Month: January 2022

Here are the latest bookings from the Glenn County Jail. Remember: Everyone accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Wednesday, Jan. 12:

No one was booked into the jail on this date.

Thursday, Jan. 13:

No one was booked into the jail on this date.

Friday, Jan. 14:

8:38 a.m., Ryan Mark Ockerman, 44, a firefighter who lives in Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging felony violation of probation. Bail was set at $20,000. He was taken into custody at the Glenn County Probation Department, Willows, by a probation officer.

1 p.m., Aaron Benjamin Johanningsmeier, 25, a feeder who lives in Glenn, was remanded to the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging assault with force likely to produce great bodily injury (a felony), and misdemeanor violation of probation. Bail was set at $37,000. He was taken into custody at the Willows branch of the Glenn County Superior Court by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

2 p.m., Brittany Danielle Glass, 33, a laborer who lives in Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on warrants alleging disobeying a lawful order of the court (a felony). Total bail was set at $58,000. She was taken into custody at the Willows branch of the Glenn County Superior Court by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

Saturday, Jan. 15:

3:51 p.m., Saul Malagon Dominguez, 42, a laborer who lives in Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, and driving while under the influence of alcohol (both misdemeanors). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody supposedly on Fourth Street at Highway 99 [note: these streets do not intersect], Orland, by a California Highway Patrol officer.

Sunday, Jan. 16:

1:28 p.m., Levi Joshua Byerly, 27, a 4th Street Café employee who lives in Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging felony violation of probation. Bail was set at $35,000. He was taken into custody in the 800 block of Fourth Street by an Orland police officer.

9:12 p.m., Mericin Alexis Madera, 18, a sales representative who lives in Corning, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging annoying or molesting a child under the age of 18 (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. She was taken into custody on County Road 5, just west of Interstate 5, by a California Highway Patrol officer.

Monday, Jan. 17:

12:29 p.m., Samantha Marilyn Crownover, 33, a quality control worker who lives in Ceres, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on warrants alleging failure to appear on a felony charge, and disobeying a lawful order of the court (both felonies). Total bail was set at $110,000. She was taken into custody at the Stanislaus County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

8:48 p.m., Miguel Thomas Solis, 41, an office technician who lives in Elk Grove, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, and driving while under the influence of alcohol (both misdemeanors). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody on County Road 7, east of Interstate 5, by a California Highway Patrol officer.

Tuesday, Jan. 18:

8:24 a.m., Amber Lee Fred, 35, a laborer who lives in Colusa, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge. Bail was set at $30,000. She was taken into custody at the Colusa County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

10:05 a.m., Chentel Marie Rios, 31, a laborer who lives in Orland, was remanded to the Glenn County Jail without bail on charges alleging misdemeanor violation of probation, felony violation of probation, and resisting or obstructing a public service officer (a misdemeanor). She was taken into custody at the Willows branch of the Glenn County Superior Court by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

3:45 p.m., Alexis Janell Clark, 22, a laborer who lives in Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on two no-bail Tehama County warrants alleging possession of controlled substance paraphernalia (a misdemeanor). She was taken into custody on Central Street at Marin Street by an Orland police officer.

4:13 p.m., Steven Duane Baker, 40, a production worker who lives in Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of a controlled substance (a misdemeanor), possession of controlled substance paraphernalia (a misdemeanor), and possession of an open container while driving (an infraction). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody on Central Street at Marin Street by an Orland police officer.

5 p.m., Jose Uvaldo Gomez-Iraheta, 29, a milker who lives in Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, driving while under the influence of alcohol, and driving without a license (all misdemeanors). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody on Highway 99, north of County Road 43, by a California Highway Patrol officer.

9:16 p.m., Stephanie Ranee Wright, 33, a laborer who lives in Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging public intoxication (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at zero. She was taken into custody at 886 North Butte Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

9:47 p.m., Manuel Anthony Villarreal-Magana, 22, a tire technician who lives in Arbuckel, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging infliction of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant, and assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury (both felonies), and two Colusa County warrants alleging giving false identification to a peace officer, and shoplifting (both misdemeanors). Total bail was set at $57,000, but he was also held without bail on charges alleging violation of parole (a felony). He was taken into custody at 600 North Humboldt Avenue, apt. #207, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

Wednesday, Jan. 19:

9:07 a.m., Buddie Raymond Minnick, 47, a plumber who lives in Yuba City, was booked into the Glenn County Jail without bail on an order of production (bringing a prisoner before a court). He was taken into custody at the California Highway Patrol office, 1739 South Main Street, Yreka, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

11:06 a.m., Ian William Hunter, 30, a laborer who lives in Chico, was committed to the Glenn County Jail without bail on charges alleging felony violation of probation.

