Ms. Lockyer, we wish you the best in your future!

It appears from a report published by the Bay Area News Group that Nadia Lockyer has resigned effective immediately. After months of shocking revelations, Ms. Lockyer made the decision that in the interest of  her personal well-being, that of her family and son, and the taxpayers of Alameda County, leaving public office and transitioning back to the private sector was best.

Let this episode of Alameda County politics and that of other recently disgraced politicians within Alameda County be a learning experience for voters.

Does campaign funding interfere with a voter’s knowledge and understanding of a candidate? The $1.5+ million dollars Bill Lockyer spent on Nadia’s campaign would seem to support an overwhelming answer of…YES!

Good luck and best wishes to Ms. Lockyer!

Supervisor Lockyer, a woman scorned.

Supervisor Nadia Lockyer emerged from seclusion and substance abuse treatment last week and joined her fellow Alameda County Supervisors on a retreat, of sorts. If any actual County business was accomplished at this retreat, it surely was overshadowed by Ms. Lockyer’s attendance.

In a mildly surprising move, State Treasurer Bill Lockyer accompanied his wife to her offices and later arrived to pick her up. Mr. Lockyer’s presence would seem to send many messages. However, one particularly strong political message was that sent to Nadia’s fellow Supervisor’s. The message appears to have been, Big Bill is still in control and he is closely watching how his wife, and um, his $1.7+ million dollar investment is treated by her co-workers. The message appears to have been clearly understood by Nadia’s fellow board members, as none of the other four members made any material statements regarding Nadia’s return. Keep in mind, it is an election year for a few BOS members and Bill’s resources, and contacts would be very helpful in seeking re-election. That of course may all be moot if an ongoing investigation(s) determines Bill and/or Nadia have violated Local, State or Federal Laws.

Neither Bill nor Nadia Lockyer made any public statements last week, though Nadia’s Chief of Staff did read a prepared statement that seemed in many ways, a re-spun, modified combined version of Mary Hayashi’s mea culpa and Nadia’s pre-rehab statement. It was of no surprise the statement was light on information and heavy on deflection and spin, as ongoing investigation(s) surely limit what could be revealed so as to protect Nadia and Bill from any pending criminal or civil claims.

With the prospects of legal uncertainty hanging over the Lockyer’s, local media appear to be actively investigating their own leads…some surely to land on the desk of Kamala Harris. The Bay Area News Group was apparently waiting for Nadia’s return to question her about visits with her lover while he was incarcerated in Santa Clara on drug related charges. The visits themselves are questionable for any elected official using good judgment and common sense, though what is highly questionable and possibly illegal is Nadia’s representation in jailhouse logs as his legal counsel. Further, on one occasion she represented herself as his “PD.” The meaning of “PD” is unclear at this point, though it likely is a standard and often used term, as jailhouse administration apparently did not question its use on sign-in logs. Speculation is “PD” is an abbreviation for either Public Defender or Police Department. Ms. Lockyer is neither of these.

Ms. Lockyer did not respond to inquires on her visits to the Santa Clara Jail. However, her Chief of Staff did respond on her behalf with allegations that her lover’s father sought Nadia’s legal assistance with his son’s criminal problems, therefore justifying her visits with him during incarceration. The allegations were met with a prompt response from the lover’s counsel that the statement is not only false, but Nadia is abusing her power. Ms. Lockyer herself later acknowledged she "was not the attorney of record" for her lover at the time of her visits. The allegations of abuse of power seem to hint of future civil claims against Alameda County, possibly the Lockyer’s personally, or a request to revoke Ms. Lockyer’s Law License in California.

The facts as reported would seemingly raise serious questions of the validity of the allegation against the father, as one of a number of Nadia’s visits apparently was nearly an hour and half long. These claimed legal visits apparently were not justified by any need for legal counsel, as the lover apparently had no pending legal matters as he was serving his required time for a prior conviction that there is no evidence he was appealing. Nadia also apparently picked up her lover from jail when he was released.

