Defendants Blink First: Subpoenas Withdrawn

On August 20, 2025, the defendants in my case, Patrick v. County of Los Angeles, et al. (Case No. 2:22-cv-02846-MWC-BFM), filed a notice with the Court announcing that they had withdrawn all of their outstanding third-party subpoenas — effective immediately (See *Dkt. 272).*

That’s right: after all their noise, all their posturing, and all their attempts to dig into places they had no business reaching, the defendants folded.

What This Really Means

When defendants issue subpoenas, they’re supposed to stand by them. They need to argue that the information they’re demanding is relevant and necessary. Instead, the County of San Bernardino and its social workers ran for cover the moment I pushed back.

Why? Because they knew:

• Their subpoenas wouldn’t survive scrutiny. They were overreaching, and they knew a ruling against them would expose their abuse of process.

• They risked embarrassing defeat. My Motion to Quash forced the Court to look closely at their tactics. Withdrawing was the only way to avoid losing outright.

• They didn’t want accountability. Subpoenas mean transparency — documents come in, and the Court sees the whole picture. The last thing defendants want is more sunlight.

  
  

This wasn’t a victory for them. It was a tactical retreat — one that shows just how weak their position really is.

A Pattern of Retreat

This isn’t an isolated moment. Look at the record:

• They demand records, then seal them when it suits them.

• They issue subpoenas, then withdraw them when challenged (See Dkt. 272).

• They push filings into the shadows, leaving the public docket with cryptic messages like “No matter of public record has been filed.”

  
  

At every turn, they try to control the narrative. But the more they retreat, the more obvious it becomes: they are afraid of the truth getting out.

My Message to the Defendants

You can withdraw subpoenas, seal evidence, and try to erase records from public view. But you cannot erase the truth.

The Court will still see the evidence. The record will still reflect your actions. And the public will see your pattern: demand, hide, retreat.

This case isn’t about paperwork. It’s about accountability. And every time you back down, you prove exactly why this fight matters.

To the Public

This fight isn’t just mine. It’s a window into how counties and CPS operate when challenged. They rely on secrecy, intimidation, and half-truths. But when you stand your ground, they back off.

That’s why I won’t stop. They can play games with subpoenas and sealed filings all they want — I’ll keep shining a light until the truth can’t be hidden anymore.

The Importance of Transparency

Transparency is crucial in cases like mine. It allows the public to see what really happens behind closed doors. When agencies like CPS operate in secrecy, they can abuse their power without consequence.

By demanding accountability, we force them to confront their actions. We expose their tactics and shine a light on their failures. Every time they retreat, it’s a reminder that they fear the truth.

The Role of Advocacy

Advocacy plays a vital role in this fight. It’s not just about one case; it’s about creating a movement. When we come together, we amplify our voices. We demand change and hold those in power accountable.

I urge everyone to get involved. Whether it’s sharing information, attending rallies, or simply speaking out, every action counts. Together, we can make a difference.

Moving Forward

As we move forward, let’s remember the importance of unity. We must support one another in this fight. Each story matters. Each experience adds to the narrative.

Let’s continue to push for reform. Let’s demand that CPS operates with transparency and accountability. We owe it to ourselves and to future generations.