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Tag: andres valle

  • Sacramento City Council updates immigration platform to protect residents from ICE

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    Sacramento’s City Council unanimously voted to update its immigration platform on Tuesday night, aiming to better protect residents from federal immigration agents after hours of public comment.The city first adopted this immigration platform in 2017, outlining its commitment to embracing and protecting immigrant and refugee communities. City leaders believe the updated platform will enhance protections for those living in Sacramento from ICE operations.In a packed chamber, hundreds of residents voiced their opinions to the council. One speaker emphasized the importance of standing up for neighbors and communities under attack by ICE. “Even though it was a unanimous vote, it was four and a half hours of public comment because that’s how angry people feel about what’s happening in Minnesota and what the federal government is doing,” said Ethan Julian Zamora.The updated platform aims to align with state laws passed since 2017 and directs the city on how to respond to issues, including free speech and the use of municipal resources. “The policy platform directs the city on how to respond to issues. Clearly, issues of free speech, also making sure that municipal resources, our own city tax dollars, are used for city resources and not for the federal government,” said councilmember Eric Guerra.Sacramento has been a sanctuary city since 1985, choosing not to assist in federal immigration enforcement efforts. Other councilmembers, including Karina Talamantes, are working to further protect immigrants by drafting a resolution to ban immigration enforcement on city-owned properties.”That’s what the community is looking for. The Sacramento Police Department does not give information to ICE, and does not work with them. But people want to know what the Sacramento Police Department will do when they encounter someone who refuses to identify themselves, who is masked up, trying to kidnap someone,” said Talamantes.The separate resolution regarding city property will first need to be reviewed by the Law and Legislation Committee before returning to the full council at a later date.See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

    Sacramento’s City Council unanimously voted to update its immigration platform on Tuesday night, aiming to better protect residents from federal immigration agents after hours of public comment.

    The city first adopted this immigration platform in 2017, outlining its commitment to embracing and protecting immigrant and refugee communities. City leaders believe the updated platform will enhance protections for those living in Sacramento from ICE operations.

    In a packed chamber, hundreds of residents voiced their opinions to the council. One speaker emphasized the importance of standing up for neighbors and communities under attack by ICE.

    “Even though it was a unanimous vote, it was four and a half hours of public comment because that’s how angry people feel about what’s happening in Minnesota and what the federal government is doing,” said Ethan Julian Zamora.

    The updated platform aims to align with state laws passed since 2017 and directs the city on how to respond to issues, including free speech and the use of municipal resources.

    “The policy platform directs the city on how to respond to issues. Clearly, issues of free speech, also making sure that municipal resources, our own city tax dollars, are used for city resources and not for the federal government,” said councilmember Eric Guerra.

    Sacramento has been a sanctuary city since 1985, choosing not to assist in federal immigration enforcement efforts.

    Other councilmembers, including Karina Talamantes, are working to further protect immigrants by drafting a resolution to ban immigration enforcement on city-owned properties.

    “That’s what the community is looking for. The Sacramento Police Department does not give information to ICE, and does not work with them. But people want to know what the Sacramento Police Department will do when they encounter someone who refuses to identify themselves, who is masked up, trying to kidnap someone,” said Talamantes.

    The separate resolution regarding city property will first need to be reviewed by the Law and Legislation Committee before returning to the full council at a later date.

    See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

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  • Mail theft concerns residents at Arden Fair Apartments in Sacramento

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    Residents at the Arden Fair Apartments in Sacramento are dealing with recurring mail thefts, as surveillance footage shows a man breaking into mailbox clusters earlier this week. The video shared with KCRA captures a man in a black shirt prying open a set of cluster mailboxes, reaching inside, and taking the mail.”Thefts have kind of actually been pretty regular around the holidays. I think every single year we’ve had somebody break into our stuff,” said Isaiah Alexander.The recent case of mail theft happened on Monday.Chad Murphy, a resident, explained how he believes the suspected thief might have gained access to the gated complex. “For the last, I want to say week, someone’s put a brick to hold the door open . And yesterday I took it, and I chucked it. And that hasn’t been happening,” Murphy said.The property management has responded by installing two surveillance cameras directed at the mailboxes and upgrading to a new set of cluster mailboxes. “Those are brand new. He’s trying to upgrade it so they can’t steal,” Murphy said. Long-time resident Isaiah Alexander shared his perspective on the situation with KCRA. “Every year, it’s someone getting in them,” Alexander said. When asked if more could be done, he expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of on-site security. “What can you do, really, unless you have somebody on site?” Alexander said. “If you have on-site security, they’re putting themselves at risk. And during the holidays. I don’t know if it’s even worth it.”The property manager confirmed that the crime has been reported to the police.Sacramento police released a statement regarding the case:”If people see anything suspicious, they can contact the Sacramento Police Department. We work in coordination with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service to investigate these incidents. People can report mail theft, tampering, or mailbox vandalism to the US Postal Inspection Service 24-hour dispatch at 1-877-876-2455 or visit USPIS.gov for more information.We recommend people check their mail daily, hold it at the post office if going out of town, regularly monitor for deliveries, and don’t leave packages unattended.”See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

    Residents at the Arden Fair Apartments in Sacramento are dealing with recurring mail thefts, as surveillance footage shows a man breaking into mailbox clusters earlier this week.

    The video shared with KCRA captures a man in a black shirt prying open a set of cluster mailboxes, reaching inside, and taking the mail.

    “Thefts have kind of actually been pretty regular around the holidays. I think every single year we’ve had somebody break into our stuff,” said Isaiah Alexander.

    The recent case of mail theft happened on Monday.

    Chad Murphy, a resident, explained how he believes the suspected thief might have gained access to the gated complex.

    “For the last, I want to say week, someone’s put a brick to hold the door open [of the gate]. And yesterday I took it, and I chucked it. And that hasn’t been happening,” Murphy said.

    The property management has responded by installing two surveillance cameras directed at the mailboxes and upgrading to a new set of cluster mailboxes.

    “Those are brand new. He’s trying to upgrade it so they can’t steal,” Murphy said.

    Long-time resident Isaiah Alexander shared his perspective on the situation with KCRA.

    “Every year, it’s someone getting in them,” Alexander said.

    When asked if more could be done, he expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of on-site security.

    “What can you do, really, unless you have somebody on site?” Alexander said. “If you have on-site security, they’re putting themselves at risk. And during the holidays. I don’t know if it’s even worth it.”

    The property manager confirmed that the crime has been reported to the police.

    Sacramento police released a statement regarding the case:

    “If people see anything suspicious, they can contact the Sacramento Police Department. We work in coordination with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service to investigate these incidents. People can report mail theft, tampering, or mailbox vandalism to the US Postal Inspection Service 24-hour dispatch at 1-877-876-2455 or visit for more information.

    We recommend people check their mail daily, hold it at the post office if going out of town, regularly monitor for deliveries, and don’t leave packages unattended.”

