Some Depositions Delayed in COD Case

Some Depositions Delayed in Palm Springs Lawsuit Against College of the Desert

PALM SPRINGS — All subpoenas have been delivered in the longstanding lawsuit the city of Palm Springs filed against COD over the college allegedly not turning over public documents, but due to scheduling issues, several depositions had to be rescheduled.

Originally, attorneys hoped to have the depositions wrapped up this month. They will now continue through the end of June, Palm Springs City Attorney Jeff Ballinger told Uken Report.

Former Superintendent/President Martha Garcia has not been subpoenaed “at this time,” Ballinger said.

At least 14 individuals, primarily leaders, and companies associated with College of the Desert have been served subpoenas to be deposed.

Those subpoenaed include: Robert Rauscher; Maas Companies Inc.; Christina Tafoya; John White; Jessica Enders; Nicholas Robles, public information officer; Scott Adkins; Superintendent/President Laura Hope; Pam Hunter; Mitch Fine; Desert Community College District’s Person most qualified; Mac McGinnis; Stephen M. McLoughlin; and former Vice President Jeff Baker.

The depositions will be upon oral examination, under oath, and recorded steno-graphically by a Certified Shorthand Reporter authorized to administer oaths in the State of California. The depositions will continue from day to day, excluding Sundays and holidays, until completed.

As for next steps, depositions will be continuing, and COD needs to respond to written discovery, Ballinger said, which means the city of Palm Springs will send COD questions and requests for information or items (like documents) in writing. The other side must respond to your question or request in writing.