2:13 p.m., Vadim Sergeyevich Petriakov, 32, a laborer who lives in Chico, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging failure to appear after being released on his own recognizance (a felony), and three Redding Police Department warrants alleging possession of ammunition by a prohibited person (a felony), and possession of a narcotic controlled substance (a misdemeanor). Total bail was set at $96,000. He was taken into custody at the Butte County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

Regarding the Glenn County warrant, on Aug. 15, 2021, deputies responded to the Walmart parking lot in Willows for the report of a stolen vehicle being there with two occupants inside. Glenn County Communications advised the stolen vehicle was a Nissan Sentra with OR LP#: 144LHD. Deputies responded and located Jessica Napier in the driver seat and Vadim Petriakov in the front passenger seat. Napier and Petriakov were escorted out of the vehicle and detained in handcuffs. After on-scene investigation and subsequent search of the vehicle, Deputies located suspected methamphetamine and suspected fentanyl. Deputies spoke with Napier and Petriakov who stated the substances located were methamphetamine and fentanyl. Napier and Petriakov both claimed ownership of the suspected methamphetamine and fentanyl. Napier and Petriakov were placed under arrest and TAB into the Glenn County Jail for being in possession of stolen property and drug charges.

8:15 p.m., Christopher John Braun, 46, a handyman who lives in Chico, was booked into the Glenn County Jail without bail on a warrant alleging violation of post-release community supervision (a felony). He was taken into custody at the Butte County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

9:36 p.m., Jeffrey Daniel Mattis, 49, a mechanic who lives in Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of a firearm by a felon (a felony), possession of ammunition by a prohibited person (a felony), possession of a high-capacity magazine (a misdemeanor), and carrying a loaded firearm in public (a felony). Bail was set at $30,000. He was taken into custody on the northbound side of Interstate 5, north of Highway 162, by a California Highway Patrol officer.

Thursday, Jan. 20:

11:19 a.m., John Phillip-Smart Vasquez, 18, a landscaping worker who lives in Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging battery with serious bodily injury (a felony). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody at 320 Vine Street, apt. B, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

12:34 p.m., Juan Diaz-Torres, 39, a tree climber who lives in Corning, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a felony charge, and a Nevada County warrant alleging grand theft (a felony). Total bail was set at $90,000. He was taken into custody at the Tehama County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

10:47 p.m., Jason Raymond Herr, 40, a logistics worker who lives in Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging infliction of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant (a felony). Bail was set at $25,000. He was taken into custody at 600 North Humboldt Avenue, apt. #225, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

Friday, Jan. 21:

3:35 p.m., David James Clem, 42, a painter who lives in Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging vehicle theft (a felony), and two felony Lake County warrants alleging burglary, possession of burglary tools, and vandalism. Total bail for the fresh charge and one of the warrants was set at $25,000. The other warrant was a no-bail warrant. He was taken into custody at Walmart, 470 North Airport Road, Willows, by a California Highway Patrol officer.

Saturday, Jan. 22:

10:19 p.m., Alvaro Torres, 39, a mover and olive picker who lives in Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging battery on a non-cohabitating former spouse (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. He was taken into custody in the 100 block of Sixth Street by an Orland police officer.

Sunday, Jan. 23:

2:03 a.m., Coryn Kelly Jordan, 28, a server/bartender who lives in Hamilton City, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging battery on a non-cohabitating former spouse (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. She was taken into custody at 208 Main Street, Hamilton City, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

2:57 a.m., Jakeima Jock Rohrbach, 32, a construction worker who lives in Redding, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging carrying a loaded firearm in public, possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of a controlled substance and a loaded firearm, and possession of ammunition by a prohibited person (all felonies). Bail was set at $40,000. He was taken into custody at County Road N and Highway 32 by an Orland police officer.

