Sheriff’s deputies look under the hood of the vehicle involved in the Hamilton City shooting. A bullet hole can be seen above the left front wheel. Glenn County Observer photo by Larry Judkins.
By Larry Judkins
Glenn County Observer
Gunfire was exchanged by the occupants of two vehicles in Hamilton City Sunday afternoon.
Both of the vehicles quickly fled the scene, with at least one of them heading to Orland.
An Orland police officer spotted it traveling south on East Street and turning left onto East Yolo Street.
The officer made a felony stop (guns drawn) on East Yolo, just west of Fair Street.
An Orland police officer prepares to place one of the two teenagers allegedly involved in the shooting into a patrol vehicle. Glenn County Observer photo by Larry Judkins.
At this time (roughly 4 p.m.), this Glenn County Observer reporter, camera in hand, headed to East Yolo and Fair Street. (The score, by the way, was 7-0, Philadelphia.)
Both children were in custody. Law enforcement officers from the Glenn County Sheriff’s Office, Orland Police Department, and California Highway Patrol were on scene.
The Observer remained at the scene until about 5:30 p.m.
Just before leaving, The Observer asked Sgt. Grant Lemmon of the Glenn County Sheriff’s Office about the other vehicle involved in the shooting. He replied that it had not yet been located.
It is with some regret that I must notify you that I intend to set up a paywall for The Glenn County Observer.
Don’t worry, the cost will be very inexpensive. If just 10 percent of Observer readers were to make, say, a $5 donation every year, it would cover the costs of publishing The Observer, and creating a paywall wouldn’t be necessary.
Unfortunately, only a few generous readers have contributed to The Observer over the course of the past year.
So, be prepared. In the next day or two, you will have to pay a nominal fee (once a year) in order to read this publication.
My sincere apologies, but I simply can’t continue to provide The Observer at no cost to almost all of you but at substantial cost to myself.
Here are the latest sentencings in the Glenn County Superior Court, period ending Friday, January 24, as reported by the Glenn County District Attorney’s Office and other sources.
People vs. Elizabeth Armenta – Defendant was convicted of a violation of probation. She was sentenced to 16 months in state prison. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Dwayne Stewart, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officer Gray.
According to Vinelink, she is currently in custody in the Glenn County Jail.
People vs. Roberto Cardenas-Zepeda – Defendant admitted a fourth violation of probation. He was sentenced to 16 months in state prison. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Stewart, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Department Officer Berglund.
People vs. Justin Kegley – Defendant was convicted of making criminal threats (a felony). He was sentenced to three years’ probation and given 429 days in county jail. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Michael Coffey, with assistance from Glenn County Sheriff’s Deputy Heath Rasmussen.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, on June 9, 2024, Clifford Kegley reported that his son, Justin Kegley, of Willows, had threatened to “kill” him. Clifford Kegley was in fear for his life and he left the residence at 4781 County Road N, Orland. Clifford Kegley and another family member, Joanne Joksch, went back to the residence and attempted to calm Kegley, who they believed was having mental health issues. While Joksch was attempting to speak to Kegley, he charged at her with a knife in his hand and told her he was going to stab her. Both victims exited the residence and left the area. After speaking with the victims, deputies attempted to contact Justin Kegley at the residence. He initially refused to exit the residence, but was ultimately taken into custody by Glenn County Sheriff’s personnel for both fresh charges and a warrant. Justin Kegley was transported to the Glenn County Jail, where he was released to jail staff for booking.
People vs. Annalise Jones – Defendant was convicted of violation of probation. It was her second and third violation. She was sentenced to one year in county jail. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Coffey, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officers Ortiz and Gray.
People vs. Robert Dingman – Defendant was previously convicted of possession of methamphetamine (a misdemeanor). He was also found in violation of probation for the first time. He was sentenced to 180 days in county jail. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Coffey, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officer Chavera.
According to the Orland Police Department’s logs, on May 17, 2023, Orland police officers were dispatched to a report of Robert Dingman, 77, harassing library patrons. Officers contacted Dingman, who was told of the complaint. Following an investigation, Dingman was arrested and booked for possession of meth and drug paraphernalia.
