FBI collects evidence at Palm Springs City Hall
FBI agents served federal search warrants at Palm Springs City Hall. A spokeswoman told KESQ and CBS Local 2 the federal warrants are under seal and they’re related to allegations of criminal activity.
A source told us the FBI arrived around 9 a.m.
A city employee said that all employees were asked to drop off their work cell phones and exit the building. Agents are collecting evidence and said they will be on scene for several hours.
The Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, along with IRS officers, are also on scene. DA spokesman John Hall said they’re involved in a joint operation and the FBI is leading the investigation.
A closed sign was placed on the front door of City Hall until 6pm.
The FBI hasn’t said if the investigation involves Mayor Steve Pougnet, but we do know that agents were at Pougnet’s apartment Tuesday morning, knocking on his door for at least a half an hour, with no response. Authorities did not search his apartment.
The FBI did confirm they later seized items from the mayor that were listed on the search warrant.
Paul Lewin, council member and current candidate to reclaim his seat released the following statement to News Channel 3 and CBS Local 2 Tuesday afternoon:
“This a very unfortunate situation and a sad day for Palm Springs – both for the City and the people it serves. I will reserve judgement until all the facts come out, but we will take appropriate steps once those facts are known.”
J.R. Roberts, planning commissioner and candidate for Palm Springs City Council, released this statement:
“I’m saddened that federal and county investigators had to come in and close city hall. This is something we never want to see in Palm Springs. I’m as interested as any other resident in getting to the bottom of this and if this needs to be the first step, I support the investigation. My sole focus will be getting our city back on track and regaining the public trust.”
Some of the other mayoral and city council candidates gathered at City Hall and were asking the current city council to resign altogether.