Prior information regarding this scandal further undermines the Chief of Staff’s allegations, as Bill Lockyer himself was allegedly attempting to work with the lover’s father to end the “bad relationship” and seeking to possibly destroy or cover-up evidence of the relationship. The noted evidence might include the alleged sex tape(s) which none of the key players has denied exists, and seemingly was confirmed by DA O’Malley when her investigation turned up sexually detailed evidence of a consensual relationship.

It would look as if the reappearance of Supervisor Lockyer to the public venue may be more about Nadia, the scorned lover and troubled addict, seeking to avenge her fall from grace by means of pre-emptive strikes against those who may of failed to heed Bill’s and her request for silence in a possible effort to cover up their sorted and troubling activities.

Bill Lockyer is well known for throwing around his political weight (no pun intended…okay maybe just a little) when the need arises. Though for the most part, such weight only works within political circles, and Nadia’s lover and family are not within political circles, therefore making any political weight worthless in efforts to influence the lover’s father/family. This may explain why Bill sought the help of DA O’Malley to apparently discredit the lover, which appears to have backfired on Big Bill and may hint of why the lover’s father is now a target of seemingly unsupportable allegations. It may also explain why Nadia’ claims of physical abuse at the Newark Motel never resulted in an arrest or charges.

Oh, and let’s not forget Nadia’s text messages warning of the use of Bill’s Security Detail, as well the wrath Nadia will bring her (ex) lover for ‘the pain (his) your lies have inflicted in my (Nadia’s) heart and sole every moment you find yourself alone or bored with another.”

Hell have no fury like a woman scorned…

A Political Double Standard?

It would appear a sizeable portion of California’s elected officials might indeed suffer from the same medical condition that inflicted Mary Hayashi. Not surprisingly, the Alameda County Board of Supervisor might also be so overwhelmed by this condition they have been rendered speechless.

In Sacramento last week the drama of political activity surrounded Dan Richards, the President of the California Fish & Game Commission. Dan is apparently a Republican, though why should that matter you ask? (Well, continue reading.) Mr. Richard’s has recently spent his vacation hunting Mountain Loins in Idaho…NOT California. Doing so in California would be illegal. In Idaho, it is NOT illegal, and you actually pay to enjoy the right to do so. Sounds like a reasonable business enterprise in the State of Idaho which many Californians’ have likely enjoyed, and for which the State of Idaho generates revenue.

Well, apparently our elected officials (mostly Democrats) in California feel that Mr. Richard’s was wrong to enjoy his vacation in the manner he so desired. Further, numerous politicians’ are trying to imply that what is illegal in California should be illegal in Idaho. In addition, as such, Mr. Richard’s killing of a Mountain Loin justifies serious consequences. Therefore, some of Sacramento’s powerful Democrats are asking for his resignation.

Evidently, these Democrats seeking Mr. Richard’s resignation appear to have some sort of memory or medical condition that is impeding their thought process. Only a few months ago, one of their own, Mary Hayashi was actually convicted of committing a crime that was not only illegal in California, but illegal in Idaho, as well every state in the nation. Further, Mary Hayashi was not on vacation when she committed the crime. She actually admitted she was talking or texting on a phone that may have been the property of the State of California. How did these same Democratic power players handle that situation? They didn’t! They remained silent and welcomed Ms. Hayashi back after her conviction with open arms and a pat on the back.

Double Standard? Most would say, absolutely!

Alameda County, the hotbed of scandal as of recently is no less guilty then their political counter-parts in Sacramento.

The Alameda County Board of Supervisors has been nothing less then aggressive when it comes to playing political hardball with those that may have mismanaged county programs, filed whistle-blower complaints, questioned issues of nepotism, and challenged the BOS as a whole. Surely, the use of drugs by a staff member or employee of the BOS would not be tolerated. Alameda County does likely have a zero tolerance policy for drug use?

