NEWS RELEASE
April 1, 2021
On April 1, 2021, a Humboldt County jury found 57-year-old Jeffry Lee Tsarnas guilty of felony Hit and Run Causing Serious, Permanent Injury.
The conviction stems from a November 27, 2018 incident on Fernbridge, when Tsarnas struck a pedestrian and fled the scene without rendering aid or providing information to law enforcement. Sergeant Harvey of the California Highway Patrol led the investigation of the incident. Evidence collected at the scene as well as surveillance footage and witness statements led to his arrest.
Deputy District Attorneys Roger Rees and Steven Steward prosecuted the case. April VanDyke of the Humboldt County Office of Conflict Counsel represented the defendant.
The pandemic led to restrictions on out-of-county witnesses that caused a 2020 trial of Mr. Tsarnas to be continued. The District Attorney appreciates the willingness of witnesses and jurors to come to court under exceptional circumstances.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 26, 2021. Mr. Tsarnas faces up to 4 years in prison.