8:21 a.m., Gustavo Benites-Garcia, 31, a laborer who lives in Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging infliction of corporal injury on a spouse (a felony). Bail was set at $25,000. He was taken into custody on Elm Street at Tehama Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

8:21 a.m., Camie Esperanza Guzman-Clark, 34, a general manager (of what is not specified) who lives in Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging fraud to obtain aid (a felony). Bail was set at $10,000. She was taken into custody at the Glenn County Sheriff’s Office, 543 West Oak Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

8:21 p.m., Jonathan Folger Cates, 40, a truck driver who lives in North Las Vegas, Nev., was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving a commercial vehicle while under the influence of alcohol (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. He was taken into custody on the northbound side of Interstate 5, north of County Road 33, by a California Highway Patrol officer.

Monday, Jan. 24:

1:05 a.m., Alen Misael Lopez, 22, a laborer who lives in Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, driving while under the influence of alcohol, and driving without a license (all misdemeanors). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody on County Road P, south of County Road 15, by a California Highway Patrol officer.

9:20 a.m., Krishnakant Hasmukhlal Ramdas, 33, a clerk who lives in Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging misdemeanor violation of probation, and felony violation of probation. Bail was set at $89,000. He was taken into custody at the Glenn County Probation Department, Willows, by a probation officer. The next day, he was committed to the jail for home invasion robbery, and possession of metal knuckles (both felonies).

8:08 a.m., Chentel Marie Rios, 31, a laborer who lives in Orland, was sentenced to the Glenn County Jail without bail felony violation of probation.

11:35 p.m., Ehab Saeidah, 26, a cashier who lives in Chico, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging evading a peace officer with wanton disregard for safety (a felony), driving with a license suspended for driving while under the influence (a misdemeanor), and possession of a controlled substance (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $40,000. He was taken into custody at County Roads 32 and W by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

Tuesday, Jan. 25:

2:44 a.m., Jason Michael Stewart, 45, a laborer who lives in Corning, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging failure to appear after giving a written promise (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $9,000. He was taken into custody at 199 North Humboldt Avenue, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

6:10 p.m., T.J. Royce Morrison, 27, a laborer who lives in Artois, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of a firearm by a felon (a felony), possession of ammunition by a prohibited person (a felony), carrying a loaded firearm in public (a felony), and possession of a controlled substance (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $40,000. He was taken into custody on Highway 99, north of County Road 45, by a California Highway Patrol officer.

Wednesday, Jan. 26:

9 a.m., Reuben Daniel Barba, 35, a laborer who lives in Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on four Redding Police Depoartment warrants. Two were felony no-bail warrants alleging failure to appear on felony charges, and carjacking. The other two were misdemeanor warrants alleging vandalism, failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge, and battery, with total bail was set at $20,000. He was taken into custody at the Glenn County Probation Department, Willows, by a probation officer.

9:36 a.m., Johnathian Cuin-Perez, 20, a laborer who lives in Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging misdemeanor violation of probation. Bail was set at $5,000. He was taken into custody at the Glenn County Probation Department, Willows, by a probation officer.

10:17 p.m., Coryn Kelly Jordan, 28, a server and bartender who lives in Hamilton City, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging infliction of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant (a felony). Bail was set at $25,000. She was taken into custody at 208 Main Street, Hamilton City, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

By Larry Judkins

Glenn County Observer

About 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 29, the fire dispatcher for the Orland Fire Department received a report of a dryer fire at the Blue and White Laundromat on South Street, near the Grocery Outlet.

Firefighters responded there but no fire was found. Minutes later, Orland volunteers were dispatched to a report of a fire at the laundromat near Sav-Mor market.

In fact, one of the first firefighters at the scene was a volunteer who was shopping in the market. Soon, numerous firefighters and three or four OFD vehicles, including the ladder truck, were on scene.

Some volunteers climbed onto the roof, looking for hot spots. Others extinguished the fire in the laundromat and blew the smoke out of the business.

About 4:15 p.m., the fire was out and the volunteers began to head back to the station. No one was injured and the damage appeared to be minor.

By Larry Judkins

Glenn County Observer

For the second time, murderer Gerardo Valenzuela has been denied parole.

On Jan. 14 of this year, a parole hearing was held for inmate Valenzuela. Deputy District Attorney Michael Coffey attended the hearing on behalf of the People of Glenn County to oppose his release.

After a hearing that lasted more than three hours, the parole board determined that Valenzuela continues to pose an unreasonable risk to the public. He was denied his parole for three years.