People vs. Beatrice Salazar – Defendant admitted a fourth violation of probation. She was sentenced to 180 days county jail. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Coffey, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officer Sweet.
People vs. Ignacio Moreno Perez – Defendant was convicted of evading a peace officer (a misdemeanor). He was sentenced to 180 days in county jail. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Coffey, with assistance from Orland Police Officer Vargas.
According to the Orland Police Department’s log, on September 14, 2024, Orland police officers initiated a traffic enforcement stop on a black 2005 Chevy Equinox. The Chevy failed to yield and fled south on Papst Avenue, then east on County Road 15. Officers pursued the Chevy, which pulled into a driveway at 6735 County Road 15 before the driver, later identified as Ignacio Moreno-Perez, 26, of Orland, fled on foot into an orchard. Officers pursued Moreno-Perez, who ignored commands to stop or to show his hands. Officers deployed a Taser and successfully took Moreno-Perez into custody without further incident. Moreno-Perez was arrested and booked for felony evading, resisting or obstructing a peace officer, driving with a blood alcohol level above 0.08 percent, and a misdemeanor Glenn County warrant. The Chevy was towed and impounded.
People vs. Eliseo Gonzalez – Defendant was convicted of two counts of child abuse likely to produce great bodily harm or death (a felony), possession of a firearm by a felon or addict (a felony), evading a peace officer with wanton disregard for safety (a felony). He was sentenced to 180 days in county jail. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Stewart, with assistance from Glenn County Sheriff’s Sergeant Ramirez.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, on December 13, 2018, deputies were involved in a vehicle pursuit with a green Ford Explorer initiated at County Road VV, south of Highway 32, near Hamilton City. Deputies did not initially locate the vehicle or occupants. After further investigation, deputies were able to locate all the parties involved in the pursuit. Emily Delgadillo was subsequently placed under arrest for two outstanding warrants. Eliseo Gonzalez, then 34, was subsequently placed under arrest for an outstanding out of county warrant and six felony charges, including two counts of willful cruelty to a child with possible injury or death (a felony); evading a peace officer with wanton disregard for safety (a felony); possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (a felony); and possession of ammunition by a prohibited person (a felony).
People vs. Jason Herr – Defendant was convicted of violation of probation. He was sentenced to 180 days in county jail. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Coffey, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officer Pfyl.
Surrounded by family and friends, Glen Lee Williams died at his home in Willows on Friday, January 24, 2025, following a battle with cancer. He was born in Jackson, Amador County, Calif., to Kenneth and Joan (Hamrick) Williams on November 13, 1955.
He grew up in various locations where his father worked as an operating engineer, until they moved to Willows, when Glen was in junior high school. Glen met and became friends with Anthony Niehues and the Niehues family and developed a lifelong friendship with Anthony.
After graduating from Willows High School, he attended Butte College. He met Lanette Gunderson in Chico.
They were married June 17, 1978, and moved to Wasilla, Alaska, shortly thereafter. Glen worked at the Municipality of Anchorage as a mechanic on the People Movers and later moved to the fire department.
Meanwhile, he also worked as a volunteer firefighter in the Mat-Su Valley. After some years, he became a firefighter at the Anchorage Fire Department.
Glen enjoyed being a firefighter very much and wore many hats, including EMT, Dive Rescue, Extrication, and Haz Mat. He retired as a captain on his birthday in 2010.
After retirement, Glen and Lanette spent their winters in Richfield, Calif., and then purchased a house in Willows in 2012. They spent their summers at their home in Wasilla and went dip netting on the Kenai River every year.
Glen enjoyed telling stories, hunting, and fishing. He loved being a husband, a father, an Opa, and a firefighter. And he loved his friends like family.
He is survived by his wife, Lanette; sister Donna (Al) Simmons; son Anthony; daughters Alycia (Peter) Hahn, Amy Williams, and Amanda (Doug) Seppanen; grandchildren Elliot, Emet, Joel, Kendall, Karli, Adela, Alyssa, David, Amos, Kensington, Annabell, Elijah, Anderson, and Theodore. He was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth, and his mother, Joan.
A memorial service is planned for 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 15, at F.D. Sweet & Son Funeral Home, 114 North Shasta Street, Willows. A graveside services is to follow at 11 a.m. at the Willows Cemetery.
