A Nigerian-born doctor in the United States, Matthew Bernard, is facing a potential $1 million fine in California after authorities accused him of illegally cutting down 38 protected trees without permits, igniting a heated controversy involving environmental concerns and racial politics.
The case, which has drawn significant attention, centers on alleged tree removal carried out between 2021 and 2022 in the Oakland Hills.
Bernard and his partner, Lynn Warner, are accused of cutting down trees on their property along Claremont Avenue, as well as on neighbouring and public land, in violation of city regulations.
City officials and arborists say the action caused environmental damage and posed safety risks, particularly in an area prone to wildfires.
Environmental advocates have urged the Oakland City Council to impose the full penalty, warning that a lesser sanction could encourage disregard for laws protecting urban forests.
However, Bernard denied any wrongdoing, stating that the trees were removed based on professional advice that some posed wildfire risks.
He maintained that he acted in good faith and attempted to comply with regulations, a claim disputed by city authorities who insist he failed to obtain the necessary permits.
The issue escalated during a tense council hearing when a councilmember raised concerns about racial bias, questioning whether a Black property owner should face such severe punishment for actions others may have committed without consequence.
The remarks triggered backlash from colleagues who rejected race as a justification for what they described as a clear violation of environmental laws.
Efforts by the council to reach a decision have so far failed, with votes on both the full $1 million fine and a reduced $411,000 penalty ending in deadlock.
With the city’s mayor declining to intervene, the matter has been deferred to another council meeting scheduled for May 5.
If approved, the proposed fine could become one of the largest penalties ever imposed for illegal tree removal in California, potentially setting a new precedent in environmental enforcement.
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