BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — The California Department of Justice has filed a petition appealing a judge's mental health diversion ruling for former Kern County Supervisor Zack Scrivner.
The ruling came down in December and was met with backlash from community members and representatives.
In response to the appeal, local Assemblywoman Dr. Jasmeet Bains — who has remained critical of the initial ruling — said in a statement:
"What took so long? The DOJ had enough evidence to describe the sexual assault of a child by Zack Scrivner in court documents, but then they didn't charge him with a sex crime. This injustice must reversed and I'm glad the DOJ finally agrees."
Scrivner is accused of sexually abusing his child before being stabbed by one of his other children. He was charged with willful cruelty to a child and illegal possession of guns.
Under the mental health diversion program, Scrivner could avoid jail time if he completes the required treatment. The Department of Justice is now challenging that ruling through their appeal.
The case has drawn significant attention due to Scrivner's former role as a county supervisor and the serious nature of the allegations against him.
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