High-Speed Rail CEO arrested hours after event with California governor

Ian Choudri was taken into custody on suspicion of domestic battery at his Folsom home

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The CEO of the California High-Speed Rail Authority, Ian Choudri, was arrested just after midnight on February 4th at his Folsom home on suspicion of domestic battery, hours after appearing alongside Governor Gavin Newsom at a rail event in Kern County.

Why it matters

The arrest of the high-profile rail authority CEO raises questions about leadership and oversight of the state's troubled high-speed rail project, which has faced years of delays and ballooning costs.

The details

According to Folsom police logs, officers were called to Choudri's home and took him into custody on suspicion of battery of a spouse, a simple misdemeanor. It's unclear if the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office has filed charges in the case.

  • Choudri was arrested just after midnight on February 4, 2026.
  • Earlier that same day, Choudri appeared with Governor Newsom at a High-Speed Rail Authority facility in Kern County.

The players

Ian Choudri

The 57-year-old CEO of the California High-Speed Rail Authority, who was appointed to the position in August 2024.

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California, who appeared with Choudri earlier on the day of his arrest to tout progress on the high-speed rail project.

Folsom Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the domestic disturbance call and arrested Choudri at his home.

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What’s next

The Sacramento County District Attorney's Office will determine whether to file charges against Choudri in the domestic battery case.

The takeaway

The arrest of the High-Speed Rail Authority CEO shortly after a public event with the governor raises concerns about leadership and oversight of the troubled high-speed rail project, which has faced years of delays and cost overruns.