Overview
- Kenneth Johnson says the state withdrew hands-on help and barred the use of bait, and he is preparing a lawsuit alleging negligence and emotional distress.
- The California Department of Fish and Wildlife told the New York Post it remains committed, saying biologists have been in constant communication and never indicated they would stop helping.
- A large tagged black bear has denned under Johnson’s Altadena home since November, causing damage including a broken pipe that led him to shut off gas and go without hot water.
- In December, officials deployed lures and a trap but captured a different bear that was released to a suitable habitat, and the target bear is still at large.
- A KTLA legal analyst said agency policy emphasizes remedying dangerous situations and suggested a court could order removal if Johnson’s case succeeds.