A celebration of life is scheduled to take place at noon at the Jacinto Grange Hall, 7254 County Road 39, Willows.
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, January 31:
2:22 p.m., Adam Charles Hamel, 36, of Hays, Kansas, 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 Wilbur-Ellis, 6504 County Road 57, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 2:02 p.m. on January 31, Amelia Waldron contacted Glenn County Sheriff’s Office to report a vehicle in the Wilbur-Ellis business parking lot, 6504 County Road 57, Willows, with a man who appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. Deputy Chavez responded and located the 2024 Chevrolet AZ with Adam Hamel sleeping in the driver’s seat. Hamel displayed objective signs and symptoms of being under the influence of alcohol, including slurred speech, red watery eyes, and an unsteady stance. Deputy Chavez determined Hamel was unable to care for himself due to his level of intoxication and was subsequently placed under arrest for alleged public intoxication. Hamel was transported to the Glenn County Jail. While at the jail, Hamel submitted to a preliminary alcohol screening (PAS), which displayed he had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .312 percent, almost four times the limit for drinking and driving. Hamel was to be released when sober.
Saturday, February 1:
12:27 a.m., Arely Santiago, 21, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging public intoxication (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $0. She was taken into custody at 6273 Huggins Drive, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 11:54 p.m. on January 31, deputies were detailed to a 911 hangup at 6273 Huggins Drive in the Orland area. Deputies contacted two people and determined one was intoxicated to such a degree that she was unable to care for herself. She was taken into custody.
7:07 p.m., David Alan Sullivan, 64, of Orland, 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 Cutler Avenue, west of Second Avenue, by a California Highway Patrol officer.
9:28 p.m., Shirley Ann Cabrera, 28, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging infliction of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant (a felony), and possession of a controlled substance (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $25,000. She was taken into custody at apt. #116 at Purpose Place (the Habitat for Humanity apartments), 827 Newville Road by an Orland police officer.
According to the Orland Police Department’s log, at about 9:06 p.m. on February 1, Orland police officers responded to a report of a domestic disturbance at Purpose Place (the Habitat for Humanity apartments), 827 Newville Road. Officers contacted Donald Smith, 63, who reported being assaulted by his girlfriend, Shirley Cabrera, 29. After an on-scene investigation, Cabrera was arrested for felony domestic violence and possession of a controlled substance. Cabrera was booked into the Glenn County Jail.
Sunday, February 2:
3:44 p.m., Haim Hernandez, 19, 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 6390 County Road 24, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 3:16 p.m. on February 2, while investigating a restraining order violation, Deputy Goodwin discovered another restraining order violation was made at 6390 County Road 24 in the Orland area. Deputy Goodwin arrested Haim Hernandez for an alleged violation of a domestic violence restraining order, with a Butte County resident as the protected party. Hernandez was transported to the Glenn County Jail, where he was booked.
Monday, February 3:
11:38 a.m., Alexander Javier Salas, 37, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging threatening to commit a crime with intent to terrorize, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, and manufacture of a short-barreled rifle (all felonies). Bail was set at $180,000. He was taken into custody at 911 West Cedar Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 10:31 a.m. on February 3, deputies responded to 911 West Cedar Street for what was initially reported as a medical aid. While communications was speaking with the reporting parties, it was learned there had been an altercation between two people and a firearm was involved. Upon arrival, deputies contacted Timothy Hernandez and Alexander Salas. An investigation was conducted and Salas was ultimately arrested for alleged threats and multiple weapons violations.
Tuesday, February 4:
1:34 a.m., Joshua John Welter, 43, of Chico, 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 1399 West Wood Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 1:26 a.m. on February 4, deputies were dispatched to a report of a man causing a disturbance at AMPM, 1399 West Wood Street, Willows. Reporting party Ethan Matlock said a male was causing a disturbance inside the store with other customers. Deputies arrived at the business and contacted Joshua Welter, standing outside. Welter was later arrested for alleged public intoxication and violation of court probation.