About five years ago, on Feb. 1, 2017, at Valenzuela’s first parole hearing, he was denied parole and found unsuitable for release from prison for an additional five years. This parole board hearing was attended by then-Deputy District Attorney (now-Assistant District Attorney) Ruby Neumann at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego.

In 1998, Valenzuela beat Ventura Ruiz to death with a hammer, then attempted to do the same to Efrain Garcia. He was convicted of second degree murder, and attempted second degree murder, with special allegations P.C. 12022(b)(1) (use of a dangerous or deadly weapon – in this case, a hammer – in the commission of a felony or attempted felony), and P.C. 12022.7(a) (infliction of great bodily injury on a person during the commission of a felony).

P.C. 12022(b)(1) adds three years to a sentence, while P.C. 12022.7(a) adds a year. Valenzuela was sentenced to 20 years to life in prison.

The judge in this case was Angus Saint-Evens. The prosecutor was Glenn County District Attorney Robert Holzapfel.

Valenzuela’s attorney was Public Defender Albert Smith.

By Larry Judkins

Glenn County Observer

Late last year, the City of Orland began working with Habitat for Humanity Yuba-Sutter to turn the Orlanda Inn Motel, 827 Newville Road, into a permanent housing facility for the homeless.

By a 4-0 vote (Councilman William “Billy” Irvin being absent) the Orland City Council approved the resolution between the City of Orland and Habitat for Humanity. (See the Dec. 5, 2021, story in The Glenn County Observer, “Habitat for Humanity plans habitat for the homeless in Orland”.)

The resolution approved in December supported the submission of a grant application for up to $8 million. However, since then, state grant agency representatives have advised Habitat officials that with structure removal and construction costs not yet known, the grant application amount should be increased to $12 million.

There is no increase in financial obligation by the City of Orland. At this point and foreseeably, funding will be provided by state programs, Glenn County resources, and Habitat for Humanity resources.

Below is the revised resolution. Changes to the original resolution are indicated in bold print.

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-03 [the original resolution was NO. 2021-23 (Editor)]

A RESOLUTION OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF ORLAND AUTHORIZING JOINT APPLICATION TO AND PARTICIPATION IN THE HOMEKEY PROGRAM

WHEREAS:

A. The Department of Housing and Community Development (“Department”) has issued a Notice of Funding Availability, dated September 9, 2021 (“NOFA”), for the Homekey Program (“Homekey” or “Program”). The Department has issued the NOFA for Homekey grant funds pursuant to Health and Safety Code section 50675.1.3 (Assembly Bill No. 140 (2021-2022 Reg. Sess.), § 20.).

B. The City of Orland (“Co-Applicant”) desires to jointly apply for Homekey grant funds with Habitat for Humanity Yuba-Sutter (“Corporation”). Therefore, CoApplicant is joining Corporation in the submittal of an application for Homekey funds (“Application”) to the Department for review and consideration.

C. The Department is authorized to administer Homekey pursuant to the Multifamily Housing Program (Chapter 6.7 (commencing with Section 50675) of Part 2 of Division 31 of the Health and Safety Code). Homekey funding allocations are subject to the terms and conditions of the NOFA, the Application, the Department-approved STD 213, Standard Agreement (“Standard Agreement”), and all other legal requirements of the Homekey Program.

THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED THAT:

1. Co-Applicant is hereby authorized and directed to submit a joint Application to the Department in response to the NOFA, and to jointly apply for Homekey grant funds in a total amount not to exceed $12,000,000.00 [from $8,000,000.00 (Editor)].

2. If the Application is approved, Co-Applicant is hereby authorized and directed to enter into, execute, and deliver a Standard Agreement in a total amount not to exceed $12,000,000.00 [from $8,000,000.00 (Editor)], any and all other documents required or deemed necessary or appropriate to secure the Homekey funds from the Department and to participate in the Homekey Program, and all amendments thereto (collectively, the “Homekey Documents”).

3. Co-Applicant acknowledges and agrees that it shall be subject to the terms and conditions specified in the Standard Agreement, and that the NOFA and Application will be incorporated in the Standard Agreement by reference and made a part thereof. Any and all activities, expenditures, information, and timelines represented in the Application are enforceable through the Standard Agreement. Funds are to be used for the allowable expenditures and activities identified in the Standard Agreement.

4. City Manager or their designee, is authorized to execute the Application and the Homekey Documents on behalf of Co-Applicant for participation in the Homekey Program.

