FALL ATHLETES ARE WARMING UP! The Modoc County
RECORD
Vol. 133, No. 21
Alturas, California
August 14, 2025
Serving Modoc Since 1892 20 Pages
Honoring Service, Community, and Commitment at the Northern California Peace Officers Association Event The recent Northern California Peace Officers Association (NCPOA) luncheon in Modoc County was more than a gathering— it was a celebration of leadership, community spirit, and shared dedication to public safety. The event brought together law enforcement leaders, community members, and supporters from across the region to honor achievements, strengthen relationships, and reaffirm a commitment to service. Recognizing Leadership and Partnership The afternoon began with heartfelt acknowledgments of long-standing relationships. Modoc County Sheriff William “Tex” Dowdy recognized Former Modoc County Sheriff Mike Poindexter as both a friend and a law enforcement hero, praised for his leadership in Modoc County and for the solid foundation he and
his team built for future success. His ongoing support, alongside his wife Kelly, has been instrumental in advancing community initiatives—from supporting local sports and youth programs to standing behind first responders. El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff Leikauf and President of NCPOA shared his deep connection to the region, from his family’s ranching history to his appreciation for Modoc County’s commitment to constitutional values and community. He also took the opportunity to honor leaders such as “Mama Salarno,” founder of Crime Victims United, and retired Sheriff Hal Barker, whose mentorship shaped the direction of the NCPOA. In deciding where to hold the meeting, Sheriff Jeff Leikauf recalled a conversation with retired Sheriff Hal Barker. With a smile, he suggested, “How about we have it in
God’s Country?”—a heartfelt nod to his admiration for the beauty and spirit of Modoc County. Sheriff Leikauf went on to say, “NCPOA has been around for 60 years and there are changes that I would like to make to the way we are doing the scholarship program?” Expanding the Scholarship Program One of the most significant announcements came from NCPOA Scholarship Manager Michael Michael Seligsohn, who detailed the expansion of the association’s scholarship program. In addition to existing awards for Sacramento State students, there are now four new categories that will now serve a broader range of recipients: Legacy Scholarships – For the children and grandchildren of members pursuing higher education or trade school.
Self-Sponsor Academy Scholarships – For individuals funding their own way through police academies. Community College Scholarships – For those studying criminal justice at the community college level. Master’s Degree Scholarships – For active NCPOA members seeking advanced education in law enforcement leadership. These changes aim to
nurture the next generation of dedicated public safety professionals. A District Attorney’s Commitment to Justice Modoc County District Attorney Nina Salarno spoke passionately about her office’s mission to prioritize public safety, re-empower the community, and ensure victims’ voices are heard. Since taking office in 2023, her team has implemented
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Modoc Judge Recall Petition Circulates A group of Modoc County residents says it is circulating a petition to recall Presiding Judge Wendy J. Dier, citing concerns about how criminal cases are handled. Shaney Crosby, a Modoc County resident helping gather signatures, provided this statement to the Record: “I decided to join [the] effort to recall Judge [Dier] because there are far too many violent criminals that are on the catch and release list in our county. I have also seen good people requesting assistance from the judge and she denies them. … The final straw for me was when Emmanuel Pochylski
asked her for a restraining order against two people that ended up being his alleged murderers. I firmly believe that as a community, we have the ability to take control and change things for the better. We are a tiny community and should not be having the types of crimes that they have in the larger cities. … As citizens when we see people in leadership not performing to our expectations, we have the responsibility to change things.” The Record could not immediately verify the claim that Pochylski sought a restraining order from Judge Dier. That assertion is the
organizer’s allegation. Judge Dier has served as Modoc’s presiding judge since 2021, when she was appointed to the Superior Court by Gov. Gavin Newsom, according to the court’s website. Public debate over the court’s decisions intensified after two recent cases drew attention. In August 2024, District Attorney Nina Salarno criticized Dier’s decision to release a defendant following a standoff with police, saying the release came over law enforcement objections. Separately, on Feb. 27, 2025, Dier dismissed a domestic-
violence criminal case, citing a prolonged shortage of judges in the county. The dismissal preceded the appointment of a second Modoc County judge, Randall L. Harr, later that month. The organizer also pointed to the June 2025 killing of 41-year-old Emmanuel Pochylski of Davis Creek. Authorities said his body was found June 27 near the Plum Valley Campground, and on June 30 three people were charged with murder. California law allows voters to recall local officials, including trial-court judges. For a superior-court judge, the signature requirement is
20% of the last vote for that office. Petition format must be approved by the county elections official before any signatures may be gathered. The Modoc County Elections Office administers recall petitions. As of Aug. 12, the county’s “Current and Upcoming Elections” page did not list a recall election for the Superior Court. Dier remains presiding judge of the Modoc Superior Court.