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CLEARLAKE, Calif. – In the wake of five major wildfires that have burned throughout Lake County over the past four years, the Clearlake Police Department Code Enforcement Division and the Lake County Fire Protection District are joining forces in enforcing overgrown vegetation and fire codes within the city.

Fire season is now under way, and the last of the county’s major fires – the Sulphur Fire, which destroyed over 120 dwellings mostly located within the city of Clearlake – occurred in October.

With fire-related concerns in mind, on Monday, staff from the police and fire agencies, including Interim Police Chief Tim Celli and Fire Chief Willie Sapeta, met to discuss fire prevention and abatement of properties where overgrown vegetation or other fire fuels exist.

“Because of what our communities have experienced over the past few years, fire prevention has become a major concern in our city. We need to be proactive in curbing the opportunities for fire to spread from parcel to parcel” said Celli.

He added, “Property owners need to be conscious of the risks of fire and take the necessary actions to ensure they are doing their part in preventing another fire event in our city.”

From now through July 1, both agencies will be investigating complaints of overgrown vegetation or where other fire fuels exist.

“If we confirm that these type of violations exist on a property, the tenant and/or property owner will be contacted and given warning to abate the hazards prior to July 1,” said Code Enforcement Supervisor Lee Lambert.

If these violations go unabated and for all other valid complaints received after July 1, the person responsible for the property will be issued a criminal citation, Lambert said.

“While the criminal citation will more likely than not be treated as an infraction, the court can impose a hefty fine of $500,” Lambert said. “Most lots within our city can be cleared of fire hazards for much less than the fine amount.”

Both agencies are seeking the cooperation of all property owners in clearing their properties of all overgrown vegetation, low lying tree limbs, brush and all other fire fuels.

All dead or dying overgrown vegetation shall be cut to a maximum of 4 feet in height. All trees must have a clearance of 6 feet from ground to the lowest limb.

To file a complaint or for general questions or concerns, please contact Code Enforcement Technician Chelsea Banks at 707-994-8251, Extension 309, or the Lake County Fire Protection District at 707-994-0733.
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The Lake County Youth Orchestra: front row, left to right, music teacher Jeff Ives, Christian Contreras, Talia Nash, Diana Cortez, Marco Cortez, Nicole Pyzer, Maya Leonard, Michael Sprinkel, Jenny Landeta and conductor Sue Condit; back row, left to right, music teacher Clovice Lewis, Talya Luciani, Polina Bradley, Samantha Carter, Garrett Grossner, Rafael Contreras, Madelyn Madrzyk, Molly Silva and Aiden Hernandez. Photo by David Velasquez.


LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The Lake County Symphony Association Youth Orchestra is hard at work rehearsing for its annual concert, taking place at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 3, at Lakeport’s Soper-Reese Theatre.

The theme for this year’s concert will be “Creatures and Beasts,” and will feature recognizable tunes from classical to contemporary.

This year the orchestra will play four arrangements by Jeff Dixon, a retired music teacher and principal from Lake County.

As is tradition, the program will open with the Symphony Association’s string music classes. The classes include cello, viola and violin, with students from fourth grade to adult.

Teachers Jeff Ives and Clovice Lewis will conduct pieces the students have worked on in their classes. String instruction classes have been made possible by a generous grant from the Lake County Wine Alliance.

The Youth Orchestra will then take the stage with conductor Sue Condit to perform the second movement from the Brandenburg Concerto, No. 3 by J. S. Bach. This arrangement, adapted and arranged by Merle J. Isaac, showcases difficult passages in all instrument parts, and was performed in the November 2017 concert at the Soper-Reese.

The Allegro from “The Creatures of Prometheus” by Ludwig van Beethoven was written for a ballet in 1801. Based on Greek Mythology, it recounts the story of Prometheus, and how through trickery, he stole fire from Zeus.

“Beauty And The Beast,” the main theme from the movie, written by Menken and Ashman, and arranged by Jeff Dixon, features challenging rhythms and a solo line played by concert master, Rafael Contreras.

