KRKC COUNTRY

  SALINAS, California - Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni, together with the Napa County District Attorney, announced on September 30 that Monterey County Superior Court entered a judgment against Missouri-based US Automotive Protection Services LLC (“USAPS”), and its owners, Brandon Schrader and Michelle Schrader. The defendants were ordered to pay $5.9 million in civil penalties, in addition to restitution to California consumers, for false and misleading advertising related to the sale of unlicensed insurance products. From 2021 through 2023, USAPS sent more than 4 million deceptive advertisements to California consumers. The mailers were designed to create a false sense of urgency, leading recipients to believe they would lose their automobile warranty protection unless they immediately called the telephone number provided. Consumers who called the number were then subjected to additional misrepresentations by USAPS sales representatives, including claims th...

  MONTEREY COUNTY – The Transportation Agency for Monterey County (TAMC) announced that the removal of k-rail to re-open Carlton Drive in Del Rey Oaks to traffic began on the morning, Monday, September 28, 2026, with the anticipation for the removal to be completed by the end of the day or early Tuesday morning, September 29. The closure of Carlton Drive was due to the ongoing construction of the Canyon Del Rey segment of the Fort Ord Regional Trail and Greenway (FORTAG). The Transportation Agency further stated that although Carlton Drive will be open, there are outstanding construction items that will require temporary short-term road closures in November before the project is complete. More information about those remaining items and the anticipated schedule for work activities will be provided in future project updates. The Canyon Del Rey segment of the Fort Ord Regional Trail and Greenway (FORTAG) is the first phase of the larger 28-mile effort to connect communities in and ar...

  On Saturday night, September 26, 2026, at approximately 10:03 PM, King City Police responded to a disturbance at a party where 22-year-old Luis Rodriguez of Soledad, allegedly brandished a firearm and threatened another person before leaving the area. King City Police developed information that Rodriguez may be traveling to another gathering at a location on the 500 block of Bitterwater Road and requested assistance from the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office in an attempt to locate him. An MCSO deputy responded and saw Rodriguez, who immediately fled on foot through a crowd of people while carrying a firearm. During the foot pursuit, Rodriguez threw the firearm to the ground and continued running. The deputy utilized his department TASER in an effort to help apprehend Rodriguez. Rodriguez continued to flee and was eventually located hiding underneath a vehicle and taken into custody without further incident. During the pursuit, a woman associated with Rodriguez allegedly interfere...

  SALINAS, CA — On Tuesday, September 22 Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) visited Hartnell College’s Child Development Center in Salinas to deliver a $250,000 check as one of her 13 community projects she submitted for the Fiscal Year 2026 congressional appropriations cycle. These funds will be used to renovate the Center’s outdoor learning environment and make essential safety upgrades.   “It’s great to visit Hartnell College again and celebrate this win for the children of Salinas,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren. “The Child Development Center here has provided great programming for kids and has helped parents with young children pursue their educational goals. Every parent wants their child to be able to play outside safely, and I’m happy to help deliver this funding to help renovate the outdoor learning environment."   "We're thankful for this investment, which will finally allow us to give our youngest students a space that matches the quality of learning we want to provide ...

  SALINAS, California- Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced on September 23 that 43-year-old Lorena Hernandez Alvarado of King City and former correctional officer at Salinas Valley State Prison pled no contest to felony insurance fraud and admitted the fraud exceeded $100,000 in loss. She also pled guilty in two separate DUI cases. The criminal case arose out of a workplace injury claim made by Alvarado in April 2021. Alvarado claimed she injured her shoulder, neck, back and knees while wielding a heavy shield to protect herself from liquid thrown on her by an inmate at Salinas Valley State Prison. The prison’s insurance company – State Compensation Insurance Fund – accepted Alvarado’s insurance claim. Alvarado never returned to work and received well over $100,000 in insurance benefits, including wage replacement and health care treatment. In the ensuing investigation by the California Department of Corrections’ Internal Affairs, it was determined that ...

