In a particular assembly of the Ventura Metropolis Council almost per week in the past, the council voted unanimously to oust its metropolis lawyer.
Ventura Mayor Joe Schroeder mentioned in a written assertion that the firing of Andrew Heglund was “on account of a private matter.”
However now it seems that the low-profile firing was in response to a police investigation into an indecent publicity incident at a Chick-fil-A restaurant within the metropolis that concerned Heglund, in accordance with authorities, his lawyer and native media stories.
Authorities have been tight-lipped about offering particulars within the case.
Capt. Dean Worthy, spokesperson for the Ventura County Sheriff’s Division, informed The Instances that the investigation, initially began by the Ventura Police Division, was being dealt with by the sheriff’s sexual assault unit with the foremost crimes bureau and that it concerned Heglund.
Ron S. Bamieh, lawyer for Heglund, mentioned there may be an investigation however no pending prison prices.
“We’re optimistic that the investigation will bear out that Mr. Heglund didn’t commit any prison acts,” he mentioned. “There’s a lot exaggeration over some individuals who bought upset at a Chick-fil-A.”
Responding by electronic mail to questions by The Instances, Ventura Police Chief Darin Schindler mentioned the incident occurred at 1:30 p.m. on April 10, when law enforcement officials responded to a name on the restaurant at 1321 Eastman Ave.
“Upon arrival, officers interviewed witnesses and gathered info concerning the incident,” Schindler wrote. “In the end, on account of battle of curiosity, this case was referred to” the Sheriff’s Division, he wrote.
The e-mail supplied no extra particulars in regards to the case.
Heglund, who was a deputy metropolis lawyer in Bakersfield for eight years earlier than becoming a member of the Ventura metropolis lawyer’s workplace in July 2019, was appointed metropolis lawyer in 2022 after the retirement of his predecessor, in accordance with metropolis information.
Bamieh mentioned his consumer is a revered member of the group and was a extremely valued metropolis lawyer that town recruited. He mentioned town’s resolution to fireplace him was primarily based on panic and never logical reasoning.
“I don’t assume that’s applicable,” he mentioned, “however that’s for a unique day to be argued about.”
