Modoc County Jury Convicts Darrell Wood on Felony Sex Offense Charges Involving Minor
ALTURAS, CA — A Modoc County jury found Darrell Wood guilty of two felony sex offense counts following a trial presided over by Judge Wendy Dier, District Attorney Nina Salarno announced Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026.
Wood was convicted of sexual penetration of a minor by force, violence, duress, or fear (PC 289(a)(1)(c)) and sexual penetration by a foreign object (PC 289(i)). Jurors also found an aggravating factor true under California Rules of Court 4.421(a)(11).
The District Attorney’s Office originally filed 22 counts alleging sexual abuse of a minor across Modoc and San Diego counties. Working with San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan, local prosecutors established jurisdiction to try all charges in Modoc County to prevent the victim from undergoing multiple trials. However, Judge Dier ordered the charges severed over objections from Assistant District Attorney Richard Cotta, allowing only two counts to proceed to trial.
DA Salarno expressed gratitude to the victim, jury, and investigating officers from the Modoc County Sheriff’s Office, including Detective Christopher Harrison.
Sentencing for Wood is scheduled for Dec. 14, 2026.
