Kern County District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer has announced the filing of criminal charges against Kern County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Ryan Dunbier.
On January 20, 2026, Dunbier was arrested upon arriving at work after the Kern County Sheriff’s Office became aware of unlawful conduct. On January 21, 2026, the Kern County Sheriff’s Office submitted a request to the Kern County District Attorney’s Office seeking the filing of criminal charges. Upon initial review, prosecutors determined that additional investigation was necessary to meet the “beyond a reasonable doubt” standard. Following further investigation, on April 24, 2026, the District Attorney’s Office filed five criminal charges against Dunbier, including:
• Second Degree Commercial Burglary (Felony) • Manufacture, Sale, or Possession of a Short-Barreled Shotgun or Rifle (Felony) • Possession of an Assault Rifle (Felony) • Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance (Misdemeanor) • Possession of an Injection/Smoking Device (Misdemeanor)
Ryan Dunbier was arrested and posted bail on April 24, 2026. Dunbier is scheduled to be arraigned on May 18, 2026 at the Kern County Superior Court. As with all criminal cases, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until the charges are proven in court beyond a reasonable doubt