As reported previously in The Observer, the present Orland Inn Motel requires a great deal of attention from the Orland Police Department. It is believed that the new facility would greatly reduce the demands on law enforcement.

Councilmen also remarked that the Habitat for Humanity facility would greatly improve the appearance of the Newville Road/Highway 32 entryway to Orland.

The selection of residents, Habitat for Humanity says, would require that they meet certain qualifications. Ongoing site management would be provided.

The premises would be gated, and passcodes would be required to enter the property. In another effort to keep the “riff-raff” out, guests would have to check in.

Habitat for Humanity would own and operate the 30-residence facility, while Glenn County Health and Human Services would provide a variety of services to the residents, ranging from behavioral health to employment skills. Habitat for Humanity also has plans for a satellite administrative office in Orland and a ReStore surplus building products outlet.

Here are the latest sentencings in the Glenn County Superior Court, period ending Friday, Jan. 21, as reported by the Glenn County District Attorney’s Office and other sources.

People v. Brian Grimm – Defendant was convicted of felony transportation of methamphetamine, and possession of methamphetamine for sale, and misdemeanor resisting or obstructing a peace officer. He was sentenced to four years, eight months in prison, concurrent to his seven-year, one-month Oregon prison sentence he is currently serving. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Dwayne Stewart, with assistance from Glenn County Sheriff’s Detective Lopeteguy and Deputy Ayres.

People v. Kyle Mings – Defendant was convicted of felony assault with a deadly weapon (concrete wall and floor). He was sentenced to three years concurrent to the current prison sentence he is serving for Glenn County. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Stewart, with assistance from Glenn County Sheriff’s Deputy Sheldon and Correctional Officers White and Martinez.

People v. Jacob Kennedy-Cummings – Defendant was previously convicted of felony unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor, and child endangerment, and was found in violation of probation for the eighth time. He was sentenced to 497 days in jail and probation was terminated. This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Michael Coffey, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officer Van Eck.

People v. Manuel Robles – Defendant was convicted of felony corporal injury on a cohabitant. He was sentenced to 210 days in jail stayed upon successful completion of three years’ probation and 52 weeks of batterers treatment classes. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Ruby Neumann, with assistance from Glenn County Sheriff’s Deputy Lourenzo.

People v. Chentel Rios – Defendant was previously convicted of felony identity theft, and was found in violation of probation for the first time. She was sentenced to 180 days in jail and was reinstated on two years’ probation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Neumann, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officer Van Eck.

People v. Angel Bush– Defendant was previously convicted of felony bringing drugs into a jail, and was found in violation of probation for the fourth time. She was sentenced to 180 days in jail and was reinstated to probation. This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Coffey, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officer Van Eck.

People v. Boris Dionicio-Fuentes – Defendant was convicted of felony possession of methamphetamine for sale. He was sentenced to 180 days in jail, two years’ probation, and $6,532 were forfeited. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Stewart, with assistance from Glenn County Sheriff’s Detective Lopeteguy and Orland Police Officers Pinedo and Carmon, and Sergeant Cessna.

People v. Arturo Bermudez – Defendant was convicted of misdemeanor driving while under the influence of alcohol. He was sentenced to 180 days in jail concurrent to the Butte County three-year prison sentence he is currently serving. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Neumann, with assistance from Willows California Highway Patrol Officers Nibert and Oliveros.

People v. Brittnie Fonseca – Defendant was convicted of felony grand theft of more than $950. She was sentenced to 180 days in jail, drug court, and two years’ probation. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Stewart, with assistance from Glenn County Sheriff’s Deputy Cordova.

People v. Ray Lee Wallis – Defendant was convicted of misdemeanor domestic battery. He was sentenced to 133 days in jail, 52 weeks of batterer’s treatment classes, and three years’ probation. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Stewart, with assistance from Orland Police Officers Pinedo and Flores.

People v. Ismael Soliz, Jr. – Defendant was previously convicted of two felony violations of child abuse likely to produce great bodily injury or death, and was found in violation of probation for the third time. He was sentenced to 120 days in jail and probation was reinstated. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Neumann, with assistance from Deputy Probation Officer Ortiz.

People v. Latsamy Kangmeuang – Defendant was convicted of felony evasion, and possession of a stolen vehicle. He was sentenced to 120 days in jail and two years’ probation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Neumann, with assistance from Glenn County Sheriff’s Deputy Turner and Orland Police Sergeant Johnson.

