jury's hands; McKinleyville man faces eight life sentences if convicted - Thadeus Greenson/Times-Standard UPDATED: ON 10/27/2011

Timothy Floyd Littlefield, former manager of the Arcata iCenter medical marijuana dispensary, was arrested by Humboldt County sheriff's deputies in February 2009 and faces a total of more than eight life sentences if convicted of the 11 molestation charges confronting him. The victim in the case, identified in court documents only as Jane Doe, is now 11, and was an 8-year-old family member of Littlefield's at the time of the alleged acts of molestation.

◼ McKinleyville man convicted of 11 molestation charges ... - Thadeus Greenson/Times-Standard UPDATED: ON 09/13/2013

The trial was Littlefield's second on charges that he molested a little girl repeatedly over the course of a year, coming after a jury deadlocked 11-1 in favor of convicting him last year, causing a judge to declare a mistrial in the case.

◼ Unconfirmed as of now but Timothy Littlefield case to be retried? - John Chiv/Words Worth May 9, 2014

Several community members have called recently to ask me to check and see the status of Timothy Littlefield, the Mckinleyville man convicted of 11 molestation charges last year and eight life sentences without parole.

◼ McKinleyville Man Facing 8 Life Sentences Granted Mistrial ... - North Coast Journal - May 12/2014

Timothy Floyd Littlefield was facing eight life sentences in state prison without the possibility of parole stemming from convictions on 11 child molestation charges when he stood before Humboldt County Superior Court Judge John Feeney last week at a sentencing hearing. Instead of sentencing Littlefield to serve 188 years to life, as he said was his intent, Feeney declared a mistrial in the case, finding juror misconduct in the months-long trial that wrapped in September....

Police arrested Littlefield in February 2009 on allegations of repeatedly molesting Jane Doe, who was an 8-year-old family member of his at the time of the offenses. Prosecutors argued during both trials that Littlefield kept the girl in isolation and threatened her to keep quiet as he molested her in secret for more than a year. Clanton argued at the trials that Jane Doe, her mother and another witness concocted the allegations to get back at Littlefield for abusing his wife.

Littlefield appeared crushed at the jury verdict in September, when he collapsed onto counsel table, sobbing, as the court clerk rattled off the guilty verdicts to all counts. In the wake of the conviction, Clanton has worked extensively to try to get the verdicts vacated, filing a number of motions, including one alleging that advocacy groups were texting witnesses in the case from the courtroom as the trial was proceeding. Feeney denied the motions until the topic of juror misconduct came up last week.

◼ Timothy Littlefield posted bail and is out of custody - John Chiv/Words Worth May 15, 2014
◼ The Timothy Littlefield story the mainstream media did not cover; another juror gives perspective - John Chiv/Words Worth May 16, 2014

On May 9, I posted on this blog that the Timothy Littlefield case would be retried, possibly due to juror misconduct. Since I was not in court, I wanted to verify and get some information.

The next week, the NCJ and Times-Standard followed up. Those publications said that the case has a retrial and that a mistrial was declared due to juror misconduct. The first time this case was tried, the jurors deadlocked 11-1; the second time, all jurors found him guilty of 11 charges and he was sentenced to eight life sentences without parole. The District Attorney's Office is appealing Judge John Feeney's decision to the State Attorney General. That's it.

◼ Trial date for child molestation case vacated - Daily News 6/11/14

The date for what would be McKinleyville resident Timothy Floyd Littlefield's third trial for 11 child molestation charges was vacated Tuesday to allow more time for the state Attorney General's Office to review an appeal request by the Humboldt County District Attorney's Office, according to District Attorney Paul Gallegos.

...Littlefield was arrested in February 2009 on accusations that he regularly molested an 8-year-old family member for over a year. The case has been tried twice - in 2011 and 2013 - with both ending in a judge granting a mistrial.

The most recent mistrial was declared in May for jury misconduct after a juror indicated in a declaration that the defense did not prove that Littlefield was not guilty. As the burden of proof is the responsibility of the prosecution and not the defense, Superior Court Judge John Feeney saw this as misconduct.

◼ Timothy Littlefield deal in the works? - John Chiv/Words Worth Jun 30, 2014
◼ The Timothy Littlefield story the mainstream media did not cover; another juror gives perspective - John Chiv/Words Worth May 16, 2014

On May 9, I posted on this blog that the Timothy Littlefield case would be retried, possibly due to juror misconduct. Since I was not in court, I wanted to verify and get some information.

The next week, the NCJ and Times-Standard followed up. Those publications said that the case has a retrial and that a mistrial was declared due to juror misconduct. The first time this case was tried, the jurors deadlocked 11-1; the second time, all jurors found him guilty of 11 charges and he was sentenced to eight life sentences without parole. The District Attorney's Office is appealing Judge John Feeney's decision to the State Attorney General. That's it.

◼ Yet another delay in Timothy Littlefield retrial - John Chiv/Words Worth Jul 15, 2014
◼ Littlefield retrial set for Oct 20, defense hopes to resolve before then - John Chiv/Words Worth Jul 29, 2014

This (was) the third time this case is being tried. The jury verdict of the second trial resulted in a mistrial being declared by Judge John Feeney. That decision under appeal. DDA Jackie Pizzo appeared instead of Paul Gallegos.

