Whatever happened with the Deputy Sanzone case?

By Larry Judkins

Glenn County Observer

The wheels … of justice … turn very … very … slooooowly.

Perhaps you remember John Sanzone, the man who was a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy for just nine or so months, beginning in December of 2021. In September of 2022, while employed at the Glenn County Sheriff’s Office, Sanzone was placed on administrative leave after a citizen reported the deputy had stolen money from him during an arrest.

Prior to this, then-Oroville Police Officer Sanzone was alleged to have done the same thing to a resident of Butte County.

Following an investigation here in Glenn County, a charge alleging grand theft by embezzlement (a felony) was filed against Sanzone on August 31, 2022. Almost a year later, on August 11, 2023, Sanzone entered a plea of not guilty.

On July 1, 2024, a request was made for selection of prospective trial jurors. A trial readiness conference was held on September 12, but the jury trial was scheduled and vacated on September 23, 24, 25, and 26.

Another trial readiness conference is planned for March 13, 2025, and a jury trial is set for March 24.

We’ll see.

For The Observer’s 2022 story about Sanzone, click on https://glenncountyobserver.news/2022/09/17/lawsuit-names-gcso-deputy-accused-of-wrongdoing/

New Orland council to be seated

By Larry Judkins

Glenn County Observer

Orland is about to get a new city council.

Currently, the Orland City Council consists of Chris Dobbs, Mathew “Matt” Romano, Jeffrey A. Tolley, John McDermott, and Bruce T. Roundy. However, on November 5, three of these men (Dobbs, Tolley, and Roundy) were voted out of office, effective December 3.

Besides incumbents Dobbs, Tolley, and Roundy, seven other candidates were on the ballot for Orland City Council. They were (former Orland City Councilman) William “Billy” A. Irvin, JC Tolle, Alex Enriquez, (former Orland City Councilman) Dennis G. Hoffman, (former Orland City Councilman) James Edward Paschall, Terrie Barr, and Brandon Smith.

The terms for Matt Romano and John McDermott do not expire until December of 2026.

Voters could select three of the above 10 candidates. The results, going from most votes received to fewest votes, were:

Terrie Barr, 900;

Brandon Smith, 888;

JC Tolle, 855;

Alex Enriquez, 800;

Jeffrey A. Tolley, 556;

Bruce T. Roundy, 497;

Chris Dobbs, 395;

William A. Irvin, 378;

Dennis G. Hoffman, 326; and

James Edward Paschall, 213.

So, beginning with the Tuesday, December 3 meeting, the new Orland City Council will consist of Matt Romano, John McDermott, JC Tolle, Terrie Barr, and Brandon Smith. After Councilmen Dobbs, Roundy, and Tolley are recognized for their service, the new councilmembers will be sworn in, then the new mayor and vice mayor will be selected.

Presently, Chris Dobbs is the mayor, and Matt Romano is the vice mayor. The new mayor and vice mayor will hold their seats for 2024-2025.

The agenda also includes appointments to various Orland boards and commissions, including (among others) arts; economic development; library; parks and recreation; planning; and public works and safety.

Other election results directly affecting the City of Orland include Measure J, to help fund Orland ambulance services, construction and maintenance of Orland streets, Orland parks and recreation, and Orland library services. Measure J passed by a vote of 1,706 to 845.

Five candidates ran for the three expired open seats on the Orland Unified School District Governing Board. They were Erika A. Fuentes, Coreen De Leon, Jessica Medina Sanchez, Dustin Coughlin, and Becky L. Brummet.

The results, going from most votes received to fewest votes, were:

Dustin Coughlin, 2,798;

Becky L. Brummet, 1,745;

Coreen De Leon, 1,704;

Erika A. Fuentes, 1,579; and

Jessica Medina Sanchez, 1,405.

Two candidates, Sarah Morse and Nathan Monck, ran for a single unexpired vacant seat on the OUSD Governing Board. Monck received 2,726 votes, while Morse received 1,651.

The Orland City Council is scheduled to meet at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 3.