    See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

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  • Sacramento mourns the loss of punk musician and chalk artist ‘Ground Chuck’

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    REMEMBERING AN ARTIST KNOWN ACROSS SACRAMENTO PUNK ROCK AND ART SCENE. CHARLES THOMAS, BEST KNOWN AS GROUND CHUCK, PASSED AWAY THIS WEEKEND. HE WAS A PUNK MUSICIAN AND CHALK ARTIST WELL KNOWN ACROSS MIDTOWN. LAST NIGHT, THE SACRAMENTO CITY COUNCIL TOOK A MOMENT TO HONOR HIM. TO KNOW HIM WAS TO KNOW HIS KINDNESS, HIS WARMTH AND INCLUSIVITY. THE OUTPOURING OF LOVE FROM HIM, FROM STREET PUNKS TO SOME OF SACRAMENTO’S LEGENDARY BANDS, SHOW JUST HOW MUCH GROUND CHUCK MEANT TO THE CITY AND HOW MUCH HE’LL BE MISSED. KCRA 3’S ANDRES VALLE IS LIVE AFTER SPEAKING WITH HIS CLOSE FRIENDS. YEAH, SO GUYS, A LOT OF PEOPLE DESCRIBED HIM AS A POET, A PUNK ROCKER AND A CHALK ARTIST. NOW HIS CHALK ART WAS INFAMOUS AT THE CHALK IT UP FESTIVAL AS WELL. AND TONIGHT, RIGHT BEHIND ME, A LOT OF PEOPLE GATHERED AT AN OPEN MIC IN ORDER TO HONOR HIM. FOR MANY MOONS AND STARS. A POET TO SOME. FOUND NO LIGHT. NO WHERE TO TURN, AND A ROCKER TO OTHERS. I’VE KNOWN HIM SINCE ABOUT 85. WE PLAYED A LOT OF MUSIC TOGETHER. JUST A GREAT GUY. A CHALK ARTIST TO MANY. HE WAS A CHALK ARTIST, AND HE WAS ONE OF THE FIRST PEOPLE TO DO CHALK ART. CHARLES THOMAS, BEST KNOWN AS GROUND CHUCK, HAS PASSED AWAY, SENDING SHOCKWAVES THROUGH SACRAMENTO’S MUSIC AND ART SCENE. IF HE ONLY HAD LIKE $5 IN HIS POCKET, HE’D BE LIKE, HEY, COME HAVE A COME, HAVE A DRINK WITH ME. MY TREAT. THAT’S KIND OF GUY. HE WAS GENEROUS AND KIND AND SILLY. HIS MOST NOTABLE CONTRIBUTION TO THE LOCAL SCENE CREATING CHALK ART. HIS WORK WAS A STAPLE AT THE CITY’S CHALK IT UP FESTIVAL. CHOCOLATE WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR CHALK IT UP. LONGTIME FRIEND MARCO FUSCO, EMOTIONAL OVER HIS PASSING. I SACRAMENTO TO KNOW THAT YOU LOST A SAINT. YOU KNOW SOMEBODY THAT NEVER SAID A BAD WORD ABOUT ANYBODY? YOU LOST SOMEBODY THAT LOOKED OUT FOR HOMELESS PEOPLE AND KIDS, AND THAT PERSON THAT CAME TO THAT BAR THAT WAS TOTALLY DEPRESSED GROUND. CHUCK WOULD COME UP TO THEM AND MAKE AND TALK TO THEM ALL. THE SPECIES. MARCO, SHARING HIS COLLECTION OF VIDEOS OF GROUND CHUCK FROM THE 80S WITH US. WE ARE IN THE YEAR OF 2025. FLUTES WERE OUTLAWED. TEN YEARS AGO, THE MIDTOWN LOCAL HEAVILY INFLUENCED OTHER ARTISTS IN SACRAMENTO. I’M. I’M ON YOUR SIDE. WE’RE WE’RE ALWAYS RIGHT. FELLOW CREATIVES COMING TOGETHER FOR AN OPEN MIC NIGHT AT MATTY GROVES BREWERY IN HIS HONOR. NO SLEEP TONIGHT. I’LL KEEP ON DRIVING. HOPEFULLY THESE KIDS COMING UP WILL CARRY ON THE TRADITION AND KEEP ROCKING AND CHALKING AND ALL THE. ALL THE STUFF CHUCK LOVED. I KNOW I’M GOING TO SEE HIM WHEN I GET THERE, AND IT HURTS, BUT I’M NOT GOING TO SEE HIM WHEN I WALK DOWN P STREET. LOSING GROUND, CHUCK, IS LIKE LOSING A PART OF OUR HISTORY. YEAH. KEEP ROCKING AND SHOCKING. IT WAS PROBABLY ONE OF MY FAVORITE QUOTES THAT WE HEARD FROM HIS FRIENDS TONIGHT. NOW THAT OPEN MIC NIGHT JUST WRAPPED UP RIGHT BEHIND ME. BUT TO HEAR MORE ABOUT HIS IMPACT, EVEN THE DEFTONES, YOU KNOW, THE FAMOUS ROCK BAND FROM SACRAMENTO POSTED THIS ONLINE ON THEIR SOCIAL MEDIA ABOUT HIS PASSING AND SAYING, R.I.P. TO A SACRAMENTO LEGEND. REST EASY GROUND, CHUCK. WE’RE LIVE HERE IN MIDTOWN SACRAMENTO,

    Sacramento mourns the loss of punk musician and chalk artist ‘Ground Chuck’

    Updated: 10:56 PM PDT Sep 17, 2025

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    Charles Thomas, known as “Ground Chuck,” has passed away, sending shockwaves through Sacramento’s music and art scene.Friends described him as a poet, punk rocker, and chalk artist, with his chalk art being a staple at the Chalk It Up festival. Many gathered at an open mic night at Mattie Groves Brewery in Midtown to honor his memory. “I’ve known him since about ’85. We played a lot of music together. Just a great guy,” said Monte Bateman, a friend.”He was one of the first people to do chalk art,” said Marco Fuoco, highlighting his pioneering contributions to the local scene.”If he only had, like, $5 in his pocket, he’d be like, Hey, come here. Come have a drink with me. My treat. That’s the kind of guy he was. He was generous and kind and silly,” said Desiree Willson, remembering his generosity.His most notable contribution was creating chalk art, which was a staple at the city’s Chalk It Up festival. “Chuck was the inspiration for Chalk It Up,” said Fuoco.KCRA sat down with longtime friend Marco Fuoco, who expressed his emotions over Chuck’s passing. “I want Sacramento to know that you lost a saint, you know, somebody that never said a bad word about anybody. You lost somebody who looked out for homeless people, kids. And that person who came to the bar was totally depressed, Ground Chuck would come up to them and make them talk to him,” Fuoco said.Fuoco shared his collection of videos of Ground Chuck from the 1980s, reminiscing about their time together. He has a collection of videos of Ground Chuck performing poetry, skits, and music.The Midtown local had a profound influence on other artists in Sacramento, with fellow creatives coming together for an open mic night at Mattie Groves Brewery in his honor. “Hopefully, these kids coming up all carry on the tradition and keep rocking and chalking and all. All the stuff Chuck loved,” said Bateman.”I know I’m going to see him when I get there, and it hurts that I’m not going to see him when I walk down P Street,” said Willson, expressing their sorrow.”Losing Ground Chuck, is like losing a part of our history,” said Fuoco.Sacramento rock band Deftones even posted on their social media about Ground Chuck’s passing, writing, “RIP to a Sacramento legend. Rest easy, Ground Chuck.”See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

    Charles Thomas, known as “Ground Chuck,” has passed away, sending shockwaves through Sacramento’s music and art scene.