◼ Will he won't he go to trial for the third time? - John Chiv/Words Worth Sep 23, 2014

Timothy Floyd Littlefield's victim will have to keep waiting to see if there will be yet another trial or if appeals court will uphold the second trial jury verdict.

◼ Timothy Littlefield case keep getting continued, now next hearing on January 18 - John Chiv/Words Worth Oct 15, 2014

◼ Attorney General to default on Littlefield molestation case? Will Paul do his job? - John Chiv/Words Worth Nov 25, 2014

◼ Attorney General files opening brief in Timothy Littlefield child molestation case - John Chiv/Words Worth Dec 18, 2014

◼ OTHER: [DOC]Filed 6/28/13 Littlefield v. County of Humboldt CA1/3 NOT ... - COMES AS A DOWNLOAD, not a link

The basic gist of the defense argument was trying the cases together would be highly prejudicial to Warren and that they did not believe the evidence was intertwined as DA suggested.

◼ Defense motion to sever in Jason Warren case denied by Judge Cissna - John Chiv/Words Worth

The cases stay together.

◼ Stepping in Dorothy Ulrich's pool of blood after he killed her, Warren crime spree took more lives in less than 2 hours - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/27/15

◼ DA Maggie Fleming prosecutes Jason Warren homicide - Links/Background

An-nnd, he's ba-a-a-aack....

◼ SO…GUESS WHO GOT ARRESTED BY THE EPD? ONE HINT BEFORE YOU PEEK…HE WAS RELEASED JUST LAST WEEK - Kym Kemp/RedHeaded Blackbelt 5/27/15
◼ As already reported by Kym Kemp, it is confirmed: Omholt arrested and booked - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/27/15
◼ Jason Omholt Arrested by Eureka Police Again After Backyard Scuffle - Andrew Goff/Lost Coast Outpost - 5/27/15

Prior Loco coverage:
◼ Man Arrested for 2006 Robbery Spree Sought by EPD After Allegedly Damaging a Patrol Car and Evading Pursuit - Kym Kemp/Loco 11/1/14
◼ Two Burglary Suspects Named ‘High-Priority Most Wanted’ by EPD - Ryan Burns/Loco 12/31/14
◼ Suspected Serial Eureka Residential Burglar Springs From Apartment Back Window During Escape Attempt, Arrested Anyway - Andrew Goff/Loco 1/20/15
◼ FYI: Serial Burglar is Out and About While He Awaits Sentencing - Andrew Goff/Loco 5/20/15

◼ OMHOLT MAKES BAIL, EPD ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO CALL IF HE’S SEEN LOITERING - Kym Kemp/RedHeaded Blackbelt 5/20/15
◼ FYI: Jason Omholt, Serial Burglar is Out and About While He Awaits Sentencing - Lost Coast Outpost 5/20/15

◼ I reported on Omholt back in February...this man is more dangerous than EPD press release states - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/20/15

◼ Mug-shot city People You Should Know About - in Humboldt - A new resource re: frequent flyers

The Ganfield Case Coverage & Updates

Updating

◼ Sheriff’s Office Release Photo of Homicide Suspect; Million-Dollar Bail Warrant Set - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost 5/27/15

◼ Semore arraigned today for the murder of David Ganfield, co-defendant not yet arraigned but has a special allegation charge in addition to murder - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/18/15

Jonas Randall Semore, a co-defendant with Nickolas Ryan Joseph Johnson in the murder of David Dwayne Ganfield was arraigned late this afternoon in Courtroom 2.

HCSO Press-Releases: UPDATE

On 05-14-2015 at 1:50 p.m. the Eureka Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle that was being driven by Jonas Randall Semore age 42 at Harris and Summer Street, Eureka. Semore was detained by the Eureka Police Department. The Eureka Police Department was aware that the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office considered Semore a person of interest in the homicide investigation of Ganfield. The Eureka Police Department then contacted Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Detectives and advised them that Semore was detained. The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Detective requested that Semore be placed under arrest for the murder of David Ganfield.

Semore was then placed under arrest by the Eureka Police Department for homicide. Semore was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked for homicide and his bail was set at one million dollars.

This homicide investigation is still under investigation by Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Detectives.

◼ Another Homicide Arrest Today; Sheriff’s Office Books One for Ganfield Slaying - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost

◼ Second Homicide Suspect Named, Considered Armed and Dangerous - Andrew Goff/Lost Coast Outpost 5/15/15

(A) second homicide suspect in this case has been identified as Nickolas Ryan Joseph Johnson age 23

◼ Second suspect in Ganfield homicide - HCSO/Mad River Union 5/15/15
◼ Arrest made in connection to Ganfield homicide - HCSO/Mad River Union 5/14/15
◼ Another Homicide Arrest Today; Sheriff’s Office Books One for Ganfield Slaying - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost 5/14/15

On 05-14-2015 at 1:50 p.m. the Eureka Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle that was being driven by Jonas Randall Semore, age 42, at Harris and Summer Street, Eureka. Semore was detained by the Eureka Police Department.