“The Fox,” written by Mikkel Ericksen, et al., and arranged by Jeff Dixon, is a popular tune known to most young people, as is the Youtube video with hip hop dancing and computer generated scenes. It is known for its difficult rhythms and driving musical lines.

The first half will end with “The Thing Under The Bed” by Lauren Bernofsky, an internationally recognized composer who has won numerous awards for her composing. This piece features chromatic music and interesting rhythmic passages.

The concert’s second half will open with “The Muppet Show” (Medley) by Hanson and Pottle, and arranged by Jeff Dixon. Recognizable tunes such as “The Muppet Show” theme, “Being Green,” “Rubber Duckie” and “Rainbow Connection” are featured.

“How Does a Moment Last Forever” by Menken and Rice, and arranged by Jeff Dixon is another lyrical tune from “Beauty And The Beast.”

“Hunting The Wild Beast” by Brian Balmages takes the audience into the world of castles, knights and dragons. It tells the story of the pursuit of the dragon, but leaves the outcome to the imagination of the listener.

“Creepers In The Castle” by Ralph Ford is a fun piece that has a creepy and mysterious feel to it. It features the strings playing between the bridge and tailpiece.

The final piece on the program is “The Magical World Of Pixar,” arranged by Robert Longfield. Recognizable tunes from some of the most popular films include: “The Big Race,” “Nemo Egg,” (Main Theme), “The Spirit Of Adventure,” “The Glory Days,” “Ratatouille Main Theme” and “You’ve Got A Friend In Me.”

Tickets are available in advance or can be purchased the day of the concert at the Soper-Reese Theatre for $10. The concert is free for those under age 18 and for season ticket holders.

Sue Condit is conductor of the Lake County Youth Orchestra.
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Congressman Mike Thompson presented the 2018 Student Leaders of the Year Award to the Middletown High School Leadership Class of Middletown, Calif. The ceremony was held in Vallejo, Calif., on Monday, May 21, 2018. Photo courtesy of Congressman Mike Thompson’s office.

MIDDLETOWN, Calif. – On Monday, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-05) announced that he has named the entire Middletown High School Leadership Class as the 2018 Student Leaders of the Year in Lake County.

“These students represent the best about our district, even at such a young age, and I am proud to recognize and celebrate their accomplishments in naming them 2018 Student Leaders of the Year.” said Thompson. “Please join me in congratulating these students for their incredible work!”

“I met with these students after they wrote to me asking what they could do to help prevent gun violence. Inspired by their passion and willingness to engage on this issue, I was pleased to name each and every student in the class as the Lake County Student Leaders of the Year,” he said.

The students Thompson is honoring are Kassandra Agapoff, Ellie Bazzano, Abbey Brown, Noah Brown, Treeanna Brownfield, Cade Browning, Aaliyah Cerveny, Casey Chicoine, Thomas Cook, Rose Duncan, Jack Farres, Alyssa Ferguson, Andrea Garcia, Julisa Garcia, Victor Guzman, Colton Hall, Kenna Harbison, Alyssa Hart, Yasamine Heidary, Amy Herrmann, Luke Holt, Jon Hoogendoorn Jr., Dimitrios Imbrunetti, Kaylee McKenney, Willard Morris, Trey O’Neill, Tyler Olson, Shea Rockwell, Taelor Roderick, Veronica Rosales, Alessandra Diaz, and Kyle Pryor-Landman.

Students were nominated and chosen based on their academic achievements, leadership among fellow students, engagement in the community, and overall contributions to the county.

They were honored at a ceremony in Vallejo.

Thompson represents California’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes all or part of Contra Costa, Lake, Napa, Solano and Sonoma counties.
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A property on Mullen Avenue in Clearlake, Calif., before it was abated by city officials beginning on Thursday, May 17, 2018. Photo courtesy of the city of Clearlake.


CLEARLAKE, Calif. – The city of Clearlake has completed a code enforcement abatement on a property that has been the site of a fire and where thousands of pounds of trash had to be removed.

Clearlake Code Enforcement Supervisor Lee Lambert said that on May 16 the Clearlake Police Department Code Enforcement Division began an abatement of an illegal dumpsite located at a red-tagged structure located in the 3900 block of Mullen Avenue.

