Judge Fast-Tracks Legal Battle Between AG Rob Bonta and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco

A Riverside County Superior Court judge is fast-tracking a high-stakes legal battle between California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco over an election investigation.

The case centers on the sheriff’s probe into alleged vote-count irregularities tied to the 2025 special election. In court today, attorneys for both sides presented arguments before the judge approved an expedited timeline.

Under the ruling, Sheriff Bianco’s legal team must respond to Bonta’s petition by April 7. The Attorney General’s office will then file its reply by April 9, with a hearing scheduled for April 13.

Tensions were high in the courtroom, with Bianco’s attorney arguing that Bonta’s actions have been unfair and prejudicial, particularly pointing to filings made in both county court and the California Supreme Court.

Meanwhile, the state pushed back, arguing the investigation is causing ongoing harm and must be addressed quickly. The Attorney General’s office also cited state election law, raising questions about whether the sheriff’s seizure of ballots violated regulations that require election materials to remain with election officials.

Sheriff Bianco has defended his actions, saying the ballots were taken to prevent their destruction after the legally required retention period.

Adding another layer to the case, a media coalition, including The Desert Sun, is asking a judge to unseal search warrants tied to the investigation.

The outcome of the case could have significant implications for election oversight and law enforcement authority in California.

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