The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) conducted an operation that led to the arrest of four individuals for trespassing on private property along Hatchery Road in Blue Lake. The operation was executed in collaboration with property owners following multiple community complaints about illegal encampments at the site.
These encampments have been associated with several recent fires, which were quickly contained by the Blue Lake Volunteer Fire Department, preventing major damage. Over the past week, HCSO deputies engaged in outreach efforts, informing individuals at the encampments of the property owners’ request to vacate and allowing ample time for compliance.
On July 13, 2025, deputies arrested four individuals who did not comply with the directive to leave. The arrestees were identified as Chad Kovatch, 42; Gregory Miller, 37; Troy Miller, 56; and Autumn Studdert, 19. All face charges of trespassing.
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office stated its commitment to serving and protecting all community members while upholding the law. “Criminal activity, including trespassing on public or private property, will not be tolerated.”
Individuals with information about this case or related criminal activities are encouraged to contact the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or use the Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.
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