Former North Bay Cop Found Guilty of Posing as Federal Agent to Rob Drivers of Weed, Cash

Former Rohnert Park police officer Joseph Huffaker was convicted by a federal jury on six counts, including conspiracy and extortion, for illegally stopping drivers on Highway 101 to steal cannabis and cash. The jury's unanimous verdict came swiftly, within 90 minutes of deliberation, and Huffaker now faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for October 15. The illegal activity spanned from 2015 to 2018, during which Huffaker and his former sergeant, Brendon Tatum, unlawfully seized more than two tons of cannabis. Evidence revealed that they posed as federal agents using fake credentials and falsified documents to cover their actions. Huffaker's defense argued he was following orders from superiors, while four other officers involved in the scheme continue to serve in law enforcement.

The city of Rohnert Park has already paid over $1. 8 million to settle civil suits from victims, highlighting the financial impact of the officers' misconduct. One victim, Huedell Freeman, reported the theft of 47 pounds of legally documented cannabis. The case sheds light on the broader implications of police misconduct and accountability in law enforcement.