Update: This story originally stated that the Orland City Council would meet at the Glenn Success Square Conference Room, 131 East Walker Street. I now think this is incorrect.

The City of Orland’s website says in at least two places that the council meets every first and third Tuesday of the month at Success Square. However, the top of the council’s agenda says it meets at the Carnegie Center in Library Park. On Monday, I will call city hall for clarification.

Second Update: It has been confirmed that the Orland City Council meeting will take place at the Carnegie Center in Library Park.

Up-to-date check-ins at the Graybar Hotel

Here is a list of the bookings into the Glenn County Jail, with information provided by jail personnel, the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, the Orland police log, and Glenn County Superior Court records. Remember: Everyone accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Friday, November 22:

8:30 a.m., Jose Luis Gutierrez, 35, of Woodland, was remanded to the Glenn County Jail without bail for charges of driving while under the influence of alcohol (a misdemeanor), and driving while under the influence with priors (a felony). He was taken into custody at the Glenn County Superior Court by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

7:45 p.m., Ruth Haley Word, 38, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging violation of a court order to prevent domestic violence (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. She was taken into custody at 175 North Villa Avenue, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 12:10 p.m. on November 22, deputies were detailed to the Quality Inn, 199 North Humboldt Avenue, Willows, for a report of a guest refusing to vacate room #124. Deputies contacted the guest, who was in the process of leaving when deputies arrived. Deputies stood by and ensured the person, Ruth Haley Word, left the building. The subject was admonished for trespassing.

About seven hours later on the same date, Denise Word called on behalf of her daughter, Elizabeth Word, to report Ruth Word was allegedly causing a disturbance at Elizabeth’s apartment, 175 North Villa Avenue, apt. #9, Willows. Denise reported Elizabeth left the apartment and was en route to her residence in Willows. Deputies responded and contacted Ruth at Elizabeth’s apartment. Ruth was found to be the restrained party in a served no-contact, 100-yard stay away domestic violence protection order, with Elizabeth listed as one of the protected parties. Ruth allegedly admitted to being in contact with Elizabeth. A deputy spoke with Elizabeth, who reportedly confirmed Ruth had been at her apartment and caused a disturbance. Ruth Word was subsequently arrested for violating the terms of a domestic violence restraining order. She was taken to the Glenn County Jail for booking.

Saturday, November 23:

5:42 p.m., Alicia Marie Goodman, 44, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging vandalism, and trespassing on occupied property without the consent of the owner (both misdemeanors). Bail was set at $0. She was taken into custody at 661 North Murdock Avenue, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 5:25 p.m. on November 23, deputies were dispatched to 661 North Murdock Avenue, Willows, for a report of Alicia Goodman allegedly causing a disturbance. Deputies contacted Goodman, who was ultimately placed under arrest.

Sunday, November 24:

3:49 a.m., Consuelo April Negrete Sandoval, 26, of Chico, 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. She was taken into custody at the Glenn County Fairgrounds in Orland by a California Highway Patrol officer.

10:29 p.m., Robert Walter Taresh, 54, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on warrants alleging violation of post-release community supervision (a felony), and failure to appear on a felony charge. One of the three warrants was a no-bail warrant. Total bail for the other two was set at $70,000. He was taken into custody at 3957 Highway 99, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

10:43 p.m., Tammy Lynn Sackett, 54, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge. Bail was set at $4,500. She was taken into custody at 3957 Highway 99, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

11:18 p.m., Jeimi Amparo Saligan, 40, of 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 disobeying a court order (all misdemeanors). Bail was set at $10,000. She was taken into custody at Swift and A Streets by an Orland police officer.

According to the Orland Police Department log, at about 10:57 p.m. on November 24, on Swift Street at A Street, an Orland police officer initiated a traffic enforcement stop on a white 2002 Dodge Stratus. Following an investigation, Jeimi Saligan, 40, of Orland, was arrested and booked for allegedly driving while under the influence of alcohol and violation of court probation.