11:21 p.m., Adrain Junfan Kimn, 38, 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 600 North Humboldt Avenue, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 10:48 p.m. on February 4, deputies were dispatched to a disturbance at 600 North Humboldt Avenue, Willows. Deputies arrived and observed Adrain Kimn in the courtyard, yelling at Erin Kennedy in front of her apartment. The argument stemmed over a cat. Kimn exhibited signs of intoxication and was ultimately placed under arrest for alleged public intoxication.
Wednesday, February 5:
No one was booked into the Glenn County Jail on this date.
Orland resident Keith Wallace Rawlings died in Orland on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. He was born in Orland to Wally and Mary Rawlings on December 15, 1945.
He grew up with his two wonderful sisters, June and Gail, on his family’s small ranch and learned many skills, such as welding, fence building, caring for horses, and raising livestock. While there wasn’t much room for fun, he did find time to take pack horses into the Yolla Bolly mountains to hunt and explore nature with friends and family.
He also had a knack for mechanical things and rebuilt a hot rod from a pile of rusting metal before leaving for college.
He graduated from Orland High School in 1963 and left home soon after to attend Chico State University through an ag scholarship. Although his bachelor’s degree was in agriculture, he would find his calling in carpentry.
After a brief stint working for Gus Hoover as part of a survey crew, Keith met a general contractor named Calvin Lepp – and thus began a decades-long friendship and professional relationship. He obtained his general contractor’s license in 1988 and worked alongside Calvin on numerous building and remodel projects, most notably the construction of Pokey and Laurel Cleek’s home.
If we rewind a few years, we see Keith meeting a sweet, shy redhead named Janet Stanley through Neighborhood Church in Chico. They married in June of 1976 and honeymooned up the California/Oregon Coast, winding up in Coos Bay, Oregon.
Their family returned to that coastal area many times, creating happy memories of camping and enjoying the beach.
Keith was a man of faith and substantial character. He was thoughtful of others, generous by nature, and desired to serve those around him with the utmost integrity.
He loved to study the Bible in English, as well as the original Greek and Hebrew. Above all, he felt that his true purpose was to share what God had done for him – to be a light and a witness to the power of redemption through Christ Jesus.
He wanted everyone to know Jesus as he did. His loved ones say that his deepest hope was for every living soul to believe the ultimate Love story that culminated with Jesus dying on a Roman cross for our sins, so we might be forgiven and join Him in an everlasting Paradise.
As John 3:16 and 17 say, “For God so loved the world that he gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him, should not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but…that the world might be saved through Him.”
Keith is survived by his wife, Janet; sons Peter (Beth) Rawlings, and Ted (Jenn) Rawlings; daughters Val (Dave) Arnold, and Rachel (David) Hanson; nine grandchildren; and many friends and extended family members.
A memorial service is planned for 3 p.m. on Sunday, February 9, at the Providence Gym, 6290 County Road 12, Orland.
Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet-Olsen Family Mortuary of Orland.
Here are the latest sentencings in the Glenn County Superior Court, period ending Friday, January 24, as reported by the Glenn County District Attorney’s Office and other sources.
People vs. Paul Choquette – Defendant was previously convicted of a felony infliction of corporal injury with a prior. He was also found in violation of probation for the eighth time and was sentenced to three years in state prison. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Michael Coffey, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officer Berglund.
This case goes back to 2021. According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s logs, on August 28, 2021, deputies were dispatched to Cedar Hills Manor, 600 North Humboldt Avenue, apt. #191, Willows, for a report of a cold physical disturbance. The confidential victim (CV) told Glenn County Communications she was physically assaulted by her ex-boyfriend, Paul Choquette. The CV said Choquette left the area on foot and he was last seen wearing a black hat and black shirt. Deputies responded to the area and saw a man matching the description on West Wood Street near St. Monica’s Parish. Deputies contacted the individual, who verbally identified himself as Paul Choquette. Deputies informed Choquette why he was being contacted and detained him in handcuffs. Deputy Huichapan contact the CV, who said Choquette struck her three times, leaving redness on her right arm. After an on-scene investigation, Choquette was arrested and transported and booked into the Glenn County Jail for felony domestic violence.
According to Glenn County Superior Court records, Choquette pled guilty to the battery charge on February 2, 2022, and was sentenced to probation on May 4, 2022. Records indicate that he violated his probation multiple times since then. According to Vinelink, Choquette is currently an inmate at North Kern State Prison.