  SOLEDAD – California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation officials are investigating the death of an incarcerated person at Salinas Valley State Prison (SVSP) as a homicide. On Sept. 21, 2026, at approximately 12:50 p.m., correctional staff observed inmates 28-year-old Dillon King and 44-year-old Justin Learmont approach inmate 43-year-old Michael Loftin in a recreation yard and begin battering him with an improvised weapon. Staff immediately intervened, quelling the attack. King and Learmont were secured in handcuffs. An improvised weapon was recovered at the scene. Staff activated 911 and initiated life-saving measures. A medical doctor at the institution pronounced Loftin dead at 1:19 p.m. King and Learmont were placed in the restricted housing unit pending further investigation by the SVSP Investigative Services Unit and the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office. The Office of the Inspector General was notified. Loftin was most recently received from Del Norte C...

JOLON, CA — On Tuesday, September 22 Representative Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that the County of Monterey Department of Public Works, Facilities, and Parks has received a $9,784,000 federal grant to rehabilitate approximately 8.7 miles of Jolon Road (from the Mission Road south to Bradley Lockwood Road). Running parallel to U.S. Highway 101, Jolon Road is the only corridor that serves U.S. Army Garrison Fort Hunter Liggett. The funding comes from the Defense Community Infrastructure Program (DCIP), which addresses deficiencies in community infrastructure that supports a military installation’s readiness. “I am thrilled to see that this grant was secured and that Jolon Road will be getting necessary safety improvements,” said Rep. Lofgren. “It’s fantastic news for the Monterey County residents that regularly drive this narrow road, especially our brave troops at Fort Hunter Liggett that rely on it. I commend Supervisor Lopez and Monterey County for their work on this issue, and I’ll...

  MONTEREY COUNTY – The Transportation Agency for Monterey County (TAMC) series of events seeking community input on the Monterey County Active Transportation Plan to help make local streets and roadways safer for people walking and biking in their communities begins this weekend.   The series of events beginning Saturday and Sunday and continuing into the fall include tabling at community events, the formation of small community focus groups, and the release of a county-wide bilingual survey in both English and Spanish. The planning team will table at one community event in each of the 12 cities in the county and two community events in the unincorporated County. The planning team will also host one focus group in each of the 12 cities and two in the unincorporated county.   Members of the public are encouraged to help develop the active transportation network by finding TAMC’s table at a community event or joining a focus group in their city. The focus gr...

  SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA. — The County of San Luis Obispo Department of Public Health is offering a series of no-cost flu vaccine events throughout the County this fall, making it easier for community members and families to get protected ahead of flu season. The community is invited to receive a no-cost flu vaccine at participating events. Vaccines are available for adults and children ages 3 and older. No insurance or documentation is required. “Getting a flu vaccine is one of the simplest steps people can take to protect themselves, their families and our community during flu season,” said Interim County Health Officer Dr. Rick Rosen. “These community events are designed to make vaccination convenient and accessible, especially for families who may face barriers to accessing routine health care.” Flu can cause serious illnesses, particularly among young children, older adults, pregnant people and people with certain chronic health conditions. Vaccination can reduce the risk of flu ...

Monterey, CA. — CalKIDS is launching the first CalKIDS Scholarship Month this September, partnering with county offices of education and school districts across California. This statewide effort will bring scholarship claiming support directly to school communities, making it easier for eligible students to take action and claim their CalKIDS Scholarship Accounts.  In Monterey County, more than $28 million in CalKIDS Scholarships is available to eligible public-school students, and approximately 78% of public-school students in grades 2-12 are eligible for a scholarship worth up to $1,500. “CalKIDS Scholarship Month is about meeting students where they are and making it easier for them to access resources that can help support their education after high school,” said California State Treasurer Fiona Ma, CPA. “By bringing CalKIDS directly onto school campuses throughout California, we can help more students take this important step and claim their scholarship funds.” Throughout the ...

  Monterey County Sheriff’s Deputies were alerted at 5:21 pm on Saturday, September 19 to a stolen white Volkswagen hatchback, which had been reported stolen earlier that day from the Capitola Police Department. “We’re thankful this ended safely. Our deputies, CHP ground units, and the crew of CHP Helicopter H70 all worked together to bring this pursuit to a safe conclusion,” Sheriff Tina Nieto said. Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology provided deputies with the vehicle’s initial location and subsequent updated location notifications as it traveled through South Monterey County. A short time later, deputies saw the Volkswagen traveling southbound on Highway 101 near the First Street overpass in King City. Deputies attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver failed to yield, prompting an 18-mile pursuit with speeds ranging from 50 to 60 mph. The California Highway Patrol was requested to assist; CHP Helicopter H70 responded overhead to provide aerial support and assis...

