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2024-2025 SAN JOAQUIN CIVIL GRAND JURY RELEASES FINAL CONSOLIDATED REPORT AND SELECTION OF THE 2025-2026 CIVIL GRAND JURY

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Stockton, CA — Today, June 27, 2025, the 2024-2025 San Joaquin County Civil Grand Jury released its final consolidated report. The final consolidated report contains investigative reports, findings, and recommendations developed in the 2024-2025 term. Civil grand jurors examine and investigate local governmental activities within San Joaquin County. The responsibilities of the civil grand jury encompass the examination of all aspects of county government, including school and special assessment districts, to ensure that the county is being governed lawfully, efficiently, and that public monies are being handled appropriately. The grand jury may conduct investigations of public agencies and the administration and affairs of any city within the county.

Hon. George J. Abdallah, Jr., Supervising Judge of the San Joaquin County Grand Juries, commented on the 2024-2025 Civil Grand Jury’s work, saying, “As the Grand Jury Advisor and Supervisor, it has been my privilege to review the work of the 2024-2025 Grand Jury. The Grand Jurors received well-considered advice from their highly experienced advisors, County Counsel Ms. Kimberly Johnson, the Assistant District Attorney Mr. Richard Price, and the invaluable assistance of the Superior Court administrators. The Grand Jury Final Report educates the public through well-written accounts of the work, findings, and recommendations of these devoted citizens. To each member of the 2024-2025 San Joaquin County Grand Jury, for your many accomplishments, the Superior Court extends its congratulations and gratitude.”

Today also marks the day the members of the 2025-2026 Civil Grand Jury will be selected and sworn in. The selection and swearing in will take place in Department 3D at 3:00 p.m. The Civil Grand Jury is comprised of 19 citizens who are impaneled annually for a one-year term. The 2025-2026 term begins July 1, 2025.

The public is encouraged to read the final consolidated report by visiting the Grand Jury’s website.

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2024-1015 San Joaquin Civil Grand Jury releases Final Consolidated Report and Selection of the 2025-2026 Civil Grand JuryDownload

2024-2025 SAN JOAQUIN CIVIL GRAND JURY RELEASES REPORT ON WASTEWATER INEFFICIENCY IN LINNE ESTATES

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Stockton, CA —  Today, the 2024-2025 San Joaquin County Civil Grand Jury (Grand Jury) released its report investigating wastewater inefficiency in Linne Estates, a community in unincorporated San Joaquin County. It is situated outside the City of Tracy and is not serviced by the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP); and therefore, an independent WWTP was constructed by the developer to serve this area. The complaint from a homeowner in the Linne Estates, which was received late in the 2023-2024 term, was forwarded to the current Grand  Jury for investigation. 

The complaint alleged that the San Joaquin County Department of Public Works (DPW) mismanaged the operation of the independent WWTP resulting in continued rate hikes. In 2020, the homeowners received a letter from the county indicating that the CSA 44 Zone G fund had a deficit of $411,000. The county informed homeowners that a significant rate increase would eliminate the deficit over five years, and they agreed, but it continues to rise. They were in regular contact with the DPW but remained frustrated because the deficit continued to grow due to high maintenance and operational costs. The homeowners reported concern about an impending sewer rate increase set to begin in fiscal year 2025-2026.

The San Joaquin County Civil Grand Jury conducted a comprehensive investigation into the matter by researching public documents and interviewing homeowners, employees from DPW, staff from the City of Tracy, and elected officials from San Joaquin County. Additionally,  Civil Grand Jury members toured the WWTPs.

The 2024-2025 Civil Grand Jury did not find any evidence of mismanagement; rather, it determined that the rate hikes resulted from operational and design inefficiencies. Over the past 20 years, homeowners’ sewer rates for maintaining and operating the WWTP have consistently increased. Despite these rising sewer rates, there remains a funding deficit from previous repairs, which homeowners attribute to the County approving a poorly designed WWTP. 

The Grand Jury made several recommendations to resolve operational and design inefficiencies. The San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors (BOS) should  consider consolidating the two smaller WWTPs into a single, more efficient facility, create a plan to replace or upgrade the facilities, create a plan with current and projected discharge requirements to reduce operating costs, and assess the feasibility of establishing a satellite office to serve the south county

The Grand Jury encourages the public to review the full findings and recommendations in the complete report.  The report is available for viewing on the Grand Jury’s website.

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2024-2025 San Joaquin Civil Grand Jury Releases Report on Wastewater Inefficiency in Linne EstatesDownload

GOVERNOR APPOINTS ADAM RAMIREZ TO THE SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT BENCH

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STOCKTON— On Wednesday, June 18, 2025, Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Adam Ramirez to serve as judge on the San Joaquin County Superior Court bench.  Judge Ramirez fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Jose L. Alva in September 2023.

