State continues search for predator placement site

The Department of State Hospitals (DSH) and Liberty Healthcare confirmed the search continues for a location to place William Robert Stephenson during the status hearing Monday morning. Monday's hearing followed the cancellation of the Feb. 28 community housing meeting. During the proceedings, Judge Garen Horst shared the court received a letter on Feb. 25 requesting a revision of the conditions of Stephenson's release. Stephenson's attorney noted Stephenson is entitled to a hearing if a revision of his release conditions are being considered. Horst also noted a prior address the state was vetting as a possible placement location was "taken off the market," and requested Liberty provide an update on the progress of its search. Liberty, the private contractor for DSH, confirmed the search for a suitable location continues and it intends to file a report requesting the revocation. "... Liberty Healthcare reported that they have had a change in position regarding Stephenson's readiness for release and will be filing a report memorializing their change of opinion," the Placer County DA's Office reported Monday afternoon. "Additionally, a doctor from DSH indicated their intention to file a report requesting the revocation of Stephenson's pending release." Horst continued the hearing to Monday, March 17, to allow both parties time to file petitions pertaining to the revocation request and noted the hearing could be scheduled thereafter. The next status hearing is scheduled at 11 a.m. in Department 32 of the Placer County Superior Court in Roseville.