Woman Suspected of Adjusting Value of Home
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A former employee of the Ventura County assessor’s office was arrested Monday on suspicion of violating the state’s Political Reform Act by adjusting the appraisal of her own home, authorities said.
Barbara Sorem-Hughlett, 54, of Santa Paula surrendered to investigators and was issued a misdemeanor citation and released. Her arraignment is scheduled for March 14.
Prosecutors say Sorem-Hughlett lowered the appraisal of her home so it was below market value. Doing so can decrease property taxes, but authorities would not comment on a motive in this case.
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