“Approximately six months ago, the property was red-tagged due to uninhabitable living conditions,” Lambert said. “Shortly after that, there was a structure fire at the property. Since that time, illegal dumping has been occurring at the property. The property owner was cited and ordered to abate the property, however they failed to comply. Because of the extent of the violations and the health and safety concerns, the City determined that an immediate abatement was necessary.”

A property on Mullen Avenue in Clearlake, Calif., before it was abated by city officials beginning on Thursday, May 17, 2018. Photo courtesy of the city of Clearlake.


Lambert said Code Enforcement and Public Works staff completed the abatement on Tuesday.

He said a total of 13,540 pounds of trash and debris was disposed of and approximately 3,000 pounds of metal was recycled, as well as seven tires.

After the abatement was completed, the property was fenced to prevent any further illegal dumping and trespassing, Lambert said.

“The abatement of this property will go a long way in improving the quality of life in the surrounding community,” said interim Police Chief Tim Celli. “Because of its prior conditions, the property was attracting trespassers and inviting crime. Now that it is abated and fenced off, those elements will no longer exist at this location.”

A property on Mullen Avenue in Clearlake, Calif., after it was abated by city officials on Tuesday, May 22, 2018. Photo courtesy of the city of Clearlake.


Code Enforcement asks that all community members be vigilant in reporting illegal dumping to the Clearlake Police Department, as well as trespassing and occupying “red tagged” properties.

“Illegal dumping is an epidemic in our community and the only way to change this is to catch those responsible for the illegal dumping,” said Lambert. “If you see someone dumping illegally, it is as simple as writing down a license plate number and description of the vehicle and subject doing the dumping.”

Lambert said to contact Clearlake Police Dispatch immediately at 707-994-8251 and provide them the information and location of any illegal dumping activity.

Those wishing to remain anonymous may do so by advising the dispatcher at the time of call, Lambert said.

A property on Mullen Avenue in Clearlake, Calif., after it was abated by city officials on Tuesday, May 22, 2018. Photo courtesy of the city of Clearlake.

City of Clearlake, Calif., staff removing garbage from a property on Mullen Avenue in May 2018. Photo courtesy of the city of Clearlake.
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Aquilino Vazquez-Garcia, 31, of Los Angeles, Calif., was arrested for driving under the influence causing injury and driving without a license on Sunday, May 20, 2018. Lake County Jail photo.


CLEARLAKE OAKS, Calif. – A solo-vehicle wreck that occurred Sunday east of Clearlake Oaks resulted in three people being injured, with the driver arrested for driving under the influence.

The California Highway Patrol’s Clear Lake Area office reported that the crash occurred just after 4 p.m. Sunday on Highway 20 west of Walker Ridge Road.

Aquilino Vazquez-Garcia, 31, of Los Angeles was driving a 1998 Honda Accord westbound on Highway 20 with passengers Christian Vazquez, age and city of residence unknown, Sabino Rios-Garcia, 31, city of residence unknown, and 23-year-old Cristian Figueroa-Roque of Escalon, the CHP said.

The CHP said Vazquez-Garcia was driving at an “unknown unsafe speed” when he entered a left curve in the road, losing control of the Honda.

The car slid across the eastbound traffic lanes and off the south shoulder, with the vehicle’s right side crashing into a tree, the CHP said.

Christian Vazquez, who was riding as the right front passenger, was trapped in the vehicle and extricated by Northshore Fire personnel, according to the CHP.

Rios-Garcia, riding in the right rear of the car, suffered a laceration to his chin. The CHP said he was placed under arrest for public intoxication. He was transported by the CHP to Adventist Health Clear Lake where he was treated for moderate injuries and released to the CHP.

The CHP said Vazquez-Garcia suffered major injuries and was transported from the scene by Cal Star to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital.

Christian Vazquez also had major injuries and was flown to Santa Rosa Memorial, where he remained in critical condition on Tuesday, the CHP said.

Vazquez-Garcia was determined to be under the influence at the time of the wreck and placed under arrest, according to the CHP.