People vs. Isaac Juarez –Defendant was convicted of a felony violation of corporal injury to a spouse, and a felony violation of auto theft. He was sentenced to two years plus eight months consecutive in state prison. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Dwayne Stewart, with assistance from Glenn County Sheriff’s Deputy Mallon.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, on December 20, 2023, Patrick Millen contacted the Glenn County Sheriff’s Office, reporting his travel trailer was stolen during the night from his shop at 205 South Tehama Street in Willows. Deputy Tuma was dispatched. Deputy Tuma obtained security camera footage of the theft and completed a CHP-180 for the stolen trailer. A suspect on the camera footage was later identified as Manuel Molina, who resides at 465 Third Street in Willows. While on another call for service, Millen contacted the sheriff’s office, reporting he had located the trailer. Deputies found the trailer in the backyard of Molina’s residence and contacted several people. After an investigation, Molina and Isaac Juarez were placed under arrest and transported to the Glenn County Jail.
According to Glenn County Superior Court records, Juarez was found guilty to vehicle theft on December 11, 2024. He was sentenced on January 10, 2025. According to Vinelink, he is currently in North Kern State Prison.
People vs. Estevan Hernandez –Defendant was convicted of violation of probation. He was sentenced to two years and eight months in county jail. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Stewart, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officer Moize.
People vs. Taresh, Robert –Defendant was convicted of felony second-degree burglary and failure to appear on a felony charge. He was sentenced to two years in state prison. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Stewart, with assistance from Glenn County Sheriff’s Deputy Vargas.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, on September 19, 2023, Deputy Vargas was dispatched to 219 South Shasta Street, Willows, for a report of a trespass. The reporting party, Dawn George, notified Glenn County Communications that no one is supposed to be at the residence and she could hear people inside. Deputies arrived on scene and contacted Robert Taresh and Jeremy Knight as they were exiting through the back door. Deputies detained Taresh and Knight, who were ultimately placed under arrest for burglary and vandalism to the residence. Deputies transported Taresh and Knight to the Glenn County Jail, where they were turned over to jail staff for booking.
People vs. Vadim Petriakov –Defendant was convicted of violation of probation. It was his first violation. He was sentenced to two years in county jail. The case was prosecuted by District Attorney Stewart, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officer Gray.
People vs. Jose Gutierrez –Defendant was convicted of violation of probation. It was his first violation. He was sentenced to two years in county jail. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Coffey, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officers Moise and Sweet.
People vs. Donald Hart – Defendant was previously convicted of possession of ammunition by a prohibited person (a felony). He was also found in violation of probation for the second time and was sentenced to two years in state prison. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Coffey, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officer Gray.
According to the Orland Police Department’s log, on December 12, 2022, at AutoZone, 711 Sixth Street, an Orland police officer initiated a traffic enforcement stop on a white 2001 Ford F350. Following an investigation, Don Hart, Jr., 63, of Shingletown, was arrested and booked on charges alleging possession of a stolen vehicle, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, possession of a controlled substance, and driving on a suspended driver’s license. Passenger Cynthia Salinas, 52, of Shingletown, was issued a citation for alleged possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia. She was released on her signed promise to appear.
People vs. Wyatt Deniz – Defendant was previously convicted of felony burglary in the first degree. He admitted his sixth violation of probation and was sentenced to two years in state prison. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Coffey, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officer Gray.
People vs. Brittnie Fonseca –Defendant was convicted of violation of probation. She was sentenced to 16 months in state prison. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Stewart, with assistance from Glenn County Probation Officer Gray.
According to Vinelink, she is in custody in the Glenn County Jail.
People vs. Tony Hernandez –Defendant was convicted of two counts of failure to appear on a felony charge. He was sentenced to 16 months in state prison for each offense. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Stewart.
Following are some recent death notices, as taken from the Glenn County Sheriff-Coroner’s logs.
Sunday, January 19:
Candy Scarratt, 64, of Redding, died at Glenn Medical Center in Willows, where she had entered comfort care on January 11.
Wednesday, January 22:
Shawna Lynn Greensilt of Willows died at Glenn Medical Center.
