Amador County prosecutors are taking the reigns in a rare criminal case that involves both a Stockton City Council Candidate and a Stockton employee. The Stockton Record reports that the people vs. Leonardi, an Amador County case, involves a death, a seriously injured council candidate, and Dino Leonardi, the community and cultural services superintendent with Stockton Parks and Recreation. Leonardi is charged with misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter for his alleged role in a fatal 2007 accident on Highway 88 near Jackson, killing a man named Alston. He publicly disputes the charges against him. Leonardi allegedly caused a fatal two-vehicle accident by passing and in turn cutting off another vehicle, resulting in that vehicle’s driver losing control.

Leonardi disputes the charge. Besides a city supervisor's involvement, what gives the case a public profile are the other occupants of the car in which Alston died: Mark and Jennet Stebbins. Mark Stebbins, a Stockton councilman in the 1980s, recently declared candidacy for the District 6 council seat. Jennet Stebbins is challenging Davis Assemblywoman Lois Wolk for the Democratic nomination for the 5th Senate District seat. After the accident, Leonardi reportedly drove on. Leonardi said he was unaware of the accident. He dialed 911, remaining until interviewed and allowed to go. Leonardi, whose license is suspended, has continued at his job, overseeing special events, the Children's Museum and Pixie Woods. He carpools to work. "My attorney has advised me not to comment on anything as regards to the accident," said Leonardi. He added, correctly: "You're innocent until proven guilty."