During Child Passenger Safety Week, the County of Monterey Health Department encourages all parents and caregivers to make sure their children are riding safely by using the correct car seats, booster seats and properly fitted seat belts. This annual campaign takes place from September 21 to September 27 and aims to raise awareness about the importance of car seat safety and proper installation.   On Saturday, September 26, 2026, the County of Monterey Health Department will have certified child passenger safety technicians available at 1441 Constitution Blvd. Salinas, to check car seat installations. The technicians will teach parents and caregivers how to correctly install car seats and help them choose the right seat for their child based the on child’s age and size.   “When it comes to protecting our youngest passengers, there is no room for guesswork,” Julia Muruato, County of Monterey Child Passenger Safety Program Supervisor said. “Child Passenger S...

  County of Monterey Government Center Reopening — Postponed — Finalizing Routine Environmental and Safety Checks Thorough comprehensive building testing nearing completion following plumbing and fire suppression maintenance; essential services continue uninterrupted at temporary locations. SALINAS, CA — September 16, 2026 — The County of Monterey Administrative Office, in coordination with the Board of Supervisors and the County’s Facilities Division, has announced that the reopening of the Government Center at 168 W. Alisal Street is tentatively set for early to mid-week, the week of September 21, 2026. Contractors and environmental consultants have made excellent progress restoring the building following a recent sewer line malfunction. During the final stages of this work, crews identified a standard maintenance item in the building's fire sprinkler system that requires important repairs and testing. To ensure a seamless, fully operational, and comfortable environ...

  The County of Monterey Government Center, located at 168 West Alisal Street in Salinas, will remain closed until further notice. Government Center services will continue with the following temporary service arrangements remaining in place that include: Visitors seeking Treasurer-Tax Collector services should follow the posted signage at the Government Center for current service location information. Clerk of the Board of Supervisors and the Assessor-Clerk-Recorder’s Office will have staff available in Conference Room E-118, next to Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren’s office, in the East Wing at 142 W. Alisal Street, first floor. Public Defender’s Office staff will continue assisting the public by phone at 831-755-5058 and in person at the Law Library located at 142 West Alisal Street, Suite E-107. Staff will be available from 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Auditor-Controller’s Office is working remotely, with limited in-person Accounts Payable and Payroll ser...

The King City Aquatic Center Fence Renovation Project began on Tuesday morning, September 15 which includes replacement and improvement of the perimeter fence of the facility.    In April of 2026, the King City City Council approved the project and awarded the work to Big Wakoo Fencing of Atascadero.  The project utilizes 2023 state funding secured from Senator Anna Cabellero’s office in the amount of $400,000 for the purpose of improving City recreation facilities. Other funded projects included renovation work of the King City tennis courts in 2024 and the replacement of the pool chlorinator system in 2026.   The Aquatic Center, originally built in 1941, has been modified and improved several times over the years. The new fencing will meet current regulations and expand a portion of the facility to allow for better control and security of the picnic area adjacent to the north side facility entrance. The project is expected to be completed within 4 weeks, and the Ki...

  Soledad, CA – On Friday, September 4, 2026, at approximately 3:31p.m., Soledad Police Department officers responded to a report of a stabbing on Gabilan Drive and Benito Street. Upon arrival, officers located a male juvenile suffering from a single stab wound to his leg. Officers immediately began investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. The juvenile was transported by American Medical Response (AMR) to Natividad Medical Center for treatment. The victim was uncooperative with officers during the initial investigation. Officers also learned that approximately 10 minutes had passed between the incident and when police were notified. As a result, limited information regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident is currently unavailable. At this time, no suspect has been located or taken into custody. Based on the information currently available, investigators believe this was an isolated incident and there is no known ongoing threat to the general public. The...

  SACRAMENTO — As Labor Day weekend approaches, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is urging motorists to plan ahead, make responsible choices and never drive impaired.  To help keep California’s roads safe, the CHP will conduct a Labor Day Holiday Enforcement Period (HEP) from 6:01 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4, through 11:59 p.m. Monday, Sept. 7. During the HEP, CHP officers statewide will focus on removing impaired drivers from the road and educating motorists about the dangers of driving under the influence. The CHP’s HEP coincides with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, which runs Aug. 19 through Sept. 7. “There is no excuse for driving impaired. If you choose to drink or use a substance that affects your ability to drive, make a plan and stay out of the driver’s seat. Your decision could be the difference between everyone getting home safely and a tragedy that can change lives forever.”   CHP Commissioner Sean Dur...

