The Mendocino DA wants to hear from people whose lives were impacted by the Hopkins FIre in 2021 as the man who set it awaits his sentencing. A jury in Marin County found Devin Johnson guilty of starting the fire last week, and now DA David Eyester wants fire victims to contact his office so they can see Johnson’s punishment meted out. And comment if they would like. DA Eyster says those victims will be able to watch via Zoom, so they won’t have to travel to San Rafael in person. The victims also have the right to comment on the impact the fire had which can be considered as part of the sentencing decision. The sentencing will take place on September 16th. If you’d like to know more you can contact the DA’s victim/witness office. Johnson was convicted in Marin County because of concerns about pre-trial publicity.
Lakeport officially has a new police chief. Long-time department member Dale Stoebe has been sworn in to take over from former chief Brad Rasmussen who is retiring after 14 years in the top job. Council members at Strobe’s swearing-in praised Rasmussen. They say he was always willing to step up and remains highly respected in the community. New Chief Strobe also had good words for Rasmussen. He says without Rasmussen’s leadership, he wouldn’t be taking over as chief.
Fire crews spent the day on the scene of a five-acre fire in northern Mendocino COunty. Forward progress on the Bear Fire near the community of Piercy has been stopped and local crews are assigned to keep it in check.
