Santa Maria Sun

1 week ago | santamariasun.com | Caleb Wiseblood

The number of liquor law violations reported in the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office’s coverage areas nearly doubled from 2023 to 2024, according to newly released statistics. Chief Deputy Brad Welch, who helped compile the report, said the 89.7 percent increase—from 573 violations in 2023 to 1,087 in 2024—correlates with an increase in enforcement, specifically in Isla Vista.

1 week ago | santamariasun.com | Camillia Lanham

The regional water board will discuss Sable Offshore Corporation’s alleged state water code violations one week after the California Coastal Commission opted to fine the oil company $18 million for “egregious and flagrant” refusal to abide by the Coastal Act. “What we really have before us is a compliance issue,” commission Chair Justin Cummings said during the April 10 meeting. “I think we really need to send a message to folks that they need to come work with us and the state.

1 week ago | santamariasun.com | Caleb Wiseblood

Exiting his Orcutt garage, Rockie Daren Ginter already had his hands raised as he approached Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s deputies on the morning of his arrest. Owned by Ginter’s parents, the house on Genoa Way was emitting flames and black smoke, according to court documents. Ginter allegedly told deputies about the voices in his head and wanting to silence them. He was charged with deliberately starting the house fire, using gasoline and a propane blowtorch.

1 week ago | santamariasun.com | Ron Fink

What are the impacts to American citizens from creating a sanctuary state or city? Providing sanctuary for immigrants who enter our country without following the proper protocols is costly in many ways to persons who are American citizens either by birthright or naturalization. Politicians aren’t noted for looking ahead to see what might happen if they react to activists’ demands.

1 week ago | santamariasun.com | Caleb Wiseblood

Widening a road as part of a proposed Santa Ynez Valley ranch expansion is a focal point for neighbors of the rural site.  To move forward with the Santa Barbara County Fire Department’s approval, the development plan for Rancho Luis—an existing ranch on track to become a certified animal boarding and equestrian training facility—includes increasing the size of a narrow, private access route that intersects with Ballard Canyon Road.