San Bernardino Councilmember Files Legal Claim
Treasure Ortiz alleges that city officials improperly accessed her personal information.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in City Hall
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Councilmember Treasure Ortiz filed a formal notice of claim against the City of San Bernardino on October 1, 2026. The filing alleges a coordinated effort to harm her reputation and unauthorized access to her private data through the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System.
Why it matters
Ortiz filed the claim to seek government accountability and protection amid an ongoing series of legal disputes involving city leadership. The action serves as a formal precursor to potential litigation against the government agency.
The filing cites damages sought by Police Chief Darren Goodman and Sgt. Jose Loera exceeding $10,000. This follows Ortiz's September 2026 sentencing to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for illegally recording a conversation with the chief.
The players
Treasure Ortiz
She is a San Bernardino councilmember who has been involved in several legal disputes with city leadership.
Darren Goodman
He serves as the San Bernardino police chief and is named in the legal claim filed by Ortiz.
Theodore Sanchez
He is a San Bernardino city councilmember named in the recent legal claim.
Fred Shorett
He is a member of the San Bernardino City Council named in the legal claim.
Kimberly Knaus
She serves as a San Bernardino city councilmember and is included in the legal filing.
The details
The claim names Police Chief Darren Goodman, Sgt. Jose Loera, Detective Myra Doner, and councilmembers Theodore Sanchez, Fred Shorett, and Kimberly Knaus. Ortiz is concurrently pursuing a federal lawsuit against other police personnel and the San Bernardino Police Officers Association while planning an appeal for her earlier criminal conviction.
Timeline
April 2026: Council members held a censure hearing for Ortiz.
September 2026: Ortiz was convicted of illegally recording a conversation.
October 1, 2026: Ortiz filed the notice of claim against the city.
Political Context
Opposing officials and city leadership maintain that these claims are part of a broader cycle of political infighting. These parties often argue that the legal actions reflect personal disputes rather than substantive policy concerns.
The legal dispute may impact city council operations and the local tax budget due to the pending claims for damages and potential litigation costs. Residents should monitor how these proceedings affect the city's ability to conduct routine municipal business.
The takeaway
This case illustrates the complex intersection of municipal governance and legal accountability in San Bernardino. Residents should stay informed about how internal council disputes and civil litigation influence city management and local spending.
Further reading
Learn more about local government affairs in the San Bernardino City Hall section.
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