Your trusted source for local Visalia, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Kaweah Health has responded to the announcement from Visalia OB-GYN Medical Associates that they will cease providing obstetric services starting December 20. The decision is attributed to a shortage of physicians, prompting Kaweah Health to reaffirm its commitment to offering comprehensive OB-GYN care in the community.
A former CIA officer, Brian Jeffrey Raymond, was sentenced to 30 years in prison for drugging and sexually abusing dozens of women over a 14-year period, including while stationed in Mexico City. The U.S. Department of Justice revealed that Raymond admitted to multiple counts of sexual abuse and created obscene materials without the victims' consent. The case highlights the exploitation of trust by a government representative and the importance of victim testimony in securing justice.
Health officials in Los Angeles County have reported two human cases of raccoon roundworm, a rare but serious parasite that can cause severe brain, spinal cord, and eye damage. While the risk to the general public remains low, officials emphasize the importance of taking precautions to prevent infection, especially for young children.
Seven California cities have been ranked among the most rodent-infested areas in the United States, according to a recent report by Terminix. The analysis highlights cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Sacramento, which often face challenges due to high population density and easy access to food. This report sheds light on the health hazards posed by rodent infestations, emphasizing the need for effective pest control.
Two students in Visalia were arrested for making threats against Ridgeview Middle School, with a 12-year-old and a 13-year-old involved. The 13-year-old was additionally charged for bringing a BB gun to school, while authorities emphasized that any threats will be taken seriously. School operations will continue as normal but with heightened police presence.
California's Organized Retail Crime Task Force has made significant strides in combating retail theft, with 171 arrests and the recovery of $547,000 in stolen goods reported for August 2024. Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted that the task force has made over 1,000 arrests this year, totaling $7.8 million in recovered merchandise. New legislation has been signed to strengthen penalties for large-scale thefts.
California's legislation includes eight consumer protection bills aimed at improving healthcare access and affordability, including oversight on pharmacy benefits managers. Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara is advocating for Governor Gavin Newsom to sign these bills, which address various public safety and healthcare issues. The proposals reflect a significant effort to enhance consumer protections in the state.
A black bear was recently "evicted" from an abandoned home in Sierra Madre, California, amid rising reports of bear activity in the area. Residents have been urged to make their properties less appealing to wildlife, as the bear reportedly entered the home searching for food.
Tulare County's home prices saw a decline in August, with the median sales price dropping to $347,500, down 3.5% from the previous month. This trend reflects broader changes in the California housing market, where overall sales and prices have fluctuated.
A man was hit and killed by a car while attempting to cross the street in Tulare County, prompting an investigation by the California Highway Patrol. The incident occurred on Saturday night, and authorities are looking into the potential involvement of alcohol and drugs in the crash.