Mass raids across oil boomtown where council clings to power despite furious uprising

A sweeping series of law enforcement raids hit the Central California city of Avenal on Wednesday as investigators searched City Hall, a community center and multiple homes linked to the town’s embattled leadership.The move dramatically escalates a months-long political crisis after local elected officials refused to relinquish power despite being overwhelmingly recalled by voters.The Kings County District Attorney’s Office, working alongside the Kings County Sheriff’s Office, executed search warrants at seven locations across the city as part of what prosecutors described only as an active investigation.

Authorities have not disclosed what evidence investigators were seeking, whether anything was seized or if any arrests are expected.Among the locations searched were Avenal City Hall, the city’s community center and at least four private homes, according to ABC30.Residents said the properties appeared to be connected to Mayor Alvaro Preciado, City Manager Antony Lopez and several members of the city council, though the District Attorney’s Office has not confirmed the specific locations or whether the investigation is tied to the city’s bitter recall battle.

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By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story Witnesses described a large law enforcement presence descending on the small Kings County community early Wednesday.“There were sheriff’s vehicles.

There was an undercover vehicle.It was all there,” recall organizer Ginger Wallis told local television stations.Wallis, who has spearheaded the campaign to remove the council members, said she viewed the searches as a turning point after more than a year of political turmoil.“It’s about time they’re doing something because we’ve been fighting for this for over a year,” she said.“I�...