investigation

Monterey County Sheriff Bomb Squad member coming out of the area where the bomb detonated on Aug. 5, 2022. Photo by Chris Mora.

Police / Fire

Juvenile involved in bomb explosion to be prosecuted locally

The minor was injured when a homemade device exploded in a Hollister home on Aug. 5.

Though the DA's office took no action for violating the Brown Act, it did warn against any further violations. Photo by John Chadwell.

Government / Politics

DA’s office finds Hollister mayor violated Brown Act

The San Benito County district attorney’s investigator cautioned the City Council to educate itself and avoid further violations.

Hollister Police Department. BenitoLink photo.

News Release

Hollister Police Animal Care and Services investigate animal cruelty case

HPD says the driver was seen releasing kittens onto the shoulder of the road from a moving vehicle.

Administration of a COVID-19 vaccine. Photo by Leslie David.

Health

SBC concludes investigation into alleged unauthorized COVID-19 vaccinations

Public Information Officer David Westrick states county found claims that San Benito Health Foundation vaccinated individuals beyond permitted phase were substantiated.

Collage of Quien Sabe Road holes in Tres Pinos area. Photos by Robert Eliason

Transportation

BL Special Report: Roads were main focus for Civil Grand Jury

San Benito County Civil Grand Jury submits its report on how funding for roads in the county has been spent. Supervisors have 90 days to respond.

SBHS Superintendent Shawn Tennenbaum said he wanted an opportunity for the district to share with Benitolink as much about the investigation as possible. Photo by John Chadwell.

Children and Youth

SBHS superintendent discusses claims of inappropriate behavior in special ed class

Parents have heard allegations of nude photos, a porn video, foul language and bullying, and school administrators say they can't share what actually occurred.

Diego Ochoa speaks to the public during a 2019 board meeting at which he was introduced as the new superintendent. Photo by John Chadwell.

BL Special Report

BL Special Report: Ochoa makes progress on special ed program

Superintendent speaks on recent reorganization efforts.

Parents Virginia Gardner and Susan Villa, and education advocate Kim Taylor told of their concern and frustration after reading an anonymous letter's accusations at a June meeting of the San Benito High School Board of Trustees. On July 10, Hollister Police said no criminal charges would be filed in relation to the letter's allegations. Photo by John Chadwell.

Children and Youth

HPD says no criminal charges in special ed investigation; case remains open

Probe focused on conversations with people who came forward.

File photo by Joshua Miller.

Police / Fire

Police make arrest in 2014 homicide investigation

Hollister resident charged in connection with Dec. 23 shooting of Raul De La Rosa, according to HPD.

Provided by the Hollister Police Department.

Police / Fire

Hollister police investigating armed robbery

Police say Quick Stop on San Felipe Road robbed at gunpoint.

Consultant Marilyn Shepherd interviewed teachers, staff and parents to determine what was wrong with HSD's special education program. Photo by John Chadwell.

BL Special Report

BL Special Report: Hollister School District noncompliant with state and federal special ed law

Consultant cites leadership problems and offers solutions.

File photo by Joshua Miller.

Police / Fire

Police ask for public assistance with shooting investigation

Hollister Police Department advisory states that multiple gunshots fired into Gonzalez Drive residence.

Hollister Police Department. File photo by Joshua Miller.

Police / Fire

Police seek information on McCray Street shooting

Officers ask for assistance from possible witnesses.

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Police / Fire

Police seek leads in recent commercial burglaries

Police seek help identifying burglars who broke into two stores in Hollister

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Business / Economy

Mayor claims ethics investigation is attempt to silence him on 400 Block controversy

Hollister Mayor Ignacio Velazquez is under a second ethics investigation, apparently prompted by his city council colleagues

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