Rio Hondo’s city manager keeps his job despite criminal charges

The Rio Hondo City Council voted Monday to keep City Manager Ben Medina on the payroll despite his recent arrest.

Rio Hondo Police Chief William Bilokury confirmed to Channel 5 News that Medina faces charges of tampering with evidence and undue influence.

The charges are said to revolve around an “illegally” recorded conversation.

Channel 5 News filed a public information request for more details on Medina’s arrest.

“He wants to clear his name,” said Medina’s attorney, Dan Sanchez. “He hasn’t done anything wrong, he’s innocent.”

During the meeting, Rio Hondo Mayor Gustavo Olivares said the city simply needs to get back to smooth operations.

“We have to get back to work,” Olivares said. “Rio Hondo needs to get moving, we need to get our departments moving again.”