    Friends described him as a poet, punk rocker, and chalk artist, with his chalk art being a staple at the Chalk It Up festival. Many gathered at an open mic night at Mattie Groves Brewery in Midtown to honor his memory.

    “I’ve known him since about ’85. We played a lot of music together. Just a great guy,” said Monte Bateman, a friend.

    “He was one of the first people to do chalk art,” said Marco Fuoco, highlighting his pioneering contributions to the local scene.

    “If he only had, like, $5 in his pocket, he’d be like, Hey, come here. Come have a drink with me. My treat. That’s the kind of guy he was. He was generous and kind and silly,” said Desiree Willson, remembering his generosity.

    His most notable contribution was creating chalk art, which was a staple at the city’s Chalk It Up festival. “Chuck was the inspiration for Chalk It Up,” said Fuoco.

    KCRA sat down with longtime friend Marco Fuoco, who expressed his emotions over Chuck’s passing. “I want Sacramento to know that you lost a saint, you know, somebody that never said a bad word about anybody. You lost somebody who looked out for homeless people, kids. And that person who came to the bar was totally depressed, Ground Chuck would come up to them and make them talk to him,” Fuoco said.

    Fuoco shared his collection of videos of Ground Chuck from the 1980s, reminiscing about their time together. He has a collection of videos of Ground Chuck performing poetry, skits, and music.

    The Midtown local had a profound influence on other artists in Sacramento, with fellow creatives coming together for an open mic night at Mattie Groves Brewery in his honor. “Hopefully, these kids coming up all carry on the tradition and keep rocking and chalking and all. All the stuff Chuck loved,” said Bateman.

    “I know I’m going to see him when I get there, and it hurts that I’m not going to see him when I walk down P Street,” said Willson, expressing their sorrow.

    “Losing Ground Chuck, is like losing a part of our history,” said Fuoco.

    Sacramento rock band Deftones even posted on their social media about Ground Chuck’s passing, writing, “RIP to a Sacramento legend. Rest easy, Ground Chuck.”

    See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

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  • Mexican Independence Day celebrated at California’s State Capitol amid immigration fears

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    AMID IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT FEARS. YES, IT’S SMALLER, BUT STILL POWERFUL. STILL POWERFUL BECAUSE AS AS LONG AS THERE’S ONE MEXICAN, THERE’S COMMUNITY, THERE WILL BE POWER, THERE WILL BE PRIDE. A NIGHT OF MEXICAN HERITAGE BEING CELEBRATED AT THE STATE CAPITOL. MEXICO, EL GRITO RINGING AT SUNDOWN. THIS IS A BEAUTIFUL CULTURE. AS THE CONSUL GENERAL OF MEXICO IN SACRAMENTO WAVES THE MEXICAN FLAG OVER THE BALCONY. IT’S A TRADITION THAT KICKS OFF MEXICO’S INDEPENDENCE DAY. I CAME OUT HERE TO REPRESENT FOR OUR PEOPLE. I THINK RIGHT NOW, MORE THAN USUAL, IT’S VERY IMPORTANT TO SHOW OUR PRIDE AND REALLY BE HERE TOGETHER AS A COMMUNITY TO ALSO SHOW NUMBERS. THIS YEAR’S CELEBRATION, NOTABLY SMALLER THAN YEARS PAST. THE GENERAL CONSUL SCALING DOWN THE EVENT OVER FEARS OF IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT. I UNDERSTAND THAT WE’RE LIVING VERY INTERESTING MOMENTS IN TERMS THAT PEOPLE COULD HAVE FEAR. THEY COULD HAVE ANXIETY, THEY COULD FEEL STRUGGLING ABOUT THE NARRATIVES AROUND MIGRATION. THAT’S WHY OTHERS FROM DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS CAME TO SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY AND CELEBRATE THE MEXICAN HOLIDAY. IT’S JUST IT’S NOT RIGHT. I’M JUST HERE TO SUPPORT. I LOVE THEIR FOOD AND I LOVE THEIR LIKE, OUTFITS. AND I LOVE HOW THEY DRESS. DESPITE THE SCALED DOWN CELEBRATION, MANY CAME OUT FOR THOSE WHO COULDN’T. BUT I UNDERSTAND PEOPLE’S CONCERNS AND I THINK I’M A LITTLE BIT MORE ON THE END OF LIKE, KEEP EVERYBODY SAFE AND THOSE THAT CAN SHOW UP MY COLORS NEVER GOING TO CHANGE MY HEART. ALWAYS IS IN MY COUNTRY. THEY ARE NOT ALONE. WE ARE NOT ALONE. AND WE ARE TOGETHER. EVEN IN MOMENTS LIKE THESE ONES. AND HEY, EVEN OUT HERE FOR THE PAST HOUR OR SO, THERE HAVE BEEN PEOPLE COMING OUT HERE WITH THEIR MEXICAN FLAGS, TAKING PICTURES IN FRONT OF THE STATE CAPITOL. NOW, THE ENTIRE CELEBRATION DID LAST FOR ABOUT AN HOUR OR SO, AND THEY DID HAVE SOME MARIACHIS PLAYING AS WELL. WE’RE LIVE HERE IN DOWNTOW

    Mexican Independence Day celebrated at California’s State Capitol amid immigration fears

    Updated: 11:20 PM PDT Sep 15, 2025

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    The State Capitol in California was illuminated in the colors of the Mexican flag Monday to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day. But despite the bright display, other aspects of the special day were toned down.Monday night’s celebration of “El Grito” was scaled back by organizers amid immigration enforcement. “It’s maybe much smaller, but even more special, I would say, because the people that decide to show up can celebrate. It’s also about showing up about their identity, about their roots, about being proud of being Mexican,” said Christian Tonatiuh González Jiménez, the Consul General of Mexico in Sacramento.During the civic ceremony, the Consul waved the Mexican flag over the balcony, a tradition that marks the beginning of Mexico’s Independence Day celebrations. Despite the scaled-down event, the spirit of Mexican heritage was celebrated at the State Capitol.”It’s smaller but still powerful. Still powerful, because as long as there’s one Mexican, there’s community, there will be power, there will be pride,” Jiménez said.The celebration, which lasted about an hour, included vendors selling Mexican flags and food. Many attendees expressed their support for the community and the importance of showing pride in their heritage.”I came out here to represent for our people. I think right now, more than usual, it’s very important to show our pride and really be here together as a community to also show numbers,” said Karen Izquierdo.The Consul General noted the scaled-down event was due to fears of immigration enforcement.”I understand that we’re living in very interesting moments in terms that people could have fear, they could have anxiety, they could be struggling with the narratives around migration,” he said.Others from different backgrounds also came to support the community.”It’s just it’s not right. I’m just here to support,” said one supporter.Another added, “I love their food and I love their outfits, and I love how they dress.”Despite the smaller celebration, many came out for those who couldn’t.”I understand, you know, people’s concerns. And I think I’m a little bit more on the end of like keep everybody safe and those that can show up,” said Izquierdo. See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

    The State Capitol in California was illuminated in the colors of the Mexican flag Monday to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day. But despite the bright display, other aspects of the special day were toned down.

