Speech‑language board hears petition from licensed SLP Arturo Avina for early termination of probation; decision deferred

The Speech‑Language Pathology, Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board on Feb. 21 heard a petition from licensed speech‑language pathologist Arturo Frank Avina (license SP27490) asking for early termination of a five‑year probation imposed following criminal convictions in 2019. The board took testimony, admitted documentary exhibits and recessed for closed‑session deliberations; no decision was issued at the public hearing and the board notified parties the decision will be mailed.

Why it matters: Avina is a licensed clinician who seeks to return to unrestricted practice. The board’s decision will determine whether he remains subject to the existing probation conditions — including drug testing and periodic psychotherapy requirements — or is restored to an unrestricted license sooner than the current order allows.

The hearing was conducted before Administrative Law Judge Wim Van Rooyen of the Office of Administrative Hearings. Deputy Attorney General Jason Ahn told the board his office would recommend denying the petition and requiring Avina to complete the remainder of his probation, which Ahn said currently is scheduled to end in May 2027. Ahn summarized the board’s earlier…