After being treated, Vazquez-Garcia was released to CHP custody and booked into the Lake County Jail on several charges including felony driving under the influence, and misdemeanor driving without a license and an outside agency warrant. Booking records showed his bail was set at $100,000, with a May 30 court date set.

The third passenger, Figueroa-Roque, who was riding in the left rear of the Honda, was not injured in the crash, the CHP said.

The CHP said it appeared that none of the vehicle’s occupants were wearing seat belts at the time of the wreck, which remains under investigation.

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
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CLEARLAKE, Calif. – The Clearlake City Council this week will consider a new city welcome sign and a resolution calling a November municipal election.

The council will meet in closed session at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 24, to discuss the police chief appointment, negotiations for property at 14130 Tuli Lane and two potential cases of litigation before the public portion of the meeting begins at 6 p.m. in the council chambers at 14050 Olympic Drive.

The meeting will include presentations of the Clearlake Police Department’s crime mapping system, a proclamation declaring May 13 to 19 as Law Enforcement Appreciation Week, a plaque to retiring Police Chaplain Larry Fanning and Gina Lyle-Griffin of Lake County Health Services on tobacco prevention and education.

Under council business, the council will receive the final design of the Rotary Club of Clear Lake’s new welcome sign on Highway 53 at Lakeshore Drive and adoption of Resolution No. 2018-19 calling for a general municipal election on Tuesday, Nov. 6, for two council members and city treasurer.

The council also will consider authorizing the finance director to execute a financing contract with Caterpillar Financial Services for essential road equipment and amending the 2017-18 budget to provide funding for the acquisition.

Also on Thursday, the council will review and approve the city’s tobacco-free workplace policy.

Items on the consent agenda – items considered noncontroversial and usually accepted as a slate on one vote – are warrant registers; minutes of the meetings on April 12 and 26; consideration of continuing the declaration of local emergency issued on Oct. 9, 2017, and ratified by council action on Oct. 12, 2017; and consideration of Resolution No. 2018-17, approving a temporary street closure for the 61st annual Fourth of July Parade on June 30.

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
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CLEARLAKE, Calif. – Clearlake Animal Control is offering many dogs to new homes this week.

The available dogs are Apollo, Bruce, Dingo, Neptune, Robby, Titan, Tory and Trudy.

To meet the animals, call Clearlake Animal Control at 707-994-8201 and speak to Marcia at Extension 103 Monday through Thursday, or leave a message at any other time.

“Apollo.” Courtesy photo.


‘Apollo’

“Apollo” is a 1-year-old male who shelter staff said was rescued from a heartbreaking case of neglect.

He was severely underweight at 31 pounds – described as just skin and bones, and starving for attention – but since then he’s gained 12 pounds and “has come a long way in every way,” said staff, who added he holds a special place in the hearts of the officers who saved him.

Apollo is very friendly with people and would make a great dog for an active family. He has moments of low confidence and pushy, assertive behavior so Innovative Dog Training & Education is donating some free training to his adopters as well as some free playgroup sessions to his adopters to help nurture a confident social dog.

He is recommended as the perfect dog for a dominant female or stable male dogs who will take him under their wing and teach him a few things. Apollo also is good with both adults and older, respectful children.

“Bruce.” Courtesy photo.


‘Bruce’

“Bruce” is 6 months old. He weighs 30 pounds and has been neutered.

He’s good with other dogs and children. He’s not been tested with cats.

Shelter staff said he is still very much a puppy who is playful, energetic and loves to chew. He will need help with learning manners.

Bruce is vaccinated and ready for adoption.

“Dingo.” Courtesy photo.


‘Dingo’

“Dingo” is described by shelter staff as a happy, friendly boy who is a true people dog.

He is 2 years old, weighs about 45 pounds, and is good with both adults and children.

Dingo likes to be by your side, has nice manners and sits for treats like a true gentleman. He also loves to play ball and probably Frisbee, too.

Shelter staff said he is great with other nice dogs, but has low confidence and prefers people. He will benefit from more socialization.

“Neptune.” Courtesy photo.


‘Neptune’

“Neptune” is 2 years old and weighs 65 pounds. He has been neutered.