    Monday night’s celebration of “El Grito” was scaled back by organizers amid immigration enforcement.

    “It’s maybe much smaller, but even more special, I would say, because the people that decide to show up can celebrate. It’s also about showing up about their identity, about their roots, about being proud of being Mexican,” said Christian Tonatiuh González Jiménez, the Consul General of Mexico in Sacramento.

    During the civic ceremony, the Consul waved the Mexican flag over the balcony, a tradition that marks the beginning of Mexico’s Independence Day celebrations. Despite the scaled-down event, the spirit of Mexican heritage was celebrated at the State Capitol.

    “It’s smaller but still powerful. Still powerful, because as long as there’s one Mexican, there’s community, there will be power, there will be pride,” Jiménez said.

    The celebration, which lasted about an hour, included vendors selling Mexican flags and food. Many attendees expressed their support for the community and the importance of showing pride in their heritage.

    “I came out here to represent for our people. I think right now, more than usual, it’s very important to show our pride and really be here together as a community to also show numbers,” said Karen Izquierdo.

    The Consul General noted the scaled-down event was due to fears of immigration enforcement.

    “I understand that we’re living in very interesting moments in terms that people could have fear, they could have anxiety, they could be struggling with the narratives around migration,” he said.

    Others from different backgrounds also came to support the community.

    “It’s just it’s not right. I’m just here to support,” said one supporter.

    Another added, “I love their food and I love their outfits, and I love how they dress.”

    Despite the smaller celebration, many came out for those who couldn’t.

    “I understand, you know, people’s concerns. And I think I’m a little bit more on the end of like keep everybody safe and those that can show up,” said Izquierdo.

    See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

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  • Sacramento parents, students protest replacement of teacher over carpet removal

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    Nearly 100 parents and students gathered at Thursday’s Sacramento City Unified School District board meeting to protest the removal of Jeanine Rupert, a sixth-grade teacher at Phoebe A. Hearst Elementary School.The removal comes after an incident at the end of last school year, when Rupert and her students removed old carpeting from her classroom, which may have contained asbestos. “She was removed from the classroom without due process, without cause. And secretly!” James Frazee, a parent at the meeting, said. “This was done on a Friday before a three-day weekend, and told she can’t show up. And this is allegedly over pulling up carpet.”Parents and students spoke in support of Rupert, describing her as an incredible teacher and role model.”I think it’s a horrible loss for our school to lose her,” one student said.”Mrs. Rupert has been the leader. She’s been an absolute joy to the school,” a parent added. “She’s been somebody who’s constantly helping our students, not just in the classroom, but outside the classroom.”Another student expressed deep admiration for their teacher.”I personally think that Mrs. Rupert was just one of the most magical teachers, maybe in the history of the world,” they said.The district claims Rupert was removed after the carpet was taken out, but stated: “The District’s fact-gathering and investigation into the matter were just completed earlier this week. The determination was made that none of the asbestos tiles underneath the classroom carpet had been damaged when students were present. The removal of the carpet did not cause a disturbance that would cause exposure to asbestos.Nonetheless, now that the investigation is complete, District staff will begin the process of reaching out to individual families to reassure them of their student’s safety and provide any necessary support.”Rupert’s father attended the meeting, sharing that his daughter has been devastated by her removal. “She tried to get it replaced for five years, and she decided to take it on her own. She’s torn up. She’s given her life to Phoebe Hearst,” said Tim O’Brien, Rupert’s father.Many families are confused by the district’s handling of the situation. “It blows the mind to think that somebody would be removed for something like that. She has a track record of excellence in the classroom,” one parent said.”I can’t believe that she’s getting fired for one carpet. That doesn’t make any sense to me,” a student added.Community members organized quickly after the district changed Thursday night’s meeting time. Organizers were expected to give public comment at 6 p.m.”It was around 4 o’clock when it was supposed to be at 5,” one attendee said.”It was a complete lack of transparency because it was unclear when we were supposed to be able to come and speak,” another person at the meeting added.The district stated that Rupert was not fired and remains employed, but parents reported receiving an email from Principal Brooke Fahey indicating she has been replaced by another teacher set to start on Sept. 8. The district says, “Mrs. Rupert will be teaching at a different school this year.” KCRA posed multiple follow-up questions to the district regarding the situation, including where Rupert will be teaching, and has yet to hear back. See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

    Nearly 100 parents and students gathered at Thursday’s Sacramento City Unified School District board meeting to protest the removal of Jeanine Rupert, a sixth-grade teacher at Phoebe A. Hearst Elementary School.

    The removal comes after an incident at the end of last school year, when Rupert and her students removed old carpeting from her classroom, which may have contained asbestos.

    “She was removed from the classroom without due process, without cause. And secretly!” James Frazee, a parent at the meeting, said. “This was done on a Friday before a three-day weekend, and told she can’t show up. And this is allegedly over pulling up carpet.”

    Parents and students spoke in support of Rupert, describing her as an incredible teacher and role model.

    “I think it’s a horrible loss for our school to lose her,” one student said.

    “Mrs. Rupert has been the leader. She’s been an absolute joy to the school,” a parent added. “She’s been somebody who’s constantly helping our students, not just in the classroom, but outside the classroom.”

    Another student expressed deep admiration for their teacher.

    “I personally think that Mrs. Rupert was just one of the most magical teachers, maybe in the history of the world,” they said.

    The district claims Rupert was removed after the carpet was taken out, but stated:

    “The District’s fact-gathering and investigation into the matter were just completed earlier this week. The determination was made that none of the asbestos tiles underneath the classroom carpet had been damaged when students were present. The removal of the carpet did not cause a disturbance that would cause exposure to asbestos.

    Nonetheless, now that the investigation is complete, District staff will begin the process of reaching out to individual families to reassure them of their student’s safety and provide any necessary support.”

    Rupert’s father attended the meeting, sharing that his daughter has been devastated by her removal.

