Stockton Mayor Anthony Silva presided over his first council meeting Tuesday night since his arrest last week on charges that included child endangerment and supplying alcohol to minors. The public took to the microphone offering both support and criticism.
Silva called the meeting to order for an overflow crowd.
Most of those in attendance were there to support the mayor judging by the applause for those who spoke on his behalf.
Silva referred to the charges against him as a “political distraction” but says he chose to run for mayor in a tough city and must face the firing squad.
“A mayor is not above the law, I am innocent and the truth will come out,” he says.
Some like Jennifer Boylan suspect a conspiracy.
“It’s impossible to believe these charges weren’t concocted to cost him the election," says Boylan. ”I believe you deserve the presumption of innocence.”
Others like Gary Malloy are withdrawing their support.
“I do believe you are innocent until proven guilty and I still consider you a friend, but what’s gone on, I cannot support you,” says Malloy.
Silva is running against Councilman Michael Tubbs in the November election.
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