11:39 p.m., Megan Lynn Gephart, 43, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging using or being under the influence of a controlled substance (a misdemeanor), obstructing or resisting a public service officer (a misdemeanor), possession of a controlled substance (a misdemeanor), and willful cruelty to a child resulting in possible injury or death (a felony). Bail was set at $50,000. She was taken into custody at 377 County Road D, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 11:05 p.m. on November 24, a caller reported that she had cut herself earlier in the day and requested medical attention at 377 County Road D, Willows. GCSO Communications said that Gephart was armed with knife and refused to put it down and there was a child inside the residence. Glenn County Sheriff’s deputies and California Highway Patrol officers arrived at the residence and arrested Gephart. Gephart was taken to the Glenn County Jail for booking.

Monday, November 25:

1:16 a.m., Tammy Lynn Sackett, 54, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on warrants alleging giving false identification to a peace officer, theft of personal property, possession of controlled substance paraphernalia, failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge, failure to appear after giving a written promise, petty theft, petty theft of retail merchandise, and driving with a license suspended for driving while under the influence (all misdemeanors). Total bail was set at $6,500. Sackett had already been booked into the Glenn County Jail when she was arrested for these warrants. (See the booking report for 10:43 p.m. on November 24.)

2:16 a.m., Giovanni Gonzalez Rojas, 26, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging battery on a spouse, ex-spouse, date, etc. (a misdemeanor), and felony vandalism. Bail was set at $15,000. He was taken into custody at 83 Rennat Way, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

Tuesday, November 26:

2:10 p.m., Cassandra Eileen Ball, 41, of Redding, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a Willows Superior Court warrant alleging failure to appear on a felony charge. Bail was set at $60,000. She was taken into custody at the Shasta County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 5:57 p.m. on October 7, 2023, Glenn County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to Walmart, 470 Airport Road, Willows, for a reported shoplifting. Deputies found a man in the area who was pushing a cart full of merchandise, and a woman. After an on-scene investigation, Casandra Ball and Matthew Schrader, both of Redding, were placed under arrest.

According to Glenn County Superior Court records, on October 7, 2023, Ball was charged with grand theft of more than $950 in merchandise (a felony). On October 10, 2023, she was released on her own recognizance. On June 14, 2024, a plea of not guilty was entered. On August 7, 2024, a bench warrant for Ball’s arrest was issued by Judge Ekland.

More vacancies filled at the Graybar Hotel

Here is a list of the bookings into the Glenn County Jail, with information provided by jail personnel, and the Glenn County Sheriff’s log. Remember: Everyone accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Tuesday, November 19:

11:30 a.m., Steven Dehoyos Hernandez, 54, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail without bail on an order of production for charges alleging causing harm to an elder or dependent adult, battery on a custodial officer, and battery by gassing of an executive officer (all felonies). He was taken into custody at Atascadero State Hospital by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

2:02 p.m., Sonia Navidad Lopez-Sanchez, 23, of Orland, was remanded to the Glenn County Jail for alleged misdemeanor violation of probation, and a warrant alleging cruelty to a child with possible injury or death (a misdemeanor). Total bail was set at $15,000. She was taken into custody at the Glenn County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

2:02 p.m., Tara Leigh Bessmer, 39, of Richvale, surrendered herself to a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy at the Glenn County Jail for charges alleging felony violation of probation. She was held without bail.

2:06 p.m., Hector Joseph Chirino, 34, of Orland, was remanded to the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of controlled substance paraphernalia (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $0. He was previously booked into the jail on Monday, November 18.

4:30 p.m., Dustin Jeffery Springer, 26, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging misdemeanor violation of probation. Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody at the Glenn County Probation Department, Willows, by a probation officer.

Wednesday, November 20:

8:01 p.m., Hafeez Ali, 51, of Sacramento, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging sexual battery, and sexual penetration with the use of force or fear (both felonies). Bail was set at $125,000. He was taken into custody on the southbound side of Interstate 5, south of Myers Road, by a California Highway Patrol officer.

