Coachella Mayor Makes First Public Appearance Since October Arrest

Mayor Steven Hernandez made his first public appearance Thursday night since his arrest in October, attending a special city council meeting after missing the opening session.

Hernandez was not present when the meeting began, but arrived following the closed session portion. The meeting's live stream did not include audio, leaving the topics of discussion unclear.

The mayor was arrested last month on multiple felony charges, including perjury and conflict of interest. He has entered a not guilty plea and is scheduled to return to court in late February.

Following his arrest, Hernandez was placed on unpaid administrative leave from his position as Chief of Staff in Supervisor V. Manuel Perez's office. However, the City of Coachella has not taken similar action regarding his mayoral duties.

The charges and ongoing legal proceedings have raised questions about Hernandez's continued service as mayor, though he remains in the position as the case moves forward through the court system.