    “She tried to get it replaced for five years, and she decided to take it on her own. She’s torn up. She’s given her life to Phoebe Hearst,” said Tim O’Brien, Rupert’s father.

    Many families are confused by the district’s handling of the situation.

    “It blows the mind to think that somebody would be removed for something like that. She has a track record of excellence in the classroom,” one parent said.

    “I can’t believe that she’s getting fired for one carpet. That doesn’t make any sense to me,” a student added.

    Community members organized quickly after the district changed Thursday night’s meeting time. Organizers were expected to give public comment at 6 p.m.

    “It was around 4 o’clock when it was supposed to be at 5,” one attendee said.

    “It was a complete lack of transparency because it was unclear when we were supposed to be able to come and speak,” another person at the meeting added.

    The district stated that Rupert was not fired and remains employed, but parents reported receiving an email from Principal Brooke Fahey indicating she has been replaced by another teacher set to start on Sept. 8.

    The district says, “Mrs. Rupert will be teaching at a different school this year.”

    KCRA posed multiple follow-up questions to the district regarding the situation, including where Rupert will be teaching, and has yet to hear back.

    See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

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  • Air quality advisory issued in Tuolumne County due to TCU September Lightning Complex fires

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    Tuolumne County has issued an air quality advisory through Friday due to smoke from ongoing fires affecting air quality in surrounding areas. Health officials are advising residents to limit their time outdoors.”It was so hot today that I was sweaty and I just felt like the smoke was sticking right onto my body,” said Laura Leitner, a Sonora resident, describing the uncomfortable conditions. The hazy skies in Sonora on Wednesday are a result of the smoke impacting air quality in the Foothills. The county’s health officer, Dr. Kimberly Freeman, explained that conditions will vary across the county. “It depends on the inversion layer. So as the temperature shifts and the air settles down at night, the air quality might be worse down low. And then that air quality, the bad air quality might shift up high during the day,” said Freeman.Dr. Freeman is urging people to limit their time outdoors, especially those with respiratory issues like asthma or COPD. Residents in Sonora are echoing this advice. “We just stay indoors as much as we can. If you don’t have to be outside, we don’t,” said Kelly Carter.Another resident advised, “Try to wear a mask, get some covering over so you’re not breathing it in,” while others suggested avoiding outdoor exercise for extended periods.For those who must be outside, Dr. Freeman warned, “You are being exposed to those chemicals after you’ve come indoors for hours, if not days, if you don’t wash those clothes. So changing, showering is important; it can accumulate in our hair and can cause problems.”She added, “Especially if it smells like smoke, it is affecting you and your respiratory system. So those are ways to keep you safe indoors.”Freeman also emphasized the importance of keeping windows closed at home and having proper air filters on A/C units. Currently, the county is not providing masks, but residents are encouraged to visit public buildings like libraries to escape the smoke.Information on air quality and smoke can be found on AirNow’s Fire and Smoke webpage at https://fire.airnow.gov, which shows data from permanent and temporary particulate monitors along with low-cost sensors; https://www2.purpleair.com/ will show daily/hourly air quality forecasts.See an air quality map below:See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

    SONORA, Calif. —

    Tuolumne County has issued an air quality advisory through Friday due to smoke from ongoing fires affecting air quality in surrounding areas.

    Health officials are advising residents to limit their time outdoors.

    “It was so hot today that I was sweaty and I just felt like the smoke was sticking right onto my body,” said Laura Leitner, a Sonora resident, describing the uncomfortable conditions.

    The hazy skies in Sonora on Wednesday are a result of the smoke impacting air quality in the Foothills.

    The county’s health officer, Dr. Kimberly Freeman, explained that conditions will vary across the county.

    “It depends on the inversion layer. So as the temperature shifts and the air settles down at night, the air quality might be worse down low. And then that air quality, the bad air quality might shift up high during the day,” said Freeman.

    Dr. Freeman is urging people to limit their time outdoors, especially those with respiratory issues like asthma or COPD. Residents in Sonora are echoing this advice.

    “We just stay indoors as much as we can. If you don’t have to be outside, we don’t,” said Kelly Carter.

    Another resident advised, “Try to wear a mask, get some covering over so you’re not breathing it in,” while others suggested avoiding outdoor exercise for extended periods.

    For those who must be outside, Dr. Freeman warned, “You are being exposed to those chemicals after you’ve come indoors for hours, if not days, if you don’t wash those clothes. So changing, showering is important; it can accumulate in our hair and can cause problems.”

    She added, “Especially if it smells like smoke, it is affecting you and your respiratory system. So those are ways to keep you safe indoors.”

    Freeman also emphasized the importance of keeping windows closed at home and having proper air filters on A/C units.

    Currently, the county is not providing masks, but residents are encouraged to visit public buildings like libraries to escape the smoke.

    Information on air quality and smoke can be found on AirNow’s Fire and Smoke webpage at https://fire.airnow.gov, which shows data from permanent and temporary particulate monitors along with low-cost sensors; https://www2.purpleair.com/ will show daily/hourly air quality forecasts.

    See an air quality map below:

    See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

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  • Hundreds gather at California State Capitol to mark Ukraine’s Independence Day

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    Hundreds of people gathered in front of the California State Capitol to mark Ukraine’s Independence Day, creating a somber yet spirited celebration as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues.”This day is a reminder to the whole world what freedom is about. And Ukraine fighting for their freedom,” said Vlad Skots, a Ukrainian American.Skots explained the evening’s significance, noting, “I would say we are not necessarily celebrating. We are here to remark the courage of the Ukrainian people. We are here to celebrate the American support.”While many Ukrainians want to celebrate, they are also mourning the lives lost in the fight to protect their freedom as the war continues.”The war today, it’s not only Ukrainian problem, that’s the global problem. And I deeply believe the United States will support Ukraine,” Skots said.Despite the current state of their country, attendees waved Ukrainian flags, danced to music and created a sense of community for refugees like Liana Lischenko, who arrived in Sacramento three years ago. “I remember my country, and I realize that I’m in Ukraine right now, and I have friends here who speak Ukrainian. And this is so kind,” Lischenko said.The gathering served as an important reminder of what they are still fighting for. “It’s not something particularly about country. It’s not about this group as a country only. No, that’s more than country. This is our value, our freedom, independence, what we stand for and what we will fight for,” Skots said.The event raised money for the Ukrainian military and featured multiple resource tents for those looking to get involved in the community.See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

    Hundreds of people gathered in front of the California State Capitol to mark Ukraine’s Independence Day, creating a somber yet spirited celebration as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues.

    “This day is a reminder to the whole world what freedom is about. And Ukraine fighting for their freedom,” said Vlad Skots, a Ukrainian American.

    Skots explained the evening’s significance, noting, “I would say we are not necessarily celebrating. We are here to remark the courage of the Ukrainian people. We are here to celebrate the American support.”

    While many Ukrainians want to celebrate, they are also mourning the lives lost in the fight to protect their freedom as the war continues.