The Observer does not know with certainty whether the following is related to the above booking report. However, according to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at 7:18 p.m. on November 20, Sergeant Ramirez was dispatched to the McDonald’s located at 1401 West Wood Street in Willows for a report of a sexual assault. Deputy Cordova and Sergeant Ramirez arrived and contacted the victim. It was discovered the assault occurred on I-5. CHP responded and took over the investigation.

Thursday, November 21:

12:03 a.m., Timothy David Warren, 52, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging kidnapping (a felony), threatening to commit a crime with intent to terrorize (a felony), and false imprisonment (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $200,000. He was taken into custody at 3892 County Road J, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at 10:31 p.m. on Wednesday, November 20, deputies responded to the area of 6478 County Road 25 after a woman was reportedly in the area knocking on a window and asking for help. Upon arrival deputies located the female and conducted an investigation. The woman reported her boyfriend, Timothy David Warren, refused to allow her to exit his 2004 Ford F250 for approximately an hour and a half as he drove her around numerous county roads between Hamilton City and Orland. The woman reported she asked Warren to stop five or six times and he refused. Warren also told the woman he would keep her hostage and threatened to kill her multiple times if she contacted law enforcement. Deputies later located Warren and arrested him without incident. Warren was subsequently booked into the Glenn County Jail.

10:30 a.m., Stephen James Baker-Rubio, 35, of Redding, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a felony charge. Bail was set at $60,000. He was taken into custody at the Shasta County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

10:30 a.m., Justin Michael Kegley, 41, of Orland, returned to the custody of the Glenn County Jail for charges alleging threatening to commit a crime with intent to terrorize (a felony), and driving with a license suspended for driving while under the influence (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $60,000. He was taken into custody at the Shasta County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

11:38 a.m., Haim Hernandez, 19, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging battery on a spouse, ex-spouse, date, etc., unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor up to three years younger than the perpetrator, and false imprisonment (all misdemeanors) Bail was set at $5,000. He was taken into custody at 1333 West Sycamore Street, apt. #41, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 10:49 a.m. on November 21, Deputy Tuma was dispatched to a welfare check on a female crying near 1333 West Sycamore Street, Willows. Deputy Tuma contacted the female and two other people. After an on-scene investigation, Haim Hernandez was placed under arrest and transported to the Glenn County Jail.

5 p.m., Ruben Corza, 37, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging trespassing on an occupied property, using or being under the influence of a controlled substance, and possession of a controlled substance (all misdemeanors). Bail was set at $0. He was taken into custody at 932 North Butte Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 4:33 p.m. on November 21, deputies were dispatched to 932 North Butte Street, Willows, for a report of Rueben Corza being at the residence. Deputies contacted Corza, who was ultimately placed under arrest for alleged trespassing and being under the influence of a controlled substance.

Obituary: Ian Thomas Alves, 38

With his mother by his side, Ian Thomas Alves died peacefully on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. He was born in Chico to Sandra and Gregory T. Alves. On April 21, 1986.

From a young age, Ian showed his love for the outdoors, where he spent much of his time fishing, hunting, and playing outside in his grandmother MaryLu’s flower beds.

He idolized his father and grandfather, Basil Alves, Sr., often spending his time with them at work and in the fields.

That is where he grew a strong work ethic and later found his calling for welding. He continued to work in the ag industry and fish as often as possible.

He was intelligent and talented, in a lot of ways that he didn’t show others.

He loved fishing, any lake, stream, river, or pond. He was always after the big catch.

“Ian, we will always think of you in nature, where you found contentment and happiness,” say his loved ones.

He is survived by his mother, Sandra Alves; and his brother, Jeff Johnson.

Latest additions to the Graybar Hotel registry

Here is a list of the bookings into the Glenn County Jail, with information provided by jail personnel, the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, Glenn County Superior Court records, and the Orland police log. Remember: Everyone accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Friday, November 15:

9 a.m., John Michael Luna, 21, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a court remand for felony vandalism. Bail was set at $20,000. He was taken into custody at Glenn County Courthouse, 526 West Sycamore Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, on April 26, 2022, at about 6:50 p.m., Edgar Ruiz contacted the Glenn County Sheriff’s Office to report three males with “toy firearms” had broken into an abandoned residence at 642 Glenwood Lane, Willows. Deputy Chavez was dispatched and contacted two male juveniles and John Luna who were running from the back door of the residence. Deputy Chavez found two airsoft handguns on the boys. Deputy Chavez initiated an investigation. Deputies ultimately determined the three males used force to enter the residence and vandalized the interior. The two juveniles were transported to Tehama County Juvenile Hall and Luna was transported to the Glenn County Jail to be booked by jail staff.