Judge Ramirez brings nearly two decades of legal experience to his new role. He has served as a Shareholder at Hakeem, Ellis, Marengo & Ramirez since 2023, following a 14-year tenure as an Associate. Judge Ramirez has been an Adjunct Professor at Humphreys University Drivon School of Law, since 2019. Earlier in his career, he served as an Attorney at the Family Law Service Center and the Law Office of Christopher K. Eley.

Judge Ramirez earned his Juris Doctor degree from the Humphreys University Drivon School of Law.

“We are extremely excited about the appointment of Adam Ramirez to the San Joaquin County Superior Court.  Adam brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the areas  of family and civil law that will be a great benefit to the litigants who appear before him.  We are grateful for this appointment as we have a number of upcoming retirements. Thank you to Governor Newsom and Judicial Appointment Secretary Cespedes for addressing San Joaquin County judicial needs,” said Presiding Judge Gus C. Barrera.

In response to his appointment, Judge Ramirez stated, “It is an honor to be selected by Governor Newsom to serve the people of San Joaquin County as a judge. I look forward to working with the San Joaquin Bench: our county has some of the best judicial officers  in the state, and I am deeply humbled to stand among them.”

The Court welcomes Judge Ramirez and looks forward to the experience, dedication, and leadership he brings to the people of San Joaquin County. A formal swearing-in ceremony has yet to be scheduled.

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Governor Appoints Adam Ramirez to the San Joaquin County Superior Court BenchDownload

COLLABORATIVE COURTS TO HOLD GRADUATION CEREMONY

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Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.  Bob Hope Theater, 242 E. Main Street, Stockton, CA

STOCKTON, CA – Celebrating Milestones in Recovery: Collaborative Court Program Graduation.

“We are delighted to announce the graduation of over 240 participants from our Collaborative Court Programs. Our programs address drug-related offenses through rehabilitative approaches, which have proven to be instrumental in supporting participants on their journey to recovery. The Collaborative Court Programs have reduced recidivism rates and improved participants’ lives. We remain committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based, and practical approaches to addressing drug addiction within our community. When a member of our community finds sobriety, we, collectively as a whole, win.” – Kelly Placeres, Director of Collaborative Courts

“I have attended graduations in the past, but last year I was shaking hands and congratulating the graduates for the first time as a Collaborative Court judge; always a  joyful and heartwarming celebration of accomplishment!” – Judge Carter Holly

The graduation program will feature:

Congratulatory Remarks—Assemblywoman Rhodesia Ransom. Assemblywoman Ransom represents California’s 13th Assembly District, which includes the vibrant communities of Stockton, Tracy, and Mountain House. With over two decades of experience in public service, the Assemblywoman has been a fierce advocate for social justice, equitable education, and economic empowerment. As a former Tracy City Councilmember and non-profit leader, she stood up for the most vulnerable, strengthened economic opportunities, and fought to reduce homelessness in the region.

Key Note Speaker—William Smith, Jr. William Smith, Jr. is a singer, songwriter, entertainer, and recording artist. He has 33 years in recovery from alcoholism, earned a counseling certification from the University of the Pacific, and labors passionately to help people break free from addiction.

Graduate Speaker—Stephen Chew. Despite spending 14 years in prison and struggling with opiate addiction, Stephen has emerged resilient and determined. Since entering Parole Reentry Court program in January 2024, Stephen enrolled and graduated from UEI College Trade School with a certificate in electrical work. He is now enrolled at Delta College. He completed the Geo Reentry program and now serves as a mentor, guiding newly enrolled clients.

Graduate Speaker—Justin Herring.  Justin’s life had been marred by a long struggle with meth and alcohol addiction, leading him in and out of prison. He entered Dependency Drug Court in December of 2023. He completed 120 days in residential treatment, secured a good position at a concrete company, and established a strong support system. Justin faced many struggles during his early recovery, but remained unwavering in his commitment to change and reunifying with his child.  He was awarded full custody of his daughter on February 13, 2025.

              For more information, please contact Kelly Placeres at 992-5225.

Collaborative Courts to Hold Graduation CeremonyDownload

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SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT  SEEKING APPLICANTS TO SERVE ON THE 2025-2026 CIVIL GRAND JURY

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Stockton, CA — The San Joaquin County Superior Court is seeking applicants to serve on the fiscal year 2025-2026 San Joaquin County Civil Grand Jury. The deadline for application submission is April 15, 2025.

Applications can be obtained by calling (209) 992-5695. Applications can also be found on the court’s website at: http://www.sjcourts.org/general-info/civil-grand- jury or by scanning the QR code on the press release.