Well, now one of their own, Nadia Lockyer, the newest member of the Board has all but completely embarrassed Alameda County and the BOS specifically. Though Ms. Lockyer has not at this point been charged with any crimes (no different then Dan Richards), her judgment and common sense have been put on clear display, and would appear more inline with a troubled High School teenager then an adult entrusted with the public’s best interest. Nate Miley, President of the Alameda County BOS has been unwilling to address the matter head-on and when interviewed has sidestepped the question regarding the Boards position on Lockyer. Why? You would need to ask him, though speculation is running high as to the reason.

Could it be Democratic powerhouse Bill Lockyer’s power and money? Possibility, though both have suffered a serious blow as a result of Nadia’s extracurricular activities. Quite frankly, Bill’s counter-parts might be silently laughing that someone of his political experience fell victim to the oldest political problem known to man, and that is their weakness for women. You can be assured Liz Figueroa is enjoying this.

In truth, Bill may have more to be concerned about then Nadia’s troubles as it relates to any ongoing investigation(s). His involvement with Ms. O’Malley and early efforts to seemingly discredit Nadia’s boyfriend, an apparent attempt to destroy evidence, as well as possible misuse of his security detail hint of troubling questions for Big Bill. Scooter Libby can attest to the fact the actual (or perceived) crime may be overlooked, but the cover-up can be difficult to run from.

The fact that Nate Miley and the Alameda County Board of Supervisor’s HAVE NOT asked for Nadia’s resignation speaks volumes. The further Mr. Miley and the BOS delay acting, the greater chance the BOS itself will face very difficult questions regarding their judgment, common sense and whether they are indeed performing in the best interest of Alameda County.

Double Standard? The answer we believe is rather obvious.

Alameda County Politicians in tail spin…

This installment originally was to focus on criminal charges filed last week against the husband and wife team that operated Associated Community Action Program (ACAP). The subject was in following with a trend of installments here in the Back Story. Well that changed yesterday with another Matire & Ross stunner about a more well know husband and wife team in a very steep tailspin.

As if to continually seek her fifteen minutes of fame, Nadia Lockyer again tops local political news. A report in yesterday's Chronicle, if true, will surely end Nadia’s political career for good, and might take her husband, Bill Lockyer’s career with it. The Matier & Ross story took this unfolding scandal to a national level, as blogs and media across the country could not resist another Hollywood like scandal in California Politics. Arnold and the Nanny shocker had just faded from sight. The timing could not have been better for a media hungry to showcase how troubled the California Political machine truly is.

Matire & Ross’s report sheds additional light and connects dots on what became public earlier this month. Not surprising, the report rips more holes in Bill Lockyer’s original statement on the matter. It also seemingly confirms what many had suspected; that Bill attempted to use his position to influence the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office and seek special handling of this scandal. I do not believe the general public has access to that type of service. Ms. O’Malley may have some explaining to do? Considering Bill Lockyer’s very close ties to Kamala Harris and the Attorney Generals Office, which he controlled for many years, we would speculate Ms. Harris punts this matter to an independent investigative authority.

Additionally, the alleged attacker of Ms. Lockyer has apparently made further statements that portray a much different picture then that of Nadia and Bill’s public statements. Further, law enforcement has not named the alleged attacker, as he has not been charged with any crimes associated with the allegations. It was confirmed that the motel room was Nadia’s; contradicting Bill’s earlier implication, that Nadia went to the motel to help an ex-boyfriend in crisis. Keep in mind, as earlier reported Nadia’s 8-year-old son was with her at the motel. The alleged boyfriend has implied he was the victim of Nadia’s rage, and acted in self-defense, and that even to this day, Nadia maintains contact with him. Ms. O’Malley’s office has been rumored to have acted on Bill’s request to investigate, and determined the relationship between the boyfriend and Nadia was consensual. This was apparently supported by electronic communications and sexually explicit photos found during the investigation. There is also rumor of a “sex tape” floating about, though yet no proof has been provided. It appears Bill Lockyer may have received an advance copy of the tape for his viewing pleasure, special thanks to a thoughtful delivery from Nadia’s boyfriend.

