Stephen Hernandez Fired by Supervisor Manuel Perez After Felony Plea

Riverside County Supervisor Manuel Perez has officially terminated Stephen Hernandez from his role as chief of staff following Hernandez’s recent felony conviction.

In a statement, Perez’s office confirmed that Hernandez no longer works for Riverside County after entering a guilty plea earlier this week at the Indio Larson Justice Center.

Stephen Hernandez admitted to a felony conflict of interest charge, acknowledging he willfully made a government contract in which he had a financial interest.

The plea agreement carries significant consequences. Hernandez is now barred from holding public office in California, must serve probation, complete community service, and faces a lifetime ban on owning weapons.

The development comes shortly after Hernandez resigned as mayor of Coachella, marking a major shift in local leadership.

The case has drawn attention across the Coachella Valley, raising ongoing questions about ethics, accountability, and oversight in local government.

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