Marin County leaders have been confronting challenges posed by derelict boats and unhoused individuals living on them for years, but the situation intensified during the pandemic. A notable incident in July 2020 involved Harbormaster Curtis Havel, who was bear-sprayed by Kimberly Susan Slater, a boat-dweller. The encounter arose as Havel attempted to deliver eviction notices. A jury acquitted Slater of felony assault but convicted her of misdemeanor charges, leading to probation and community service. The case highlights the ongoing tensions regarding boat-dwelling populations and environmental concerns in the region.
Havel described the growing frustration among local leaders as boat-dwelling populations increase and become less compliant, jeopardizing both environmental safety and community harmony.
Prosecutors argued that Slater's actions were fueled by her knowledge of Havel's intentions regarding evictions, indicating a deliberate attempt to resist enforcement.
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