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BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Living in California is considered the American Dream for many, but it can have its pros and cons. The dream of living by a beach, or having mountains for a view can cost millions. But according to new research from Niche–you can find affordability in different...

California's Kern County has made a notable appearance on the 2023 Niche list of the most affordable places to live in the Golden State, demonstrating a beacon of hope amidst a widespread housing affordability crisis. Cities such as Ridgecrest, California City, Taft, Mojave, China Lake Acres, Golden Hills, and Ford City have been recognized for their cost-effectiveness in a state notorious for high living expenses. Ridgecrest, in particular, shines with its rank of 9th overall and 4th in the best places to buy a house in California. These areas boast median home values substantially lower than the national median, offering a glimmer of financial reprieve for prospective homeowners.

An $8.6 million plan to help Kern County meet the requirements of Senate Bill 1383 by mandating residential trash collection and adding the cost to tax rolls may be stymied by property owners in six of the county's 14 universal collection areas. SB 1383 is a state law aimed at...

On the ground in Kern County, recent law enforcement activities have highlighted the local sheriff's office's commitment to public safety. On November 30, 2023, a countywide operation led to multiple arrests, showcasing the diligence of officers in tackling crime. The day's arrests addressed a spectrum of infractions, from vehicle code violations to more serious offenses including assault with a deadly weapon and petty theft. Detailed arrest records were provided by the Sheriff's Office, ensuring transparency and adherence to legal protocols. The incidents spanned several towns in the county, including Bakersfield and Delano, which underscores the department's extensive reach and systematic approach to law enforcement.

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/FOX58) — Kern County deputies do more than just protect and serve - they also tend to babies when necessary. In September, deputy Turner helped feed a "fussy and hungry" baby while he also took a statement from the mother, according to a social media post by the Kern County Sheriff's Office.

This week in Kern County, California, several incidents occurred involving assault, weapons charges, shootings, and arrests. A man was found dead inside a home in east Bakersfield after a report of an assault. Another man was arrested near Buttonwillow on weapons charges after shots were fired from a pickup truck. In Wasco, a man is in critical condition after being shot, with no suspect information available. A Taft man was arrested for attempted murder and gun-related charges following a reported fight and gunshots. A teacher from Arvin High School appeared in court for alleged sexual misconduct with a minor. Lastly, a video of police apprehending a suspect in a McDonald's parking lot has sparked outrage and potential legal action.

In a dramatic rescue operation on November 29, 2023, at 12:59 p.m., Kern County firefighters showcased their expertise in a canal rescue near Taft Hwy and S. H St. A pickup truck, with its front end submerged in the canal, prompted a comprehensive response from the Kern County Fire Department.

The Kern County Fire Department battled a large fire at 325 N. Gold Canyon St. in Ridgecrest on Friday evening. A total of seven KCFD units and one from the China Lake Fire Department were dispatched to the fire, which was first reported at 7:18 p.m. They battled flames shooting far into the air and a plume of smoke visible across town despite the dark skies.

Nearly every county across California will share an unfortunate resolution in the coming year: They each will delay their launch of a new mental health law expected to change the face of involuntary treatment. At a city of Bakersfield Homelessness and Housing Committee meeting last Tuesday, Alison Burrowes, the interim...

The Kern County Board of Supervisors has decided to proceed with emergency projects at Tank Park and Riverside Park, following an assessment report on the projects. This move comes after recognizing the need for continuation of repair work at these parks damaged by winter storms earlier this year. Geoffrey Hill,...

The Kern County Sheriff's Office has publicized a detailed arrest report for November 28, highlighting the ongoing battle against crime within the county. The document lists a multitude of offenses for which individuals were apprehended, including resisting an executive officer, felony evasion, public intoxication, trespassing, possession of drug paraphernalia, and burglary. The report provides an insightful look into the enforcement of both Penal and Health and Safety Codes, such as PC 30305(a)(1), PC 2800.2, PC 647(f), PC 602, HS 11364, and HS 11377(a).

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Standard elementary and middle schools were on a brief lockdown Thursday afternoon after receiving a threatening phone call. Sheriff officials say the threat was unfounded. One of the schools received a threatening phone call and both schools went on lockdown as a precaution, according to school officials. District officials notified the […]

Uncover the silent epidemic of animal cruelty in Kern County. From gruesome discoveries of dead cats to shocking daily reports of abuse, this video explores the severity of the issue, the challenges in tracking cases, and the urgent call for change and justice.

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Beginning Friday, 17 News alongside the Open Door Network and the Boys & Girls Club of Kern County, will be accepting donations of gifts for kids ages 5 to 18. Donations of unwrapped, new toys can be dropped off at the KGET lobby at 2120...

The Kern County Board of Supervisors approved an agreement with the Open Door Network on November 28th, enabling the use of federal grant funds to provide re-housing assistance throughout the county. This initiative is a critical part of an effort to combat homelessness and housing instability in the region. The...

The Kern County Sheriff's Department demonstrated its unwavering dedication to law enforcement with a series of arrests on November 24th, 2023. The day was marked by an assortment of charges filed against various individuals, highlighting the range of criminal activity within the county. Charges spanned from petty theft (PC 488) and drug possession (HS 11377 and HS 11364), to more serious crimes including stalking (PC 646.9), burglary (PC 460), assault (PC 245), and driving under the influence (VC 23152).

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Bakersfield Kern Regional Homeless Collaborative is in need of volunteers to count the number of people experiencing homelessness in Kern County. The annual PIT Count is used to allocate resources for homelessness and funding applications within the community and volunteers are essential to get an accurate count, organizers said. Here’s how […]

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — A slight chance of light rain is possible mainly in the Kern County mountains. An incoming disturbance will increase the chances of rain and snow Thursday afternoon intoFriday morning. Winds will increase over the Tehachapi Mountains with snow levels expected to drop below 4,500 feet. Air quality will be moderate with […]

The Kern Valley girls’ soccer team opened up their season 1-1 last week with a win over Mojave and a loss to Mammoth, and Alex Armes was on top of her game early with goals in each game. On Nov. 28 the Broncs traveled to Mojave and beat the...

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — The Kern County Elections Division is having a hiring event scheduled for Tuesday, December 5th, 2023, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Kern County's Administration Building, located at 1115 Truxtun Avenue in Bakersfield. In preparation for the upcoming Presidential Primary Election season, the Kern...