The Eureka Police Department was aware that the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office considered Semore a person of interest in the homicide investigation of [David] Ganfield. The Eureka Police Department then contacted Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Detectives and advised them that Semore was detained. The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Detective requested that Semore be placed under arrest for the murder of David Ganfield.

Previous Semore:
◼ Traffic Stop Leads to Bonanza Meth Harvest - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost
◼ EPD Harvests 18 Pounds of Sensi in Broadway Avenue Motel - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost
◼ Suspicious Behavior Leads Officers to Meth, Money, and Arrests - Kym Kemp/Lost Coast Outpost
◼ Gang Member Jonas Semore Popped - Skippy Massey/Humboldt Sentinel 6/11/13
◼ And Jonas Semore, Too. Again. - Skippy Massey/Humboldt Sentinel 4/4/13
◼ EPD: High Speed Car Chase Ends With Meth Discovery - EPD Press Release/Andrew Goff/NCJournal 6/19/12

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.
_______________
◼ Man Delivered to Hospital Unconscious Succumbs to Injuries; Fifth Humboldt Homicide of the Year - Andrew Goff/Lost Coast Outpost 4/30/15
◼ Assault victim dies of head injuries; case declared a homicide - HCSO/Mad River Union 4/30/15

◼ Unconscious Man Dropped Off at Mad River Hospital, Now in Critical Condition - Andrew Goff/Lost Coast Outpost 4/29/15

(A) male assault victim who was dropped off at the emergency room by an acquaintance. The male victim appeared to have head trauma and was unconscious. The victim had no identification on his person and the acquaintance had left the emergency room prior to telling the medical staff the victim’s name.

The deputy at the hospital took a photograph of the victim and was able to identify him through a law enforcement database as David Dwayne Ganfield age 36 from McKinleyville

◼ Man with head injury dropped off at hospital - HCSO/Mad River Union 4/29/15

The Ortiz Murder Trial: Powerful testimony in the preliminary hearing UPDATED

Updated from 5/5/15 posting

◼ Computer error, demurrer, date changes, procedure: a convoluted mess in the Vincent Ortiz case where he is charged with attempted murder and an accessory to murder - John Chiv/Words Worth May 26/2015

First Vincent Ortiz's arraignment was off the calendar. Then it is back on. Then his attorney Mr. Greg Elvine-Kreis said that he enters a demurrer to all charges except Count 2 claiming People are filing charges in the arraignment on information against his client when he was not held to answer to those charges in the preliminary hearing.

Then there was the issue that he has two files that need to be consolidated and half the information was in one file and the other half in another file. DDA Jackie Pizzo said she would file the paperwork and had discussed this with the court computer staff. That was the easiest part of the case.

◼ Judge Miles grants motion and Rodney Ortiz is not allowed to practice as a state licensed contractor - John Chiv/Words Worth May 26/2015

Rodney Ortiz's case was relatively simple. Although he waived time and was arraigned today in Courtroom 2 for jury trial, now his jury trial is set on the same day as his son, who is charged a s a co-defendant, July 20.

The state contractor's licensing board filed a motion prohibiting Rodney Ortiz from being a state licensed contractor.

◼ Unsual twist in Silverio Sanchez and Vincent Sanchez cases - John Chiv/Words Worth May 26/2015
◼ Attorney General files to prohibit homicide suspect Rodney Ortiz to practice as a state license contractor - John Chiv/Words Worth May 26/2015

◼ Rodney Ortiz's arraignment on, Vincent Ortiz's arraignment off calendar, reason? - John Chiv/Words Worth May 22/2015

Both Rodney and Vincent Ortiz were to be arraigned on August 26. Rodney Ortiz is still set to be arraigned but Vincent Ortiz's arraignment is off calendar.

_______________
Under the new DA, it's all business. A vast improvement over the pathetic tenure of Paul Gallegos. Just thought I'd throw that in here, since new readers don't know why it is so remarkable that cases are actually going to trial rather than languishing indefinitely.

For day-to-day reporting on the ongoing trials, with the full flavor and details of the proceedings, be sure to follow John Chiv's Blog, Words Worth...

◼ Rodney Ortiz held to answer on all charges, only one charge of attempted murder for Vincent Ortiz - John Chiv/Words Worth May 7, 2015 (UPDATE)

Alliance Market Arson case

A good example of the importance of a variety of reporting, from the initial incident reports, to the Press Releases from law enforcement, to the various reporters getting the details. People LIKE information, the more the better... Kym Kemp is always on top of it, and when it comes to what's happening IN the Courthouse, Chiv usually has the scoop.

And, if it's happening in Arcata, you can't beat the Mad River Union.

The Alliance Market in Arcata was a 'historical' building, and will get a lot of attention from all outlets at first, but what happens after the arrest?

◼ Jeremy Kish arraignment continued as he was medically unavailable, bail set at $150,000 - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/28/15

Bail was set today at $150,000.

