Coachella Mayor Steven Hernandez pleads guilty to conflict of interest charge

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) — Coachella Mayor Steven Hernandez has pleaded guilty to one felony count of conflict of interest.

Hernandez was sentenced to two years of probation, one day in custody with credit for time served, and 200 hours of community service, along with fines and fees. The remaining eight counts were dismissed.

The conviction stems from Hernandez’s involvement in votes and actions related to a contract between the City of Coachella and the Coachella Valley Association of Governments’ Housing First Program.

The Riverside District Attorney's Office told News Channel 3's Garrett Hottle that under his conviction, he can't hold office in the entire state of California. As of Tuesday afternoon, Hernandez has not resigned from office.

We're reaching out to the city of Coachella to see what's going to happen next or if he will resign now as part of his punishment. 

Hernandez also serves as the Chief of Staff for County Supervisor Manuel Perez, although he was placed on paid administrative leave following his arrest. La Quinta Councilmember Steve Sanchez, who is running against Perez in the June primary election, has called on the Supervisor to fire Hernandez.

Watch News Channel 3 starting at 4 p.m. for the latest developments on this case.