Assistant County Administrator Faces Felony DUI and Hit-and-Run Charges in Del Norte County; Arraignment Held July 15

Randolph (Randy) Hooper, Assistant County Administrative Officer for Del Norte, appeared in court for arraignment on July 15 in connection with felony charges stemming from an April 19, 2025, vehicle collision near Sand Mine Road and U.S. Highway 101. The incident resulted in a two-car crash with minor injuries to the other driver and led to charges of felony driving under the influence (DUI) and felony hit and run.

Presiding Judge Sara Olson acknowledged at the hearing that she was not familiar with the specifics of the case and requested additional time to review the police report and hear from the defense before further decisions could be made. During the appearance, both prosecution and defense indicated a willingness to explore possible plea arrangements.

Among the options discussed were participation in a first offender DUI education program, mandatory attendance at three Alcoholics Anonymous meetings per week for six months, and additional diversion programs typical for first-time DUI offenses.

At the time of his arrest Hooper given a breathalyzer by California Highway Patrol, (CHP), followed by a blood test which determined his blood alcohol was .18%. Legal limit for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is .08%

Discussions on possible plea arrangements were interrupted when the victim, Megan Posta, age 35, of the collision—appearing remotely—objected to the potential dismissal of the hit-and-run charge. The victim’s statement prompted Judge Olson, as well as counsel for both sides, to decide that the hit-and-run charge would remain part of the case at this stage.

The court scheduled a preliminary hearing for August 26, 2025. At that time, Judge Olson expects to reach a decision based on her review of the evidence and potential plea agreements. Plea decisions could be entered prior to the preliminary hearing date.

Hooper was arrested and booked into Del Norte County Jail following the incident and released on a $225,000 bond. A public records search shows no prior criminal history for Hooper in Del Norte County. He remains in his administrative role with the county pending the outcome of legal proceedings.

Hooper was unwilling to comment based on the advice of his attorneys.