The recent announcement of the closure of the Barstow Court House on May 6, 2013 has caused concern for the citizens of the Barstow area. San Bernardino County Courts is one of the most under-resourced courts receiving $22 million less in state funding this year from the State of California.
This widespread rural community would lose a valuable resource if the proposal to transfer hearings to Victorville goes ahead. Barstow surrounding area’s population is approximately 39,000 with nearly 49% on some kind of public assistance.
Residents would have to travel in an excess of 30 miles. We are ill-served by public transport and the closing of Barstow Court would affect many victims, witnesses, defendants, young people, those with disabilities, their supporters and many other court users.
This would cause the Victorville Courts to become over crowded causing court delays, reduced parking and inconvenience for local citizens, court employees and attorneys.
This will have an adverse effect on Barstow’s economy with the loss of 22 jobs and business for local attorneys. California High Patrol, Barstow Police and San Bernardino County Sheriffs would have to travel in an excess of 30 miles to appear in court. This would cause a hardship to the City of Barstow’s budget and would reduce the ability to protect and serve the citizens of Barstow.