People v. TJ Morrison – Defendant was convicted of felony automobile theft. He was sentenced to 60 days in jail, drug court, and two years’ probation. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Stewart, with assistance from Orland Police Officers Flores and Carmon.

By Larry Judkins

Glenn County Observer

On Dec. 15, 2021, David Gutierrez, Jr., of Orland, was found guilty of possession of drugs in a jail, and possession of ammunition by a prohibited person (both felonies).

On Jan. 14 of this year, he was sentenced to 90 days in jail, drug court, and two years’ probation. The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Michael Coffey, with assistance from Glenn County Sheriff’s Deputies Thompson, Cordova, and Vargas.

In April of last year, The Glenn County Observer reported:

“Not too long after sunrise on Friday, April 2, a man called for law enforcement assistance.

“He said he encountered a trespasser on his property, and when he told the man to leave, the man pulled a gun on him.

“The property owner took off, and so did the trespasser.

“However, the alleged trespasser’s car (or one similar to it, which would be remarkable in itself) was spotted by an Orland police officer in the 700 block of Tehama Street.

“The officer made a felony stop (a stop made at gunpoint) and the driver was detained.

“He was identified as David Gutierrez. Whether or not he was the same individual who exhibited the firearm, Gutierrez is a parolee and officers began searching him and his vehicle.

“Besides the contents of the vehicle, the car itself was interesting to behold. The car was missing its hood and at least two of its wheels were held on by three wrench sockets rather than five lug nuts.

“Gutierrez was sitting in the back of a patrol unit when The Glenn County Observer arrived. However, he was brought out when officers were told that the property owner would be brought by in another patrol unit to possibly confirm that Gutierrez was indeed the man who threatened him with a gun.

“When the nearly shirtless Gutierrez exited the patrol vehicle, Sgt. Greg Felton of the Glenn County Sheriff’s Office asked him why he was sweating so much. Gutierrez claimed it was because it was very hot in the patrol unit.

“As Gutierrez leaned with his back against his own car, in handcuffs and facing the street, a sheriff’s unit slowly drove by. It is presently unknown whether Gutierrez was identified as the man with the firearm.

“Nevertheless, although no gun was found in Gutierrez’s possession at the time, ammunition was allegedly found, and that is also a felony for a parolee. Gutierrez was placed under arrest.”

At 8:46 a.m. on Friday, April 2, Gutierrez was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, smuggling a controlled substance into a prison, and violation of probation (all felonies). His bail was set at $30,000.

On Saturday, April 24, Orland firefighters were dispatched to a report of a fully involved vehicle fire at 67 East Walker Street, the address for Metro T-Mobile. The Honda was actually parked in the westernmost parking spaces for the Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) employees in the Glenn Success Square, 125-127 East Walker Street.

The car was a total loss. It was the same vehicle Gutierrez was driving when he was arrested on April 2.

By Larry Judkins

Glenn County Observer

The Orland transient accused of starting a fire in the bed of Stony Creek in October has been found guilty and sentenced.

On Dec. 9, 2021, Heather Matney pled guilty to the Oct. 9 arson that resulted in six fire departments responding to the blaze. In the morning of Jan. 7 of this year, she was sentenced to 180 days in jail, 52 weeks of batterers treatment classes, and three years’ probation.

At 11:53 p.m. on Jan. 7, deputies responded to 236 North Humboldt Avenue regarding suspicious activity. An anonymous caller reported a white male adult who appeared to be transient was taking things from a delivery truck that was parked at KFC.

Deputies arrived and contacted Douglas Abbott and Heather Matney. A records check on the two revealed Matney was a restrained person in a served restraining order and the protected party was Douglas Abbott. Matney was placed under arrest for violation of a court order and transported to the Glenn County jail.

Five minutes after midnight on Jan. 8, Heather Nicole Matney, 27, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging violation of a court order to prevent domestic violence (a misdemeanor). Her bail was set at $5,000.

Three days later, Matney was charged with alleged felony violation of probation by a Glenn County probation officer. Bail for this charge was set at $85,000.

On Oct. 11, 2021, The Glenn County Observer reported:

“As firefighters from six departments battled the blaze in the Stony Creek bed a short distance north of Orland Saturday evening and beyond, an Orland transient was arrested for allegedly intentionally setting the fire.

