In a recent government meeting, a Kern County official raised serious concerns regarding an alleged illegal attempt by district attorney investigators to access their office without permission or a warrant. The incident, which occurred on October 18, involved investigators attempting to enter the official's office while it was locked and unoccupied. The official reported that the county administrative officer (CAO) was approached by the investigators, who sought access without proper legal authority.
The official expressed alarm over the situation, stating that despite being informed by county council that a warrant was necessary, investigators persisted in their attempts to gain entry. The official attempted to contact District Attorney Cindy Zimmer to clarify that no consent was given for the search, but reported that she did not respond to their calls or messages.
Highlighting the political implications, the official noted that the Prosecutors Association, which supports their political opponent, is involved in the situation, suggesting a potential conflict of interest. They characterized the investigators' actions as \"gestapo tactics\" and called for federal intervention, urging the Department of Justice to investigate what they described as illegal and unethical behavior.
Following this contentious discussion, the meeting transitioned to a public hearing on a carbon capture project, marking a significant environmental initiative in Kern County. The Carbon Teravault 1 project, proposed by California Resources Corporation, is the first carbon capture and storage project to be processed in the county, indicating a shift towards addressing climate change through innovative technologies.
The meeting also included provisions for Spanish translation services to ensure accessibility for all community members, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity in local governance.