Orland resident Keith Wallace Rawlings, 79, died in Orland.
Friday, January 24:
A woman was found to be deceased at an unspecified location in Willows. Her name, age, and address (except for her city of residence, Willows) were withheld from the log, possibly pending notification of next of kin. (No next of kin was named in the log item.)
Willows resident Glen Lee Williams died in Willows.
Thursday, January 30:
Donald Ray Martin, 68, of Orland, died at the Willows Care Center.
Saturday, February 1:
Carlyn Whittemore, 77, of Chico, died at the Willows Care Center.
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, January 24:
1:30 p.m., Megan Ann Bechtol, 27, of Stockton, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging threatening a school official, public officer, or school employee; and failure to appear on a felony charge (both felonies). Bail was set at $60,000. She was taken into custody at the San Joaquin County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
2:30 p.m., Oscar Javier Negrete, 36, of Pittsburg, Calif., was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge. Bail was set at $30,000. He was taken into custody at the Contra Costa County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
5:42 p.m., Antonio Padilla Cardenas, 61, of Hamilton City, 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. He was taken into custody at 575 Sacramento Avenue, Hamilton City, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 4:42 p.m. on January 24, Lidia Macias reported her boyfriend assaulted her in the morning and was following her. Lidia requested to speak with a deputy at the Double EE Market, 575 Sacramento Avenue, Hamilton City (corner of Sacramento Avenue and Highway 32). Deputies responded and conducted an investigation. While at the Double EE, the male half, Antonio Cardenas, walked to the scene. Cardenas was ultimately arrested for misdemeanor domestic battery. Cardenas was transported to the Glenn County Jai for booking.
8:07 p.m., Mike Chester Dacey, 42, of Willows, was remanded to the Glenn County Jail for alleged felony violation of probation. Bail was set at $35,000.
8:15 p.m., Israel Gallardo-Contreras, 39, of Chico, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging bringing drugs or alcohol into a prison or jail (a felony), and three warrants alleging failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge, failure to appear on a felony charge, and violation of parole (a felony). Total bail for the fresh charge and two of the warrants was set at $90,000. The third warrant (for violation of parole) was a no-bail warrant. He was taken into custody on County Road P, east of County Road 24, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 8:07 p.m. on January 24, on County Road 24, Deputy Turner conducted a traffic stop on a red Dodge pickup truck for California Vehicle Code violations. Deputy Turner contacted the driver, Israel Gallardo Contreras, who verbally identified himself. Glenn County Communications said Contreras had two outstanding warrants for his arrest. Glenn County Communications said Contreras had an additional parole warrant with no bail. Deputy Turner placed Contreras under arrest and transported him to the Glenn County Jail. During the booking process inside the facility, deputies found drug paraphernalia and drugs on Contreras.
Saturday, January 25:
2:05 a.m., Robert Virgil Hammond, 66, of Orland, who was booked into the Glenn County Jail on Thursday, January 23, was found to have an Amador Superior Court warrant alleging failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge. Bail was set at $1,000.
5:22 p.m., Paul Stuart Stephens, 60, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging carrying a concealed dirk or dagger (a felony). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody at County Roads L and 20 by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 3:58 p.m. on January 25, Lyn Wilder called Glenn County Sheriff’s Dispatch to report that Paul Stephens was having an “episode” at 4280 County Road N in Orland. Deputies were dispatched to the address, and Orland police units responded to assist. Stephens was ultimately arrested on a weapon charge, and he was booked into the Glenn Co. Jail.
Sunday, January 26:
3:01 a.m., Rafael Manzo Chavarria, 28, of Red Bluff, 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 with a license suspended for driving while under the influence (all misdemeanors). Bail was set at $,000. He was taken into custody on the southbound side of Interstate 5 at the Glenn County line by a California Highway Patrol officer.
Monday, January 27:
5:49 p.m., Eliseo Guillen-Avina, 62, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a felony charge. Bail was set at $350,000. He was taken into custody at Lely Aquatic Park by an Orland police officer.
According to the Orland Police Department log, at about 5:30 p.m. on January 27, Orland police officers initiated a traffic enforcement stop on a Silver Acura MDX at Lely Aquatic Park, 975 East South Street. Following an investigation, passenger Eliseo Guillen Avina, 62, of Orland was arrested and booked for a felony Glenn County warrant.