Shelter staff said he is good with other dogs and children, but has not been tested with cats.

He has a mellow disposition, loves to play fetch and tug-o-war. Shelter staff said he is a “super friendly guy” who needs some leash work.

Neptune is vaccinated and ready for adoption or can go to rescue.

“Robbie.” Courtesy photo.

‘Robbie’

“Robbie” is a young basset hound mix.

Shelter staff said is he around a year and a half old and weighs 50 pounds.

He walks well on a leash, makes friends with other dogs, and is playful but not super active.

Robbie is vaccinated, was neutered and had a full dental cleaning.

He has undergone heartworm treatment.

“Titan.” Courtesy photo.


‘Titan’

“Titan” is a 3-year-old male Catahoula mix with amazing blue eyes and weighing 70 pounds. He has been neutered.

Titan is good with other dogs and children, but has not been tested with cats.

Shelter staff said Titan needs slow introductions to men, but he’s easy to win over with treats.

He loves to play fetch and loves the water. He’s also great on a leash and loves to go for walks.

Shelter staff said Titan needs stability back in his life. He was picked up as a stray after having been unsuccessfully homed when his family had a new baby.

Titan is vaccinated and is available for adoption or can go to rescue.

“Tory.” Courtesy photo.


‘Tory’

“Tory” is a 2-year-old female Lab mix. She weighs 50 pounds and has a short fawn coat.

Shelter staff said she is good with both children and adults, is nonreactive with cats and is “selective and assertive” with other dogs, meaning, she would do best with a social male or submissive female.

She’s reported to be calm and sweet, loves to take walks and is amazing on leash.

“Trudy.” Courtesy photo.


‘Trudy’

“Trudy” is a cute 1- to 2-year-old female Labrador Retriever mix who weighs about 45 pounds.

She had been adopted but was returned for wanting too much love, shelter staff reported.

Shelter staff said she loves to play in water, is social but selective with other dogs, and is good with adults and older, respectful children.

She is active and would be a great companion for adventure or a working sidekick on a ranch.

Trudy needs more socialization and would benefit from additional training and playgroups.

Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.
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LAKEPORT, Calif. – The Lakeport Main Street Association, sponsor of the Lamp Posts of Life, will dedicate three new light posts this weekend.

The new lamp posts will honor Janel Chapman, Jillian Billester, and Bill Sr. and Byron Whipple.

The dedication ceremony also will include the mural dedication on Saturday, May 26.

The mural of Clear Lake on Third and Main Street by artist Gloria de la Cruz is the first in a series of murals planned by the Lakeport Main Street Association.

The event will follow the parade on Main Street, starting at 11 a.m. and is part of the Memorial Day weekend celebration.

The dedication will also include the Downtown Memorial Street Tree Program on Main Street. Small plaques honoring Lake County residents have been placed at the base of each tree and have been dedicated to Andre and Edith Aldeghi, Ronald R. Woods, Pilar Luchsinger White, Ryan Rees White Russell and Robert White, Dr. Perry F and Melia Bella Gayaldo, Honorable Arthur H. Mann and Dr. Judith E. Luchsinger, Margaret Neal and Loni, The Carroll and Talia Families, Floyd and Betty Lou Surber, Charlie Kittleson, John D. Thompson, Gloria Hatt, Keeling-Barnes Family Foundation, John Fulton, Shalean Smith, Andrew Bernard and Rebecca, Elizabeth Luchsinger, Clara, Alina, Holly, Drs. Consuelo Luchsinger Palutis and Christopher P. Palutis, Doug and Tina Scott, Betty and Buzz Kahn, Jim and Janet Eustis, Hillside Powersports & Marine, and Maria Reyes.

The Lakeport Main Street Association has a long history of its dedication to supporting downtown Lakeport.

The beauty of the trees and lamp post add to the city’s history with these dedications honoring its residents.
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James Harley Miranda, 40, of Clearlake, Calif., was arrested on Sunday, May 20, 2018, for obstructing a peace officer, battery on a peace officer, being under the influence of a controlled substance and disorderly conduct-drugs. Lake County Jail photo.