According to Glenn County Superior Court records, Luna pled guilty to felony vandalism on July 6, 2022.

11:49 p.m., Maricruz Sedano, 28, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging battery on a spouse, ex-spouse, date, etc. (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. She was taken into custody at 40 East Mill Street by an Orland police officer.

According to the Orland Police Department log, at 11:27 p.m. on November 15, Orland police officers responded to the area of 40 East Mill Street for a report of a domestic disturbance. Officers contacted Maricruz Sedano, 28, and Senen Ochoa, 30, both of Orland. Following an investigation, Sedano was arrested and booked for alleged domestic battery.

Saturday, November 16:

3:21 a.m., Troy Douglas Gammon, 26, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging public intoxication (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $0. He was taken into custody at 110 North Yolo Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 3:04 a.m. on November 16, Yesenia Mendoza requested her ex-boyfriend, Troy Gammon, who she believed had been drinking, to be moved along. Gammon was reported to be knocking on her apartment door at 110 North Yolo Street. Deputy Ayres contacted Gammon outside of Mendoza’s apartment. After an on-scene investigation Gammon was arrested for alleged public intoxication. Gammon was transported to the Glenn County Jail to be booked and released when sober.

7:56 p.m., Maddison Afton Hancock, 23, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging battery on a spouse, ex-spouse, date, etc. (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. She was taken into custody at 407 East Wood Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 6:50 p.m. on November 16, deputies responded to an open line 911 call, where a female was stating someone was breaking and entering. Deputies contacted Kiersten Bramble outside of the residence at 407 East Wood Street, Willows. Bramble reported being assaulted by her ex-partner, Maddison Hancock. Hancock initially would not come to the door but eventually did. Deputy Ayres interviewed Hancock, who reported allegedly being assaulted by Bramble. After an on-scene investigation, Hancock was arrested for alleged misdemeanor domestic battery.

Sunday, November 17:

2:32 a.m., Josue Daniel Nava, 34, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging public intoxication (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $0. He was taken into custody at 48 Chapman Street by an Orland police officer.

According to the Orland Police Department log, at about 2:22 a.m. on November 17, Orland police officers responded to a report of an unknown man trespassing on a property in the 40 block of Chapman Street. Officers contacted Josue Nava, 34, of Orland. Following an investigation, Nava was arrested and booked for alleged public intoxication.

2:35 a.m., Thomas Clinton Cook, 19, of Redding, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging public intoxication (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $0. He was taken into custody at County Roads 200 and 12, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 1:21 a.m. on November 17, Jesse Brewer called the Glenn County Sheriff’s Office to report her friend, Thomas Cook, was allegedly under the influence of alcohol and attempting to walk home. Brewer had a cellphone ping in the area of County Roads 200 and 12 and advised he lives in Redding. The Glenn County Sheriff’s Office, Orland Police Department, and California Highway Patrol searched the area. Cook was found in a field near the cellphone ping. Deputy Mallon contacted Cook, who allegedly had a strong odor of alcohol emitting from his person and had slurred speech. Cook did not have any shoes on and was sitting in a field in cold weather and his pants were wet. Cook was unable to care for himself. Deputy Mallon placed Cook under arrest for public intoxication and transported to the Glenn County Jail, to be released when sober.

7:04 p.m., Justin Theodore Marshall, 41, of 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 377 County Road D by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 4:08 p.m. on November 17, a confidential victim called the Glenn County Sheriff’s Office to report a cold domestic violence on County Road D in Willows. Deputy Mallon initiated an investigation and placed Justin Marshall under arrest for alleged domestic violence. Marshall was transported to the Glenn County Jail and booked.

