San Bernardino council schedules censure hearing for Councilmember Treasure Ortiz amid public protest and defense of police

The San Bernardino City Council on March 18 directed outside legal counsel (Larsson LLP) to draft a resolution of censure related to allegations of illegal or unethical conduct by Councilmember Dr. Treasure Ortiz and scheduled a public hearing on the matter for April 1, 2026. The motion to authorize drafting of the resolution and set the hearing passed on the council floor and was recorded as approved.

The agenda item produced extensive public comment. Multiple speakers urged the council to pause until the criminal process plays out and to avoid prejudging an elected official. Christian Shaughnessy, a council candidate, asked the council to explain the evidence underpinning a censure: “You are asking the public to support a censure based on alleged misconduct. But the real question is, why are you continuing to target a community leader who has consistently stood by her findings? Where is the evidence?”

Several residents and former officials framed the proposed censure as political and warned of the chilling effect on residents who come forward with complaints. “Censure without evidence is not accountability,” one commenter said, urging the council to provide documentary proof before taking disciplinary action.

At the same time, multiple speakers from the police department and allied public safety groups publicly defended Chief Darren Goodman and the department, saying internal investigations had not substantiated misuse of police databases and that public safety gains had been significant. Adam Fronti, president of the Police Managers Association, said the chief had prioritized investigation of allegations: “He consistently reminds us that when a citizen brings forward a complaint or concern, we should treat it seriously and respectfully.” Other uniformed and retired officers spoke about morale and the importance of supporting police leadership.

Council members moved to refer the matter to outside counsel to draft a formal resolution and to set a hearing; the motion passed. The April 1 hearing will be a public meeting where the draft resolution will be considered; the council’s action does not itself impose discipline. Members of the public will have an opportunity to comment at that hearing.

Next steps: Outside counsel will draft the proposed censure language and staff will place the item on the April 1 agenda for public hearing and council consideration. The city and members of the public may submit additional written materials to be considered at that hearing.