CLEARLAKE, Calif. – A man found not guilty earlier this year in an animal cruelty case has been arrested after he had a physical confrontation with police in which he assaulted officers.

James Harley Miranda, 40, was arrested Sunday on a number of battery and drug charges, according to Sgt. Elvis Cook of the Clearlake Police Department.

Cook said that on Sunday at 1:30 a.m. officers responded to the area of Lakeshore Drive and Highway 53 for a male subject who was acting erratic, yelling and chasing vehicles. Clearlake Police Dispatch had received several calls regarding the male.

Sgt. Cook and Officer Mauricio Barreto arrived in the area and contacted a male later identified as Miranda. Cook said Miranda was acting erratic and was screaming irrational statements.

As soon as officers arrived on scene, Miranda became combative, came toward the officers and started to assault them. Cook said Miranda grabbed one officer by the throat and started to punch and kick at the officers as they tried to take him into custody.

In addition to assaulting the officers, Miranda was grabbing at the officers’ gear, Cook said.

At that point, Officer Mark Harden and his K9 partner "Zip" arrived on scene to assist. Cook said Officer Harden gave Miranda several orders to comply, with negative results.

Officer Harden deployed Zip who apprehended Miranda. Cook said Miranda started to comply, however when officers went to place him into handcuffs, he became combative and assaulted the officers again.

Cook said the officers, along with Zip, were able to get Miranda into custody.

Miranda was placed under arrest for obstructing a peace officer, battery on a peace officer, being under the influence of a controlled substance and disorderly conduct-drugs, Cook said.

Cook said Miranda was transported to the Lake County Jail, where he was booked on the charges, with bail set at $15,000. Booking records indicated that Miranda is to be arraigned on Tuesday.

In January a jury found Miranda not guilty of animal cruelty by torture and being under the influence of methamphetamine in a case involving his dog, Cocoa, who had been found dead on the side of Highway 53 in September by a passing motorist.

The dog had been tied to a dolly and muzzled, which Miranda said was necessary because the dog – who he said had been hit by a car – was snapping at him. He said he had gone to try to find help, and by the time he returned an animal control officer had picked up Cocoa’s body.

One of the key pieces of evidence that is believed to have led to Miranda’s acquittal was a veterinarian’s examination of Cocoa’s body, which found she had injuries consisting with being struck by a vehicle.
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LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – As the unofficial start of summer, Memorial Day weekend is a busy time on California roadways.

To help segue into summer safely, the California Highway Patrol will conduct a maximum enforcement period, or MEP.

Seat belt usage is the focus of the Memorial Day MEP, which will run from 6 p.m. on Friday, May 25, to midnight Monday, May 28.

During the MEP, CHP officers will educate motorists and enforce traffic safety laws throughout the state to ensure a safe holiday.

Officers will also be watching carefully for distracted drivers and those who are impaired by drugs or alcohol.

“It only takes two seconds to buckle up,” said CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley. “Wearing a seat belt is such a simple task to keep you and your passengers safe. Remember, it is also the law.”

Approximately 70 percent of the vehicle occupants who died in CHP jurisdiction in the 2016 and 2017 Memorial Day MEPs were not wearing seat belts.

A total of 45 people died statewide in Memorial Day MEP collisions in 2017; 39 during the period in 2016.

During those same MEPs, there were 921 arrests in California for driving under the influence in 2017 and 1,065 in 2016.

Motorists are also reminded to protect child passengers by placing them in age-appropriate restraint devices, whether a safety seat or booster seat.

The law requires that children under age 8 ride in the back seat and that a child under age 2 is secured in a rear-facing child passenger safety seat.

In addition to the MEP, the CHP will take part in the nationwide “Click It or Ticket” campaign led by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or NHTSA, that will emphasize seat belt use from May 21 to June 3.

On a national level, nearly half the passenger vehicle occupants killed in collisions in 2016 were not wearing seat belts, NHTSA reports.

In the interest of motorist education, Commissioner Stanley also reminds everyone of the dangers of distracted and impaired driving.

“Too many lives are lost every year due to preventable acts,” he said. “Law enforcement personnel see the tragic consequences too frequently of not buckling up or of driving impaired or distracted. These are all avoidable.”

The mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of safety, service and security.
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Melissa Alcala Alvarez, 28, of Fort Bragg, North Carolina, was sentenced to 76 months in local prison in Mendocino County, Calif., on Tuesday, May 22, 2018. Courtesy photo.


NORTH COAST, Calif. – The former employee who embezzled $34,160 from the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office from August 2016 through October 2017 was sentenced to local prison on Tuesday morning.

Melissa Alcala Alvarez (Perez), age 28, of Fort Bragg, North Carolina, was sentenced in the Mendocino County Superior Court to 76 months in local prison, according to the Mendocino County District Attorney’s Office.

In April Alvarez entered guilty pleas at her arraignment, as Lake County News has reported.

She was charged with stealing public funds over a 16-month period from August of 2016 to November 2017 while she worked as a financial analyst and handled cash receipts.

Her overall sentence was "split" between 18 months incarceration and 58 months on mandatory supervision, which is a realignment form of parole. At the end of the hearing, the defendant was handcuffed and remanded into custody, the Mendocino County District Attorney’s Office reported.

Local prison, also known locally as realignment county prison, was created in October 2011 when the Legislature passed the realignment laws, laws which removed 500 felonies from state prison eligibility in an effort to reduce state prison crowding.

However, by requiring defendants convicted of one or more of the 500 felonies to serve any prison sentence imposed in the county jails resulted in overcrowding in most, if not all of the county jails across the state.

By prearrangement, it is believed that Alvarez will be serving her jail time in a jail facility outside of Mendocino County.

With good time and work time credits pegged at 50 percent, she will have to serve at least 9 months in jail before being released to mandatory supervision, officials said.

The prosecutor who argued for a prison sentence on behalf of the people on Tuesday morning was District Attorney David Eyster. Sheriff Tom Allman also addressed the court.

The investigating law enforcement agencies were the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office and the District Attorney's Office’s own investigators.

The sentence was imposed by Mendocino County Superior Court Judge Ann Moorman.
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UPPER LAKE, Calif. – Be sure to reserve Sunday, June 10, for the Lake County Land Trust’s annual Spring Celebration and Fundraiser.

Picture a sunny spring afternoon in a beautiful, shaded setting, a generous selection of delicious hors d'oeuvres and wine, lovely music playing, water fountains sparkling, ... all while supporting conservation of Lake County's remarkable natural lands.

Lynne and Bernie Butcher, proprietors of the Tallman Hotel and Blue Wing Saloon, host this wonderful event held in the garden area of the hotel and restaurant facility in Upper Lake.

The Butchers generously donate all services and hors d'oeuvres with proceeds benefiting the Land Trust's conservation work and public programs.

The event will feature Lake County wines, hors d’oeuvres and live music and will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. with tickets costing $50 per person.

All funds raised at the annual spring event will support the Lake County Land Trust and its many projects in Lake County, including preservation of the Clear Lake shoreline and operation of the trust’s Rodman Preserve near Upper Lake and Rabbit Hill Park in Middletown.

The event will provide time to enjoy the company of fellow land trust supporters and to visit with Land Trust board members and hear about updates on the Land Trust’s local projects.

Reservations are required and can be made by calling 707-262-0707 or emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Payment in advance is requested or you can make reservations and pay online by going to the Land Trust’s Web site at www.lakecountylandtrust.org and click on “Spring Celebration Tickets.” or mail payment to P.O. Box 1017, Lakeport, CA 95453.

The Lake County Land Trust is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of open space and natural habitats in Lake County.

Founded in 1994, the Land Trust owns and operates the Rodman Preserve near Upper Lake and the Rabbit Hill Park in Middletown; the trust co-manages the Boggs Lake Preserve with The Nature Conservancy, and holds two conservation easements on important natural areas in the county.

A major project of the trust is preserving the shoreline of Clear Lake between the Clear Lake State Park and Lakeport and now holds fee title to a 30 plus acre parcel called the Melo wetland area which the trust purchased in 2016 with locally raised funds and a grant from the California Wildlife Conservation Board.

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