Tuesday, January 28:
6:03 p.m., Blake Hampton Day, 44, of Dorris, Calif., was booked into the Glenn County Jail without bail on a Sacramento Superior and Municipal Court warrant alleging failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge. He was taken into custody on the northbound side of Interstate 5, south of County Road 57, by a California Highway Patrol officer.
7:38 p.m., Joshua Charles Shoop, 34, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging disobeying a court order (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $20,000. He was taken into custody at Trinity and Eighth Streets by an Orland police officer.
According to the Orland Police Department log, at about 7:33 p.m. on January 28, Orland police officers contacted Joshua Charles Shoop, 34, of Orland, at Trinity and Eighth Streets. Following an investigation, Shoop was arrested and booked for a misdemeanor Glenn County warrant.
Wednesday, January 29:
12:16 a.m., Ma Lee, 37, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail without bail on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge. He was taken into custody at Sixth and Monterey Streets by an Orland police officer.
According to the Orland Police Department log, at about 12:08 a.m. on January 29, on Sixth Street at Monterey Street, Orland police officers initiated a traffic enforcement stop on a white 1994 Ford F250. Following an investigation, passenger Ma Lee, 37, of Orland, was arrested and booked for a misdemeanor Glenn County warrant. The driver, Jason Kurinsky, 52, of Magalia, was issued a citation for driving with expired registration and driving with people in the back of a flatbed truck.
2:43 a.m., Jeffery Michael Joseph, 45, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of a controlled substance (a misdemeanor), and carrying a concealed dirk or dagger (a felony). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody in the alley behind 608 Fifth Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 2:01 a.m. on January 29, deputies contacted Jeff Joseph in the alleyway behind 608 Fifth Street in Willows. Joseph was allegedly uncooperative and multiple units responded for backup. Deputies reportedly noticed an open container on alcohol, what appeared to be methamphetamine, and marijuana in plain view. Deputies conducted a search of Joseph and allegedly found a concealed dirk or dagger. After the search, Joseph was arrested for alleged possession of a concealed dirk or dagger, in addition to drug-related charges.
11:44 a.m., Littleflower Stevens, 41, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of a controlled substance with two priors (a felony), possession of a controlled substance (a misdemeanor), and possession of controlled substance paraphernalia (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $10,000. However, she was also held without bail for alleged violation of post-release community supervision (a felony). She was taken into custody at 140 Sixth Street, Orland, by a Glenn County probation officer.
1:30 p.m., Jeffery Allan Bergquist, 45, of Sacramento, 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 Sacramento County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
1:59 p.m., Christopher Scott Borden, 63, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging forging or altering a vehicle registration (a felony), driving with a suspended license (a misdemeanor), and aggregate and consecutive terms for multiple convictions (a felony). Bail was set at $15,000. He was taken into custody on Bonnie Lane by an Orland police officer.
According to the Orland Police Department log, about 1:55 p.m. on January 29, Orland police officers contacted Christopher Borden, 63, of Orland, on Bonnie Lane. Borden was arrested and booked for a felony Glenn County warrant.
5:02 p.m., Socorro Angelica Marie Sanchez, 27, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a Tehama County Superior Court warrant alleging robbery, and being an accessory to a crime (both felonies). Bail was set at $40,000. She was taken into custody at 1330 Coby Lane by an Orland police officer.
According to the Orland Police Department log, at about 5 p.m. on January 29, Orland police officers contacted Socorro Sanchez, 27, of Orland, in the 1300 Coby Lane. Sanchez was arrested and booked for a felony Tehama County warrant.
