Fresno Lawmaker Accused of Controlling Wife from Rehab

Divorce documents reveal allegations of stalking, spying, and financial abuse

Mar. 15, 2026 at 6:37pm

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California assemblymember Joaquin Arambula is facing explosive allegations from his estranged wife Elizabeth Arambula, who claims he stalked her and tried to control her movements while he was in rehab. Elizabeth alleges Arambula used the family's home security system to monitor her and had his father follow her when she was moving out. She also accused him of spending thousands on gaming and being addicted to THC and alcohol.

Why it matters

The ugly divorce battle has shed light on the personal life of Arambula, a prominent Democratic lawmaker representing California's 31st District. The allegations of stalking, spying, and financial abuse raise concerns about his conduct and fitness for public office.

The details

According to divorce documents, when Elizabeth Arambula was moving out of the family home, Joaquin Arambula had his father watch her and try to follow her to her new place with their three daughters. Elizabeth said she had to confront Arambula's father and threaten to call the police. Arambula also allegedly took control of the home's alarm system to monitor the family's activity. Elizabeth claims he had one of their daughters download a tracking app so he could constantly know their whereabouts. She also accused him of spending thousands per month on gaming and being addicted to THC and whiskey.

  • Arambula checked himself into a $30,000 rehab program at Reflections rehabilitation.
  • In 2018, Arambula was arrested for child abuse for allegedly spanking his then 7-year-old daughter, though he was later found not guilty.

The players

Joaquin Arambula

A California assemblymember who is running for Fresno City Council. He is accused of stalking his wife and trying to control her movements while in rehab.

Elizabeth Arambula

The estranged wife of Joaquin Arambula who has filed for divorce and made explosive claims against her husband, including allegations of stalking, spying, and financial abuse.

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What they’re saying

“I had to approach his father and demand he leave or I would call law enforcement.”

— Elizabeth Arambula

“I am prepared to demonstrate my continued sobriety to the court and my willingness to support my family.”

— Joaquin Arambula

What’s next

The judge in the divorce case will determine custody and financial arrangements between Joaquin and Elizabeth Arambula.

The takeaway

The allegations against Assemblymember Arambula raise serious concerns about his conduct and fitness for public office, highlighting the need for greater accountability and transparency among elected officials.