Murder conviction overturned, DEI survives, a dark turn in Humboldt’s rapist placement, and more (349)

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A local murder conviction was overturned. Reportedly, the now former murder convict had previously said he was defending his aggressive dog when killing a man in Alderpoint in 2022. You may remember the story where the killer’s dog bit the victim in the face, the victim said he was gonna go after the dog, and the dog’s owner shot the victim in the head. The victim, Trevor Earley, was 25 and known for being a skilled football player for Ferndale. The conviction was overturned because the trial allegedly improperly allowed evidence that the killer had assaulted a wheelchair-bound inmate in jail. *** RHBB

College of the Redwoods decided to continue its DEI efforts. In fear of Trump’s wrath and potential funding cuts, the community college was thinking about undoing its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Officials say their legal protections are enough for now, and they’re standing by their values. *** LoCo

The possible local placement of a horrific rapist saw a dramatic twist. The criminal was convicted of multiple brutal rapes, home invasions, and assaults in Humboldt County in the ‘80s, many while wearing a ski mask. With a proposal to place him in Manila, last week it was revealed he was busted with child porn as recently as 2018, a fact that doctors did not know when they recommended him for release. With the disturbing new evidence and mounting public pressure, the judge delayed the decision to July 14. *** RHBB

A Loleta man in his early 20s was accused of pedophilia. Cops say they have evidence that Jarred Vaughan trafficked and raped a child. *** RHBB [An argument erupted online over the suspect’s political affiliation. Accessed recently, a local Facebook profile matching the suspect's name includes a photo of a Confederate flag and a Trump endorsement.]

Another local movie theater is biting the dust. McKinleyville’s Mill Creek Cinema will close on June 1. Coming Attractions Theaters runs that one along with the Broadway Cinema in Eureka, which is sticking around for now. After the closure of Fortuna’s movie theaters in recent years, this will leave Broadway and Arcata’s Minor as the only options for movie-goers in Humboldt County. *** Post

Fortuna discussed allowing cannabis sales and manufacturing to help generate revenue. As the “Friendly City” needs money, they’re considering funding an analysis on how the industry may or may not help them. As Fortuna leans more conservative than other Humboldt County cities, some locals voiced opposition. City staff recommended public engagement, education, workshops, fiscal analysis, and maybe even a ballot measure, but no decision was made. *** YouTube

The Mad River Fish Hatchery near Blue Lake is planning to shut down in June. State officials cited dwindling fish production, rising costs, and federal regulations in their reasoning. ‘Fish and Wildlife reps said fishing, swimming, and hiking will continue at the location off 299. A petition to save the hatchery is gaining traction, as over 2,000 people are pushing back on the decision. The campaign argues the hatchery is vital for fish conservation, educating local kids, and fishing traditions. *** Press release / RHBB / Petition 

Locals are responding to Trump’s efforts to defund NPR and PBS. This has threatened stations such as KMUD, which gets about a quarter of its budget from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Outlets like KHSU and KEET-TV are also looking at these potential impacts. Legal challenges are already underway as these stations have been crucial during emergencies like wildfires, earthquakes, and landslides. *** T-S

Providence St. Joseph Hospital was denied the dismissal of a lawsuit claiming it denied emergency care. The Catholic hospital allegedly denied an emergency abortion of nonviable twins during a miscarriage in early 2024, endangering a local woman’s life. The judge was not having the religious freedom argument and told the hospital they now have a month to respond to the initial complaint, which was supported by California’s Attorney General. Another woman has filed a similar complaint. *** NCJ

Political unrest is brewing in Blue Lake. Folks there started a recall effort against three city council members after the longtime city manager’s shadowy firing. 

The developments included allegations of unchecked power, controversial moves regarding proposed developments, and a relatively costly disruption if the recall efforts were to move forward. *** LoCo

Hundreds again protested Trump in Eureka. Around 700 to 800 people rallied outside the Humboldt County Courthouse for the third time since Trump took office. *** RHBB [In the most recent edition, activists reported a guy “rolling coal” on protestors, who was then immediately pulled over as the crowd cheered.]