    “The war today, it’s not only Ukrainian problem, that’s the global problem. And I deeply believe the United States will support Ukraine,” Skots said.

    Despite the current state of their country, attendees waved Ukrainian flags, danced to music and created a sense of community for refugees like Liana Lischenko, who arrived in Sacramento three years ago.

    “I remember my country, and I realize that I’m in Ukraine right now, and I have friends here who speak Ukrainian. And this is so kind,” Lischenko said.

    The gathering served as an important reminder of what they are still fighting for.

    “It’s not something particularly about country. It’s not about this group as a country only. No, that’s more than country. This is our value, our freedom, independence, what we stand for and what we will fight for,” Skots said.

    The event raised money for the Ukrainian military and featured multiple resource tents for those looking to get involved in the community.

    See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

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  • New owners discuss plans for Downtown Sacramento skyscraper that sold for $21million

    New owners discuss plans for Downtown Sacramento skyscraper that sold for $21million

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    Downtown Sacramento’s high-rise Renaissance Tower sold to Ethan Conrad Properties for more than $21 million after going to auction earlier this week. The 28-story office building is on K and 8th streets, blocks from the Golden 1 Center.The new owners say they plan on getting new tenants into the building by slashing rent prices. “If I can buy something at a good price and I give tenants a great deal and they’re happy and I’m happy, well, that’s a win-win, right?” said Ethan Conrad, the CEO of Ethan Conrad Properties. The property currently has an occupancy rate of 27%— a significant decline since pre-pandemic numbers when the building previously sold in 2016 for $80 million. Conrad says his lower rent prices are a good starting point to get tenants back into the building. “The previous owners had it at about $3.20 a square foot. I would make it, depending on the floor, be in the range of $2.45 to $2.65 a square foot. So, a significant reduction in rent,” Conrad said. Conrad plans to renovate the existing office spaces to make the building more appealing to new tenants. There are also plans to add restaurants and cafes into the building as well. Scott Ford, the deputy director of the Downtown Sacramento Partnership believes new ownership in the Renaissance Tower is the right move for downtown.”These two blocks in here really need new ownership, new activity, and need new life and new uses breathed into them. So I’m really excited that, we’ve got a local ownership group there making significant investments in downtown Sacramento,” Ford said.The Partnership says they plan on collaborating with Conrad to ensure his vision becomes a reality. “The relationship that buildings have with the streets, with the public realm, is really important for driving increased pedestrian activity, giving the perception that this is a safe, clean, welcoming, activated environment,” Ford said. Conrad has no official plans to turn a portion of the building into mixed-use residential spaces but mentioned that nothing is off the table. See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletterDo you have photos or video of an incident? If so, upload them to KCRA.com/upload. Be sure to include your name and additional details so we can give you proper credit online and on TV.

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

    Downtown Sacramento’s high-rise Renaissance Tower sold to Ethan Conrad Properties for more than $21 million after going to auction earlier this week.

    The 28-story office building is on K and 8th streets, blocks from the Golden 1 Center.

    The new owners say they plan on getting new tenants into the building by slashing rent prices.

    “If I can buy something at a good price and I give tenants a great deal and they’re happy and I’m happy, well, that’s a win-win, right?” said Ethan Conrad, the CEO of Ethan Conrad Properties.

    The property currently has an occupancy rate of 27%— a significant decline since pre-pandemic numbers when the building previously sold in 2016 for $80 million.

    Conrad says his lower rent prices are a good starting point to get tenants back into the building.

    “The previous owners had it at about $3.20 a square foot. I would make it, depending on the floor, be in the range of $2.45 to $2.65 a square foot. So, a significant reduction in rent,” Conrad said.

    Conrad plans to renovate the existing office spaces to make the building more appealing to new tenants. There are also plans to add restaurants and cafes into the building as well.

    Scott Ford, the deputy director of the Downtown Sacramento Partnership believes new ownership in the Renaissance Tower is the right move for downtown.

    “These two blocks in here really need new ownership, new activity, and need new life and new uses breathed into them. So I’m really excited that, we’ve got a local ownership group there making significant investments in downtown Sacramento,” Ford said.

    The Partnership says they plan on collaborating with Conrad to ensure his vision becomes a reality.

    “The relationship that buildings have with the streets, with the public realm, is really important for driving increased pedestrian activity, giving the perception that this is a safe, clean, welcoming, activated environment,” Ford said.

    Conrad has no official plans to turn a portion of the building into mixed-use residential spaces but mentioned that nothing is off the table.

    See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter

    Do you have photos or video of an incident? If so, upload them to KCRA.com/upload. Be sure to include your name and additional details so we can give you proper credit online and on TV.

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  • California woman left stranded by Lyft driver on rural road

    California woman left stranded by Lyft driver on rural road

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    A 60-year-old Roseville woman says she was kicked out of her Lyft ride because the driver did not have enough charge in his electric vehicle. See the story in the video player aboveIt happened early Friday morning as Catherine Smith was trying to get home from Sacramento International Airport.Smith said the driver made her leave the car near Base Line Road and Palladay Road in Placer County. “He kept pointing at his screen, saying, ‘I need to charge. I need to charge.’ That’s all he said over and over and over again,” said Smith. The one-lane road was extremely dark when KCRA went to take video of it Wednesday night. It’s in a rural part of the county with no street lights in sight. “He pulls over, gets out of the car, opens the trunk, takes all my luggage out. I get out of the car, he gets in the car, turns around, takes off and looks at me and says, ‘You can call another Lyft,’” said Smith. Smith began panicking as she was just left stranded on the side of a dark road. According to her Lyft ride history, she was picked up from Sacramento International Airport around 1 a.m. Friday.Halfway through the drive — Smith said they had to take a detour because of construction.”He kept saying, ‘I need a charge. I need a charge.’ And my brain just kept saying, ‘He needs to recalibrate because we took the little detour so that he gets paid, right,’” said Smith. Smith said the driver never explicitly told her that he meant he needed to charge his car to complete the drive. So, she was confused by his lack of communication every time he spoke to her. “He never said ‘No, ma’am. The car needs to be charged,’ at all,” said Smith. According to the ride history, the driver left Smith on the side of Base Line Road at 1:40 a.m. “I was in the dark left there. I started crying because I didn’t have any of my weapons from being on the plane, and I felt so vulnerable,” said Smith. After Smith realized she was stranded, she immediately reached out to Lyft. Lyft then alerted authorities, and a Placer County sheriff’s deputy arrived within minutes. The deputy stayed with Smith until another Lyft driver arrived. Lyft’s safety department sent Smith a message regarding the incident. “As a result of this report, we are reviewing this driver’s account to determine whether they should continue on the Lyft platform,” the message read.Smith was also refunded the cost of her ride and was told she would not be paired with that driver ever again. “I hope to get him off the road because he has no business driving. He couldn’t communicate clearly. He should have said, ma’am, I need to charge my car, which is unacceptable anyway, for a 20-minute drive,” said Smith. KCRA reached out to Lyft on Wednesday to confirm if the driver is still contracted on the platform. “Safety is fundamental to Lyft, and we never want anyone in our community to feel unsafe,” a Lyft spokesperson said in a statement on Thursday. “We are deeply sorry that Ms. Smith had to endure this distressing ordeal, and we have reached out to offer our support. The behavior described has no place in the Lyft community, and we have permanently removed the driver’s account from the Lyft platform.”

