A Bay Area city manager has been charged with misdemeanor offenses after allegedly breaking into a 66ft yacht while drinking and attempting to steal the vessel. Elaine Forbes, the newly appointed city manager of Sausalito, was arrested on July 18 following a noise complaint near the marina. This unusual incident has drawn widespread attention due to Forbes’ prominent role in local government and her prior service as director of the Port of San Francisco.
Details of the Yacht Break-In
According to police reports, Forbes “apparently broke into” a three-story yacht and was found consuming alcohol onboard. The yacht’s owner, Andy Cunningham, discovered evidence of the intrusion, including a bottle of maraschino cherries dumped into a shoebox and four empty bottles of wine. Captain Bill Aubrey, who called 911, told ABC7 that Forbes activated the yacht’s horn, windshield wipers, and spotlight, creating a significant disturbance.
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Forbes had been living on a houseboat near the marina where the incident occurred. Police initially charged her with felony burglary, with bail set at $50,000. However, prosecutors later reduced the charges to misdemeanor counts of loitering, squatting, and petty theft, according to Sergeant Adam Schermerhorn of the Marin County Sheriff’s Department.
Legal and Professional Consequences
The Sausalito City Council placed Forbes on administrative leave during a closed meeting last week, and her job performance is currently under evaluation. Forbes was appointed to her position just three weeks before the incident. In a statement issued on behalf of her family, spokesperson Sam Singer urged the public to respond “with compassion, patience, and respect” as Forbes seeks legal and healthcare counsel.
This case highlights the challenges of public officials facing legal troubles early in their tenure. Yacht theft is uncommon in Marin County, making this incident particularly noteworthy. Below is a comparison of the initial and revised charges:
| Charge Type | Initial Charge | Revised Charge |
|---|---|---|
| Burglary | Felony | Dropped |
| Loitering | Not charged | Misdemeanor |
| Squatting | Not charged | Misdemeanor |
| Petty Theft | Not charged | Misdemeanor |
Key Takeaways
- Elaine Forbes, Sausalito’s city manager, faces misdemeanor charges after breaking into a yacht while drinking.
- The incident occurred on July 18, with Forbes allegedly activating the yacht’s systems and consuming alcohol.
- Charges were reduced from felony burglary to misdemeanor loitering, squatting, and petty theft.
- Forbes has been placed on leave, and the city council is reviewing her performance.
- The case underscores the rarity of yacht-related crimes in Marin County.
FAQ
What charges does Elaine Forbes face?
Elaine Forbes faces misdemeanor charges for loitering, squatting, and petty theft after breaking into a 66ft yacht while drinking. The initial felony burglary charge was dropped.
Why was Elaine Forbes arrested?
Forbes was arrested on July 18 after police responded to a noise disturbance. She allegedly broke into a yacht, activated its horn and lights, and was found consuming alcohol onboard.
What is the status of Elaine Forbes’ job?
The Sausalito City Council placed Forbes on administrative leave and is evaluating her job performance. She was appointed as city manager just three weeks before the incident.
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