Humboldt County District Attorney Stacey Eads announced today that Humboldt County Superior Court Judge Kaleb Cockrum vacated his December 2023 order that would have conditionally released sexually violent predator Richard Stobaugh into the community.

Following a full-day of evidence presented by Senior Deputy District Attorney Whitney Timm, with the assistance of Chief District Attorney Investigator Kyla Baxley, Humboldt County Superior Court Judge Cockrum ruled that Stobaugh is not an appropriate candidate for conditional release at this time. The presentation of evidence included Stobaugh’s possession of child pornography while placed at Coalinga State Hospital.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Whitney Timm argued Stobaugh continues to pose a serious danger to public safety. Timm emphasized that Stobaugh has not been forthright with his treatment providers, continues to engage in deceptive behavior, and cannot be trusted or adequately supervised outside of a secure facility.

“Our priority has always been protecting the safety and well-being of our community,” said District Attorney Stacey Eads. “We are grateful that the residents of Humboldt County—especially those in the Manila area—will not have to bear the burden of housing a sexually violent predator. This outcome is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to protect our community.”

Based on today’s ruling by Judge Cockrum, the community placement hearing previously scheduled for July 14, 2025, has been vacated and sexually violent predator Richard Stobaugh will remain at Coalinga State Hospital. By state law, Stobaugh may petition the court for release on an annual basis.