Why was Coachella Mayor arrested? Inside Steven Hernandez perjury and conflict of interest charges

The city of Coachella, California, is reeling after Mayor Steven Andrew Hernandez was arrested Tuesday morning by the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office on multiple counts of perjury and conflict of interest. The 42-year-old mayor was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center in Riverside before being released later in the day on $112,500 bail.

Hernandez’s arrest marks a dramatic turn in what local residents describe as long-standing concerns over transparency and accountability in City Hall. According to court documents, the mayor faces five felony perjury counts, one felony conflict of interest count, and four misdemeanor charges tied to his role in city dealings. He is scheduled to appear in court Thursday, as the investigation continues to unfold.

City Confirms Cooperation as Investigation Widens

In an official statement, the City of Coachella acknowledged awareness of the allegations, confirming it is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation. The statement read, “The City is aware of allegations made regarding Coachella Mayor Steven A. Hernandez and the City’s administration is fully cooperating with authorities. There is no additional information available to share at this time.”

The District Attorney’s Office declined to comment on the specifics of the case but confirmed that further information will be released soon. Hernandez, who has served as mayor since 2012 and previously as a city council member for nearly two decades, is also chief of staff to Riverside County Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. It remains unclear whether his county position is affected by the arrest.

READ ALSO

Chauncey Billups arrested! FBI uncovers massive NBA gambling ring involving top players

Public Reaction: Coachella Residents Demand Answers

The news of Hernandez’s arrest sparked a wave of reaction among Coachella Valley residents. Local resident Alan Carvalho, who has publicly questioned City Hall’s transparency, said he was shocked at how quickly the situation escalated. “I was just really surprised that it happened as quickly as it did because I know the grand jury has been working on this for some time,” Carvalho told KESQ.

Another resident, Luis Gutierrez, expressed frustration and called for clarity. “I’d like to know the truth,” he said. “I’d like to know exactly what happened, if he is guilty, if he’s not guilty.” As of now, Hernandez remains Coachella’s sitting mayor and has not indicated any plans to resign.

A Long Tenure Under Scrutiny

Hernandez has been a central figure in Coachella’s local government for nearly 20 years, earning a reputation for promoting community programs and development projects. However, his administration has faced criticism over conflicts of interest and governance practices, which residents say have gone unchecked for too long.

Legal experts note that perjury and conflict of interest charges can carry severe penalties, including imprisonment and permanent disqualification from holding public office. If convicted, the case could have wide-reaching political implications in Riverside County and beyond, potentially reshaping Coachella’s leadership landscape ahead of the 2026 mayoral term expiration.

What’s Next for Coachella’s Leadership

Hernandez’s next court appearance is set for Thursday, where prosecutors are expected to outline evidence supporting the charges. Meanwhile, the city continues to operate under his leadership, though growing public pressure may push for temporary administrative adjustments.

Residents and officials alike are watching closely as the investigation unfolds, one that may expose deeper systemic issues within the city’s governance. The unfolding case underscores a growing call for integrity, transparency, and accountability in public service across California’s local governments.

FAQ

1. Why was Coachella Mayor Steven Hernandez arrested?

Hernandez was arrested on multiple perjury and conflict of interest charges following an investigation by the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office. Prosecutors allege he engaged in unethical activities connected to his role in city government.

2. What charges does Steven Hernandez face?

He faces five felony perjury counts, one felony conflict of interest count, and four misdemeanor conflict of interest charges, according to jail records.

3. Is Steven Hernandez still the mayor of Coachella?

Yes. As of now, Steven Hernandez remains the sitting Mayor of Coachella and has not announced any intention to resign despite the ongoing legal proceedings.

4. What is Steven Hernandez’s bail amount?

His bail was set at $112,500, and he was released the same day following his arrest.

5. When is Steven Hernandez’s next court appearance?

The mayor is expected to appear in court Thursday, where prosecutors will present preliminary findings.

6. How are Coachella residents reacting to the arrest?

Local residents expressed shock and disappointment, calling for greater transparency and accountability within City Hall. Some community members have voiced support for a full public inquiry.

7. What could happen if Hernandez is found guilty?

If convicted, Hernandez could face significant fines, prison time, and removal from public office, potentially ending his political career in Riverside County.

8. How long has Steven Hernandez been in office?

Hernandez has served in Coachella’s local government for nearly two decades, including as mayor since 2012. His current term runs until December 2026.