An official report regarding accusations made by a Shafter city council member against Shafter police officers has been published by the city. The informal complaint spawned an investigation into allegations by council member Gilbert Alvarado, and we’ve got a copy of the redacted report from that investigation.
As a quick refresher, mid-last year, the City of Shafter was served a Kern County Grand Jury report which recommended the city review the city charter and establish accountability measures, as well as define “Council Norms” and publish them on the city’s website. All of which has been updated according to the response filed by the City with the grand jury.
In late 2025, Councilman Pete Espinoza filed a complaint against Alvarado, asking for a public apology, or, if not, ask the city to start the process of removing Alvarado from his post. Though the complaint did not specify what Espinoza was asking Alvarado to apologize for. The removal process for Alvarado is still pending…