◼ Arcata arson suspect charged with arson, battery on a peace officer, criminal threats on law enforcement - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/28/15

◼ Arcata arson suspect Jeremy Kish allegedly under "suicide watch" - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/28/15

◼ Arcata arson suspect Jeremy Kish expected to be arraigned May 28 - John Chiv/Words Worth

◼ One link to Jeremy's alleged and past criminal record via John Chiv

◼ Jeremy Kish adds yet another arrest to his statewide record; has a habit of being near "fires" and my own encounter with him where I had to call the police - John Chiv/Words Worth

◼ APD RELEASES NAME OF SUSPECT IN TODAY’S ARSON FIRE - Kym Kemp/RedHeaded Blackbelt

◼ Suspect in Custody From Early Morning Fire - Kym Kemp/RedHeaded Blackbelt

◼ ‘Suspicious’ Commercial Structure Fire in Arcata - Kym Kemp/RedHeaded Blackbelt

◼ (UPDATE) Arson Suspect in Custody After Early Morning Arcata Structure Fire - Andrew Goff/Lost Coast Outpost (image source, more at the link)

◼ Alliance Store arson suspect arrested - Kevin Hoover/Mad River Union

◼ Historic, long-abandoned Alliance Store burns again - Mad River Union

Who's on your list...

To replace Judge Watson?

GUILTY.

◼ Former DA Candidate: Arcata Homicide Verdict Brings Accountability - Grant Scott-Goforth/The Journal

It was a rare Arcata homicide, and also became a sticking point in the 2014 District Attorney race, after candidate and then-prosecutor Elan Firpo reached an agreement with Ferrer where he would plead to involuntary manslaughter and serve two years in jail.

Opposing candidate Arnie Klein took issue with the plea and, following public debate, a judge tossed the deal. Deputy DA Roger Rees, under the leadership of newly elected DA Maggie Fleming, prosecuted the case in a trial that began this year.

Klein, reached by phone Monday, said he opposed the plea deal because he felt “it robbed the community of its voice and hid the facts.” He denied that his self-described representation of Anderson-Jordet’s family, which led to the dismissal of the plea, was politically motivated, and said “I think the message is: When you take a life in Humboldt County, there has to be some accountability.” KEEP READING

◼ District Attorney Press Release on Juan Ferrer verdict - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/19/15

◼ Doug's family will reserve any further statements until their victim impact statements on June 15, the sentencing date - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/18/15

◼ (UPDATED) Juan Ferrer Found Guilty of Manslaughter for 2013 Stabbing Death of Douglas Anderson-Jordet - Andrew Goff/Lost Coast Outpost (who links to MRU, but not John Chiv, who did the bulk of the coverage of this trial, shame.)

◼ Ferrer guilty of manslaughter (updated with DA press release) - Mad River Union

Ferrer’s companions that night, Sophie Buttercup Rocheleau, 25, and Nicholas Stoiber, 29, Ferrer’s former co-defendants, each pleaded guilty last November to a reduced charge of misdemeanor battery and were sentenced to three years’ probation. They stood accused of striking Anderson-Jordet and piling on while Ferrer produced a knife, which was never found.

◼ Ferrer guilty of manslaughter and special allegation - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/18/15 12:53

For voluntary manslaughter Ferrer can get up maximum 11 years. Lower term 3 and mid term is 6 years. Special allegation is an additional 1 year.

Frequent flyer goes to trial

An oddball case...

◼ Dan Dobbs's jury trial in which he is charged with assault starts today - - John Chiv/Words Worth

...People in Sohum need no introduction to Dobbs. He was most recently arrested as a suspect in tbe Sohum maximum enforcement bust.

Previously, he was arrested when he wandered into the Gingerbread mansion and helped himself to a room and wine....

Her lawyer's nightmare

◼ Kimberly Steele Gives the Outpost Her Account of Saturday’s Homicide in Arcata - Ryan Burns/Lost Coast Outpost Breaking story 5/17/15
◼ ‘The Price of Trevor’s Life’ - Kimberly Steele Talks About the Pot Deal That Left a Man Dead - Ryan Burns/Lost Coast Outpost Full Story 5/18/15

Kimberly Steele arranged the pot deal that ended with one man shot dead in Arcata. She was arrested and booked for murder, then released -- though police say they are still considering which charges to bring. Here's her story.
...“I had been working on a pot deal the whole day.”...

If I was Lost Coast Outpost, I'd print it too. But what a stupid thing for her to do. Any lawyer will tell you.

Might as well start the running coverage recap:

◼ Woman Arrested for Saturday’s Homicide in Arcata Released From Jail - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost 5/14/15

According to jail records, Kimberly Lyn Steele, who was arrested at her Samoa home shortly after the incident in Arcata’s Sunset neighborhood, was set free yesterday shortly after noon.

Hours later, the Arcata Police Department and the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office raided a location at the Bear River Rancheria and took Billy Joe Giddings into custody. He and Robert Louis Huntzinger are still in jail facing murder and robbery charges.

◼ Two more arrests in Saturday homicide - Kevin Hoover/Mad River Union/City Of Arcata Press Release 5/13/15

On Tuesday, May 12th, near midnight, the Arcata Police Department arrested Robert Louis Huntzinger (age 34) at a residence located in the 400 block of Railroad Avenue in Blue Lake.

