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Shasta Today
By the People, for the People
Ex-defense attorney Ryan Birss sworn in as Shasta County judge
New report shows racial disparities in traffic stops and arrests in the county
Apr. 14, 2026 at 7:30pm
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The swearing in of a new judge in Shasta County comes as the community grapples with troubling evidence of racial bias in local policing practices.Shasta TodayRyan Birss, a former defense attorney, has been sworn in as a new judge on the Shasta County Superior Court. This comes as a new report reveals that Black and Native American residents in Shasta County face higher rates of traffic stops and arrests compared to white residents.
Why it matters
The racial disparities in policing highlighted by the report raise concerns about systemic bias and the fair administration of justice in Shasta County. As a new judge, Birss will be in a position to address these issues from the bench.
The details
The report, conducted by a local civil rights organization, found that Black people in Shasta County were nearly three times more likely to be stopped by police and twice as likely to be arrested compared to white residents. Native Americans also faced disproportionately high rates of traffic stops and arrests.
- Ryan Birss was sworn in as a Shasta County Superior Court judge on April 14, 2026.
- The report on racial disparities in policing was recently released.
The players
Ryan Birss
A former defense attorney who has been sworn in as a new judge on the Shasta County Superior Court.
Shasta County Superior Court
The county-level trial court that serves Shasta County, California.
What they’re saying
“These findings are deeply troubling and demand immediate action to address systemic racism in our criminal justice system.”
— Samantha Lee, Executive Director, Shasta County Civil Rights Coalition
What’s next
Judge Birss is expected to prioritize criminal justice reform and addressing racial disparities in policing as part of his new role on the Shasta County Superior Court.
The takeaway
The swearing in of Judge Birss comes at a critical time, as Shasta County grapples with troubling evidence of racial bias in its policing practices. His appointment presents an opportunity to enact meaningful change and work towards a more equitable criminal justice system.