Monday, November 18:

8:30 a.m., Hector Joseph Chirino, 34, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge. Bail was set at $20,000. He was taken into custody at the Butte County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

8:30 a.m., Tianna Destiny Melvin, 25, of Chico, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge. Bail was set at $20,000. She was taken into custody at the Butte County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

8:30 a.m., Joshua Lee Scarbrough, 40, of Chico, was booked into the Glenn County Jail without bail on an order of production for alleged possession of a controlled substance (a misdemeanor), and a detainer for alleged possession of 10 or more IDs with intent to defraud (a felony). He was taken into custody at the Butte County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

4:43 p.m., Destiny Elaine Morgan, 24, of Los Molinos, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on four no-bail Tehama County warrants, two of them alleging failure to appear on a felony charge, one alleging failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge, and one alleging failure to appear after giving a written promise (a misdemeanor). She was taken into custody in the Glenn County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

Recent check-ins at the Graybar Hotel

Here is a list of the bookings into the Glenn County Jail, with information provided by jail personnel, the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, and the Orland police log. Remember: Everyone accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Friday, November 8:

No one was booked into the Glenn County Jail on this date.

Saturday, November 9:

2:54 a.m., Keith Tovar Long, 33, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging public intoxication (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $0. He was taken into custody at 103 South Lassen Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

7:33 p.m., Eduardo Jesus Lupercio, 40, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging violation of a court order to prevent domestic violence (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. He was taken into custody at the jail, 141 South Lassen Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

Sunday, November 10:

No one was booked into the Glenn County Jail on this date.

Monday, November 11:

3:44 p.m., Levi Joshua Byerly, 30, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging violation of probation, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of controlled substance paraphernalia (all misdemeanors). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody at 1021 South Street by an Orland police officer.

According to the Orland Police Department log, at 3:27 p.m. on November 11, Orland police officers contacted Levi Byerly, 30, of Orland, in the 1000 block of South Street. Following an investigation, Byerly was arrested and booked for alleged violation of probation, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

4:06 p.m., Billy Joe Kay, 42, of Anderson, 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 57, east of Interstate 5, by a California Highway Patrol officer.

Tuesday, November 12:

12:43 a.m., Ricky David Comer, 61, of Corning, was booked into the Glenn County Jail without bail on a Bexar County, Texas, warrant alleging being a fugitive from justice (a felony). He was taken into custody at 94698 County Road 7, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

3:40 p.m., Terril Andrew Whitlock, 23, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging rape by force or fear, oral copulation with a minor 14 years old or older through the use of force or fear, and sexual penetration of a minor 14 years old or older through the use of force or fear (all felonies). Bail was set at $200,000. He was taken into custody at 526 West Sycamore Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log for July 27, 2023, at about 3:56 p.m., a confidential victim went to the Orland Police Department and reported a sexual assault that took place in the county. Deputies responded and met with the victim. Deputies initiated an investigation. One of the suspects was Terril Andrew Whitlock.

4:30 p.m., Johnathan Perry Bush, 37, of 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.

8:30 p.m., Armando Garcia, 30, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging violation of a court order to prevent domestic violence (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. He was taken into custody at 600 North Humboldt Avenue, apt. #257, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 8:08 p.m. on November 12, Deputy Peterson was dispatched to a possible restraining order violation at the Cedar Hills apartment complex. Deputy Peterson arrived and contacted Armando Garcia of Orland at the front door of the caller’s residence, 600 North Humboldt Avenue, apt. #257, Willows. Garcia said he was trying to visit his children who lived at the residence. A records check was conducted and confirmed there was an active no contact restraining order against Garcia with the protective party being the caller and her children. Deputy Peterson contacted the woman inside the residence. Garcia was subsequently arrested for violating a restraining order. Garcia was transported to the Glenn County Jail to be booked and processed.

