Resident alleges two police assaults; preschool director brings documents and asks for formal follow-up

Two public‑comment items at the May 2 Parlier City Council meeting focused on community concerns rather than agenda items.

Resident Nash Ed Woodpeco told the council he was assaulted by an officer in the Parlier Police Department lobby about a year ago and again roughly three months ago while responding to a 911 call for a friend who was having a panic attack. "About a year ago, I was assaulted by an officer in the lobby of the Parlier Police Department," he said, adding later, "And now I'm basically without a left arm, nowadays." Nash said he had brought paperwork to city staff and that follow‑up (including insurance contact) had been promised but not delivered. In response, council members said complaints involving police operations should be addressed with the police chief; the mayor said she is not the chief and that the chief can look into the matter.

Separately, Debbie Cardenas, introduced herself as "Grama Director for the state preschool program," apologized for prior misinformation and presented meeting minutes, agendas and invoices to show she did not approve or receive certain authorizations in the timelines previously alleged. She told the council it takes 30–45 days for Department of Education equipment approval and that documents in the packet show signatories and check dates from 2019 and 2020 she said were not her approvals. "I'd like to apologize for the misinformation... we still can't receive those 15% unless we spend a certain amount," she said, and she urged the council to review the provided documents.

Council members requested that the police chief look into the resident’s allegations and suggested that the preschool item be scheduled for fuller presentation at a future meeting so staff and council can review the supporting paperwork and financing. Council directed staff to place the preschool program on the next agenda for a presentation so questions can be asked and clarified.