Boat-Dwelling Woman In Richardson Bay Who Bear-Sprayed Harbormaster In 2020 Avoids Jail Time

Kimberly Susan Slater was convicted of misdemeanor assault after bear-spraying Harbormaster Curtis Havel during a confrontation over her derelict vessel in Richardson Bay. The incident occurred in July 2020 when Havel attempted to deliver eviction notices to boat-dwellers, including Slater, who was living on her boat. Slater's defense claimed Havel did not properly announce himself, while prosecutors argued her actions stemmed from frustration over ongoing eviction efforts. The jury found her guilty of misdemeanor charges and sentenced her to probation, 100 hours of community service, and an anger-management course. Havel testified that Slater continued to anchor illegally five years after the incident, expressing feelings of abandonment by the system he served.

He resigned from his harbormaster position in 2021 following a separate incident where another boat exploded, injuring its occupant. This case reflects the growing tensions between local authorities and individuals residing on boats in Marin County. The ongoing conflict raises questions about housing, safety, and environmental concerns in the region.