The arrest of Huntzinger was made with the assistance of the Humboldt County Sheriff's Department and the California Highway Patrol. Huntzinger was arrested without incident.

On Wednesday, May 13th, at about 3:45 pm, the Arcata Police Department arrested Billy Joe Giddings (age 35) at a residence located in the 200 block of Brenard Road in Loleta.

◼ (UPDATED) Two Men Arrested in Connection to Weekend Homicide in Arcata - Ryan Burns/Lost Coast Outpost 5/13/15

◼ Arcata Homicide Victim Named; Two Suspects Still Sought - Andrew Goff/Lost Coast Outpost 5/11/15

The homicide victim has been identified as 38-year-old Trevor Mark Harrison, of Arcata.

◼ Homicide investigation continues; one arrest made - Mad River Union 5/11/15
◼ Arcata Police Arrest Woman Believed to Have Been Involved in Saturday Night’s Home Invasion/Homicide - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost 5/11/15

One person has been arrested in connection with the home invasion robbery that ended when a man was shot dead Saturday night, according to Arcata Police Chief Tom Chapman.

Chapman told the Outpost that his officers found Kimberly Lyn Steele, 28, at her home in Samoa on Sunday, shortly after the shooting. Steele was taken into custody for questioning, Chapman said, after which she was arrested and booked into jail on robbery charges.

“We are continuing to investigate her involvement in the homicide,” Chapman said.

◼ APD investigating shooting homicide - APD Press Release/Mad River Union 5/10/15
◼ Homicide in Arcata: Last Night’s Fatal Shooting Connected With Home Invasion Marijuana Robbery, Says APD - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost 5/10/15

Further investigation revealed that a marijuana related home invasion robbery had occurred and the victim was shot during the commission of that robbery. The suspects are described as two white male adults, possibly in their 20’s, wearing dark clothing and a white female adult described as being in her late 20’s or early 30’s with a possible first name of “Kim.”

◼ Shooting in Arcata; Police, Medical Responding to Sunset Neighborhood - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost 5/10/15

Fourth Scoop In A Row

◼ Exclusive remarks from Benjamin Carter's attorney and the entire text of the 995 motion that got the murder charge dismissed against Carter - John Chiv/Words Worth May 16, 2015

Mr. Acosta has literally pulled a miracle for Benjamin Carter. On the lam, Carter called LOCO instead of his own defense attorney. Carter is lucky that he is not facing murder charges. The preliminary hearing was prosecuted by DDA Luke Brownfield and this was under the previous administration.... Details, at Chiv's Blog

◼ Benjamin Carter withdraws time waiver, does not accept offer, jury trial set for July 6 - John Chiv/Words Worth May 15, 2015

Pre trial (will be) June 1 at 2 p.m. Trial Confirmation June 24 at 2 p.m.

A million dollar bail... in the Ganfield murder case

◼ Another Homicide Arrest Today; Jonas Randall Semore arrested in Ganfield murder case - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost
◼ Second Homicide Suspect Named, Considered Armed and Dangerous

Background on Ganfield case:
◼ Unconscious Man Dropped Off at Mad River Hospital, Now in Critical Condition - Andrew Goff/Lost Coast Outpost
◼ Man Delivered to Hospital Unconscious Succumbs to Injuries; Fifth Humboldt Homicide of the Year - Andrew Goff/Lost Coast Outpost
◼ Sheriff’s Office Books One for Ganfield Slaying - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost 5/15/15

Previous Semore:
◼ Traffic Stop Leads to Bonanza Meth Harvest - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost
◼ EPD Harvests 18 Pounds of Sensi in Broadway Avenue Motel - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost
◼ Suspicious Behavior Leads Officers to Meth, Money, and Arrests - Kym Kemp/Lost Coast Outpost

Anyone with information for the Sheriff’s Office regarding this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at 707-268-2539.
_______________
A million dollar bail for murder suspect. Which makes the ◼ two million dollar bail even more interesting. And it's not getting any coverage.

◼ Humboldt's record homicide rate is getting some attention, though.

Chiv's update: The Family's Statement

◼ Family of Douglas Anderson releases the only public statement they wish to make regarding the Ferrer trial - John Chiv/Words Worth

Bombshell in the Benjamin Carter case: Murder charge DISMISSED

◼ Benjamin Carter's bail reduction hearing doesn't go his way, he does not accept People's offer yet - John Chiv/Words Worth May 14, 2015

Mr. Acosta requested the case go over one day.

◼ Judge grants 995 motion in Benjamin Carter for Count 1, murder charge dismissed - John Chiv/Words Worth May 13, 2015

Judge Feeney said as to Count 2, the People are asking to reopen briefly to introduce evidence that the defendant is a felon with unlawful possession of a firearm."

...There is an offer by the People in Count 2. DDA Andrew Isaac said today that if the "defendant plead to Count 2, admitted to that strike, he could move on."

