Executive Summary
- Over 500 pages of grand jury transcripts were released regarding the indictment of Coachella Mayor Steven Hernandez.
- Testimony from city officials focused on alleged conflicts of interest involving development projects and housing programs.
- Hernandez has pleaded not guilty to charges of perjury and conflict of interest, with a court date set for February 2026.
INDIO, Calif. — Grand jury transcripts released this week have provided new details regarding the indictment of Coachella Mayor Steven Hernandez, shedding light on sworn testimony concerning alleged conflicts of interest and City Hall operations. The documents, obtained by KESQ News Channel 3, offer a comprehensive view into the evidence presented to jurors prior to the filing of charges.
The release, comprising more than 500 pages, includes testimony from several high-ranking current and former city officials. According to the transcripts, jurors heard from Coachella Mayor Pro Tem Denise Delgado, former Councilmember Megan Beaman Jacinto, and Economic Development Director Celina Jimenez. The questioning by prosecutors reportedly focused on internal city dynamics and whether Mayor Hernandez participated in council votes and development projects despite having personal financial interests in the matters at hand.
Significant portions of the testimony involved the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG). The transcripts indicate that Erica Felci, the executive director of CVAG, testified regarding a regional homeless housing program. Prosecutors probed the specific connections between this program and properties owned by Hernandez to determine if legal statutes regarding conflict of interest were violated.
Legal Ramifications
The publication of grand jury transcripts marks a pivotal stage in the judicial process, transitioning the case from sealed proceedings to public record. As the defense prepares for the next court appearance scheduled for February 23, 2026, the legal strategy will likely focus on contesting the interpretation of the financial disclosures and the directness of the alleged conflicts described in the testimony. It is important to note that Mayor Hernandez has pleaded not guilty to charges of perjury and conflict of interest, and all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