Members of the 2025-2026 Civil Grand Jury will begin serving on July 1, 2025. The Grand Jury is comprised of nineteen citizens whose names are randomly selected from applicants nominated by the Judges of the Superior Court. The Civil Grand Jury inquires into and investigates the functions and operations of governmental bodies, agencies, and public officials within San Joaquin County, as well as investigates complaints received from the public. Past reports have focused on juvenile group homes, community college and school districts, jail operations, special districts, and housing authorities.

Positive comments from recent past grand jurors regarding their involvement and their experiences include, “A strong desire to serve our citizens and making sure all governmental agencies are doing their job.” “I love the fact that jurors have vast knowledge in the field they have worked in, which give first-hand experience to topics discussed . . .” and, “Meeting a wide variety of community members and working together.”

Applicants must be able to work in-person and have the ability to work remotely via telephonic or video appearance(a smart phone and internet access are required).

A Grand Juror must be at least 18 years of age, a United States citizen who has resided in San Joaquin County for at least one year, possess sufficient knowledge of the English language, and is not now serving as a trial juror or elected public official. Qualified applicants may be interviewed by a Superior Court Judge. The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office will conduct background investigations, which     includes a record check from law enforcement agencies.

San Joaquin County Superior Court Seeking Applicants to Serve on the 2025-2026 Civil Grand JuryDownload

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SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT TO REOPEN LODI BRANCH

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On February 3, 2025, San Joaquin County Superior Court’s Lodi Branch Court will reopen to the public resuming services to the Lodi community,  marking a significant step in our continued efforts to serve the surrounding community and ensure the accessibility of justice to north county.

The case types that will be handled at the Lodi Branch Court are:

  • Criminal Arraignments, Pre-Trial Conference, Motions (misdemeanor out-of–custody matters)
  • Traffic
  • City Code Violations
  • Small Claims
  • Limited Civil (Civil Harassments—Lodi only, Name Changes—all County)
  • Probate (including Civil Minors Comp, Guardianships, Mental Health, and Conservatorships)

We are confident that resuming operations in Lodi will help alleviate some of the workload on other court locations while providing the local community with more convenient access to essential court services. 

Please visit the Court’s website at www.sjcourts.org for additional information.

San Joaquin County Superior Court To Reopen Lodi BranchDownload

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SAN JOAQUIN SUPERIOR COURT LAUNCHES COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE, RECOVERY, AND ENPOWERMENT (CARE) ACT PROGRAM

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Stockton, CA — On  December 1, 2024, the Superior Court of California, County of San Joaquin, will accept petitions for the Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment Act Program (CARE). Established by Senate Bill 1338, the CARE Act empowers a broad range of persons including family members, behavioral health professionals, licensed clinicians, first responders, public guardians, conservators, and others with close ties to an individual to petition the court on behalf of a person experiencing debilitating mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorders. The CARE Act creates a pathway to connect eligible individuals (called “respondents”) to treatment and  services, focusing on long-term recovery through a structured court process. 

San Joaquin County Behavioral Health Services (SJBHS) will evaluate eligibility, coordinate treatment and supportive services, and ensures program standards are met. When necessary, the Public Defender will provide legal representation for respondents who cannot afford their own attorney, ensuring their rights are protected throughout the process.  For additional information on SJBHS services visit their website at www.sjcbhs.org

If a respondent qualifies, a CARE agreement or plan may be developed and ordered by the court. Beginning December 1, 2024, CARE Act Petitions will be accepted at the Stockton Superior Court. Filing a petition is free of charge. CARE act proceedings are  confidential and will not be open to the public. CARE Act proceedings will take place each week on Monday at 9:00 a.m. in Department 9A, at the Stockton Court House, located at 180 E Weber Ave, Stockton, CA, 95202.   For additional information and resources visit www.sjcourts.org

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Superior Court Launches Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) Act ProgramDownload

National Adoption Day

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Stockton, CA — On Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., the Superior Court of California, County of San Joaquin, will host National Adoption Day with San Joaquin County Human Services Agency, Parents by Choice, Family Extension Foster Care, Foster  Family Agency, VBR Foster Family Agency, Wayfinder Family Services, and The Linus Project. This year’s event will celebrate and finalize adoptions for 18 families and 22 children.

This event will be presided over by Judges Guy Castillo, and Sabrina Schneweis-Coe. Judge Erin Guy Castillo will begin with a brief welcome and introduction. 

Upon reflection of this eventful day, Judge Erin Guy Castillo said, “The court is honored and excited to participate in adoption Saturday and give forever homes to so many deserving children in our community.   The positive impacts that come from finding permanency and stability for our youth is important and valuable.”

