Guardianship of Nell Gehle

CASE NUMBER: 23PG-0032107 Disclosure Re: guardianship cases involving Shasta County Health and Human Services Agency-Judge Wood discloses that her step-daughter, Erinn Watts, is the Administrative Branch Director of the Health and Human Services Agency. In that position, Judge Wood’s step-daughter does not have any involvement in the investigation, management, prosecution or defense of guardianship cases. However, the Court makes this disclosure of an employment relationship between an investigating agency and the Court’s first degree relative as required by California Code of Judicial Ethics.

This matter is on calendar for further proceedings on a Petition to Remove Guardians and Petition for Appointment of Successor Guardians of the Person. The Petitions were filed by nonrelatives Myriah Herrington and Mark Stacker. Letters of Temporary Guardianship were requested but denied pending hearing. The current Guardians are Laura Shackelford and Benton Bovee.

The Court previously found the Petition to Remove Guardians properly noticed. Proof of service of the Notice of Hearing and Petition for Appointment of Successor Guardians of the Person has been filed for the mother. The matters have been properly noticed. The paperwork appears to be in order. The Court will inquire whether the child is or may be an Indian child. If Petitioner has reason to know that the child is an Indian child, they must make further inquiry to learn about the child’s Indian heritage.

The Court has reviewed and considered the Children’s Services report filed on December 16, 2025, which recommends granting the Petitions. The mother has filed an objection. The Public Defender was previously appointed as counsel for the minor and confirmed appointment. An appearance is necessary on today’s calendar for setting of a contested hearing.

GUARDIANSHIP OF KURTIS GRANDELL III