If Carter accepts it and pleads, he could get up to six years

◼ Now that defense won the 995 motion in the Benjamin Carter case, can they file and win a Romero motion for Count 2 - John Chiv/Words Worth May 13, 2015

◼ MURDER CHARGES AGAINST BEN CARTER DROPPED TODAY - Kym Kemp/Redheaded Blackbelt

Carter was on the run from law enforcement for several weeks during which he contacted this reporter saying he acted in self-defense when he shot Chapman. ◼ HOMICIDE SUSPECT ON THE RUN GIVES THE OUTPOST HIS SIDE OF THE STORY - Kym Kemp/Redheaded Blackbelt May 4, 2014

BACKGROUND:

◼ Benjamin Carter's bail reduction hearing doesn't go his way, he does not accept People's offer yet - John Chiv/Words Worth May 14, 2015

Mr. Acosta requested the case go over one day.

◼ Bombshell in the Benjamin Carter case: Murder charge DISMISSED: Judge grants 995 motion in Benjamin Carter for Count 1 - John Chiv/Words Worth May 13, 2015
◼ Now that defense won the 995 motion in the Benjamin Carter case, can they file and win a Romero motion for Count 2 - John Chiv/Words Worth May 13, 2015
◼ MURDER CHARGES AGAINST BEN CARTER DROPPED TODAY - Kym Kemp/Redheaded Blackbelt

Carter was on the run from law enforcement for several weeks during which he contacted this reporter saying he acted in self-defense when he shot Chapman. ◼ HOMICIDE SUSPECT ON THE RUN GIVES THE OUTPOST HIS SIDE OF THE STORY - Kym Kemp/Redheaded Blackbelt May 4, 2014

◼ Benjamin Carter new trial date of April 27; defense filed demurred to Count 2 and request of dismissal - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Jury trial dates were expected to be set today. Instead, (Carter's defense attorney) Mr. Acosta told Judge John Feeney that he had spoken to (DDA) Mr. Brownfield before court and the case is close to resolution. - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ "The body has been cremated so there is nothing left to analyze"; Benjamin Carter So Hum murder suspect hearing continued due to possible change of counsel from DA's office. - John Chiv/Words Worth 1/6/15
◼ So Hum suspect Benjamin Carter, who called LOCO, instead of his defense attorney Michael Acosta when he was on the lam will have to wait for his jury trial to be scheduled. - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/08/first-witness-testifies-in-preliminary.html
◼ http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/08/benjamin-carter-jury-trial-set-for.html
◼ http://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2014/08/how-to-work-for-defense-as-prosecution.html
◼ Benjamin Carter's sister-in law, Margaret Bitter, was the first witness to testify for the People this morning in a preliminary hearing held in Courtroom 4. - JOHN CHIV/WORDS WORTH 8/12/14
◼ Witness in Carter case appointed lawyer; defense has not had chance to question - JOHN CHIV/WORDS WORTH 8/12/14
◼ How to work for the defense as a prosecution witness; starring Benjamin Carter's sister-in-law - JOHN CHIV/WORDS WORTH 8/12/14
◼ Homicide Suspect Ben Carter Returned to Humboldt County Jail - Kym Kemp/Loco 6/2/14
◼ Man Allegedly Tries to Run Over Ex Near Scene of April Homicide - Kym Kemp/Loco 5/26/14
◼ US Marshals Say Homicide Suspect Benjamin Carter Member of White Supremacy Gang - Kym Kemp/Loco 5/14/14
◼ [UPDATED w/Information About Arrest—Found at Residence of Former SoHum Woman] Homicide Suspect Ben Carter Arrested in Arizona - Kym Kemp/Loco 5/13/14
◼ Homicide Suspect on the Run Gives the Outpost His Side of the Story - Kym Kemp/Loco 5/4/14
◼ $1.25 Million Arrest Warrant Bail Set for SoHum Homicide Suspect - Kym Kemp/Loco 4/25/14
◼ Southern Humboldt Homicide Story Clarified by HCSO - Kym Kemp/Loco 4/21/14
◼ Body Reportedly Found West of Garberville - Kym Kemp/Loco 4/19/14
◼ (UPDATE) Wanted for Questioning in Homicide: Benjamin Carter - Kym Kemp/Loco 4/1914
◼ Law Enforcement Looking for Homicide Suspect in Southern Humboldt - Kym Kemp/Loco 4/1814

Light at the end of the tunnel as the Ferrer case comes to a close

◼ Ferrer jury to start deliberating tomorrow at 8:30 - John Chiv/Words Worth May 14, 2015

◼ "I don't think Mr. Ferrer is the person who killed Anderson-Jordet. This man killed Anderson-Jordet." Ferrer's attorney blames victim for his own death - John Chiv/Words Worth May 14, 2015

Blaming the victim for his own death, when his own client in several versions admitted to stabbing the victim, is certainly a novel approach and in line with the insensitivity displayed throughout Ferrer's defense.

◼ "This is not a self defense case." "This is a violent punk night case." - John Chiv/Words Worth May 13, 2015

◼ Ferrer closing arguments today, jury has options of second degree murder, involuntary and voluntary manslaughter - John Chiv/Words Worth May 13, 2015

◼ "This is Doug. That is where he died. This is the guy that killed him. Those are the facts of the case." - John Chiv/Words Worth May 13, 2015

Another Clanton sex-offender takes a plea deal

◼ "You will pay for this when you get out " a minor victim's father tells the man in court who got a plea deal and probation for molesting his daughter - John Chiv/Words Worth

...he got probation instead of prison.