Volunteers from the court and agencies participate in this special day by working together to celebrate the joys of adoption and encourage more families and individuals to give children permanent families through adoption.

National Adoption Day has been celebrated across the nation on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and to raise awareness of the more than 108,000 children and youth in foster care waiting to find a permanent and loving family. Over the past 25 years, the nationwide collective effort of judges, lawyers, court staff, foster professionals, child advocates, sheriff personnel, and many others has made the dreams of over 85,000 children and youth come true by working on this one special day to finalize adoptions for children and youth in foster care.

For your convenience, here is information regarding the event:

· Event begins at 9:30 a.m., Jury Assembly Room 12th floor

· Court opens to families at 8:30 a.m.

· Welcome/Introduction: Judge Erin Guy Castillo

· Stockton Courthouse – 180 E. Weber Ave., Stockton, CA

· Members of the public and press are invited to attend court in person. Press interested in recording court proceedings via TV camera and recorder, still camera, and/or audio must complete required paperwork. Please send requests to mediarequest@sjcourts.org.

National Adoption Day, November 23, 2024Download

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NATIONAL ADOPTION DAY

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Stockton, CA — On Saturday, November 23, 2023, at 9:30 a.m., the Superior Court of California, County of San Joaquin, will host National Adoption Day with San Joaquin County Human Services Agency, Parents by Choice, Family Extension Foster Care, Foster  Family Agency, VBR Foster Family Agency, Wayfinder Family Services, and The Linus Project. This year’s event will celebrate and finalize adoptions for 18 families and 22 children.

This event will be presided over by Judges Guy-Castillo, and Sabrina Schneweis-Coe. Judge Erin Guy-Castillo will begin with a brief welcome and introduction. 

Upon reflection of this eventful day, Judge Erin Guy-Castillo said, “The court is honored and excited to participate in adoption Saturday and give forever homes to so many deserving children in our community.  The positive impacts that come from finding permanency and stability for our youth is important and valuable.”

Volunteers from the court and agencies participate in this special day by working together to celebrate the joys of adoption and encourage more families and individuals to give children permanent families through adoption.

National Adoption Day has been celebrated across the nation on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and to raise awareness of the more than 108,000 children and youth in foster care waiting to find a permanent and loving family. Over the past 25 years, the nationwide collective effort of judges, lawyers, court staff, foster professionals, child advocates, sheriff personnel, and many others has made the dreams of over 85,000 children and youth come true by working on this one special day to finalize adoptions for children and youth in foster care.

For your convenience, here is information regarding the event:

· Event begins at 9:30 a.m., Jury Assembly Room 12th floor

· Court opens to families at 8:30 a.m.

· Welcome/Introduction: Judge Erin Guy-Castillo

· Stockton Courthouse – 180 E. Weber Ave., Stockton, CA

· Members of the public and press are invited to attend court in person. Press interested in recording court proceedings via TV camera and recorder, still camera, and/or audio must complete required paperwork. Please send requests to mediarequest@sjcourts.org.

National Adoption Day November 23, 2024Download

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OFFICE OF TRAFFIC SAFETY AWARDS $214,020 GRANT TO  SUPERIOR COURT OF  SAN JOAQUIN, FOR DEDICATED  IMPAIRED DRIVING  COURT PROGRAM           

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Stockton, Calif. –Superior Court of California, County of San Joaquin is pleased to announce it has been awarded a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). The grant program runs from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025, with the goal of reducing the number of persons injured or killed in alcohol-related collisions in San Joaquin County.

The San Joaquin DUI Court Program began in 2008 and targets all repeat DUI offenders in Stockton. The program includes a treatment track designed for offenders with substance dependence or addiction, focusing on providing substance abuse treatment in conjunction with continuous alcohol monitoring, drug testing, and regular court appearances. Additionally, the program will reintroduce a monitoring track focused on monitoring and regular court appearances for repeat offenders who are assessed to not have a dependence or addiction problem.

This grant will allow the San Joaquin DUI Court Program to enhance its established program by focusing on the reintroduction of the two-tier system and capacity building. The grant provides two full-time case managers. Case managers service the courts and community by assisting the Court with improving offender accountability, increasing court appearance rates, and enhancing retention and successful completion of outcomes of DUI Court Program participants.

The grant will also support the Choices and Consequences school outreach program to educate middle school and high school students on the dangers of driving while under the influence. The Court has adapted the program to continue in a virtual environment in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and expects to reach several hundred students during the grant period.

DUI Court partners with healthcare treatment providers, social services, and other community-based organizations to develop an effective course of treatment for participants through a combination of judicial supervision and other supportive services.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.   

The Office of Traffic Safety Awards $214,020 Grant to Superior Court of San JoaquinDownload

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