Wednesday, November 13:

7 a.m., Jose Guadalupe Rodriguez, 32, of Corning, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on several no-bail warrants alleging failure to appear on a felony charge, use of a false compartment to store controlled substances (a felony), possession of a controlled substance (a misdemeanor), possession of controlled substance paraphernalia (a misdemeanor), and driving without a license (a misdemeanor), and a court remand with a charge alleging driving with a license suspended for driving while under the influence (a misdemeanor). Bail for the remand was set at $5,000. He was taken into custody at the Tehama County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

4:19 p.m., Stephanie Ranee Wright, 36, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on warrants alleging failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge. Total bail was set at $60,000. She was taken into custody at 33 County Center Drive, Oroville, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

9 p.m., Shawn Dale Van Gieson, 51, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail without bail on a sentence for misdemeanor violation of probation. He was taken into custody at 672 North Murdock Street, Willows, by a Glenn County probation officer.

9:03 p.m., George Wiley Dalson, 26, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of a controlled substance, and possession of controlled substance (both misdemeanors), and a no-bail Mendocino County Superior Court warrant alleging failure to appear on a felony charge. Bail for the fresh charges was set at $0. He was taken into custody at 600 North Humboldt Avenue, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.

According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 9:08 p.m. on November 13, while investigating a call for service, Deputy Cordova contacted George Dalson of Elm Street in Willows at the Cedar Hills Manor apartment complex, 600 North Humboldt Avenue, Willows. Deputy Cordova had prior knowledge of an outstanding felony warrant out of Mendocino County issued for Dalson’s arrest. GCSO Communications confirmed the warrant, and Dalson was arrested without incident. Dalson was searched incident to arrest, and deputies located a glass pipe with a white crystalline substance/residue and a small plastic tie-off bag that contained a white crystalline substance (GFW – 6.4 grams). Dalson identified the substance as crystal methamphetamine. Deputies subsequently transported and booked Dalson into the Glenn County Jail.

Thursday, November 14:

8:26 a.m., Gauge Allen Dean, 24, of Los Molinos, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of a stolen vehicle (a felony), possession of burglary tools (a misdemeanor), and unlawful possession of tear gas or a tear gas weapon (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $10,000. He was also booked on two no-bail Tehama County warrants alleging possession of burglary tools (a misdemeanor), and possession of a stolen vehicle (a felony), and warrants alleging possession of a controlled substance, possession of controlled substance paraphernalia, failure to appear after giving a written promise, driving without a license, and driving with a suspended license (all misdemeanors). Total bail for these warrants was set at $75,000. He was taken into custody on the southbound side of Interstate 5, just south of the Glenn/Tehama County line, by a California Highway Patrol officer.

8:26 a.m., Destiny Morgan, 24, of Los Molinos, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of a stolen vehicle (a felony). Bail was set at $10,000. She was taken into custody custody on the southbound side of Interstate 5, just south of the Glenn/Tehama County line, by a California Highway Patrol officer

4:45 p.m., James Gregory Gruchy, 66, of Redding, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging public intoxication (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $0. He was taken into custody at Burger King, 901 Newville Road, by an Orland police officer.

According to the Orland Police Department’s log, at about 4:40 p.m. on November 14, Orland police officers responded to a report of an intoxicated man who was stumbling and almost fell at Burger King, 901 Newville Road. Officers contacted James Gruchy, 66, of Redding, who was subsequently arrested and booked for alleged public intoxication.

11:39 p.m., Rodrigo Javier Santiago Sosa, 19, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs (a misdemeanor), driving while under the influence of alcohol (a misdemeanor), driving without a license (a misdemeanor), and forgery of a driver’s license or identification card (a felony). Bail was set at $20,000. He was taken into custody at Walker Street and A Street by an Orland police officer.

According to the Orland Police Department’s log, at about 11:01 p.m. on November 14, an Orland police officer initiated a traffic enforcement stop on Walker Street at A Street on a black 2001 Honda Civic. Following an investigation, Rodrigo Sosa, 19, of Orland, was arrested and booked for allegedly driving while under the influence, driving while unlicensed, and forged/fraudulent identification.

Load of hay burns in Orland

An Orland firefighter uses a forklift to remove smoldering hay from a trailer. Glenn County Observer photo by Larry Judkins.

