Dear Editor – “Opinions expressed are those of the author”

–Letters to the editor are for public opinion, not verified journalism, readers will judge its merit.

Dear Editor,

I want to bring to your attention an ongoing issue concerning Kent Laudon, a Senior Environmental Scientist with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). Kent has been involved in multiple DUI incidents, the most recent in January 2025, following an arrest in August 2024 (and possibly a prior). Notably, the 2024 arrest appears to have been removed from public record, which raises concerns about potential cover-ups or preferential treatment due to his position and connections.

Kent is well-known in the community for frequenting local bars and is widely acknowledged to often drive while intoxicated. I’ve personally witnessed him driving while intoxicated at least five times. Additionally, I’ve seen him intoxicated at least seven times and have wondered how he will arrive home safely.

The sheriff’s Facebook and Instagram posts of January 31st, 2025, show that he was arrested with other people committing the same crime with similar past infractions. As you may know, these people’s records can be found, but Kent’s cannot.

His position with CDFW seems to have shielded him from facing the full consequences of his actions, jeopardizing public safety. There are serious concerns that internal efforts are protecting him, and further investigation into this matter could shed light on how public employees may evade accountability for serious offenses that endanger others.

Thank you for your time and attention to this important issue.

Jack Son