May 09, 2024
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) -- Despite being a public official facing very public allegations of child sexual assault, so much about District 2 Supervisor Zack Scrivner's case remains private. Kern County residents are visibly upset with Scrivner, some calling for his resignation, and others planning a protest of what they see as special treatment. Yet, Scrivner has kept silent. He has not said anything about a resignation, and he has not been arrested nor charged. Following allegations of sexually assaulting a minor two weeks ago, Supervisor Scrivner is on a sudden medical leave of absence. The reason and duration remain undisclosed, as the County said revealing that information would violate medical and privacy rights. Interim Chief Administrative Officer Elsa Martinez told 17 News the County was alerted via a statement from Scrivner's attorney, which is the same way local media found out. "The County has not received independent notification of Supervisor Scrivner’s medical leave of absence," Martinez said in a statement. "As always, District 2 staff will continue to respond to constituent requests during this time." As long as he holds the seat, Scrivner will be paid the supervisor monthly base salary of about $9,500. District 3 Supervisor Jeff Flores; District 4 Supervisor and Board Chair David Couch; and a spokesperson for District 5 Supervisor Leticia Perez told 17 News they found out about Scrivner's leave through the news. They also said there was no formal notification by the county and that they do not know the duration or details of their colleague's absence. For all current Board members, dealing with a vacancy or ongoing investigation of Scrivner's kind is unchartered waters. ALDI cutting prices on more than 250 items to help combat ‘stubborn inflation’ "For every answer, we've got another question," Supervisor Couch told 17 News over the phone. And Tuesday, in the first Board of Supervisors meeting since the allegations emerged, Scriver was absent. "Kern County DA Zimmer called the sheriff directly to report a psychotic episode that involved a weapon with her nephew Supervisor Scrivner, and of course the rest, we're all familiar with," said Noe Garcia with the Dolores Huerta Foundation, demanding accountability and transparency from the County. That conflict of interest -- the DA being Scrivner's aunt -- has resulted in the case being handled out of county by the state Attorney General's Office. And, that family relationship has fanned speculations Scrivner may be receiving special treatment from fellow county officials. Scrivner's estranged wife Christina Scrivner requested a permanent restraining order. The reasons for her request were outlined in an almost entirely redacted document by the order of Judge Tanya Richard. Court staff said the order granting the redaction is confidential. And 17 News knows there were search warrants issued, but those warrants have been sealed. Court clerks said they cannot confirm they exist or who sealed them or why. And, more questions remain unanswered. Where is Zack Scrivner? Why can't the public know of the elected official's whereabouts? Why has he not been arrested? Will he be charged? What is the status of the investigation? Who is in charge? KCSO? Just the Attorney General? Who requested the AG take over the case? Is the District Attorney's office completely hands off? What exactly was said between DA Zimmer and Sheriff Youngblood? What exactly happened? Did he sexually assault a minor? Is his leave for physical or mental health reasons? For how long will Scrivner be absent? The sheriff's office said Scrivner questions should go to the state Attorney General's office. In a statement to 17 News, the AG's office wrote, "At this point all we can confirm is that we are reviewing the case, but we are happy to keep you apprised as updates become available." Supervisor Couch noted he's asked County Counsel to provide more clarity on how the County will handle Board vacancies. Answers are expected at the next Board meeting.
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