The decision to grant former Kern County Supervisor Zack Scrivner mental health diversion continues to draw sharp criticism from local and state officials, with some calling for federal intervention in a case that could allow Scrivner to avoid jail time.
A judge ruled Friday that Scrivner qualifies for mental health diversion under state law, a decision that pauses criminal proceedings as long as he remains in compliance with court-ordered treatment and conditions. If successful, the charges against him could ultimately be dismissed.
The ruling comes nearly a year after an April 23, 2024 incident at Scrivner’s Tehachapi home, where sheriff’s deputies were called to investigate allegations that Scrivner sexually molested his child while under the influence of alcohol and drugs, according to Kern County Sheriff Donny Youngblood…