Community reacts to Coachella Mayor Steven Hernandez arrest
Shay Lawson
COACHELLA, Calif. (KESQ) – Coachella Mayor Steven Hernandez was arrested Tuesday morning by the Riverside County District Attorney’s office.
Hernandez, 42, faces perjury and conflict of interest charges, according to jail records.
He was released the same day on $112,500 bail and is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday.
For months — Coachella Valley resident Alan Carvalho said he’s raised concerns about transparency inside Coachella City Hall, but he said the timing of Hernandez’s arrest shocked him.
“I was just really surprised that it happened as quickly as it did,” Carvalho said. “Because I know the grand jury has been working on this for some time.”
Reaction from Coachella resident Luis Gutierrez, who said he’s looking for answers.
“I’d like to know the truth,” Gutierrez said. “I’d like to know exactly what happened if he is guilty, if he’s not guilty.”
At this time, the city of Coachella confirming that Hernandez remains Mayor — with no indication he plans to step down.
Stay with News Channel 3 for updates on this developing story.