And if not to take this scandal to new lows, Bill apparently called the boyfriends parents (the boyfriend is 35…doubtful his parents have much to say about who he dates or has a consensual relationship with) and apparently tried to persuade them to intervene and end the relationship that Bill labeled a “bad relationship”. Clearly that was Bill’s opinion, something it does not appear his wife agreed with. Remember, they were separated, as Bill admitted.  It also appears Bill may have sought to destroy evidence of the relationship…the timing of which could be very important if he knew an investigation was underway, for which he requested of Ms. O’Malley.

Another area of likely concern is Bill Lockyer’s security detail. Did Bill Lockyer use his State provided security detail paid for by taxpayer money, to act on his personal needs for private detective work? Nadia actually stated in a text message that special needs were possible via Bill’s security detail. Bill’s staff denied any such use.

Whether premature or not, there is much speculation on who will replace Nadia Lockyer. Not surprising, all the possible replacements being thrown around have excellent track records and solid grass root support. The names that initially seem to be grabbing attention are Ellen Corbett, Mark Green and Kevin Dowling.

As the voters of Alameda County digest these new revelations, and there are sure to be more, not only regarding the Lockyer’s, but numerous other local politicians currently in the cross-hairs of scandal, we would advocate voters take your rights to vote and the consequences of your voting decisions with a greater degree of responsibility in the future.

The Lockyer’s Play “Spin” the Bottle….

Our final installment of 2011 spoke of hope for a better political 2012 and suggested past and present Politicians do a better job of leading Alameda County and the State of California. We made a point of specifically addressing Bill Lockyer and his wife Nadia in that installment. Apparently they were not listening (or reading) our blog.

Well, so much for Alameda County raising the bar in 2012. It took little over a month into the New Year for scandal to unfold…and quite a scandal it is. Paradoxically our opening installment of The Back Story(Welcome) foreshadowed much of what is being disclosed this week. Though we take no credit for the many published and investigative reports regarding the Lockyer’s troubling situation, we can say the situation surrounding Bill and Nadia Lockyer is not new to Alameda County politicians. Strangely as it might seem, the crisis hovering over the Lockyer’s may have been planted decades ago, fueled by the ego’s of the politicians of those days who demanded silence from insiders, and enablers who turned a blind eye in exchange for the benefits of political connections. Has Karma hit home? Many would state, absolutely!

As initially reported in the SF Chronicle earlier this week, and followed up with numerous further independent reports, Bill and Nadia Lockyer are in serious political trouble. Making matters worse, Mr. Lockyer made a classic (disastrous) attempt to spin the circumstances ahead of the most damaging disclosures. As is normally the case with a desperate politician seeking to save his career, reputation and least not forget the nearly 2 million invested to buy Nadia her Supervisors Seat, Bill went with a highly implausible story that even law enforcement hinted was less then accurate. On Tuesday, Bill’s implausible spin story hit bottom when his wife (at least for the time being) released a statement that in many ways contradicted her husband’s story.

What became seemingly apparent in Nadia’s statement is her husband’s spin story was as much about protecting his career and blaming an “ex-boyfriend”, as it was in hiding and/or enabling Nadia’s very troubling situation. Bill’s story implied Nadia had a minor drinking issue and a soft spot for an ex-boyfriend who Nadia went to help through a difficult period at a local motel. In actuality, there is speculation the motel room was Nadia’s and she had been staying there due to her separation from Bill. The minor drinking problem (the bottle) is actually serious chemical dependency which may include prescription pain medicine (a different type of bottle), and the ex-boyfriend is apparently Nadia’s lover for which she is (was) apparently having an affair. As for the allegations that Nadia was the victim of abuse, not even Nadia has actually publicly stated who is responsible. Bill Lockyer’s spin implied the responsible party is the ex-boyfriend/low level drug dealer whom has disappeared, though apparently local media have located him without much difficulty. Surely if the media could fine him, then law enforcement would have long ago found him if they were in truth looking for him. Furthermore, Nadia’s (ex) lover has made a statement challenging the Lockyer’s story (ies) and apparently made himself available to law enforcement, whom he implies does not seem very interested in speaking to him.