Closing arguments in Ferrer at hand... Defense case in Arcata chef stabbing continued to sink like the Titanic

◼ People's last witness today claims that Ferrer told him that "Doug came at him with a knife" that he was "able to disarm Doug" - John Chiv/Words Worth May 11, 2015

◼ Ferrer's connection to Limmie Curry, aggressive punk music and a statement from Ferrer's grandmother that "he put his head down and rammed him", she denied but then was played on audio - John Chiv/Words Worth May 11, 2015

◼ The jury could start deliberating as early as Thursday this week. - John Chiv/Words Worth May 11, 2015

◼ Defense rests in Arcata chef stabbing case, People calling rebuttal witnesses - John Chiv/Words Worth May 11, 2015

◼ Recalled to the stand, Ferrer blows it by saying, "I can't recall every nook and cranny of the night" and getting testy and calling DDA's question stupid - John Chiv/Words Worth May 9, 2015

◼ "Do you think anyone deserves to die for calling someone a faggot?; "Do you think someone should die for calling someone a fat bitch?" Response from Ferrer's friend is telling - John Chiv/Words Worth May 9, 2015

◼ "If he wasn't sure he stabbed him or know extent of the injury, why get rid of the knife?" - John Chiv/Words Worth May 9, 2015

◼ Defense case in Arcata chef stabbing continues to sink like the Titanic as DDA Roger Rees cross of Ferrer and friends further bolsters prosecution theory

Fieldbrook Double Murder: Jason Arreaga's jury trial set for August 3rd

◼ Jury trial for August 3 at 8:30 a.m., Trial confirmation for July 20 at 2 p.m., Pre-trial June 29 at 2 p.m. - John Chiv/Words Worth

UPDATE:
◼ Jury in Fieldbrook double homicide case second trial finds Arreaga not guilty on both counts - John Chiv/Words Worth 2/25/2016

Clanton co-counsel in Meserve case

◼ Judge Miles grants DA's PC 1275.1 motion in Kailan Meserve case, Russ Clanton joins as co counsel for Kailan Meserve

The long road to justice

◼ Bullock jury trial set for October 13 - John Chiv/Words Worth May 7, 2015

The murder occurred January 1, 2014. (New Years Day) (corrected)

◼ Will the death penalty be sought in the Gary Lee Bullock case? Will he go to trial or will the defense pull another twist close to October 13? - John Chiv/Words Worth May 7, 2015

Two million Bail for Kailan Meserve remains set, Judge finds no unusual circumstances to deviate from schedule

◼ About 20 people including Dave Meserve showed up in Courtroom 2 today to show support for Kailan Meserve. - John Chiv/Words Worth

◼ Rest of media covers hearings on Trevor Bohn who did not face charges yet ignores any coverage of Dave Meserve's son or Hezekiah Allen - John Chiv/Words Worth
_______________
He is, of course, innocent until proven guilty, but - that was also true in the other case.

Randy and Suzanne Cook sued by victimRandy Cook pled guilty to child endangerment (UPDATED & BUMPED)

It matters. Chiv's blog is the only one to cover this case, for months. Months, and months, and months...

May 2015:
◼ Even after having his real estate license revoked, Randall Cook continues with this realty business? Guess the rules just don't apply to him? - John Chiv/Words Worth May 6, 2015
◼ "Suzanne Cook knew of her husband's deviant sexual propensities, previous molestation and still allowed him near his grandaughter alleges lawsuit" - John Chiv/Words Worth May 1, 2015

The title of the post includes words from the lawsuit. The lawsuit alleges that defendant had actual knowledge of her husband Randall Cook's deviant sexual propensities, the defendant knew that her husband had previously molested children, and yet the defendant allowed Randall Cook access to a minor, her own grandaughter.

◼ Randall Miles and Suzanne Cook sued by their grandaughter; Cook's former victim; Cook plead down original charges and was convicted in a criminal case - John Chiv/Words Worth May 1, 2015

Randall Cook was originally charged with more serious charges in the case involving his own grandaughter, plead to child endangerment in a plea deal under Paul Gallegos' administration. The victim was his own granddaughter. His real estate license has been revoked. Randall Cook spent time in jail even after the plea deal.... Now his grandaughter (through her guardian ad litem Veronica Cook, who is also the victim's mother and Randall Cook's former daughter-in-law) has filed a civil lawsuit alleging personal injury and other damages.

April 2015:
◼ Local realtor Randall Miles Cook real estate and licensing rights have been revoked by the Bureau of Real Estate, partly due to his child endangerment conviction in which the victim was his own grandaughter. - John Chiv/Words Worth April 20, 2015

December 2013:
◼ Randy Cook, local realtor plead guilty to a felony - Dec 18, 2013

Randall Miles Cook, of Cookhouse Realty, who is also a member of Humboldt Association of Realtors plead guilty to a felony on 12/17. The charge is child endangerment. PC 273 (a). This was a change in plea. Two charges of PC 288 (a) were dismissed.