  SALINAS, California- Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced on September 3 that on September 2, 2026, after a two-day jury trial 69-year-old David Carl Goad of San Simeon, was found guilty of felony assault by means likely to cause great bodily injury and misdemeanor battery committed on state parks property. On May 17, 2026, Goad began to disassemble a toilet in the restrooms at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, in Big Sur, to fix an issue with the toilet. The victim, a State Parks maintenance employee, asked Goad to stop what he was doing and leave the restroom to allow State Parks maintenance staff to fix the problem. Goad became hostile and combative with the victim, ultimately attacking the victim from behind when the victim turned his back to close and lock the restroom door. The victim testified that Goad placed his hands around the victim’s neck and applied pressure. The victim was able to break free after a brief struggle and report the incident t...

  SALINAS, CA — A baby turkey vulture rescued from the Big Sur wildfires is now safe and recovering at the SPCA Monterey County Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. A California State Parks Ranger discovered the juvenile bird near Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park along a closed stretch of Highway 1 in Big Sur. Arriving at the SPCA Wildlife Center thin, cold, and smelling strongly of smoke, wildlife rescue specialists believe the young bird was forced to fledge prematurely when he and his parents fled the heavy smoke and flames from the nearby Timber Fire. At an estimated 40 to 50 days old, the nestling left his nest weeks early. Turkey vultures typically begin fledging between 9 to 11 weeks (63 to 77 days) of age. Weighing just 780 grams, roughly the size of a teddy bear, he is significantly lighter than a typical 2,000-gram adult. Despite his ordeal, SPCA Wildlife Center specialists expect him to make a full recovery with warmth, supportive care, and proper nutrition. As a fi...

  Continuing wildfire activity involving the Timber and Plaskett Fires is generating smoke that is significantly impacting air quality in the Big Sur region and southern Monterey County.  Current Air Quality Index (AQI) measurements range from GOOD to VERY UNHEALTHY for communities directly downwind of the fires such as Lockwood, King City, San Ardo, Bradley, and Camp Roberts.  As of this advisory, modeling indicates the low-pressure system, which is generating westerly winds and smoke transport to the east, will be present until at least early next week; therefore, expect this pattern of smoke transport to continue until then. Air quality will be variable and unpredictable as conditions change depending on wind direction and fire activity.  The Monterey Bay Air Resources District (MBARD) will continue to follow the situation and issue advisories when appropriate.   MBARD monitors air quality in our region.  Updates on the current air quality...

  KING CITY, CA, September 1, 2026: Mee Memorial Healthcare System (MMHS) is proud to announce the arrival of a new advanced state-of-the-art SCENARIA View 128 CT system.   This new technology is part of the MMHS Diagnostic Imaging and Emergency Department renovation project and represents a major advancement in local diagnostic imaging capability, enabling South County residents to access advanced vascular and cardiac imaging services close to home.   By utilizing the SCENARIA View’s rapid 0.35-second scan speed and high-resolution 0.625mm thin-slices, Mee Memorial can now produce incredibly detailed images of the vascular structure in a fraction of the time while helping reduce radiation dose and contrast use.   "Bringing this new technology to Mee Memorial is about providing the best possible care to our community," said Timothy Watson, MD, Director of Radiology Services. "This new CT machine allows for both faster and more accurate diagnoses, which...

  Soledad, CA – On Friday night, August 28, 2026, at approximately 9:20 p.m., a Soledad Police Department officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop near Monterey Street and Third Street. The driver of the vehicle, later identified as a male juvenile from Soledad, failed to yield and led officers on a pursuit which continued out of the city and came to an end near US-101 and Soledad Prison Road after the vehicle became disabled. The juvenile was subsequently taken into custody by officers. During the investigation, officers contacted the registered owner of the vehicle, who confirmed that the juvenile did not have permission to drive the vehicle and requested that it be reported as stolen. The juvenile was booked and transported to Monterey County Juvenile Hall, where he is facing multiple serious charges related to the incident. The Soledad Police Department would like to thank the Gonzales Police Department and Monterey County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance during this in...