We would hate to speculate on what the financial cost to The State of California and Alameda County could be if the Lockyer’s made the grave mistake of attempting to scapegoat an innocent party. Nadia’s lover might have nailed (sorry, had to say it) the trifecta in this trashy and twisted political calamity. This could be a first….a male boy-toy of a female politician gets a big payday from not one, but two government agencies from within the State of California. Again, just speculation…however, not all that far reaching a possibility considering the power players and contradicting stories. We can imagine Gloria Allred having a field day with this love triangle.

Finally, in an all to similar (remember Mary Hayashi) attempt at deflecting blame, Bill Lockyer laid out the possibility that his wife Nadia may have also acted disgracefully not of her own accord, but as a result of a few simple (and perhaps hurtful) words spoken by Bill himself. We believe Nadia is a consenting adult legally capable of making adult decisions and managing adult conversations. Bill’s attempted projection of responsibility for his wife’s actions is just further evidence of how seriously out of touch with reality our elected officials truly are.

Some would argue Bill’s and Nadia’s private life is just that….private. Thankfully this is not the way the system works….and the Lockyer’s just provided lesson 101 on why the public has a right to know, and frankly, needs to know. If an elected public official cannot manage a marriage, a family, a career, prescription medicine and use good personal judgment and common sense, what on this earth makes you believe they can manage a County or State?

For those who question the motivations of the Occupy Movement, which ironically has a solid foundation within Alameda County, you need not look any further then the scandalous stories circling Sacramento and Alameda County politicians.

The voters of Alameda County ought to wake up and dispense with the political trash that is destroying the moral and ethical fiber of Alameda County.

Ms. Hayashi's Disrespect for Journalism Students

Ms. Hayashi’s true colors continue to show. A recent visit to her Sacramento Office by local high school students afforded the public and these students a genuine lesson in just how disrespectful a disgraced public official will treat our future leaders.

A group of Castro Valley High Journalism students prearranged a visit to Ms. Hayashi’s office recently, and did so via an assistant in Ms. Hayashi’s office. Apparently, the assistant was not aware the students were planning to practice their journalism skills…though that would seem immaterial under normal circumstances. Well, these are not normal circumstances for Ms. Hayashi’s…remember, she’s a Brain Tumor survivor….and god forbid she answer any questions from journalism students that might dig into her recent shop-lifting conviction that she publicly (via her attorney) attributed to her medical condition.

Ms. Hayashi ostensibly rebuffed and refused to answer any of the student’s questions, and left the journalism students to speculate and draw their own conclusions….which they did.

The Castro Valley High students gave Ms. Hayashi a textbook opportunity to step up, be a leader by example, set the record straight, and be accountable. These basic principles of good leadership are what every teacher and parent want their student/child to learn in California Public Schools.

Regrettably, Ms. Hayashi provided not only lack of good leadership, but glaring proof that not only do our elected public officials see little value in the public education system in California….currently ranked at or near the bottom, but apparently, Ms. Hayashi also believes she has no obligation to the students in our public schools when it comes to their rights to learn the truth and seek an understanding of what our elected officials are doing while on the payroll of taxpayers.

Ms. Hayashi’s impertinence for the students of Castro Valley High School is just a further example of arrogance and contempt by our elected officials concerning the demands of taxpayers and students in California. Ms. Hayashi’s actions differ very little from those of the Board of Regents when they walked out of a meeting during which pointed questions were asked by UC College students.

We advocate that every high school with a journalism department which sits within Ms. Hayashi’s district demand an interview with Ms. Hayashi. In addition, for those journalism students at Castro Valley High, we recommend you request Ms. Hayashi come to your school to answer all your questions. If you have learned anything from this experience it should be….DO NOT let our public officials off the hook when it comes to accountability. You have the right to ask the questions, so ask them, and seek the truth and accept nothing less!