    A 60-year-old Roseville woman says she was kicked out of her Lyft ride because the driver did not have enough charge in his electric vehicle.

    See the story in the video player above

    It happened early Friday morning as Catherine Smith was trying to get home from Sacramento International Airport.

    Smith said the driver made her leave the car near Base Line Road and Palladay Road in Placer County.

    “He kept pointing at his screen, saying, ‘I need to charge. I need to charge.’ That’s all he said over and over and over again,” said Smith.

    The one-lane road was extremely dark when KCRA went to take video of it Wednesday night. It’s in a rural part of the county with no street lights in sight.

    “He pulls over, gets out of the car, opens the trunk, takes all my luggage out. I get out of the car, he gets in the car, turns around, takes off and looks at me and says, ‘You can call another Lyft,’” said Smith.

    Smith began panicking as she was just left stranded on the side of a dark road.

    According to her Lyft ride history, she was picked up from Sacramento International Airport around 1 a.m. Friday.

    Halfway through the drive — Smith said they had to take a detour because of construction.

    “He kept saying, ‘I need a charge. I need a charge.’ And my brain just kept saying, ‘He needs to recalibrate because we took the little detour so that he gets paid, right,’” said Smith.

    Smith said the driver never explicitly told her that he meant he needed to charge his car to complete the drive. So, she was confused by his lack of communication every time he spoke to her.

    “He never said ‘No, ma’am. The car needs to be charged,’ at all,” said Smith.

    According to the ride history, the driver left Smith on the side of Base Line Road at 1:40 a.m.

    “I was in the dark left there. I started crying because I didn’t have any of my weapons from being on the plane, and I felt so vulnerable,” said Smith.

    After Smith realized she was stranded, she immediately reached out to Lyft. Lyft then alerted authorities, and a Placer County sheriff’s deputy arrived within minutes. The deputy stayed with Smith until another Lyft driver arrived.

    Lyft’s safety department sent Smith a message regarding the incident.

    “As a result of this report, we are reviewing this driver’s account to determine whether they should continue on the Lyft platform,” the message read.

    Smith was also refunded the cost of her ride and was told she would not be paired with that driver ever again.

    “I hope to get him off the road because he has no business driving. He couldn’t communicate clearly. He should have said, ma’am, I need to charge my car, which is unacceptable anyway, for a 20-minute drive,” said Smith.

    KCRA reached out to Lyft on Wednesday to confirm if the driver is still contracted on the platform.

    “Safety is fundamental to Lyft, and we never want anyone in our community to feel unsafe,” a Lyft spokesperson said in a statement on Thursday. “We are deeply sorry that Ms. Smith had to endure this distressing ordeal, and we have reached out to offer our support. The behavior described has no place in the Lyft community, and we have permanently removed the driver’s account from the Lyft platform.”

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  • Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Voicing issues effective Native Americans

    Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Voicing issues effective Native Americans

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    Monday marks a celebratory day for Native Americans. Indigenous Peoples’ Day is being celebrated across California. For the last seven years, Francisco Dominguez, a Davis radio host, has been using his platform to voice issues impacting Native Americans.”That history must be told because the native people are the true people. The original people of this land,” Dominguez said. For centuries, the U.S. celebrated Christopher Columbus as the explorer who discovered the Americas, but for the Indigenous peoples who inhabited the Americas long before Columbus ever arrived.The holiday means something more dark.As a result of advocacy by Native American activists, many states, including California, now observe the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.”It’s about making things better. Turning things around to have productive lives. There’s a lot of problems. There’s no doubt about that,” Dominguez said. Dominguez’s show airs on KDVS 90.3 FM every other Thursday from 5 to 6 p.m. His show covers Native American issues, as well as Chicano issues, immigration and politics. “Whether it be water rights — there’s a lot of issues over oil, oil pipelines, and missing and murdered Indigenous women. So we bring up a lot of awareness to these issues,” Dominguez said. Dominguez has been covering Native American issues for decades. Some of his photographs are featured at Sacramento State University and the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. Click here to learn more. Dominguez says Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a time to celebrate, but most importantly, consider the history of the U.S. and how it has treated Native people.”People have had to struggle a lot, you know, just to maintain their culture. It’s important to have people remember what happened here. And people are still alive, and they’re still moving forward,” Dominguez said.

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

    Monday marks a celebratory day for Native Americans. Indigenous Peoples’ Day is being celebrated across California.

    For the last seven years, Francisco Dominguez, a Davis radio host, has been using his platform to voice issues impacting Native Americans.

    “That history must be told because the native people are the true people. The original people of this land,” Dominguez said.

    For centuries, the U.S. celebrated Christopher Columbus as the explorer who discovered the Americas, but for the Indigenous peoples who inhabited the Americas long before Columbus ever arrived.

    The holiday means something more dark.

    As a result of advocacy by Native American activists, many states, including California, now observe the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

    “It’s about making things better. Turning things around to have productive lives. There’s a lot of problems. There’s no doubt about that,” Dominguez said.

    Dominguez’s show airs on KDVS 90.3 FM every other Thursday from 5 to 6 p.m.

    His show covers Native American issues, as well as Chicano issues, immigration and politics.

    “Whether it be water rights — there’s a lot of issues over oil, oil pipelines, and missing and murdered Indigenous women. So we bring up a lot of awareness to these issues,” Dominguez said.

    Dominguez has been covering Native American issues for decades. Some of his photographs are featured at Sacramento State University and the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.

    Click here to learn more.

    Dominguez says Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a time to celebrate, but most importantly, consider the history of the U.S. and how it has treated Native people.

    “People have had to struggle a lot, you know, just to maintain their culture. It’s important to have people remember what happened here. And people are still alive, and they’re still moving forward,” Dominguez said.

