Stockton City Council Candidate Desiree Lynch Arraigned on Felony Perjury, Election Fraud, and Weapons Charges

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office announced the formal arraignment of former Stockton City Council Candidate Desiree Lynch following a public corruption investigation. The charges allege that Lynch perjured herself by registering to vote and filing as a candidate using residential addresses where she did not live, resulting in six felony counts filed as follows:

•Count 6: PC 30605(A) Possession of an Assault Weapon

The case follows an investigation by the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office Bureau of Investigations and a referral from the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators determined that Lynch allegedly resided outside the claimed district boundaries rather than the area indicated on official registration and candidate filing paperwork. During the service of a search warrant at the North Stockton residence, an illegal assault rifle was seized and booked as evidence, resulting in the additional weapons charge. Following the investigation, a criminal complaint was formally filed in the San Joaquin County Superior Court.

If convicted on all counts, Lynch faces a maximum of 7 years and 4 months in state prison. Following today's arraignment, the defendant remains out on jail OR and she is scheduled to return to court on October 8, 2026 at 8:30 AM in Department 8B.