Russell Betts Charged with False Imprisonment

Councilmember Charged with Vandalism, False Imprisonment

DESERT HOT SPRINGS — City Councilmember Russell Betts, 65, is scheduled to be arraigned on Dec. 12 on charges of felony vandalism and misdemeanor false imprisonment, according to court documents.

You may read the complaint here.

The charges stem from an incident on Aug. 4 at the 7-Eleven located on 65971 Pierson Blvd. Betts was allegedly angry at a young motorist whom he perceived as cutting him off in traffic.  So, Betts allegedly followed him. While the motorist went inside the convenience store, Betts parked directly behind him and raised the hood on his car as though he had car trouble therefore pinning the motorist in and unable to leave. Betts allegedly also started to hit the motorist’s vehicle causing damage.

Uken Report reached out to Betts on Saturday for comment on the charges.

“Really.” he wrote in a text message. “That’s new (sic) to me.”

You may read the Declaration of Support for the charges here: https://ukenreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/RIF2405660-Betts-Arrest-Dec_Redacted.pdf

Betts has served on the Desert Hot Springs City Council since December of 2007. He ran unsuccessfully for mayor in the Nov. 5 election against incumbent Mayor Scott Matas and Stephen Giboney. Matas won re-election.

The charges were filed Nov.4, the day before the election.

Police Chief Jim Henson could not be reached Saturday for comment.

No other details were available Saturday.

This is a developing story. Check back for details.