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  • Nearly 400 gallons of oil spilled in Smith Canal in Stockon

    Nearly 400 gallons of oil spilled in Smith Canal in Stockon

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    Nearly 400 gallons of oil spilled in the Smith Canal in Stockton on Friday. Officials are now investigating this as an illegal dumping case.The California Department of Fish and Wildlife was notified Friday that a petroleum oil spill had occurred in the state waters of the Smith Canal, according to department officials. The source of the spill appears to be from an oil burner that had a potential maximum capacity of 380 gallons, though authorities have not specified how much oil has gone into the canal.A neighbor, who wants to stay anonymous, and lives directly in front of where the spill happened, told KCRA 3 that he witnesses multiple illegal dumpings along the canal on a weekly basis. “I didn’t think anything of it because they drop so much garbage around here. It’s kind of pointless trying to stop and yell and trying to pick a fight with every single person,” said the neighbor. The United States Coast Guard is taking the lead in the investigation. In a statement, they said, “Crews from the Stockton Fire Department and the Fish and Wildlife’s Office of Spill Prevention and Response responded initially and deployed a sorbent boom to minimize environmental impacts. An additional layer of a hard boom was deployed on both sides of the spill site to prevent product from entering into the San Joaquin River.”KCRA noticed a white tarp over an area near the bank of the canal, where investigators confirmed that the oil container was left. They removed it Sunday afternoon. “It’s a really sad event that happened for that to end up in the water. Hopefully, it has a good outcome in the end, that is what we’re hoping for,” said the neighbor. The Coast Guard has also opened the federal Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund, established for various issues related to oil spills, including clean-up costs, to pay for the initial response to the Stockton spill and containment and recovery of the oil released into the canal.The San Joaquin County Office of Emergency Services has advised community members living along the banks or near the canal to avoid the area of the spill and stay out of the water. Officials also cautioned pet owners to keep animals out of water and not let them drink from the canal.Fish and Wildlife are asking the public to not catch and consume any fish or shellfish in the area.State and federal agencies are still searching for the person who caused the spill. Anyone with information about the illegal dumping is encouraged to call CALTIP, which is a 24-hour hotline at 1-888-334-2258.

    STOCKTON, Calif. —

    Nearly 400 gallons of oil spilled in the Smith Canal in Stockton on Friday.

    Officials are now investigating this as an illegal dumping case.

    The California Department of Fish and Wildlife was notified Friday that a petroleum oil spill had occurred in the state waters of the Smith Canal, according to department officials.

    The source of the spill appears to be from an oil burner that had a potential maximum capacity of 380 gallons, though authorities have not specified how much oil has gone into the canal.

    A neighbor, who wants to stay anonymous, and lives directly in front of where the spill happened, told KCRA 3 that he witnesses multiple illegal dumpings along the canal on a weekly basis.

    “I didn’t think anything of it because they drop so much garbage around here. It’s kind of pointless trying to stop and yell and trying to pick a fight with every single person,” said the neighbor.

    The United States Coast Guard is taking the lead in the investigation.

    In a statement, they said, “Crews from the Stockton Fire Department and the Fish and Wildlife’s Office of Spill Prevention and Response responded initially and deployed a sorbent boom to minimize environmental impacts. An additional layer of a hard boom was deployed on both sides of the spill site to prevent product from entering into the San Joaquin River.”

    KCRA noticed a white tarp over an area near the bank of the canal, where investigators confirmed that the oil container was left. They removed it Sunday afternoon.

    “It’s a really sad event that happened for that to end up in the water. Hopefully, it has a good outcome in the end, that is what we’re hoping for,” said the neighbor.

    The Coast Guard has also opened the federal Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund, established for various issues related to oil spills, including clean-up costs, to pay for the initial response to the Stockton spill and containment and recovery of the oil released into the canal.

    The San Joaquin County Office of Emergency Services has advised community members living along the banks or near the canal to avoid the area of the spill and stay out of the water. Officials also cautioned pet owners to keep animals out of water and not let them drink from the canal.

    Fish and Wildlife are asking the public to not catch and consume any fish or shellfish in the area.

    State and federal agencies are still searching for the person who caused the spill.

    Anyone with information about the illegal dumping is encouraged to call CALTIP, which is a 24-hour hotline at 1-888-334-2258.

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  • 2 brothers arrested for attempting to steal ATM in Sacramento County

    2 brothers arrested for attempting to steal ATM in Sacramento County

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    Detectives say a pair of brothers are suspects who were caught trying to steal an entire ATM in Gold River. The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office said just after 4 a.m. Sunday, deputies got a burglary alarm from the Bank of America near Gold Country Boulevard and Coloma Road. Some deputies were already in the area and quickly spotted an SUV leaving the area with its lights off.”Great communication from the bank, great video surveillance that quickly got us real-time information. And most importantly a great quick response and quick thinking from the deputies who responded,” said Amar Gandhi, the Sacramento Sheriff’s Office spokesperson. Deputies tried to pull the suspicious vehicle over but said the suspects wouldn’t yield. A short chase followed, with the suspects eventually hitting a curb that took their SUV out.Two people got out and ran from the SUV, but deputies eventually arrested them. The pair have been identified as 38-year-old Jose Rincon and his 36-year-old brother Juan.”That’s the perfect criminal, right? They don’t get the money and they get arrested immediately,” said Ed Nygren, an ATM user. KCRA 3 noticed multiple cars pulling into the parking lot where the ATM once was and being inconvenienced by it not being there. This isn’t the first time this ATM has been tampered with. According to the sheriff’s office, on July 2 someone tried to pry the ATM open using explosives. “I can’t drive up to that ATM. I have to go inside, which is just a little more hassle. They need to get a job. They need to think this through. And obviously, they’ll have time when they’re sitting in jail to really consider this,” said Wayne Bell, an ATM user. According to court records, the Rincon brothers remain in the Sacramento County Main Jail. They face multiple felony charges. Their next court hearing is scheduled for Oct. 16.See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter

    GOLD RIVER, Calif. —

    Detectives say a pair of brothers are suspects who were caught trying to steal an entire ATM in Gold River.

    The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office said just after 4 a.m. Sunday, deputies got a burglary alarm from the Bank of America near Gold Country Boulevard and Coloma Road. Some deputies were already in the area and quickly spotted an SUV leaving the area with its lights off.

    “Great communication from the bank, great video surveillance that quickly got us real-time information. And most importantly a great quick response and quick thinking from the deputies who responded,” said Amar Gandhi, the Sacramento Sheriff’s Office spokesperson.

    Deputies tried to pull the suspicious vehicle over but said the suspects wouldn’t yield. A short chase followed, with the suspects eventually hitting a curb that took their SUV out.

    Two people got out and ran from the SUV, but deputies eventually arrested them. The pair have been identified as 38-year-old Jose Rincon and his 36-year-old brother Juan.

    “That’s the perfect criminal, right? They don’t get the money and they get arrested immediately,” said Ed Nygren, an ATM user.

    KCRA 3 noticed multiple cars pulling into the parking lot where the ATM once was and being inconvenienced by it not being there.

    This isn’t the first time this ATM has been tampered with. According to the sheriff’s office, on July 2 someone tried to pry the ATM open using explosives.

    “I can’t drive up to that ATM. I have to go inside, which is just a little more hassle. They need to get a job. They need to think this through. And obviously, they’ll have time when they’re sitting in jail to really consider this,” said Wayne Bell, an ATM user.

    According to court records, the Rincon brothers remain in the Sacramento County Main Jail. They face multiple felony charges. Their next court hearing is scheduled for Oct. 16.

    See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter

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