Board hears petition for early termination of probation by speech‑language pathologist Arturo Avina; matter submitted for decision

The Speech‑Language Pathology and Audiology and Hearing Aid Dispensers Board heard a petition on Feb. 21, 2025, from licensee Arturo Frank Avina (SP27490, OAH case 2024110686) seeking early termination of a five‑year probation imposed after criminal convictions related to conduct in 2019. An administrative law judge from the Office of Administrative Hearings, Wim Van Rooyen, presided and the board heard argument from Deputy Attorney General Jason Ahn and attorney Kevin Murphy on behalf of Avina.

The petition sought reduction or early termination of probation that the board imposed on Sept. 26, 2021, after a period of criminal conduct from late 2018 into spring 2019 that the parties described as a medication‑related manic episode. The Department of Justice representative urged denial of the petition, saying the petitioner bears the burden of proving rehabilitation. The petitioner and several witnesses, including Avina and his wife Kimberly Wood, testified they consider him rehabilitated and fit to practice without restrictions.

Why this matters: the board’s licensing and disciplinary duties are governed by state law that prioritizes public protection. The hearing focused on whether Avina’s post‑conviction rehabilitation and ongoing treatment and monitoring provide clear‑and‑convincing evidence sufficient to lift probation before the term set by the board.

Key facts…