8:01 p.m., Felix Danilo Avila Medina, 31, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging battery on a spouse, ex-spouse, date, etc. (a misdemeanor), threatening to commit a crime with intent to terrorize (a felony), child endangerment (a misdemeanor), and unlawful sexual intercourse with a child under the age of 18 (a felony). Bail was set at $330,000. He was taken into custody at 600 North Humboldt Avenue, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
Thursday, January 30:
10:30 a.m., James Kevin Ellis, 63, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on warrants alleging driving while under the influence of a drug (a misdemeanor), failure to appear on a felony charge, and driving with a license suspended for driving while under the influence (a misdemeanor). Total bail was set at $40,000. He was taken into custody at the Butte County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
10:30 a.m., Michael James Hetrick, 37, of Oroville, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging driving while under the influence of a drug (a misdemeanor), possession of controlled substance paraphernalia (a misdemeanor), failure to appear on a felony charge, and driving with a suspended license (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $15,000. He was taken into custody at the Butte County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
11:30 a.m., Christopher John Braun, 49, 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.
9:59 p.m., Jennifer May Shockley, 33, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging disobeying a court order (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $0. She was taken into custody at Fourth and Garden Streets, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
According to the Glenn County Sheriff’s log, at about 9:39 p.m. on January 30, an anonymous person reported hearing people arguing in the area of Garden and Fourth Streets in Willows. Deputies responded to the area and located Bradley Michaud and Jennifer Shockley. Deputies learned Shockley was allegedly in violation of a civil harassment order and placed her under arrest.
11:05 p.m., Kenneth Charles King, 62, 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 Sixth and Monterey Streets by an Orland police officer.
According to the Orland Police Department log, at about 1:54 a.m. on January 30, Orland police officers were dispatched the area of Moe’s Market, 234 Sixth Street, to assist medics with an intoxicated individual. After further investigation, Kenneth Charles King, 62, of Orland, was arrested and booked for alleged public intoxication.
Even Francisco Medina admits he is unsuitable for parole.
On Wednesday, January 29, a parole hearing for Medina was held at California State Prison, Corcoran. Glenn County Assistant District Attorney Michael Coffey attended on behalf of the people of Glenn County to oppose his release.
Also in attendance were three family members of the victim, Christopher Clark, just 19 at the time of his murder. They were supported by victim-witness advocate Leticia Ojeda.
At the hearing, Medina submitted that he was unsuitable for parole. The board of parole accepted his stipulation and denied his parole for three years.
The victim’s brother, Eloy Guzman Clark, responded on Facebook:
“This guy knew that he wasn’t going to be ready for parole and still let us waste more court and taxpayer money on someone who would rather stay in prison doing drugs than get out and be a responsible person.
“I’m tired of having my family go through all this [bullshit] every time he has a parole hearing. Every single time, he says he’s not ready but yet here we are, going through the entire case again, having the right letters or showing up in person, bringing all this crap back up for my mom to have to go through over and over again.
“If you ain’t ready, you know it. Quit wasting money. Don’t set the date.
“He’d rather do drugs [than] get out.”
Francisco Medina was just 18 years old when he committed an act that not only robbed Christopher Clark of his life, but robbed himself of his own young adulthood. It has now been more than 25 years – well over half of Medina’s lifetime – since Medina murdered Clark in the streets of downtown Willows.
For Medina, what could have been a period of joyous milestones – graduations, engagement and marriage, and births of children – is instead a period dominated by walls, locks and guards, the sole purpose of which is to totally stifle individual liberty, thereby making all significant milestones (with the possible exception of that final milestone, death) impossible.
On October 28, 1999, Medina gunned down Christopher Clark near Sycamore and Butte Streets in Willows. Medina was reportedly assisted by four others, two of them juveniles.
It was reported that Clark and Medina belonged to rival gangs. One of Medina’s fellow gang members (and provider of the weapon with which Clark was shot), parolee Edwin Speer, is said to have taken a beating from Clark or Clark’s gang, thereby making revenge the motive for the murder.
Medina was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 15 years to life in prison. His first parole hearing took place in 2013, and, obviously, parole was denied.
In 2017, Medina was convicted of another felony: possession of heroin in prison. This added two more years to his sentence.
On August 14, 2020, another parole hearing for Medina was conducted. Again, parole was denied.
Still another hearing was held on February 18, 2022. The parole board denied his chance for release for three years.
And, of course, most recently, a hearing was held on January 29, 2025. As stated above, parole was denied, and the next hearing is ordered for a presently unspecified date in 2028, at which time he will be in his late 40s.
And over these three years, the one precious life Francisco Medina will ever know will continue to waste away behind the walls of prison.
The Glenn County Observer 