“At about 6 p.m. on Oct. 9, deputies responded to the Stony Creek area east of Highway 99, in Orland, and contacted Douglas Abbott. Deputies initiated an investigation and discovered Abbott and his girlfriend, Heather Matney, had a camp in the creek bed.

“Abbott and Matney reportedly got into an argument. Abbott left the camp and noticed a fire had begun shortly after he left.

“Another witness in the area alleged they saw Matney start the fire and then flee the area on foot. Deputies searched the area extensively and eventually found Matney at the Shady Oaks Trailer Park, space #19.

“She was ultimately placed under arrest and booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging giving false identification to a peace officer (a misdemeanor), and arson of an inhabited structure or property (a felony). Her bail was set at $200,000.”

Surrounded by her family, Doris Marie Marez died peacefully on Monday, Jan. 10, 2022. She was born in Vinita, Okla., on March 19, 1940, before moving to California.

She spent most of her adult life in Turlock, where she had many friends. In 2014, she moved to Willows to be closer to her daughter.

She was a devoted Christian, daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandma, and friend. Her loved ones agree, “She was faithful, she was blessed, she will be greatly missed.”

They find comfort in John 16:22, which reads, “Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.”

She is survived by her daughter, Pam (and Ron) Houck; grandchildren Frank Reynolds, Makaila (and Chris) Fenwick, and Starla Miller; and great-grandchildren Bradley, Jacquilyn, Hudson, Coltin, and Royse, plus the many more she adopted over the years. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ollie and Winnie Stapleton; brother Ray; sister Kay; and children Debbie, Roger, and Starla.

A graveside service is planned for 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 29, at the Willows Cemetery.

By Larry Judkins

Glenn County Observer

At about 3:20 Thursday afternoon, a call went out to Orland firefighters regarding a motorcycle that crashed into a structure.

Well, not quite, but almost.

The Honda motorcycle actually crashed onto the lawn on the Walker Street side of the Sandra Finch Realty business on the northeast corner of Walker and East Streets.

It was Sandra Finch who called 911. She later posted on Facebook:

“A young lady hit the rock wall in front of my office on a motorcycle. She was projected forward over the wall and walkway and landed on the lawn. Somehow nothing was broken. Her leg hurt but she was able to put weight on it. She will be very sore for a few days. Very Lucky young lady!!”

What caused the motorcyclist to lose control is not yet known. Judging from the marks on the sidewalk, she was traveling in a northeasterly direction at the moment her Honda jumped the curb and hit the rock wall.

A helmet was at the scene and presumably the motorcyclist was wearing it at the time of the accident.

An ambulance arrived at the scene but she declined to be transported for medical treatment.

Update: Friday morning, the Orland police logs identified the motorcyclist as Haillie Frenz, 20, of Durham.

By Larry Judkins

Glenn County Observer

Glenn County emergency responders had plenty to keep them busy during the last two hours of the morning on Monday.

Shortly after 10 a.m., Orland firefighters were dispatched to a report of a structure fire at 1317 Pine Street, south of the fairgrounds.

Orland police and a sheriff’s deputy got there quickly and made sure the residents were out of the house.

Orland Fire Chief Justin Chaney, reporting from one of the overpasses at Interstate 5, said that a large column of smoke could be seen.

The fire dispatcher said that he would go ahead and call for mutual aid from Artois and Willows.

Willows Fire Chief Nathan Monck, who lives in Orland, soon arrived at the scene.

Several Orland firefighters responded to the fire, as did Artois firefighters.

As The Glenn County Observer’s reporter was just about to make a left turn onto Pine Street from South Street, two Orland police units, with lights and sirens activated, turned from Pine Street onto westbound South Street.

Orland Police Sergeant Sean Johnson later said they responded to a single-vehicle accident at Almond Way and Rennat Way.

After firefighters gained control of the house fire, The Observer’s reporter headed to the vehicle accident.

On the south side of Almond Way, just east of Rennat Way, a young driver had apparently been traveling west on Almond Way when he lost control of his Infiniti, traveled across the roadway, and hit the guy wires of a power pole.

The pole itself did not appear to be seriously damaged and no power lines had fallen.

The driver appeared to be unhurt but the car sustained significant damage and was removed from the scene by Bambauer Towing.

Update: The Orland police logs for this incident identified the driver as Ryley Nelson, 19.