COACHELLA – (INT) – Coachella Mayor Steven Hernandez is denying charges of perjury and conflict of interest alleged in a Riverside County Grand Jury indictment.

It was unsealed Thursday (October 30th) at Hernandez’ court arraignment in Indio.

The conflict-of-interest charges relate to Hernandez’ vote to approve a contract between the City of Coachella and the Coachella Valley Association of Governments’ Housing First Program. His votes and advocacy allegedly related to downtown Coachella development projects.

The perjury charges relate to claims made by Hernandez on his Statement of Economic Interests public disclosure forms.

If convicted as currently charged, Hernandez could face over seven years in state prison and be barred for life from holding public office, prosecutors said.

Story Date: November 5, 2025