February 2014:
◼ Sentencing for Randy Cook will be on March 20 - Feb 4, 2014
◼ Personal perspectives on the Cook case - Feb 12, 2014

March 2014:
◼ Local realtor Randy Cook to be sentenced today - Mar 20, 2014
◼ Local realtor Randy Cook sentenced to 270 days in County jail and led away in cuffs - March 20, 2014
◼ What is the value of a human life? It is not just Paul that irks me - March 21, 2014

May 2014:
◼ On March 20, he gets 270 days; Randall Miles Cook out on SWAP already, with no victim notification - May 6, 2014
◼ Next court date for Randall Miles Cook on June 19 - May 6, 2014 11:56AM

Review hearing on June 19. He is doing SWAP so not in custody anymore. He was sentenced to 270 days in jail. Now he is doing SWAP.

◼ 2 answers in the affirmative; only jail confirmation pending - May 12, 2014
◼ Randy Cook SWAP revoked? Hopefully yes. - May 12, 2014
◼ Randy Cook told to turn himself in to custody; does not meet SWAP criteria - May 13, 2014
◼ You, the public, deserve the credit, thanks to all who called and followed up on the Cook case - May 13, 2014
◼ Randy Cook booked back in custody - May 15, 2014

June 2014:
◼ Randall Miles Cook expected to be released 1st week of August; victim restitution addressed - Jun 19, 2014

October 2014:
◼ More allegations of child molestation forthcoming against Randy Cook - Oct 29, 2014

April 2015:
◼ Local realtor Randall Miles Cook real estate and licensing rights have been revoked by the Bureau of Real Estate, partly due to his child endangerment conviction in which the victim was his own grandaughter. - John Chiv/Words Worth April 20, 2015

Fieldbrook Double Homicide: Jason Arreaga Murder Trial continued to May 11

UPDATE:
◼ Jury in Fieldbrook double homicide case second trial finds Arreaga not guilty on both counts - John Chiv/Words Worth 2/25/2016

I expect to see this covered by some other local papers, but for now, John Chiv is the only one staying on top of it:

◼ A disposition and reset hearing for Jason Arreaga, tbe suspect in the double homicide that took place in Fieldbrook got continued until May 11 at 2 p.m. in Courtroom 1. - John Chiv/Words Worth

Background:

Updating

◼ Fieldbrook double murder jury trial date vacated; future dates to be determined May 4 - John Chiv 3/2/15
◼ Fieldbrook double murder trial set for February 23 - John Chiv/Words Worth 2/10/15
◼ Fieldbrook double murder case dates confirmed, didcovery outstanding, defense msy continue once discovery received - John Chiv/Words Worth 1/26/15
◼ Trial setting in fatal shooting delayed - Will Houston, Eureka Times-Standard
◼ Fieldbrook double murder suspect in court, February trial date set - Will Houston, Eureka Times-Standard 1/5/15
◼ Jason Arreaga waives prelim, case to go to trial: His attorney Heidi Holmquist said that while the preliminary hearing was waived, it was with the condition the only charges against her client would be the one in original complaint. - John Chiv/Words Worth 12/17/14
◼ Gag order in Fieldbrook double homicide case; Lucerne man pleads not guilty - Juniper Rose/Times-Standard 9/20/14
◼ Fieldbrook homicide suspect Jason Arreaga prelim on Dec 17. The case is being prosecuted by DDA Zach Curtis. This hearing was in Courtroom 1 with Judge John Feeney. - John Chiv/Words Worth 11/18/14
◼ Fieldbrook homicide suspect Jason Michael Arreaga was arraigned in Courtroom 2 today. Due to the three special allegations added to the murder charges, it can affect his penalty. People have not made a decision yet about what penalty to seek. - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Fieldbrook double homicide suspect pleads not guilty - KIEM-TV News Channel 3
◼ Fieldbrook homicide suspect Jason Michael Arreaga was arraigned in Courtroom 2 today. Due to the three special allegations added to the murder charges, it can affect his penalty. People have not made a decision yet about what penalty to seek. - John Chiv/Words Worth Sept 8, 2014
◼ Fieldbrook double homicide suspect pleads not guilty - KIEM-TV News Channel
◼ Second update: Fieldbrook homicide investigation confirmed - Times-Standard
◼ Updated: Homicide in Fieldbrook - Thadeus Greenson/Journal
◼ Double homicide in Fieldbrook, suspect apprehended - Mad River Union HCSO Press Release 3 Sept 4, 2014
◼ HCSO: Suspect in Fieldbrook double homicide arrested - Times-Standard HCSO Press Release
◼ Victims Named in Fieldbrook Double Homicide, Suspect Arrested on 101 Near Loleta - Andrew Goff/LoCo Sept 4, 2014
◼ Third Update: Victims identified, arrest in Fieldbrook double homicide - Juniper Rose/Times-Standard
◼ Fieldbrook double homicide suspect(s) arrested. Sheriff's office: Eureka residents shot after argument - Juniper Rose/Times-Standard
◼ (UPDATING) Sheriff’s Office Responding to Suspected Homicide in Fieldbrook - LoCo 3 Sept 3, 2014