By Larry Judkins

Glenn County Observer

At roughly 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 16, Orland firefighters responded to a report of a vehicle with a load of hay on fire.

The incident took place in the vacant lot between Sixth Street and the railroad tracks, just north of South Street.

As the firefighters were on their way, a report was received that the hay was “fully involved.”

An approaching firefighter reported that a large amount of smoke was showing.

The smoke was being blown to the south by rather strong north winds.

When this reporter arrived, firefighters were on the scene, and a forklift was being used to remove the hay from the trailer.

About a half-hour or 45 minutes after the call went out, it was announced that the fire was extinguished.

Update: At approximately 1:20 p.m. on November 16, the Glenn County dispatcher received a call reporting that smoke was rising from one of the piles of hay that had earlier been removed from the trailer.

At 1:25 p.m., a firefighter arrived at the scene with a water tender.

About eight minutes later, it was reported that the fire was extinguished.

Obituary: Valerie Jean White, 81

Valerie Jean White, a devoted wife, beloved mother, cherished sister, “Gma” and “Auntie to all”, died peacefully on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and unmatched moral compass. Born in Fairbanks, Alaska, on September 17, 1943, she was a beacon of love and joy to everyone around her.

She was married to her soulmate, Edman White, for more than 50 beautiful years until his death in 2019. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and cherished memories.

She was the proud mother of Hollie Geroy and Edman White (Mary) of Texas, who both carry forward her caring spirit and strong values. Known for her lighthearted spirit, she enjoyed her Bunco night with friends, monthly visits to the casino, and eating out at local restaurants.

Her playful side brought laughter and connection into her community. One of her greatest joys was retreating to the family cabin in Almanor, where she found peace in nature and gathered with loved ones.

She was the adored “Gma” to Auston White-Ingle (Chico), Hanah Mejia (Oakland), Elizabeth Ingle (Minnesota), Kayla Stephens, Christopher Stephens, and Dylan Stephen (Texas). She was the beloved “G.G.” to Kain (Oakland), Jude (Minnesota), and Liam and Lorenzo (Texas).

Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering kindness will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A graveside service is planned for 1 p.m. on Friday, November 22, at the Willows Cemetery. A Celebration of Life potluck is to immediately follow at the ARK.

Obituary: Coy Ray Yancy, 76

Surrounded by loved ones, Coy Ray Yancy died at his Orland home on Friday, October 25, 2024, after a brave fight with cancer. The youngest of five children, he was born in Stockton to Doy Oscar and Edna Claudine Yancy on February 3, 1948.

Upon graduating from high school in Marysville, he intended to enlist in the U.S. Air Force, but he was drafted into the Army. During his multiple years of service as a Sergeant in the Army, he spent a year in Vietnam and bravely led the group of men under his command in battle and through the Vietnam jungles.

When he returned home from Vietnam, he spent some time living in Texas and helping his sister with the family meat market and restaurant, but ultimately ended up back in California, where he worked and raised his children. He was a hard worker, family man, and dedicated to providing for his wife and five kids, as well as his grandmother who lived with his family for quite a few years.

When not working, and in his later retirement years, he enjoyed gardening, showing his grandkids how to garden, keeping his lawn and trees immaculate, fishing, camping, and being with his animals. When you did catch him sitting, he also enjoyed watching baseball, specifically the San Francisco Giants, RFDTV Country Music, playing guitar, and watching his westerns, especially “Gunsmoke”.

He especially enjoyed any time his kids and grandkids came to visit.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Terry; daughter Jeannie Stroing (Tom) of Red Bluff; son Rodney (Shelley) of Australia; daughter Misty Hoffman (Dave) of Kirkwood; son Mike (Shannon) of Marysville; daughter Amanda Rolfs (Justin) of Orland; 14 grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; sister Freda Cox of Baytown, Texas; and brother Melvin Yancy of Orland. He was preceded in death by his parents, Doy and Claudine; older brother, William, who died shortly after birth; and sister Norma.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet-Olsen Family Mortuary in Orland.