A request by Stockton City Councilman Brando Villapudua for a restraining order against Motecuzoma Sanchez, founder of the 209 Times, was denied in a court hearing.
The hearing revealed an escalating conflict between the two men over allegedly leaked confidential city council information.
Judge Erin Guy Castillo, in her ruling, described a restraining order as a "blunt instrument not well-suited to resolve the issue you two are having." The dispute originated after a closed-session city council meeting on March 1, which both men claim involved leaked information.
Sanchez was a former consultant for Villapudua's 2022 city council campaign, but their relationship deteriorated over time. Villapudua alleges that Sanchez harassed him after the March meeting, including a confrontation at a restaurant and later negative posts on the 209 Times social media page.
Sanchez, who defended himself in court, acknowledged approaching Villapudua at the restaurant to question him about the city manager, but insisted the interaction was peaceful. He also claimed that Villapudua's lawsuit is an attempt to stifle posts on the 209 Times.
Both Villapudua and Sanchez agreed in court that they believe someone disclosed confidential details from the closed session, a potential violation of California's Brown Act, which requires confidentiality of such discussions.
Stockton's city attorney was not available for comment on potential violation investigations. Mayor Kevin Lincoln is unable to comment due to the Brown Act's confidentiality restrictions.
Judge Guy Castillo stated that Villapudua failed to meet the "clear and convincing standard of evidence" necessary for a restraining order. It was also noted that Sanchez's position as a director at the Stockton Unified School District will be eliminated on July 1.
