A candidate for Fullerton City Council was arrested Monday amid accusations that he falsified the signatures needed to qualify for the November ballot.
Scott Markowitz is one of four candidates running for the District 4 seat, which is currently held by termed-out Councilmember Bruce Whitaker. His opponents are retired city code enforcement officer Kitty Jaramillio, Councilmember Whitaker’s wife Linda Whitaker, and registered nurse Jamie Valencia.
According to Orange County prosecutors, Markowitz falsely attested under penalty of perjury that he personally witnessed 30 people sign his nomination papers. However, “numerous” signatories told investigators that Markowitz was not the circulator of the paperwork and did not witness them signing the papers.
He has been charged with one felony count of perjury by declaration and one felony count of record of forged or false instrument. If convicted, he could face up to three years and eight months in state prison.
Markowitz’s name has already been added to ballots. The OCDA wants voters to know that he is ineligible for office. If he were to win, a special election would have to be held for the seat.
More likely, Markowitz’s arrest will consolidate Republican votes for Linda Whitaker. That would disadvantage Jaramillio, who has the support of local Democrats.